The pride of Carson City’s park system is the Robert “Bob” Crowell Multi-Purpose Athletic Center (MAC). Built approximately 9 years ago, the MAC opened on December 30, 2016 after 19 years of planning and fund-raising.
The Robert “Bob” Crowell Multi-Purpose Athletic Center
The MAC, along with its sister building, the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Nevada, serves the community by providing recreational opportunities. and encourages our youth to reach their full potential. The B&G Club was built in 2009.
The Boys and Girls Club of Western Nevada
The MAC offers 41, 000 square feet of recreational opportunities while the B&G Club offers 20,500 square feet for its approximately 1,500 members to enjoy. And thanks to a joint use agreement between the City of Carson and the B&G Club, there is now a staggering 61,500 square feet that encourages our youth to reach their full potential and allows the community to take advantage of the many programs offered by the Carson City Parks and Recreation Department.
Besides serving the community, these two buildings share something else: their builder. The stonework in both of these buildings was completed by Keystone Masonry. Keystone is owned and operated by Evelyn Wungnema Larkin, her husband, Paul and their two sons, Jeremy and Matthew. Evelyn learned the art of masonry from her father, Randall Wungnema.
Randall was well-known in Northern Nevada for his many pink stone creations. Both the MAC and the B&G Club illustrate that Evelyn and her family are well-versed in the use of multiple types of construction materials including stone, brick and cinder block.
This weekend is the official Nevada Day Weekend – the weekend when the State celebrates its birthday. In addition to the Nevada Day Parade, Carson City hosts the Nevada Day Pow Wow at the MAC. The B&G building is used for additional dressing rooms and rest areas during the Pow Wow (everythingcarson.com/maccarsoncity/events/nevada-day-powwow).
It seems fitting that this annual event be held in buildings constructed by Native American stonemasons. If you have an opportunity, attend the pow wow, enjoy the dancing, the drumming and these two amazing structures! Who knows? We might see you there!
Look at this beauty! It’s the Wungnema House located in Carson City, Nevada. The original builders/owners of the Wungnema House, were Burton and Pearl Wungnema. Their name, Wungnema, is Hopi for “grow”, as in growing corn. Both of them were originally from Arizona and met, as teens, in Carson City at the Stewart Indian School, and married in 1947. They were both Hopi Indians. Pearl was from the Sun clan while Burton was from the Water clan. Burton died at 29 years old on May 30, 1956, and Pearl died at 75 years old, October 4, 2001. The extended family consists of the Talas and McQueen families, most of whom are master stonemasons in their own right.
The Burton and Pearl Wungnema House
This 1,000 square-foot house was built just on the outskirts of Carson City and was completed in 1948. At that time, the house was located on the extreme eastern edge of the city. The couple could see the V&T Roundhouse from their yard. Now, due to Carson City’s growth, the house is a part of Mills Park.
Mills Park when it was a golf course, circa 1977. The Wungnema House is outlined in red on the right-hand side of the photograph
Burton Wungnema, with the help of his father, Earnest Wungnema, and his then-pregnant wife Pearl Talas Wungnema, built the house for his family, using the stone from his father’s quarries in Brunswick Canyon.
After becoming a widow, Pearl raised their children in the home. The children slept, dormitory-style, upstairs. Her nieces and nephews have fond memories of the house, they especially remember playing in the creek that runs along side the house.
Little unknown facts about the house are 1) that the house was a wedding present to Pearl from Burton and that, per Hopi tradition, the construction of the house was a team effort with the entire Wungnema Family, including the Talas and McQueen branches of the family, assisting in its construction and 2) Pearl’s father, Homer S. Talas, was a master carpenter by trade and it is believed that his contribution to the construction of the house was the carpentry work in the home.
There are some members of the community who believe that the stones used in the house are merely a façade placed on a wooden base in order to simulate a stone house. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The family used complete and whole stones in the construction of this wedding present.
As the house was built post-WWII, only half the upstairs was built due to the shortage of building materials used for the war effort. The country was still recovering from the rationing of many essential items, including building materials. The original windows, now removed, were from the Catholic churches in Brockway, Lake Tahoe, and Truckee, California. Earnest and Burton, while building those churches, purchased the windows because the windows were not made with frosted glass and the churches were going to return the windows to the manufacturers.
Downstairs, the fireplace was constructed using stone from Arizona. The face is cut stone of clouds and lightning and is the emblem of the Water clan of the Hopi Nation. The hearth is Wonder Stone and was probably quarried in Fallon, Nevada.
The fireplace
This home, in all its beauty, is representative of the wonderful masonry work done in the churches and homes built by Burton, his father, Ernest and other members of the Wungnema Family in Northern Nevada from 1925 to 1955.
After Burton’s death, Pearl and their children lived in the house until the early 1970s. After the family moved out, the house sat vacant and fell victim to vandalism (Though, it was hosted some mighty fine haunted houses during that time!).
Fortunately, in the late 1990s, the City of Carson acquired the house and restored it to its original glory. The Wungnema House was officially opened to the public in December 2000. The ceiling boards replaced during the restoration project were milled using the same dies used to mill the lumber for the original ceiling.
The house prior to renovation
The property is now owned by the City of Carson. Some members of the community feel that this marvelous building should be on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). We don’t feel that is necessary. Having a building on the NRHP offers the owners of historic buildings many advantages and resources necessary for the upkeep of those buildings, including grants and tax breaks. However, The City owns the Wungnema House and is committed to its continuing care, repair and maintenance. Plus, the City not only insures the house, it does not pay taxes on the property it owns. This means that there is no need for placing it on the NRHP.
The Foundation for Carson City’s Parks and Recreation (Foundation) manages the house on behalf of the City. The Wungnema House is now home to a number of self-help groups and is available as a venue for wedding receptions, parties, celebrations and family reunions. The Foundation hosts annual open houses of the building. Be sure to attend one of these open houses so that you can see this magnificent house in all its glory!
Our friends, Manny and Bekah, have the cutest little house on the east side of Carson City. And, in the backyard is a pink stone BBQ, complete with a spit for roasts or game. Both the house and the BBQ were constructed in 1946, with the BBQ being original to the construction process. The 1940s represented a period of time when the Native American stone masons were quite busy in Northern Nevada. Construction in Northern Nevada came to a standstill during WWII. Once the war was over, Nevada – and the rest of the country – experienced an increase in construction resulting in gorgeous creations like this BBQ.
The students enrolled in the Stewart Indian School’s masonry program were working on projects for what we call the “Learn While You Earn” program while alumni of the program were working on their own projects for area homeowners. We believe that the BBQ is the handiwork of one of the Native American stonemasons. We don’t know which one, however, we’d love to know. Hopefully, someone can provide that information.
The BBQ does not appear to have been used much. Why? Well, the melted roof tiles around the chimney are our clue The BBQ produces so much heat, that there is a danger of the garage catching fire.
What to do with a built-in BBQ that can’t be safely used? Tear it down? Nah, that seems wrong to destroy an integral part of Nevada’s history. How about converting it into a planter? It would look nice covered in greenery that accents the pink stone. How about adding doors and converting it to storage space for outdoor cooking? If anyone has any other ideas, please share them with us. And, yes, we know that the BBQ is not ours and our friends are free to do with it what they will. However, it never hurts to have a Plan B!
This BBQ also got us thinking – how many other pink stone BBQs are there in Carson City? This is the 2nd one we’ve seen in east Carson City. Surely, there must be more!
Every year since 2002, the Downtown Redevelopment Citizens Committee of Carson City has issued a Christmas ornament featuring a historic building in the city. The ornaments are designed to highlight the city’s historic and unique buildings.
The 2018 ornament featured the Wungnema House and the 2019 ornament featured the Stewart Cultural Center and Museum at the Stewart Indian School. While the ornaments are designed to honor historic buildings in Carson City, these two ornaments also honor the Native American men and women who built these marvelous stone structures.
Carson City, and the surrounding area, are rich in Native American history. Both of these buildings represent the contributions made by the Native Americans stonemasons to Nevada’s economy and history. Think about it – without their efforts, their talents, their hard work, the face of Carson City would be far different than the one we know today.
Both of these buildings were constructed by Native American stonemasons. The Wungnema House was built just after WWII by Burton Wungnema. The house was Burton’s wedding present to his bride Pearl Talas. The Wungnema and Talas clans both participated in the construction of the house.
Carson City’s official Christmas Ornament for 2018
The Wungnema House is now owned by the City of Carson. It is not listed on the National Register of Historic Places. However, because the house is owned by the city, it is protected and maintained by the city. Which probably makes placement on the Register a moot point
The 2019 ornament is unique in that it is colored – as far as we can tell, this is the only year that color was added to the ornament. We think that the coloring is perfect as it reflects the many colored stones used in the buildings on the Stewart Campus.
Note the coloring of the ornament
The Stewart Indian School Cultural Center and Museum is located in the former administrative offices of the Stewart Indian School. The buildings on the Stewart Campus, including the Museum, were constructed by the Native American masonry instructors and students, including the Wungnemas, the Talases and the Crawfords. The Stewart Indian School is owned by the State of Nevada and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Cultural Center is open M-F, 10a to 5p. Please take the time to visit it – there’s so much to learn about the history and future of the Stewart Indian School and its alumni. Note: During the 2022 Holiday Season, the Museum will be closed from December 19, 2022 through January 3, 2023.
These ornaments are quite collectible. If you do not have these Christmas ornaments in your collection, try contacting the Purple Avocado (https://www.thepurpleavocado.com/) as past ornaments can be purchased there. We’re not sure what past ornaments might be available. It might also be possible to obtain the past years’ ornaments online.
This retaining wall is located on State Route 341, heading into Virginia City. It was built approximately 50 years ago by Randall, Johnny and Raymond Wungnema and (nephew/cousin) Darryl Crawford.
Retaining Wall, State Route 341
Ever thrifty, these stonemason used the stones left behind after the Virginia and Truckee Railroad blasted its way through the Virginia Range.
Next time you’re cruising to VC, slow down and admire the workmanship that went into this wall.
On Carson City’s Westside, there are six pink-stone pillars built by Randall Wungnema, a master stone mason if there ever was one! Randall was a Native American stonemason who trained at the Stewart Indian School. Randall’s father, Ernest Wungnema, was an masonry instructor at the school.
“W”
The pillars are located at Washington and Richmond Streets, Robinson and Richmond Streets and Musser and Richmond Streets. They are located at the entrances to the Winters Development.
Growing up, Randall’s children – and some of the locals – thought the “W” on the pillars stood for Wungnema. Others thought the “W” stood for Westside. The “W” actually stands for JohnD Winters for whom the Winters Development is named.
One of the pillars – note the stone fence post in the background.
While that may be true, we like to think that the “W” is a homage to Randall and his creativity. You be the judge. Drive by the magnificent creations and let us know what you think the “W” means!
These pillars were built approximately 60 years ago and have only improved with the passage of time.
Construction of the Greil Ranch was slated to begin in the early 1940s. However, that construction project – and many others – was delayed due to WW II.
It is our understanding that the original owners of the ranch, Jim and Emily Greil, wanted the Wungnemas – and only the Wungnemas – to build the ranch house and outbuildings and were willing to wait until such time as the Wungnemas could begin work on their dream home.
Construction finally began in 1946. Master stonemasons Ernest, Randall and Burton Wungnema were the creators of the stone buildings on the property.
Emily and Jim Greil, purchased the ranch in 1937 for the back taxes owing in the amount of $2,400.00. The ranch was then known as the Quarter Circle JP. The ranch was water rich and its spring once provided water to the area’s Native Americans.
The ranch is still owned by members of the Greil Family and continues to be a productive, working ranch.
The Greil Ranch House
In August of 2017, Randall’s children were invited to visit the ranch by Muffy Greil Vhay. The children were frequent visitors to the ranch during the construction process. They all have fond memories of playing in and around the construction site as their grandfather, father and uncle worked to create this masterpiece. The 2017 visit marked the first visit by the children in 70+ years!
The photographs of the Wungnemas plying their craft are important pieces of Nevada’s history – we know of no other other photographs documenting Native American stonemasons at work on a specific project or interacting with their customers.
