The Nevada Historical Society's building may be closed for an exciting remodel, but you can still enjoy their fascinating lectures at the Sierra View Library during their closure. NHS Nevada History - On The GO! Series is combining their three history programs that delve into Nevada History, Lake Tahoe, and the American Gaming Archives gambling and gaming history. Make sure to visit Sierra View Library on the first Saturday of every month to learn more about Nevada’s history through these engaging talks that are geared towards audiences of all ages.

April 4, 2026, 1 to 2:30 pm (America 250-themed talk)

Speaker: Dr. Dana Bennett, historian

Title of Talk: "Undismayed by Any Mere Man": The Accomplishments of Nevada's Female Lawmakers, 1919-1959

Summary of Talk: When Nevada women won, in 1914, the right to vote, they also won the right to hold public office. Four years later, Sadie Hurst of Reno became the first woman to win a seat in the Nevada Legislature, blazing the trail for 20 additional women who served in that lawmaking body over the next 40 years. These 30 legislators represented both major political parties, hailed from nearly every county in the state, and reflected a wide range of personal and professional

backgrounds. This presentation will introduce these remarkable Nevadans; describe their legislative experiences; and explore their enduring contributions to this state.

Speaker Bio: Dana Bennett grew up in Old Southwest Reno, before it was known as such. After graduating from Reno High School, she left for college and career moves but often returned to her hometown. She was an early member of HRPS and enjoyed reminiscing about the Reno she remembers. Dana holds three history degrees, including a Master's in women's history and a PhD earned with a dissertation focused on Nevada's female legislators before 1960. She and her husband currently live in Midas, Nevada; she loves to talk about the history of that place, too! Dana is the President of Friends of Midas, the town's 30-year-old historic preservation organization.