As we look through these photographs, we are struck by the vibrancy of color. The stones have not faded since they were laid in 1946. We also counted at least three chimneys! Imagine how cozy the ranch house was during the long Nevada winters, with the fireplaces keeping everyone warm and toasty – the family safe from the Washoe Zephyrs blowing across Washoe Lake and past the house!
Measure twice, cut once! L – R, Ernest and Randall Wungnema
A well-deserved lunch break. Ernest, Randall and Burton Wungnema
Learning from a master. L – R, Jim Greil, Muffy Greil, Randall Wungnema
L – R: Inez Wungnema, Ramona Wungnema, Raymond Wungnema and Evelyn Wungnema-Larkin
L – R: Muffy Greil Vhay, Inez Wungnema, Ramona Wungnema and Evelyn Wungnema-Larkin (photo courtesy of Raymond Wungnema)
This stone cutie is located on Carson City’s historic Westside and was built in 1939 by Ernest Wungnema.
Ernest was a master stonemason and his creations are a testament to his creativity and ingenuity. Ernest was also an masonry instructor at the Stewart Indian School (SIS) south of Carson City. The house reminds us of the buildings on the SIS campus which were created in the Stewart Vernacular Style of Masonry.
The house features two fireplaces – one in the front room and one in the bedroom. There was a fire in the chimney of the bedroom fireplace resulting in the fireplace being covered with sheet rock. The chimney was repaired with brick. Why? Good question. Nobody seems to know the reason for this repair especially as members of the Wungnema Family continue the family tradition of stone masonry.
The house was totally refurbished in 2016. Thankfully, the fireplace in the front room was retained by the homeowner during the renovation.
front of house
Back of the house – glorious with all the foliage
The fireplace – note the niche & the vents. Both features Ernest was known to create
The fall colors enhance the beauty of the stonework.
Pratt Street – This street has an additional stone house, a house that used to have a stone facade and a house that used to feature a pink stone fireplace. Let’s take a look at them!
According to the Carson City Assessor’s office, this house was built in 1910 and was constructed in the Stewart Vernacular Style of Architecture as were many of the stone homes of that era.
So cute and so tiny. Imagine raising a family in this wee house – it was done, back in the day! This is one of the earliest examples of a pink stone house we could find.
Uncle Jimmy’s house before the fire. Note the craftsmanship in the fireplace.
Uncle Jimmy’s house on Pratt Avenue and featured a stone fireplace constructed by the stonemasons from the Stewart Indian School in in 1920. This house caught fire in December 2016. During the rebuilding process, the fireplace was removed.
It’s not known whether or not the fireplace will be rebuilt as Uncle Jimmy wanted to sell/return the pink stones back to the Wungnema Family. The family refused. After all, who refunds a purchase 100 years after the purchase was made?
After rebuilding
During the demolition process – part of the fireplace remains and the stones were piled up in the left of the photo. Years later, the stones are still in the yard (see left side of photograph)
This last house on Pratt was built in 1963 and featured a stone facade in the front. The stone, Wonder Stone, was quarried in Fallon, Nevada. The facade is the work of Don Talas, a Native American master stone mason.
Before – with the Wonder Stone facade
During the Lockdown of 2020 – 2021, the house underwent renovation and in the process, the stone facade was removed. This made us sad as that was a piece of Nevada history lost forever. Hopefully, the stone was repurposed for a walkway or patio in the backyard.
This house in Carson City was built in 1934 in the Stewart Vernacular style of masonry. As with the other stone houses on the street, it was built by the master and student stonemasons from the Stewart Indian School.
The house features 3 bedrooms & 1.75 bathrooms, making it bigger than the other homes on the street. It sold in 2001 for $135,000.00 and in 2017 for approximately $660,000.00. It’s on the market again and is yours for only $364,000.00! What a deal considering it comes with a large lot!
In the 2017 listing, the realtor noted that it had no value and should be considered a tear down. We disagreed at that time as it was constructed by local Native American stonemasons, making it an important part of Nevada’s history.
Fortunately, the buyer disagreed with the realtor’s assessment of the property and proceeded to rent the home in 2018 – we attempted to rent it, however, the owner told us that our family wasn’t large enough to warrant a house this spacious!
Front of the house
Close up of the front. Note the shape of the front door
Brick fireplace that replaced the stone fireplace
For unknown reasons, one of the past owners removed the stonework fireplace and replaced it with painted brick. A stone fireplace could be re-built – there are still Rhyolite quarries in Carson City and members of Wungnema Family are still practicing stonemasons!
A stone fireplace built by Native American stonemasons, one that matches the outside of the house – wouldn’t that be cool?
Currently, the house is in need of a little TLC. Imagine how the house would look all spruced up. Just gorgeous, that’s how it would look!
Side view of house
Backyard – note the fire pit on the right hand side of the yard
This house was completed in 1949 and was constructed in the manner of the Stewart Vernacular Style of Architecture. We believe that the master and student stonemasons at the Stewart Indian School built this house.
It’s a tad bid different than other examples of Native stonework as it is a duplex with a ground level apartment and a 2nd story apartment. Isn’t it gorgeous? The 2nd story apartment features a fireplace. We’re not sure why the 1st story was denied a fireplace and we cannot find anyone who knows the history of the house. If you know why only half the house has a fireplace, please share!
There is a large vacant lot to the north of this house – we think it would be great to buy it and then enlarge the yard. A pink stone house with a large yard would be perfect!
Due to its proximity to the Stewart Indian School, Carson City has many fine examples of the masonry created by the Native American stonemasons teaching, working or studying at the school. These examples include homes, fireplaces and landscape features, some big, some little.
The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden is an example of using Rhyolite for landscaping. We’re not telling you exactly where – we want you to find t! It is located somewhere on Curry Street (between Robinson and 2nd Streets), the SG is small, yet charming. The shrubs and flowers are surrounded by pieces of Rhyolite giving the garden a sense of serenity and peace. Find it and give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done!
Let’s talk about the stones used locally by the Native American stonemasons in their many construction projects. The masons used a combination of quarried and found stones, the primary stone being Rhyolite. The quarried stones came from quarries in Carson City, Fallon and parts of California, while the found stones were just that – found. The found stones were generally found on site, though, there are instances where people went rock hunting for specific stones to be used on a project.
Quarries are a form of open pit mining. Quarried stone is just as important to Nevada’s economy as is the gold and silver produced by underground mining
Quarry (Dictionary.com)
noun, plural quarries.
1. an excavation or pit, usually open to the air, from which building stone, slate, or the like, is obtained by cutting, blasting, etc.
2. an abundant source or supply.
Example of a truck used in the quarries almost 100 years ago Photo – https://www.northcountryatwork.org
The Wungnema Family owns an unspecified number of quarries along the Carson River, where they obtain their supplies of Rhyolite. Much of the Rhyolite used locally was obtained from one of these quarries.
Close up of Rhyolite
Only the Wungnema Family and their closest associates know the exact location of these quarries. Contrary to rumor, none of these quarries are – or have ever been – underwater.
The extensive use of Rhyolite by the Native American stonemasons in their masonry projects has become the trademark of these masons. Locally, this stone is known as the “pink” stone or “Indian” rock. Rhyolite is the primary stone used in building projects. The masons also used a number of other stones including Wonder stone, Turquoise and Onyx.
Wonder Stone, quarried in Fallon, Nevada
Found Turquoise
Wonder stone is a type of Rhyolite that grows with gorgeous patterns of creams, yellows, pinks and reds. As with all Rhyolite, it is an excellent meditation stone and creativity enhancer. It brings energies of tranquility and helps eliminate worries.
The use of Rhyolite in construction projects has declined as the above-ground supply of this stone in Northern Nevada is being depleted and, due to federal regulations, it is expensive to mine/dynamite the underground supply of the stone.
Rhyolite with dynamite plug (white arrow)
Fortunately, the Native American stonemasons created a number of masterpieces using Rhyolite obtained from the Wungnema quarries. This means, that as we drive through Carson City, the Stewart Indian School and other towns in Northern Nevada, we can appreciate the beauty of the stone!
An abandoned quarry somewhere in the Nevada Desert
Hey! Didcha know that Frederick Snyder, Superintendent, Stewart Indian School (SIS), had a summer cottage at Lake Tahoe? And did you know that this house was built by the master and apprentice stonemasons from the trade programs at SIS? Well, he did and it was! We came across that fact while researching the Field Matron’s Cottage at the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony.
Mr. Snyder pioneered the Stewart-Vernacular style of architecture that was used extensively at SIS. He was such a fan of this style of architecture that he had his summer house built in the style. Take a look at it and you will see the similarity between this summer cottage and the buildings on the campus of the SIS.
You might say that Mr. Snyder was one of the first influencers as other people followed his lead and had their houses constructed in the same style. As you drive around Lake Tahoe, you will see a number of homes and churches built in the Stewart-Vernacular style of architecture
According to the Society of Architectural Historians (SAH), the house was built in 1927 by master stonemasons, James and John Christopher, and the apprentice stonemasons learning their trade at SIS. We believe that the apprentices from the other trade programs such as plumbing, electrical and carpentry, also assisted with the construction. (See https://sah-archipedia.org/buildings/NV-01-NW008.2 for additional information.)
Mr. Snyder was apparently a private man making it difficult to find a picture of the house. However, we did! And, we’re sharing!
Biographical information on Mr. Snyder is scarce, so scarce that there are no known photographs of him!
Frederick Snyder’s Lake Tahoe Summer Cottage
Plans for the Cottage Note: the T shape of the house in the plans was mentioned by the SAH
View from the back of the summer cottage This is why the road is called Lakeview
The SAH Web site stated that there were two additional houses built at Zephyr Cove in 1927 by the Christopher Brothers and the SIS apprentices. Those houses were located at 723 Cedar Street and 716 Lincoln Highway. We found pictures of the 716 Lincoln Highway house. We could not find a picture of the 723 Cedar Street house, however, we did find a picture of a stone house at 721 Cedar Street. This house was built in 1927, so, we’re thinking this house might have been built by the SIS craftsmen.
Cedar Street House Note the resemblance to the buildings on the campus of the Stewart Indian School
Lincoln Highway house Note: the dark mud between the stones used for the house. The SIS stonemasons used either coal dust or brick dust to color the mud.
Lincoln Highway house
BBQ, Lincoln Highway house. Note: there is a similar BBQ at a house in Carson City.
The Field Matron’s Cottage was placed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 2003. In the application for the Field Matron’s Cottage to the NRHP, it noted that the SIS workman also built the “Harvey House” right next door to Frederick Snyder’s summer house. We discovered that 681 Lakeview Blvd is next to Mr. Snyder’s house and that it was built in 1927. So, it seems likely this property was built by the SIS craftsmen.
However. we were unable to locate a clear photograph of the property. We found a photograph online, which purported to be 681. Unfortunately, this property did not appear to be constructed of stone. However, almost a 100 years have passed since the house was built and it is possible that the house has undergone a major renovation over the the years. We then went to Google Earth hoping for a photograph of the property. Sadly, there are too many trees around the property, so there was not a Google Earth photo of the property.
Seems like a road trip may be in order! Yes, a road trip as we have heard that there are a number of homes at Lake Tahoe built by the Native American stonemasons at SIS. So, we could play tourist and explore the lake looking for these pink stoned beauties.
This is the Field Matron’s Cottage, also known as the Stone Building, and which was built circa 1925 in the locally-unique Stewart Vernacular style of stonemasonry. The construction followed the protocol established at the Stewart Indian School (SIS) in Carson City, Nevada.
Field Matron’s Cottage (photo from the NRHP’s application)
According to Wikipedia: “The Field Matron’s Cottage, also known as the Stone Building, was built circa 1925 on the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony in Sparks, Nevada. The cottage was built to support a Bureau of Indian Affairs program to instruct the 20 acres (8.1 ha) colony’s Paiute and Washoe girls in sanitation and housekeeping skills.
A “field matron” was provided by the Bureau from 1919 to as late as 1938. At first, the matron lived in Reno, at some distance from the colony, but in 1926 funding was made available to build a dwelling on colony lands, allowing a closer relationship between the matron and the colony’s inhabitants. The cottage included a library and an infirmary, and served as a community meeting place.”
And didcha know that The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony was established in 1916 by an Act of Congress? And that the term “colony” for a type of Indian territory is unique to Nevada?
We believe that either the apprentices Native American stonemasons at SIS or those stonemasons at SIS created this cottage. We are basing this belief on the similarity between this building and the buildings found on the SIS campus. SIS superintendent Frederick Snyder began his stone building program in 1919 and expanded it to the neighboring communities. For a fee, the trade apprentices at SIS would build stone houses for governmental or residential use. The plumbing, electrical and carpentry apprentices also worked on these buildings.
The Matron’s Cottage is one of the earliest known examples of the Stewart Vernacular style of architecture that is not on the campus of the Stewart Indian School. The vernacular style of architecture is concerned with domestic and functional buildings rather than public or monumental buildings.
We have found some Web sites claiming that this is the only example of Native American workmanship in the Stewart Vernacular style found in the Reno area. We dispute that claim as we have found other examples this style in the Reno area, specifically on Wedekind Road in Sparks and on Plumb Lane in Reno.
In May of 2003, the Field Matron’s Cottage was listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and was the first Bureau of Indian Affairs property in Nevada recognized and honored in this manner. The Cottage was accorded this status on the NRHP due to its long history with the native community and its unique style of architecture (Stewart Vernacular).
Field Matron’s Cottage (photo: Reno Historical Society)
For additional information on the field matron program, please visit http://cantonasylumforinsaneindians.com/history_blog/the-bia-field-matron-program/.
For additional information on the cottage, please visit the following: https://www.theclio.com/entry/85048
Chimney, Field Matron’s Cottage. The NRHP application noted the similarity between this chimney and the chimneys found at SIS (photo from the NRHP’s application)
The last Web site is the application for inclusion in the NRHP. Photographs of the cottage are included in the application and appear to have been taken by Mella Rothwell Harmon, who authored the application. We recommend that, if nothing else, this document be read as it contains much information regarding the Native American stonemasons from SIS, where they acquired the stones they used in their projects and their projects.
The application also notes the similarities between the cottages and those buildings found on the SIS campus.
Should you find yourself in the Reno-Sparks area, we urge you to drive by the Field Matron’s Cottage and take a moment to appreciate this building that’s almost 100 years old. Think of the time and effort it took to create this stone building when the equipment and roads were not as sophisticated as they are today.
Look at this house on Adams Street in Carson City. She was built in 1939 by staff and students participating in the programs offered at the Stewart Indian School (SIS). The trade programs include masonry, carpentry, electrical and plumbing.
The Native American stonemasons from the school used the locally-unique Stewart Vernacular style of stone masonry in the construction of the house. They followed the protocol established at the SIS. As such, this house resembles those on the SIS campus. Note the details in the stonework, especially the vents in the fireplace and the keystones over the door and windows.
East Adams Street House
Note the vents in the fireplace (internet photo)
Imagine – it’s a cold, wintry day and you – yes, you! – are in front of this terrific fireplace with a roaring fire, good book in one hand and a cup of hot coco in the other. Can you think of a better way to spend a snowy day? Us neither.
In 1948, a motel was built to the west of this house. The motel blocked the west side of the house until May of 2022.
Before demolition was completed – note the building on the right side of the photograph (internet photo)
Demolition debris
The motel and surrounding houses have been demolished in order to construct an apartment complex. Once demolition was completed, the west side of the house was visible from Carson Street for the first time in almost 75 years. Plus, a portion of the south side of the house also became visible as well.
West side of house without motel blocking view
South Side of house from Corbett Street
We were worried that this cutie might be demolished along with the other houses. If so, an integral part of Nevada’s history would be destroyed in the name of progress.
However, a review of the plans submitted to the city showed that two houses at this location would be spared. Fortunately, this house was not on the chopping block. Whew!
The house is outlined in yellow – the buildings outlined in blue were demolished
Google Earth photo Prior to demolition – all buildings outlined in blue were demolished
This house, this tribute to the hard and creative work of the SIS students and staff, remains standing for future generations to enjoy.
This is a classic ranch-style home in South Carson City located approximately a mile from the Stewart Indian School (SIS). Over the years, it became a bit run down and needed a bit of TLC. In 2019, the house was put on the market. Due to its condition, we worried that it would be purchased for the land and the house would be demolished. If that happened a piece of Nevada history would be lost forever.
2019
If memory serves, Randall, Burton and Johnny were the stonemasons who laid the stonework for the facade which circles the entire house. The Wungnema Brothers not only attended the SIS, their father, Ernest, was a master stonemason who taught at the school. Thus, their skill, experience and talent are something to be treasured.
2019
February 2022 – new roof, ready to take on the weather!
The home was sold during the lockdown and the new owners are in the process of restoring the home. They have put quite a bit of work and sweat equity into the home’s exterior, restoring it to its former quiet charm. The stonework was left untouched and still graces the house. We can hardly wait until the project is completed.
April 2022 – This beauty is ethereal and appears to float
So, we found a couple of projects that were probably created by Native American stonemasons. We give them an Ivory Soap chance of being Native American in origin – you know, 99 and 44/100%. We base this on the appearance of the completed projects and the fact that both projects were completed by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC had a satellite program called the Civilian Conservation Corps – Indian Division (CCC – ID).
Logo, CCC – ID (Photo: BIA)
Let’s talk about the Civilian Conservation Corps – Indian Division (CCC – ID). This program was part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s CCC, which began life in 1933. Both the CCC and CCC – ID were part of the president’s New Deal Program. These programs were created to offset the high unemployment rate our country faced at the time. The CCC employed single men between the ages of 18 and 25. These men worked in programs designed to improve America’s public lands, forests, parks and tribal lands.
Records indicate that 3 million men enlisted in the CCC. Out of those 3 million men, approximately 85,000 were Native American and many of those individuals served in the CCC – ID. The CCC – ID program was originally called the Indian Emergency Conservation Work Program (IECW) with an initial funding amount of $5,875.200. The program was renamed in 1937.
John Collier, Commissioner, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) requested the formation of the CCC – ID in 1933. Mr. Collier hoped that the CCC – ID would benefit Native Americans living on Indian reservations and tribal lands. Both Native Americans and the BIA lobbied for a program independent from the CCC as they objected to the U.S. Military providing oversight for the CCC on tribal lands.
The program’s focus was the employment of Native Americans on federally recognized reservations to the reservations. The program’s goal was to preserve tribal lands, while promoting sustainable ranching and farming. Projects included, but were not limited to, road construction, erosion control, reforestation, and water resource development. Generally, speaking, the members of the CCC – ID benefitted more than those men serving in the CCC as there was no age restriction for enlistment and families could join the men on the projects.
Enlistees in both the CCC and the CCC – ID were paid $30.00 a month. They sent $25.00 of that to their families back home. In the Great Depression, $30.00 a month was considered a decent wage. Consider that a 1933-dollar equals a $21.28 in today’s economy.
Members of the CCC – ID usually labored on tribal lands or on projects near the tribal or reservation lands. We found two New Deal projects with stonework, stonework that we believe the Native Americans serving in either the CCC or the CCC – ID completed. One project is in Storey County, Nevada and the other project is in Lamoille Canyon in Elko County.
Construction on the Lamoille CCC Camp began in 1933 and concluded in 1937. In 1939, ownership of the camp was signed over to the Boy Scouts of America. It is thought that the baseball field on the grounds was the work of the CCC. Sadly, the clubhouse was destroyed by a wildfire in 2018. All that remains are the foundation and the chimney.
Look at the fireplace and the foundations. They are the work of at least three different stonemasons. The stonework on the left side of the foundation and at the bottom of the chimney resembles the stonework found at the SIS. The stones are faced and the stonework is precise and tight. The keystone in the fireplace resembles the fireplaces at SIS. The stonework of the other two masons resembles stonework we have seen executed by other Native American stonemasons. All of the stonework is a joy to behold and should be preserved for future generations.
Note: Lamoille is sometimes spelled Lemoille. The preferred spelling is with an “A”.
Foundation and Chimney, Lamoille CCC Clubhouse (Photo: Richard A. Walker) Note the differences in stonework in the foundation, the chimney and the steps)
Front side of CCC Clubhouse (Photo: Richard A. Walker)
We have not had the opportunity to visit the clubhouse in person. We hope to do so this summer, along with a visit to Thunder Mountain, the Duckwater Shoshone Tribe of the Duckwater Reservation and Elko. If you get there before us, please share your photographs and thoughts.
The Geiger Grade lookout and Park was completed in 1938 with the assistance of the CCC. The lookout and park are on Route 341 which connects Washoe County and Storey County. We believe that Native American stonemasons were employed on the project due to the proximity of reservations in Carson City and Sparks, Nevada.
Geiger Grade – the Early Years (Internet photo)
The stonemasons would have either been employed by the CCC – ID or by the Nevada Highway Department (Now, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). That agency employed day laborers on the project.
While some of the stonework in the park is not the polished, finished product of a seasoned stonemason, other stonework found in the park resembles the stonework we have seen in documented examples of Native American stonework. As stated previously, we haven’t been able to verify the stonemasons who worked on these two projects.
circular perfection
However, based on the stonework and the proximity to Native American tribes and reservation land to each project, we believe there is an excellent possibility that Native American stonemasons completed some, if not all, of the stonework at both Lamoille and Geiger Grade. Take a look at the curvature of the stone trash barrel – that is the work of a master stonemason, such as one who trained at the Stewart Indian School.
Going down
Entrance
Placement for signage pole
Entrance to the restroom
Storage container?
Through the restroom window
Restroom & sign based
Restroom – other entrance
The views from the park and lookout are beyond compare. We urge you to visit this site and enjoy the quiet beauty spread before you. We spent a spring morning there, exploring, enjoying, oohing and aahing at how nature and man came together so perfectly. If you have an opportunity, we urge you to take the jaunt to Virginia City and explore the park and lookout. It’s well worth your time.
Looking west from the park
For proof positive of the CCC – ID’s participation in these projects, we need to review the employment records of the CCC – ID. The BIA is the custodian of the CCC – ID records, which are located at the National Archives Records Administration’s Seattle and Denver regional facilities. The CCC – ID records aren’t indexed and few are microfilmed. Verifying CCC – ID enlistee information would be an excellent research project for a grad student.
So, until we can verify employment, we are going on the belief that Native American stonemasons (serving in either the CCC or the CCC – ID) assisted with the stonework at Geiger Lookout and Park and the Lamoille CCC Camp Clubhouse.
Look at these gorgeous gates, guarding the eternal sleep of our nearest and dearest. These gates are the creation of Randall Wungnema. We’re not sure when the gates were erected. We think it could have been sometime in the 1960s or 1970s. Possibly in 1979, when the cemetery entrance was moved 500 feet to the east to accommodate the Roop Street expansion and realignment. Originally, Roop Street ended at the Civil War monument at the extreme northern edge of the cemetery. The street now bypasses the cemetery to the west.
These gates are a monument to function and art. The gates are a thing of beauty and are still in use today. Randall also constructed similar gateposts on the west side of Carson City.
Right inside the first set of gates is a grave site outlined in Rhyolite. Coincidence? Good question!
And get this, a mere stone’s throw from these gates lies the graves of Frederick and Charlotte Snyder. Frederick is the former superintendent of the Stewart Indian School(SIS). His efforts revolutionized the stone masonry program at SIS and brought Randall’s family to Nevada. Without his efforts, Northern Nevada would not be home to the many wonderful pink stone creations that grace our landscape!
West Gates – these lead into the original section of the cemetery
Middle Gates – these lead into the Veterans’ section of the cemetery (to the left of the entrance)
East Gates – these lead into the religious section of the cemetery
We think we should mention that the last set of gates on the east side of the cemetery are not open to the public. Why? Well, it seems that when these gates are open, most drivers charge through the gates and hit the tree on the right hand side of the photograph. We don’t know why – that tree seems like it would be easy to miss.
This entrance originally led to the Catholic section of the cemetery. The Catholic Church signed their interests in the Catholic Section over to the City of Carson in the 1970s. The Latin phrase over the gates “beati morbid qui in domino mortuntor” translates to ” Blessed are those who die in the Lord.”
One of the gates is dedicated to the memory of Charles J. “Mac” McGuigan. Who he? Many people have asked that question. Turns out he was an area undertaker who worked for Capitol City Mortuary (now FitzHenry’s Funeral Home). He must have been someone special to have one of the gates dedicated in his honor.
We think this post is the appropriate place to mention, that under Nevada Law, it is illegal to publicly display or share photographs of Native American burial sites. The Nevada State Historic Preservation Office (NSHPO) is the agency responsible for enforcing the NRS that protects Nevada American burial sites in Nevada.
From the NSHPO’s Web site: “PROTECTION OF NATIVE AMERICAN BURIAL SITES: In 1989, the Nevada legislature passed a law (NRS 383.150 to 383.190) to protect Native American graves on private and public land. This law was updated with the passage of Senate Bill 244 in the 2017 Legislature.
The Nevada legislation protecting Native American burials is included in the portion of the Nevada Revised Statutes that covers the State Historic Preservation Office (NSHPO). The full text of this law is presented here (https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-383.html), and we urge all concerned parties to read it carefully.
Because it covers private land and county land, this legislation has more far-reaching impact in some respects than any other laws in Nevada concerning human remains. Note that under Nevada law, it is illegal to publicly display or exhibit Native American remains except during a funeral ceremony (NRS 383.180.3(b)). This may include television, photographs, exhibits, and lectures using human bones (Dansie et al., 1994, page 9).
It is also illegal to find an Native American burial and not report it, even if on private property, and it is illegal to possess or sell a Native American burial or artifacts from an Native American grave.”
So, if you are exploring the wonder that is Nevada and find a Native American burial site, do the right thing. Leave the site alone and report its location to the NSHPO and the nearest tribal office. Do not dig up the remains and treat them as those they are souvenirs of your outing. Remember the remains are your fellow human beings and deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
In the 1970s and 1980s, one of the “It” places to eat was the Cabin in the Sky up on the Comstock. The Cabin was the place to see and be seen. This was the place for the view, the steaks and the drinks. And, occasionally, one might catch a glimpse of the owner, Joe Conforte (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Conforte).
Between the dining room, the bar and the dance floor, the Cabin was large enough to host any occasion – wedding receptions, wakes, holiday parties and the annual Fireman’s Dinner. The Cabin is located on the road into Virginia City and people from Reno, Carson City and beyond made their way to the Cabin.
Contributing to the ambiance of the Cabin was the stonework of Randall Wungnema. He was responsible for the brickwork around the fireplace and mirror. He was also responsible for the stonework in the bar.
The Cabin has not been operational since 2004 and has sat vacant since that time. The Comstock Mining Company now owns the Cabin. Officials at the mining company graciously allowed the Wungnema family and friends to tour the Cabin in 2017.
Once in the door, the first thing we noticed was the fireplace. One of the owners painted the bricks a dull brown and covered the paint with a gold, glittery finish. This was not the fireplace the family remembered. The Wungnemas were disappointed that one of their father’s creations had been mistreated so.
Our apologies for the photographs. The power was off at the Cabin and these are the best photographs that we were able to take with flash photographs. Think about this – if the stonework looks this good in subpar lighting, think how it looks in real life!
Close up of the paint on the fireplace
Mirror over the fireplace
Fireplace and mirror
However, all was not lost. The stonework in the bar had been left intact. We could see the precision and artistry with which the stones had been cut, polished and set. To us, this is a masterpiece of stone working. We consider it one of Randall’s finest creations.
Looking down at the bar step
Bar front
Behind the bar
Note the gold grout
The stonework within the stonework
Now, some people might take offense to the glitter and glitz among the stones. Kindly consider who commissioned the bar and remember that the bar is a reflection of Joe’s personality and taste. The glitter and glitz does not take away from the superb workmanship that went into the stonework.
On the cold winter nights, people would gather in front of the fireplace and visit with one another over serious adult beverages.
During the hot summer days on the high desert, people sought refuge from the heat at the bar, enjoying cool drinks. The Cabin and its interior brick and stonework contributed to the community. They have their place in Nevada history and deserve to be protected and enjoyed by the community once more.
The Comstock Mining Company assured us that it has no plans to demolish the Cabin. Indeed, there is talk of converting the Cabin into a tourist center. This is a fabulous idea! Naturally, we had our own thoughts on the restoration. We suggested that the paint be removed from the fireplace and that the bar be used to provide refreshments to the tourists and locals alike.
If you have a chance, drive by the Cabin, stop to take in the view and pray that the building and its remarkable stonework is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
What can we say about the Stewart Indian School (SIS) that hasn’t already been said? So much has been written about the school, that there’s really nothing for us to say.
Carson City’s Official Christmas Tree Ornament for 2019
We can start by reminding people that the school is the only Indian Boarding School that is not on a reservation. That the Nevada Legislature authorized its construction and funded that construction, then sold the school to the federal government – the only Indian Boarding School ever to be built in this manner.
We can tell you that the SIS is located on 109 acres south of Carson City and that the campus holds powerful memories (good and bad) for its alumni and their descendants.
We can tell you that the 2015 Nevada Legislature (https://www.leg.state.nv.us/) charged the Nevada Indian Commission with providing oversight for the use, preservation and protection of the SIS.
We can tell you that the many of the buildings on the campus are in dire need of restoration. These functional pieces of art tell the story of the students who attended the school, who created the buildings. If the buildings fall past the point of repair, then the stories of their creators are lost to time. We believe that history forgotten is history repeated.
Some of the photographs in this post show the decay and disrepair. Those photographs are not meant as disrespect. Rather, they are here to illustrate the immense amount of work required to restore SIS to her former glory and to honor the students who attended and built the school.
The State of Nevada owns SIS and with ownership comes responsibility. No doubt money – and lots of it – is required to undertake the Herculean task of repairing/restoring the buildings on the campus. We can start with asking the 2023 Nevada Legislature for funds. Then, understanding that funding from the legislature is iffy, we can look elsewhere for the money or other means of restoring the buildings.
First, SIS is on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This means that there are tax breaks, grants and other endowments available to the State of Nevada as the owner of the property. These financial opportunities are only available to properties listed on the NRHP. We believe that this is something the State’s financial experts should consider and explore.
Second, there is a housing crisis in Carson City. There are homes at SIS that could be used to offset the crisis if they were restored. The State could partner with a non-profit – such a Habitat for Humanity – and working with the families on a wait list, restore the homes one by one. Perhaps, Lowe’s or Home Depot could be approached for donations of building materials. Once restored, the homes could be rented out for a reasonable rate. We believe that the SIS alumni and their descendants should be first on the wait list, then Native Americans, then all others.
And lastly, we like to reiterate that we have heard whispers that the State of Nevada wants to renovate the dormitories and the cafeteria. Once renovated, the rooms could be rented to over-night visitors who would be able to take their meals in the cafeteria, which still has all of its original kitchen/baking equipment.
Perhaps, the cafeteria could focus on Native American cuisine. People in Carson City and the surrounding communities are always looking for new eating experiences and they are faithful to the ones that provide good food along with a sense of community. We think an operational cafeteria at Stewart would fill both those requirements.
The kitchen and bakery has the capacity to feed 500 students and staff three times a day. So, it seems that between the kitchen, bakery, dining room and dorms, at least that many guests could be accommodated daily.
Plus, consider this – mail order baked goods. We believe that providing baked goods from the bakery at Stewart is a viable and profitable option. The goodies could be sent via UPS, Fed Ex or the USPS. And get this, if the cafeteria also feeds the state employees working on the campus, there are tax breaks associated with the operation of the cafeteria.
Dining Hall, Kitchen, Bakery
The money generated from the house and room rental plus the revenue from the food/baked good sales would be deposited into a special budget category dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of Stewart. Those funds would not be deposited into the State’s General Fund. The financial wizards at the State should have no problem setting up this special budget category. After all, they’re wizards!
With all that being said, we’d like to share with you some of the many photographs we’ve taken of Stewart over the past five years. Note that not all of the photographs are captioned.
Please enjoy and if you have memories or photographs, you like to share, we’d love to see them!
Stewart –
A 6-car garage
The Student Store (we think!)
One of the residences still in use
Fountain or planter?
Mail Call! The USPS on campus. Yep, we used to get our mail here
This is one great walkway!
Law enforcement agencies across Nevada train at Stewart
The steam generating plant. Steam was once used to heat the buildings and ran through a series of underground steam tunnels.
The interior of the steam generating plant
Another view of the steam generating plant
Pump house for the water tower & steam generating plant plus the buildings?
The Water Tower
Interior of one of the unused residences
Door’s open – Old Gym
One of the entrances to the underground steam tunnels. How cool would it be to explore those tunnels?
Massive Cottonwood
Ancient Apple Tree
Exhibit Grand Opening of the Stewart Cultural Center & Museum
Exhibit Grand Opening of the Stewart Cultural Center & Museum
A room in the Cultural Center
Another room in the Cultural Center
Blue prints for what building?
This is now the gift shop where you can purchase all sorts of merch!C I S = Carson Indian School
The Old Gym – Before the new roof was installed
Seems the State of Nevada uses Stewart to store micro-wave relay equipment
Storage shed
Interior of the storage shed
Night Moves –
The Cultural Center
Street light
Street light with dust
The Water Tower
Reservation Principal’s House –
We believe this is the Reservation Principal’s House. What’s does a Reservation Principal do? Good question! Don’t have a clue! We’ve looked and other than being identified as an employee at SIS, we could not find a job description for Reservation Principal.
Reservation Principal’s House
Reservation Principal’s House – side view
What we find interesting is that the house is not on the Stewart Campus. It’s located off-campus on the west end of Gibson Avenue. And, when the federal government signed Stewart over to the State of Nevada, this property was not included in the transfer. The house, and the property it sits on, belongs to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).
Road leading to the Reservation Principal’s House
This is a gorgeous home, just in need of a little TLC. We have vague memories of playing here with child hood friends. As such, it makes us sad to see it ignored for so long. Perhaps, the BIA would consider selling it to someone who would restore and live in it (hint, we would!).
V&T Depot –
The V&T Depot, Stewart Campus – now being used by a state agency for storage and office space. Note the loading doors on the right side of the photograph
Did you know that there is a railroad depot on the grounds of SIS? Yes, there is! The V&T Railroad operated trains to and through the campus from 1906 through 1946. Passenger and freight service was provided to the School once a day for 40 years. The V&T ceased operation in 1950 and all the rails were removed by 1953. So, sadly, there’s no chance of incorporating the School into the route of the V&T Railway (a modern day version of the V&T Railroad).
V&T Schedule showing Stewart as one of the stops
Train #2 arrived at SIS every day at approximately 9:35 a.m., dropping goods, supplies and passengers at the Stewart Indian School train station, then it headed south to Douglas County.
Before the Depot – waiting for the train at Stewart (internet photo)
There are only two V&T depots in Carson City – one is located in Carson City at the corner of Carson and Washington Streets and the other depot is this one on the Stewart Campus. The depot in Carson City is constructed of wood while this depot is a fine example of the stonework executed by the masonry instructors and students at SIS.
Note: Over the 4th of July Weekend 2022, the Nevada State Railroad Museum will be hosting the Great Western Steam up, celebrating all things V&T, including celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the completion of Nevada’s famous Virginia & Truckee Railroad Other railroad museums and railroads are graciously sharing their locomotives for this occasion,
For event information and to purchase tickets, see https://greatwesternsteamup.com/. Also, the State of Nevada and the State of California are trading historic locomotives for two years (see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9v-0mT9pK4).
S Hill –
Did you know that there is a school tradition, found primarily in the west, of painting the hills or mountains near a high school or university with the school’s initials? Stones are placed in the shape of a school’s initials and then painted white. For some reason, these stone initials are known as “Mountain Monograms.”
These monograms are generally seen only on the West Coast due to the rugged terrain (i.e., steep hills and mountains) found west of the Mississippi. Generally speaking, the initials are located on a steep hill or mountain near the school. The locations are generally accessible only by foot or 4 wheel drive.
This tradition began in the early 1900s. The initials were used as an identifier for a school. A school’s initial was/is a matter of pride and painting the hills with initials is a practice that continues to this day for many schools.
“S” Hill
The students at Stewart participated in this tradition and painted a “S” on the hills north of the school. They maintained the “S” until the school closed in 1980. The “S” is still visible today and even though it hasn’t officially been maintained since that time, it still looks vibrant. We remember back in the day when it came time for the “S” to be repainted – there would be a flurry of activity on the hill, people climbing while the trucks carrying the paint and equipment made a slow climb up the hill.
You know what? We could organize a group of people to climb/4 wheel to the “S” and repaint it. Wouldn’t that be fun? It’d take some doing to organize, however, it could be done! What do you think?
During the shutdown, we did what millions of other Americans did – we snacked (alot!), binged on NetFlix and surfed the Web. Our surfing paid off as we found a couple of sites in Nevada that are home to prime examples of Nevada American stonework. We intend to make a trip to these locations; however, until we do, we are going to share the Web sites with you.
The first is the Thunder Mountain Monument. This beauty is in the middle of B.F.E. Nevada (Imlay, 130 miles to the north east of Reno).
Frank Van Zant (photo: Thundermountainmonument.com)
It’s a five acre art show, complete with buildings and art work. The creative force behind the monument was Frank Van Zant, a Creek Indian. Mr. Van Zant (later known as Chief Rolling Thunder Mountain) created the entire project on his own, using found materials from the surrounding desert.
Chief Rolling Thunder Mountain was not a Stewart-trained. In fact, we can’t find where he received his training – was he self-taught or did he learn the art of stonemasonry while serving in the Civilian Conservation Corp?
Really, where the man learned his craft is not important. What’s important is the fact that the Monument was created and built in Nevada by a Native American Stonemason and, as such, deserves to be recognized and protected. Fortunately, the Chief’s family is working with the State of Nevada to ensure that the Monument receives the respect and protection it deserves.
Visit the Web site ((http://www.thundermountainmonument.com), to learn about Chief Rolling Thunder Mountain and check out the beautiful photos of his Monument and his art.
We plan on making a trip of our own to the Monument – it’s on our “Places to See” list. We will share our photographs and thoughts once we make the trek. If you make the trek before we do, please share your photos!
Then, bonus, we found another item for our “Places to See” List on the Duckwater Shoshone Tribe of the Duckwater Reservation in Owyhee, Nevada, which is on the Idaho-Nevada border.
Look at these buildings! Aren’t they gorgeous? And, they remind us of the buildings on the Stewart Campus. It appears that the stone buildings at Owyhee were constructed in the 1930s, probably 1936 – 1937.
Owyhee home – note how the stone has been faced. It mirrors the treatment of the stonework found on the campus of the Stewart Indian School. (Photo: https://www.nvexpeditions.com/index.php)
We believe that some of the stonemasons who created these beautiful buildings were trained at the Stewart Indian School (SIS). We feel this way as there is a remarkable similarity between the buildings created by the Stewart-trained stonemasons and (big AND), the fact that two of the tribe’s members, Charlie and Frank Paradise, attended SIS and we know that they built at least one stone house in Elko, Nevada (yep, we’re going there too!)
There are records of the SIS students and the trades they learned at the school. Having access to those records would make it easier to determine the buildings in Nevada and California that were created by the SIS alumni.
However, those records are either in national archives/federal records centers in California or the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office (BIA) in Carson City. (Note to BIA, we’re available to help sort, organize and file those records. Just saying!)
If you make the trip and would like to share your photographs and thoughts about the stone buildings in Owyhee, we’d be honored to post them on this site.
The Frontier Motel was built in 1949 and quickly became an early day destination resort. People from both this county and Canada would plan their vacations around a stay at the motel.
During the early days, the motel has a wall comprised of the pink stonework found at the Stewart Indian School. We think that the stonemasons from the school were responsible for this wall. Later, the wall was demolished and replaced with a brick wall. We think this happened when the second story was added to the motel.
Here are pictures of the two wall types. We think the stone wall was better, but then, we’re just a bit biased! In the first photo, note how the tree trunks were painted white – painting trees white was the rage in Carson City during the 1950s and 1960s. Go figure!
Frontier Motel – late 1940s – early 1950s (internet photo)
Yet another creation integral to Nevada’s history has fallen prey to the evergrowing development in our area.
Once again, progress marched forward, kicking Nevada history to the curb in the process! Over the last 3 – 4 years, we’ve noticed that this deliberation destruction of our historic treasures appears to be a common theme in our area (See the post on the Stone House on the Mt. Rose Highway). The motel was razed approximately 18 months ago and Cruz Construction took all that gorgeous Rhyolite to the Carson City landfill. To date, nothing has been built on the site of the former motel.
This motel is on Highway 50, one block to the east of Carson Street. It is believed that Randall Wungnema was the master stonemason who built the motel in 1959. Over the years, the motel morphed into a strip mall, the trees were cut down and the stonework covered in paint, hiding the beauty of the stones. Compare the motel as it was in the late 1950s – early 1960s to how it appears today.
During the 1940s, Ernest and Burton Wungnema built a number of churches in and around Lake Tahoe. We believe that this church, Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Kings Beach, California, is one of those churches. This church was built in 1947. Attempts to contact the church for verification and a brief history were unsuccessful.
Our Lady of the Lake, 1947 (Photo: Rustic Architecture of Lake Tahoe)
Family history has this father-son team building Catholic Churches in Kings Beach/Brockway and Truckee, California during that time frame.
Plus, it is known that the original windows for the Wungnema House in Carson City were purchased from Catholic Churches in those communities. These were the churches that Ernest and Burton built together. The churches had purchased frosted windows, yet received clear glass windows. When Ernest and Burton learned that the churches planned to return these clear glass windows to the manufacturer, they arranged to purchase them instead.
Our Lady of the Lake today (Photo: SCD.org)
Burton Wungnema, 1942, working on a church at Lake Tahoe (Photo: Nevada Indian Commission)
When this church was built, Burton was only 21, yet already a master stonemason. He had been working along side his brother, Randall, and his father for a number of years. His father, Ernest, worked and taught masonry at the Stewart Indian School (SIS). Ernest took pride in his finished work product, a trait he passed onto his children and grandchildren.
Take a look at the precise alignment of the stones, the even-texture of the grouting and the corners – all work of master stonemasons. Also, note the use of Turquoise in the building and the dark mud or grout – both trademarks of the Wungnema Family.
Sadly, this church was vandalized in February of 2016 and the statute of Mary in front of the church was damaged. Mary has been repaired and a protective plexi-glass shield now shields her. (See https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/news/crime-fire/severed-head-hands-of-virgin-mary-statue-marks-latest-tahoe-church-crime/
Back behind and near the church are a number of homes with pink stone chimneys. We think that these are the work of the Native American stonemasons from SIS. Some of the chimneys could even be the work of Ernest and/or Burton.
Back
Shrine
Side
Side view
Example of keystone in the window
If you have a chance, visit the church and admire her in person. Then take a ride through the surrounding homes and see how many pink stone chimneys you can spot!
The Stewart Community Baptist Church is on the grounds of the Stewart Indian School (SIS) on the southern edge of the campus. It sits directly across the street from the original Corpus Christi Catholic Church on Snyder Avenue.
The church was completed in 1950. The principal stonemasons were Ernest, Randall and Burton Wungnema. Masonry students from the SIS assisted with the stonework.
Stewart Community Baptist Church, 1950 (Photo 1950 Stewart Indian School yearbook)
The church is still used for religious services today. The church building is spacious which allows the church to host a number of support groups, community groups, expecting mothers and children up to 24 months plus a weekly food bank. It’s a happening place! There is a commercial kitchen that is original to the building. The bell in the tower used to ring on Sunday mornings, calling one and all to services. Now, the bell is only rung on special occasions.
If you visit the Stewart Indian School, be sure to tour the grounds of the Stewart Community Baptist Church. Sometimes, you can catch the ministry leadership at the church who are always eager to share their knowledge of the church.
Note: We recently learned that the while adjacent to the Stewart Campus, the Stewart Community Baptist Church is owned by the State of Nevada. The Baptist Church owns the land and the building. As such, it may not enjoy the protected status of the buildings on the campus. Those buildings have received National Historic Landmark status, which protects them from development and destruction.
Stewart Community Baptist Church, 2017
Stewart Community Baptist Church in the snow (internet photo)
This little cutie sits at the end of the Safari Mobile Home Park in Carson City. She looks unloved, yet we remember when she looked so different. Back in the lat 1970s, early 1980s, a friend of ours lived in this house and she took such good care of the house. To be sure, it’s a tiny house, just room enough for our friend and her dog. Back then, there was grass all around the house, there was a tall Cottonwood or two in front of the house and the inside was all cozy and cute.
We believe that the house was built by the Native American stonemasons from the Stewart Indian School. As such, she is a piece of Nevada History and deserves to be treated with respect.
Tiger Drive, front
Today, the house is surrounded by trailers. And we could not ascertain whether the house is part of the park or a separate entity. The house number does not come up in the Carson City Assessor’s database, so we are not really sure of the house’s status. At one point, the tenants of this park apparently didn’t care about curb appeal and the property fell into disrepair.
However, things are looking up – it seems as though the property is under new management and the property is being cleaned, updated and cared for. Maybe, some of that care will fall onto this little house and she will have a do-over. We’re going to keep an eye on her and will share our findings with you!
This little gem sits somewhere in Carson City. Where? Well, that’s a secret. The homeowners made us promise to not reveal its location. And, that’s a promise we intend to keep!
The Hidden House
What we do know is that the original owner contracted with officials at the Stewart Indian School in the late 1950s or early 1960s – seems the owner wanted the house built by the trade students at the school. When we say trade, we mean the electrical, plumbing, black smithing, carpentry and masonry students.
We know that members of the Wungnema Family (Randall Wungnema for one) took the lead on the stone work ( If you look closely, you can see a piece or two of Turquoise in the front wall of the pump house!). And there is quite a bit of stonework – the house with the fire place, the surrounding wall and the pump house. The finished work, the hard work by all the students, is gorgeous!
Our copy of the hunt arrived on Wednesday and come Sunday, we were on the campus of the Stewart Indian School (SIS) fully engaged in the hunt. The hunt took approximately two hours to complete. Two hours that were so enjoyable, we hardly noticed the time!
We came prepared for the hunt: we had our copies of the hunt, bottles of water, hats and, of course, cameras. We thoroughly enjoy activities such as the scavenger hunt, so call us nerds if you must! However, what surprised us was how much fun we had on this hunt! And truth be told, we became a little competitive with one another – who could find a specific stone first?
We have a few observations about the hunt – first take a clipboard, it will make jotting down your answers so much easier. Then, the pictures aren’t to scale and that threw us off at first. Finally, the directions were ambiguous – the instructions might say a stone was on the SE corner of a building, when in fact, the stone might be on the east side of that building. Once we took those factors into consideration and made the necessary mental adjustments, the clues fell into place and we had no trouble finding the stones!
First stop was the Stewart Cultural Center, currently undergoing a renovation using monies allotted by the 2017 Nevada Legislature.
Stewart Cultural Center, now (Photo Stewartindianschool.com)
While the Cultural Center was surrounded by a chain link fence (which meant we couldn’t get too close to the building), the stones listed in the hunt were easy to spot and quickly marked off the hunt! As we walked the campus, we were again struck by its beauty. Usually, we are on the grounds of Stewart during the week, when there’s a high influx of employees and visitors. On a Sunday, the campus is quiet, making it so much easier to appreciate these buildings and the Native American stonemasons who built them and the Native American students who attended classes or lived in them.
The Quad
Midway through the hunt, we stopped to rest and plan the remainder of our route. And we found the perfect spot at a table under the giant trees right across from the Quad (which, despite the name, has five buildings, not four!). There, we met a nice couple from Arizona – Henrietta and Jesse.
As we were chatting with them, we learned that they had been in the last class to graduate from SIS and this was the first time they been back on the campus since they graduated.
We talked about the old gym. Jesse had fond memories of the gym where he and his friends went for recreation. We told them that we have a picture of the gym when it was under construction and that in the foreground of the picture are two men; two men whose identities are unknown. Both Henrietta and Jesse thought the men could be spirits and, thus, not identifiable.
Spirits?
They told us that the school had spirits, had always had spirits. They were adamant that SIS isn’t haunted, never was haunted. There have always been spirits on the school grounds that are not mean, not interested in haunting – these spirits are gentle souls who only wanted to make their presence known. And who liked to play pranks on the humans. So, maybe, just maybe, the gym picture was of two spirits, not two humans. We liked the idea of gentle, playful spirits being on campus, keeping one and all company. And we really liked the thought that the picture was of spirits!
Henrietta told us that the federal government used the same set of building plans for all of the Indian schools in this country, resulting in all of the schools having the same layout and physical characteristics. Using the same plans save the government time and money. Who would have thought that the federal government was so practical?
Henrietta and Jesse shared stories about life at the school, how they worked at the Hyatt at Lake Tahoe over the weekends to earn spending money. The Hyatt would send a shuttle down from the Lake on Friday afternoon for the students. The boys worked outside or on building maintenance while the girls worked as maids or as waitresses. The students were then shuttled back to Stewart late Sunday afternoon.
We chatted about the auditorium. Henrietta pointed out that the initials CIS were engraved in the stone over the auditorium’s door. While the school is best known as the Stewart Indian School, it has also been called by other names including Carson Indian School (CIS), Carson Industrial School (CIS) or the Stewart Institute. Well, we were amazed – we hadn’t noticed those initials when we were looking at the stones used in the construction of the auditorium. Damn!
Nevada’s first senator, William M. Stewart, was instrumental in obtaining the funding required to open SIS. When the school opened on December 17, 1890. It was named in his honor. It has also been known as Stewart Institute, Carson Industrial School, and Carson Indian School.
Sadly, it was time for Henrietta and Jesse to leave. We thanked them for their time and stories. We headed to the west side of the grounds to complete the hunt. Many of the buildings we encountered were boarded up and looked unloved, while other buildings are being used by governmental agencies.
The State of Nevada has not allocated sufficient money to renovate these buildings. We understand, the state’s still feeling the effects of the Great Recession and there are so many state agencies that require funding. Plus, there’s a certain skill set required to work with these stones. SIS closed in 1980, so many of the stone masons trained at the school are probably considering retirement, plus, its quite probable that many of the stone masons trained at the school have returned to their home states.
We have heard whispers that the State of Nevada wants to renovate the dormitories and the cafeteria. As in many situations, the hold-up is money. It would take a great deal of money to renovate the buildings and bring them to code. Money the state does not have at present.
Once renovated, the rooms could be rented to over night visitors who would be able to take their meals in the cafeteria, which still has all of its original kitchen equipment. Perhaps, the cafeteria could focus on Native American cuisine.
The kitchen and bakery has the capacity to feed 500 students and staff three times a day. So, it seems that between the kitchen, bakery, dining room and dorms, at least that many tourists could be accommodated daily.
1946 Stewart Indian School Yearbook
A complete renovation would turn these facilities in a destination resort and generate revenue for the school as well as publicizing the school, it’s history and future.
Here’s an idea: officials at Stewart could team with, say, the Harrah College of Hospitality, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) (https://www.unlv.edu/hospitality) for a portion of the staffing required to operate such an undertaking. It could be a win-win situation for all parties!
The UNLV students would receive hands-on training in a significantly historic setting and, hopefully, college credit for their work. Naturally, we think that the Native American students should receive preferential placement opportunities this hands-on training. SIS would have the benefit of employees specializing in hospitality-hotel management managing and operating the facility
Perhaps, we could even engage the assistance from UNLV’s high profile alumni (Hello Guy Fieri!) in developing and promoting a hospitality program at Stewart. The money collected from room rentals and meals could be used to offset upkeep and maintenance of these fabulous stone creations. Think about the benefits for all parties!
Once we had successfully identified every stone in the scavenger hunt, it was time for us to leave. And we did so reluctantly. We had a great time, met the nicest couple ever and learned a thing or two. Who could ask for more?
If you have the time, we urge you to order your own copy of this scavenger hunt and spend a couple of hours on beautiful grounds of the Stewart Indian School. It’s time well spent! If you do complete the scavenger hunt, let us know what you think about the hunt and whether or not you enjoyed it! Our email is nativestonework@gmail.com.
Here are some other photographs we took on the Scavenger Hunt!
This two-car garage is on the west side of Center Street bordering the Stewart Campus. We took these photos in October of 2018 and are now sharing them with one and all. It was a bright and sunny day. We were headed towards Minden, and taking the back way, when we saw the door of this building open. The garage sits directly across from the football field and track.
Being curious (some might say nosy!), we stopped. It was the perfect time for a photo op. We took the interior shot by inserting the camera through the door and using the flash option. After all, we didn’t want to be accused of trespassing. All the windows on this beautiful building are broken out and boarded over. The interior has been gutted.
interior of garage
We could not find this garage listed on the map included the application for inclusion of SIS on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).
Some might consider this garage to be insignificant compared to the other buildings on the campus. We don’t – we consider each and every building on the grounds to be worthy of restoration.
We realize money is tight; however, start small and work towards restoring the bigger buildings. If people could see a couple small buildings restored, they might be inclined to donate towards the restoration of the larger buildings. Or, the small building restoration might make it easier to obtain grant money for the larger buildings. Just saying…
Boarded up windows on the garage
Note the masonry work on the corners of the garage
This two-car garage sits to the north of the dairy barn on the campus of the Stewart Indian Schoo (SIS). Its building 108 on the map included the application for inclusion of SIS on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The garage has been fenced off and covered with plastic sheeting since 2001.
Front view of the fenced garage
According to a Nevada Appeal story on December 20, 2001 (https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2001/dec/20/director-fears-stewart-building-will-be-torn-down/), there were plans to demolish the building. These plans were made despite the fact that the SIS is listed on the NRHP since 1985.
The then director of the Stewart Indian Museum Sheila Abbe, had concerns about the building being demolished despite it being “among the least impressive of Stewart’s structures.” She felt that would set a precedent and would allow any building on the Stewart Campus to be torn down for any reason.
Side view of the fenced garage
The building was one of many at SIS that had been used for training purposes by local law enforcement agencies. Ms. Abbe did not approve of this practice and we believe that due to her efforts, the law enforcement training programs on the Stewart Campus were discontinued.
A memo was issued on April 10, 2001, by state building and grounds administrator Mike Meizel, and then tacked to the doors of Stewart’s buildings.
The memo read:”To all law enforcement agencies:
“Effective immediately, the buildings at the Stewart facility will no longer be used for raid, SWAT and all other law enforcement exercises. Law enforcement training will no longer be allowed in that facility due to the damage being done to the buildings.”
We’re pretty sure that the State of Nevada has either allocated funds or received grants which would allow the building to be rebuilt. However, the garage was not the beneficiary of those funds and has sat untouched for the last two decades.
Perhaps, the 2023 Nevada Legislature could provide the funding to restore the garage. And the thing is, we have Native American stonemasons, trained at SIS, in this area who could do the masonry work, complete the repairs. Wouldn’t that complete the circle? Native American stonemasons repairing a structure built by Native American stonemasons?
The Stewart Barns – Horse Barn, rear and Dairy Barn, front
Here are the dairy and horse barns located on the grounds of the Stewart Indian School (SIS). The barns are at the southern edge of the campus. They are absolutely gorgeous and our favorite buildings. We think all of the buildings created by the Native American stonemasons are gorgeous, however, there is something about these two barns, sitting by themselves in a field that catches our heart.
Note the resemblance of the stones in this print to the stones used at the Stewart Indian School
As best we can determine, these barns were built in the mid 1920s by the masonry staff and students at the SIS. The horse barn has some sort of entry way, which we think was used to have the horses enter and leave the barn.
The south side of the entry way is comprised of carved granite blocks, plus, the first three feet of construction from the ground up is comprised of carved granite blocks.
We believe those blocks came from Benton Stables in Carson City. The stables were torn down after the death of the proprietor, James M. Benton in 1925. The use of stones from the stables in other buildings on the SIS campus has been documented.
Other than the granite blocks, the stones used in the barns are not dressed like the stones used in other buildings on the Stewart Campus. That is, they are not in block form, instead, the stones were used as they were found and almost resemble river rock in the construction technique. Also, note the tin shingle roofs on both barns. We think that the age and patina of the shingles perfectly complements the stones used in both barns.
Update: We found these pictures of the two stone barns plus a wood barn in the 1946 Stewart Indian School year book. What we thought was a entry way on the horse barn appears to be a connecting passage between the horse and dairy barns. The wood barn is no longer standing, however, portions of its foundation and floor remain.
The three barns
Diary and Horse barns, rear
It appears that that after the agricultural programs at Stewart were discontinued, the barns were used for storage by the General Services Administration (GSA) or the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) or some other alphabet agency. We base this on the faded signage affixed to the front of the building.
Buildings 112 and 114 are in the lower left-hand corner
In the building inventory of the National Register of Historic Places – Application , the barns are classified as significant. The National Register of Historic Places defines significant as “The property must embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, represent the work of a master, possess high artistic values, or represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.”
We feel that the barns more than meet that definition. (https://publicworks.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/publicworksnvgov/content/Documents/03_Historic_Resources_Inventory_1982_Page_141.pdf)
These are not the only examples of barns built by the Native American stonemasons. We found a barn on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Owyhee, Nevada. This barn resembles the dairy farm found at SIS. We think that stonemasons who built the Owyhee barn were trained at Stewart, which accounts for the resemblance.
Photo – Society of Architectural Historians
According to the Society of Architectural Historians, “One of the tallest buildings in Owyhee, this large barn has stone walls rising one story to meet the flared edges of a steep, shingled gambrel roof. The faces of the gable ends are sheathed with short horizontal wood boards. Above the south door in the gable is a closed up opening for a hay door, flanked by two small square windows. Above the hay door, the gambrel roof projects to a point at which a pulley could be attached to hoist hay.” (see https://sah-archipedia.org/buildings/NV-01-NO67)
Signage, Horse Barn
More signage, Horse Barn
Diary Barn, rear
Window keystones, Dairy Barn
Diary Barn, profile – note the resemblance to the Owyhee Barn
This house was built by Randall Wungnema and members of the Wungnema Family for his wife, Mama Hope, as an anniversary present. When the family moved out, the house had a second life as a bar, the Sniveler’s Inn.
Unfortunately, it was demolished and a bank/office building were constructed on the site. This is a sad reminder that we need to protect and preserve our historic buildings.
When the house was the Sniveler’s Inn
This building sits on the site of the Sniveler’s Inn
Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 1950. Photo: 1950 yearbook, Stewart Indian School
This is the Corpus Christi Catholic Church on Snyder Avenue. While the church is not on the campus of the Stewart Indian School, it is immediately adjacent to the school grounds.
Corpus Christi Catholic Church, present-day
“On 15 of June, 1949, the Bureau Indian Affairs granted the Catholic Bishop of Reno permission to use an acre of land at the Stewart Indian School in Stewart, Nevada, to use as a mission and school. Later that year, with the help of Native American stone masons Joe Burkeheart and Randy Wungnema, construction commenced on a 2,900 square foot building.
By May of 1950, the church was ready, and the first mass was celebrated by Bishop T.K. Gorman. Stone for the church was taken from the Federal quarry east of Carson City. The church owes its unique look to the fact that the inside mortar was mixed with brick dust, and the outside mortar was mixed with coal dust.” (http://www.ccchurchcc.org/our-story.html)
The Wungnema Family was known to use coal and/or dust in the mortar they used in their masonry projects.
The entry way and grotto was added by members of the Wungnema Family in the late 1970s. The stonemasons on the addition were Randall Wungnema, Donald Talas, and Inez Raymond. The supervising foreman was Louis K. Koontz.
The Grotto
The entryway
In 2009, the parish moved to Douglas County, Nevada where a new Corpus Christi had been built. The beautiful pipe organ was moved from the original church to the new church in August of 2015.
stone walkway alongside the church (photo taken prior to the property transfer)
The original Corpus Christi Catholic Church building on Snyder Avenue was returned to the Washoe Tribe on February 1, 2016. Prior to the tribe taking ownership of the building, the altar and all sacred items were moved to the new Corpus Christi Catholic Church building.
The original Corpus Christi Catholic Church building is now on private land. As such, please do not trespass. Instead, you may admire this fine example of Native American workmanship from across the street.
Note the stonework on the portion of the roof leading up to the crucifix. Such pride in workmanship for a portion of the building most people would not notice
This house and the pump house are on North Carson Street, approximately a block south of the Burger King.
Not much is known about the house. We couldn’t find any information about the building on the Carson City Assessor’s Web site. Supposedly, the house was built to repay a debt. We’ve been told that house was built in the 30s by one of the Native American stonemasons at the Stewart Indian School (SIS). According to local lore, the stonemason owed the property owner some money.
The property owner wanted a small house built on the property and made a deal with the stonemason – build a stone house for him, the property owner, and the debt would be forgiven. The property owner would provide the land (naturally) and building materials while the stonemason would provide the time, talent and tools.
House and pump house
And, so, a deal was struck – the house and pump house were built. For as long as anyone can remember, the house stood vacant, nobody lived in it. It just stood on the extreme northern edge of town until progress surrounded it. And while it was never vandalized, it recently (within the last five years) was fenced protect the buildings from vandalism, graffiti, teen-aged partygoers and the like.
Side view, North Carson Street House
The fencing makes it difficult to see the house and pump house; however, we feel better knowing that both buildings are now protected.
The weather’s been cold and nasty, so we’ve been staying in. Finally, cabin fever got the best of us and we wanted out. We decided to take a ride to Sparks. See, we had heard rumors of a large, pink stone house in Sparks. And then we found pictures of the house on a realty Web site, the site even had the address. So, we were off!
aerial view of the Wedekind Road parcel
The house is on Wedekind Road located between cookie-cutter apartments and, shall we say the “grittier” stretch of Wedekind.
We rounded a corner and there was the house – only, it wasn’t just one building, it was three. The lot size is enormous providing sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The house and outlying buildings were constructed in 1939, the year the building program at the Stewart Indian School (SIS) began to take off. At this time, more and more people in Northern Nevada were using the students from masonry, electricial, carpentry, blacksmithing, and plumbing programs at Stewart.
Wedekind Road House
We believe that this compound was completed by the master and student stonemasons from the school. Until the school closed, the students in the building trades often built stone houses in Nevada and California.
Another indication that this was built by the stonemasons from Stewart is the fact that there is turquoise and onyx among the stones. The Wungnema Family (master stonemasons at the SIS) is known to have used those stones as their trademarks in their work.
There is a house, a garage (we think) and what is called a studio. Plus, a wishing well – this feature has been found in at least two other residences in Northern Nevada built by the stonemasons at the SIS: One being the Hershey house in Carson City and the other was located at a private residence in Carson City. We know the well at the private residence was built by Randall Wungnema.
Wedekind Road House outbuildings
Wedekind Road wishing well
This stone beauty is approximately 3,700 square feet and sits on 1.4 acres. The house sold in November of 2021 and from the real estate listing on the Internet at that time, we discovered that this single-family property could be either refreshed or the property could be demolished and up to nine individual, cookie-cutters type apartments constructed on the property.
To us, it is problematic when a real estate listing includes wording indicating that the property can be redeveloped for an increased revenue stream. The property is described as an “exciting investment opportunity,” To us, that is the kiss of death for these wonderful buildings.
This property is a piece of Nevada history and deserves to be respected for its role in providing shelter and helping to bolster the local economy in the post-depression years. Sure, the buildings could do with some touch up masonry work. Fortunately, there are some Stewart-trained Native American stonemasons in the area who could to that work!
Wedekind House sideview – note the wonderful veranda
Wedekind House
Perhaps, the new owner would be willing to work with local and state historical offices to have the property designated as a historical building. The property could be rehabbed and either used for a family – wouldn’t this be a great place to raise a family? Or it could be used as a community resource (an art gallery such as the Brewery Arts Center in Carson City comes to mind.)
See https://shpo.nv.gov/ for the Nevada State Preservation Office and https://www.historicreno.org/index.php for the Historic Reno Preservation Society. We think that there are financial benefits to having these structures designated as historic buildings. Financial benefits such as tax breaks and grants.
We hope that this house and the outbuildings are preserved for future generations.
(Originally published October 2019) We had a happy accident last week – we were Googling (this is a word – Google says it is!) this and that, when we stumbled across Moon Dune House at Lake Tahoe. Moon Dune is a stone house built in the 1930s. So naturally, we had to take a closer look.
The Web site for the house (moondune.com) was interesting and provided verification that the house was indeed built by Native American stonemasons as well as the family. Now, that has to be a first – a joint venture between a family and Native American stonemasons. All the more reason to go see this beauty in person!
Always up for a road trip, we set one fine Friday morning to go see this house ourselves. It was late fall and still warm enough that we did not need heavy sweaters or coats. Best of all, the summer tourist season was over, so the roads around the Lake were relatively free of traffic.
We knew we were there when we saw that glorious gate protecting the property as it has done for so many years. We looked at the chimney on the north side of the house – yep, sure looked like the work of Native American stonemasons.
Moon Dune Gates
We then walked down to the beach and were able to see the house up close and personal. It’s even more beautiful in person than in the photographs and the beach provides the perfect setting for this home!
The thing that sets this house apart from other homes built by the Native American stonemasons is the window treatment. All of the other stone buildings created by the Native American stonemasons have keystones for the windows and, sometimes, the door frames. Not this house. No, from what we could see, the windows and doors were framed in wood and the family inserted the stones they had collected on their travels around the wood frames.
We could clearly see the transition from those stones set by the stonemasons to those stones set by the family, which adds extra charm to the house. The pieces of Onyx and Turquoise interspersed among the other stones are especially striking!
Moon Dune House – note the window framing
Stepping back for a better look, we noticed a small stone chimney jutting out to the side of the house. Oh, what was this? We walked back up the beach to the front of the house. Next to Moon Dunes was a fenced property – the fence being too tall for those of us who are vertically challenged! Fortunately, not all of our party was vertically challenged, so we were able to get a picture of small stone structure inside the fence.
Moon Dune Bonus House
We decided to call this building the bonus house! It was either a small house or cabin, a perfectly sized building. From the construction, it appears that it was built at the same time as Moon Dune. Why, though, was it off to one side and separated by fencing? Good question and while we don’t know the answer to that question, we do have our own theory. We think that, perhaps, this small building was an outbuilding for Moon Dune and over the years, the lot was divided into two parcels. One parcel has Moon Dune on it while the other parcel has this small stone building on it. That’s our thinking. If anybody knows the real story, please share – we’d love to hear it!
We thought that, having spent so much time at Lake Tahoe searching for the homes and churches built by the Native American stonemasons, we had found them all. And we were wrong.
Finding Moon Dunes showed us that the Lake is big enough and wooded enough that there may well be more stone buildings around Lake Tahoe that we’ve yet to discover. We’ve heard rumors that Native American stonemasons from Carson City built two, large stone houses in Tahoe City and Rubicon Bay. Apparently, the house in Rubicon Bay is on the beach and can be seen from the lakeside.
Winter’s coming and we probably won’t do much exploring until April or so of next year. In the meantime, we’ll use what technological resources are available to us to determine if we can find more of these stone beauties at Lake Tahoe. Of course, if anybody happens to know where to find a stone house or two of Native American construction and wants to share that information with us, we wouldn’t say no!
Moon Dune living room fireplace (photo courtesy moondune.com). Note the beautiful stone fireplace.
Moon Dune House chimney
Moon Dune House – side view. Note the difference in the stones used in the wall and the chimney as well as the difference in the masonry styles.
During a trip through Arizona in 1914, Fredrick Snyder, superintendent of the Stewart Indian School (SIS), had seen examples of Native American stone masonry and was impressed with the workmanship. When he became superintendent of the Stewart Indian School in 1919, he imported both the masonry style (which morphed into the Stewart Vernacular style) and Native American stonemasons to work at the school.
His importance to both the SIS and Carson City was such that the road leading to the school was renamed Snyder Avenue. It was originally Stewart Avenue. However, the street name was changed in the late 1950s – early 1960s.
Stewart Barn
While at Stewart, the Native American stonemasons learned the locally-unique Stewart Vernacular style of masonry using the protocol established at the school.
According to the Wikepedia Web site, Vernacular architecture is slightly different than other architectural styles. It is the native method of construction used by local people, usually using labor-intensive methods and local materials, and usually for small structures such as rural cottages. It varies from region to region even within a country, and does not rely on national styles or technology. As western society has developed, vernacular styles have mostly become outmoded due to new technology and to national building standards.
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
Many of the buildings at the Stewart Indian School were built using either Rhyolite or multi-colored Nevada native stones. Some of the Native American stonemasons, especially the Wungnemas, set the stones with mortar that either had brick or coal dust mixed into it. This gave the mortar a pink or a black tinge. The style was locally influential in Northern Nevada.
Mr. Snyder was somewhat of a rock hound in that he, his friends, the students and the local businesses making deliveries to the school, would go out in the desert around Carson City to collect the rocks used in the buildings at the school and around town.
Mr. Snyder also implemented a Residential Construction Program*, where the staff and students would be contracted to build local residences, walls and landscape features. This program generated income for both the school and the students while providing the student apprentices with on-the-job training. We know that the master stonemasons and the student stonemasons from the school participated in this OJT program. We think that it’s possible that the master carpenters, plumbers and electricians and their students also participated in this program.
These Native American stonemasons built many – if not all of – the buildings at the Stewart Indian School, all of which are still standing today. The Stewart Indian School is on the National Registrar of Historic Places, thus ensuring that the work of the Native America stonemasons will be preserved for future generations to admire and study.
While vernacular architecture may have become outmoded in most of the country, the Stewart Vernacular style of masonry is still highly prized in Northern Nevada and California. People who own a Stewart Vernacular house, wall, planter, fireplace, chimney or landscape feature, consider themselves lucky – lucky that they own a piece of history and lucky that there are still Native American stonemasons actively working in Nevada and who can repair these pink stone creations.
Stewart Dorms
The Second World War saw the decline of the building program at the Stewart Indian School – the shortage of building materials, the gas rationing and the drafting of the young men made it impossible to maintain Fredrick Snyder’s grand plans for the school. After the War, the program was not able to recover its pre-war momentum and many of the stonemasons sought work elsewhere. The instructors and students became self-employed stonemasons seeking work locally or returning to their home states to work as stonemasons. Their stone, brick or cinderblock creations are their legacies and their gifts to us.
A side note: There are no known photographs of Frederick Snyder. If you have a photograph of him, we’d love it if you would share it with the Stewart Indian Museum or us.
*Our name for the program. Research has yet to reveal the program’s working name.
This is the Hersey House. Isn’t it just gorgeous? It was built for the Reverend Milton J. Hersey and his family. According to the Carson City Assessor’s Office, the house was built 1930 – 1934.
Hershey House – Mountain Street side
At one time, it was thought that the house was built by the Wungnema Family. However, the Wungnema Family did not move to Nevada until after construction was completed.
While the Wungnemas did not build the Hersey House, they are thought to have built the landscape design elements in the garden (the fence, the fence posts and the wishing well), approximately 7 – 10 years after the house was completed. We know of at least two other wishing wells completed by the Native American stonemasons. One is in Sparks, while the other has been demolished.
Rather, the trade students at the Stewart Indian School (SIS) build the house. The SIS is located south of Carson City. The trades included electrical, plumbing, carpentry, blacksmithing and masonry. These students built a number of homes in the area.
The Reverend Milton J. Hersey (internet photograph)
The reverend was one of the chaplains at SIS where he struck up a friendship with Fredrick Snyder, the superintendent at SIS. The two men were known to walk the high desert outside of Carson City looking for stones. These found stones and quarried stones were used at Stewart and in the Hershey House.
When built, the house was on the western edge of Carson City. Today, it sits in the middle of Carson City’s historical district. The house is also within walking distance of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church where Reverend Hersey served as rector from May 1925 through August 1934. For additional information on the reverend’s time at SIS and his missionary work, see: http://usgenwebsites.org/UTGenWeb/Uintah/biosgl.html and http://usgenwebsites.org/UTGenWeb/Uintah/native.html,
The house is almost a century old and is in remarkable condition. If you have a chance, drive or walk by this piece of Nevada history.
Hersey House front – Musser Street Side
Hersey House chimney
Hersey House Garage
Hersey House from Musser Street
Hersey House gates
Hersey House wishing well (attributed to Randall Wungnema)
Sadly, the one remaining stone house on Mt. Rose has fallen victim to the rampant development affecting Northern Nevada. It is no more and is being replaced by a development of modern homes.
Progress marches forward, kicking Nevada history to the curb! Over the last 3 – 4 years, we’ve noticed that this appears to be a common theme in our area. Without protection, many of our historic landmarks will be destroyed in the name of progress.
Site of where the stone house once stood. Across from the Summit Mall on old 395.
Houses, Mt. Rose and Old 395. Photo taken approximately 1950s – 1960s
In the old days (say the late 1950s through the 1970s), when we went to Reno, we’d take Old 395. At the junction of Old 395 and Mt. Rose, there were five small houses, a couple were built of pink stone, another couple were wood frame and one looked as though it was a combination of both building materials.
At the time, we didn’t question why those houses were there, out in the middle of nowhere. And over time, people, for the most part, forgot about these houses. This was especially true once I580 opened as the houses are/were not easily visible from the freeway.
Today, only one of the houses has survived and it looks as though it’s become party central. We went exploring and believe that the craftsmanship of the lone survivor can be attributed to the Native American stonemasons from the Stewart Indian School. The house is pretty much destroyed, only the walls are standing and it’s full of trash and used drug paraphernalia.
It’s a shame that these houses were neglected, that they were not loved and protected. Hopefully, whoever owns the property will protect the last house and, maybe, even restore it! The house is a vital part of Nevada’s history and deserves to be saved!
This is Carson City’s own Mystery House. Look at this cutie! Imagine it’s a cold, winter day and you’re inside, sitting in front of a fire in the beautiful fireplace, cup of hot cocoa in one hand and a good book in the other. All snug and cozy! Best way to spend a snowy day!
All we know about this house is that it was in Carson City – quite possibly on the West Side. We’re thinking the West Side as it appears that C Hill is in the background of the photograph.
It appears that the photograph may have been taken between the 1930s through the 1950s. We’ve been unable to date the photograph or pinpoint the exact location of the house.
We have a suspicion that the house no longer exists. It was probably torn down to make room for a modern dwelling. We’ve traveled extensively through Carson City and cannot find it. We’ve talked to long-time residents of Carson City and they all agree that they remember the house, they just don’t remember where it is/was.
We’d like more information on the house – when was it built, where was it and is is it still standing. We think it could be the work of the Wungnema Family – it has the family’s trademark dark grout or mud, plus, we think we can see a piece of turquoise in the chimney. If you have any information about this cutie, we’d love to hear from from you.
Today, let’s talk about stone acquisition and the tools a stonemason needs to create his/her masterpieces. Let’s start with “Where did the Native American stonemasons obtain the stones used in their construction projects?”
Some of the stone were found – that is, the stones were picked up and transported to the building site. This was the low-cost means of obtaining building materials and often allowed the land to be cleared before construction began.
Frederick Snyder, superintendent of the Stewart Indian School (SIS) from 1919 – 1934, was a great proponent of found stones collection method. He, his friends and the SIS students would take long drives in the Nevada Desert collecting the stones used in the construction of the buildings on campus. It’s even said that he required anybody making a delivery to the school, to collect stones for him.
And some of the stone came from local quarries. This allowed the stonemason the opportunity to select the stone he/she wanted to use instead of having to use found stone. It is possible the some of the Native American stonemasons used both found and quarried stone in their projects.
Quarry (Dictionary.com): noun, plural quarries.
1. an excavation or pit, usually open to the air, from which building stone, slate, or the like, is obtained by cutting, blasting, etc.
2. an abundant source or supply.
Quarries are a form of open pit mining. The quarried stone is just as important to Nevada’s economy as is the gold and silver produced by underground mining. Nevada has a number of active quarries, still in operation today, where the stone used in foundations, counter tops, shower stalls and fascia is found.
We know that much of the pink stone used by the Native American stonemasons came from the quarries owned by the Wungnema Family. These unspecified locations, along the Carson River, provided the Rhyolite that was used locally.
These quarries are still in limited operation today and are still owned by the Wungnemas. The family shares the exact location of these quarries only with their closest associates. Contrary to public speculation, none of the quarries are – or ever have been – underwater.
Outcropping of Rhyolite
Turquoise
Unfortunately, in Northern Nevada construction projects, Rhyolite is not used as much as it was in the past since the above-ground supply of the stone in this area has been depleted and, due to federal regulations, it is expensive to mine/dynamite the underground supply of the stone.
Note: The Carson Ridge Disc Golf Course is near the Carson River and appears to sits on a seam of Rhyolite. As the property is city-owned, it is unlikely that the seam will be mined.
In today’s modern business environment, a master stonemason needs to know his/her craft, as well as being technologically savvy, computer literate and aware of ever-changing government regulations.
What skills and tools does a stonemason need? It’s not as easy as it looks to lay stones, bricks or cinder block. There’s a skill, an art to it. Many masons apprentice on to a master stonemason in order to learn from the best.
A stonemason needs the following skills:
The ability to follow architectural plans and drawings (if provided)
A careful approach to work and attention to detail
Math skills for accurately measuring areas
Coordination and practical skills for using tools
A good eye and a sense of creativity
Business skills so that the proper fees are calculated and invoiced
Interpersonal communication skills for increased customer satisfaction
A mason tender, or a hoddy, assists the stonemason by setting up the scaffolds, mixing the mud, retrieving the stones or bricks and getting the materials/tools ready for the mason.
According to doityourself.com, “Masonry tools are as important as the skill of a mason. They are widely available in hardware stores and supply outlets. Due to the nature and scope of masonry work, they are built with durable materials to withstand heavy use.”
While the tools themselves have not changed that much in the last 100 years, the advances in material composition and production techniques have rendered today’s versions of those tools more user-friendly. The modern tools are lighter in weight, yet just a durable as their predecessors, which allows for greater productivity.
And, then there’s laser levels – these levels provide a greater degree of accuracy than a traditional mason’s level.
Trowels – The uses of this triangular-shaped tool: to pick up mortar from a board; to place and spread the mortar into a brick, or set of bricks; to secure a brick into the mortar by tapping. Sizes vary and can reach up to 11 inches in length and 8 inches in width. Masons prefer using short and wide trowels since they do not put excessive stress on wrists.
Chisel – A chisel is used to cut bricks into specific sizes. Chisel width ranges from 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches.
Hammer – A masonry hammer has a square face on one end for breaking; it has a sharp edge on the other for cutting. They are used to split hard bricks.
Jointer – A jointer is used to make mortar joints. There are three types of jointer shapes: flat, pointed and rounded.
Squares – Squares are used when constructing and measuring right angles and for corner layouts. They are usually made of metal for durability.
Mason’s Level – A mason’s level is used when establishing vertical or plumb lines and horizontal or level lines. They are typically made of wood, metal, or a combination of both. They come equipped with either single or double vials. The latter is preferred by more masons since they can be used for both horizontal and vertical measurements.
Straightedge – Straightedges act as extensors to mason’s levels: they are used when levels are shorter than the area that needs to be measured or assessed. The middle section of the top of the straightedge must be horizontally parallel to the bottom section. Widths of these tools range from 1 1/8 to 1 1/2 inches; they can be as long as 16 feet.
Welcome to Nativestonework.com! This is our second reincarnation. The site was previously up and running, however, due to events over the past couple of years, we took the site down. However, it is now back up and we are ready to resume detailing the works of the area’s Native American stonemasons.
Stewart Community Baptist Church – The Wungnema Family, stonemasons
As before, this site is dedicated to the Native American stonemasons of Nevada and California, their pink stone buildings and other creations! This site intended to identify – and hopefully – preserve the creations of the talented Native American stonemasons in Northern Nevada, California and Hawaii.
In addition to the pink stones, these stonemasons were masters of stone, brick and cinderblock resulting in residential housing, governmental and religious buildings plus ornamental structures. These men and women worked hard in the searing heat of summer and the bitter cold of winter. The only recognition they sought was the satisfaction of a job well done. The Native American stonemasons contributed – and continue to contribute – to the economic and cultural well-being of their communities.
Douglas County Senior Center – Dennis Talas, stonemason (photo by Daza Talas)
Native Stonework is a continuation of the presentation “W is for Wungnema” which was the first step in cataloging the work of Native American Stonemasons in Northern Nevada and California.
“W is or Wungnema” is a photographic history documenting the stone work of Native America stonemasons, the Wungnemas and their extended family members (the Talases, the McQueens and the Crawfords) debuted on October 7th at the Stewart Community Baptist Church in Carson City.
The goal of the presentation was recognize and acknowledge the stonework of the Native American stonemasons in general, and the Wungnema-Talas-McQueen-Crawford families, specifically. To the best of our knowledge, the Native American stonemasons and their projects were not documented prior to “W is for Wungnema”.
It is hoped that Native Stonework Web site will change that. We encourage our visitors to help put names to the people, the buildings, to share examples of this exquisite stonework that has previously been unknown, to share stories of the Native American stonemasons.
Old Stewart Gym – Approximately 1938. Unfortunately, the people in the photo are not known
The Native American stonemasons contributed not only to the economic well-being of both Nevada and California, they also contributed to the design aesthetic by enhancing the natural beauty of the area through the use of materials that complimented the landscape. In architecture, the practice of joining both form and beauty with pleasing results is known is architectonic.
Join us as we explore the works of the Native American stonemasons. Please feel free to submit your photographs and memories so that they can be shared with the world! Our email address is nativestonework@gmail.com. Credit will be given to all submissions.
The impact of Nevada’s Native American stonemasons reaches far beyond Nevada’s borders. We daresay it might be international!
Look to the Thunderbird Lodge (the Lodge) on the east shore of Lake Tahoe That is where we see the true scope of the Native American stonemasons’ creativity and workmanship. George Whittel, jr., began construction on the Lodge, his dream, in 1936. The “Captain” as he was known, used only the finest craftsmen on the project, including the area’s Native American stonemasons.
The Stewart Indian School (SIS) was contracted to provide stonemasons for the project and sent all of its stonemasons (from apprentice to master) to work on the Lodge. Other Native American stonemasons in the area were also employed on the project.
The students working at the Lodge came from many tribes, including the Washoe, Paiute, Hopi, Apache, Pima, Mohave, Walapai, Ute, Pipage, Coropah, and Tewa tribes.
Frederick Snyder, who served as the school superintendent from 1919 to 1934, established the stone masonry apprenticeship program at the school. Snyder began the practice of using colored native stones for both on- and off-campus buildings. He encouraged the trade students to ply their trades (masonry, plumbing, electrical and carpentry) for off-campus projects. The students were paid for their work off-campus and the Lodge is one example of an off-campus project.
All of the stonemasons stayed onsite during the work week – they camped along the shores of the Lake and, generally, went home on the weekends. Remember, in the 1930s, both the roads and vehicles would have made a daily commute long and tiresome.
The masons were not closely supervised and had a great deal of latitude in their work. A story is told that when the masons began working in the morning, Whittell – a night owl – was often up when the masons began their day’s work. He would meet up with the stonemasons as he headed to bed. In these encounters, Whittell would tell the masons what he wanted done that day. Those mornings when the stonemasons did not see Whittell, they decided for themselves what project to work on for the day. Many of the 12 buildings and features at the Lodge are a result of their creativity.
The article mentions the contributions of the architect, Frederick DeLongshamps, the Italian metalworkers and the Cornish miners, yet only lightly references the creativeness of the stonemasons. We thought that a magazine with the “masonry” in the title would focus more on the stone working and quarrying than the other construction aspects associated with this massive project.
One of the tunnels dug by the Cornish miners
Local stone, including Rhyolite, was used in the building of the Lodge. We believe that the majority of the Rhyolite was provided by the Wungnemas as the family owned (still owns) four Rhyolite quarries in Carson City and the stones from those quarries were used in their many projects throughout Northern Nevada and California.
The Thunderbird Lodge is now an international, must-see vacation destination with visitors from all over the world admiring the work, the craftsmanship that went into the Lodge some 80-plus years ago.
And, whether or not these visitors know it, they are admiring the workmanship of Nevada’s Native American stonemasons.
The Lighthouse at the Lodge – note the wall surrounding the light house is intact
The light house at the Lodge. Note the wall surrounding the light house has been destroyed by the waves. Plus, see how far out in the Lake the Lighthouse is located. Imagine the challenges in its construction!
