Lyon County, Nevada

Lyon County
County
Lyon County Courthouse in Yerington
Flag Logo
Location within the U.S. state of Nevada
Nevada's location within the U.S.
Coordinates: 39°01′N 119°11′W
Country	United States
State	Nevada
Founded	1861 (1861)
Named for	Nathaniel Lyon
Seat	Yerington
Largest city	Fernley
Area
• Total	2,024 sq mi (5,240 km2)
• Land	2,001 sq mi (5,180 km2)
• Water	23 sq mi (60 km2)  1.1%
Population  (2020)
• Total	59,235
• Density	29/sq mi (11/km2)
Time zone	UTC−8 (Pacific)
• Summer (DST)	UTC−7 (PDT)
Congressional districts	2nd, 4th
Website	lyon-county.org

Ruins at Fort Churchill State Historic Park

Dini's Lucky Club in Yerington

Lyon County, Nevada

Lyon County, Nevada, established in 1861 and named after Union General Nathaniel Lyon, is steeped in mining history and rich cultural heritage. Its diverse geography spans mountains, rivers, and reservoirs. Governed by a five-member board, the county has experienced significant population growth, a diversified economy with thriving tourism and agriculture, and a commitment to education and preserving its historical legacy.

History and Demographics

Lyon County's rich history dates back to its establishment on November 25, 1861, as one of Nevada's nine original counties. Named after Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union General killed in the Civil War, the county's early development was closely tied to Nevada's burgeoning mining industry.

The county's first seat was established in Dayton on November 29, 1861. Dayton, previously known as Nevada City and Chinatown, played a crucial role in the county's formative years. However, following a fire that destroyed the Dayton Court House in 1909, the county seat was relocated to Yerington in 1911, where it remains today.

Lyon County's mining heritage is particularly noteworthy. The first gold discovery in Nevada occurred here in 1849, within the Silver City district. This discovery set the stage for the famous Comstock Lode discovery a decade later. Between 1903 and 1959, Lyon County's mines produced an impressive 254,722 ounces of gold, underscoring its significance in Nevada's mining history.

Population Breakdown (2020 Census Data and ACS Data)

Category	Total	Percentage
Total Population	59,235	100%
Under 18 Years	12,200	20.6%
65 Years and Over	13,095	22.1%
Female	28,546	48.2%
Male	30,689	51.8%
White Alone	52,237	88.2%
Black or African American Alone	948	1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native Alone	2,014	3.4%
Asian Alone	1,185	2.0%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander Alone	296	0.5%
Two or More Races	2,606	4.4%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race)	12,022	20.3%
White Alone, Not Hispanic or Latino	41,995	70.9%
Married	32,148	54.3%
Never Married	15,876	26.8%
Divorced	7,819	13.2%
Widowed	3,376	5.7%
Same-Sex Married Households	474	0.8%
Same-Sex Unmarried Partner Households	296	0.5%

Historical Population Growth

Census	Population	%±
1870	1,837	—
1880	2,409	31.1%
1890	1,987	−17.5%
1900	2,268	14.1%
1910	3,568	57.3%
1920	4,078	14.3%
1930	3,810	−6.6%
1940	4,076	7.0%
1950	3,679	−9.7%
1960	6,143	67.0%
1970	8,221	33.8%
1980	13,594	65.4%
1990	20,001	47.1%
2000	34,501	72.5%
2010	51,980	50.7%
2020	59,235	14.0%
2023 (est.)	62,583	5.7%

2000 Census Data

As of the census of 2000, there were 34,501 people, 13,007 households, and 9,443 families living in the county. The population density was 17 people per square mile (6.6 people/km²). There were 14,279 housing units at an average density of 7 units per square mile (2.7/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 88.62% White, 0.65% Black or African American, 2.45% Native American, 0.61% Asian, 0.14% Pacific Islander, 4.59% from other races, and 2.94% from two or more races. 10.97% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 13,007 households, out of which 33.20% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.40% were married couples living together, 9.10% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.40% were non-families. 21.40% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.30% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02.

In the county, the population was spread out, with 27.10% under the age of 18, 6.60% from 18 to 24, 27.30% from 25 to 44, 25.20% from 45 to 64, and 13.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.50 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.00 males.

The median income for a household in the county was $40,699, and the median income for a family was $44,887. Males had a median income of $34,034 versus $25,914 for females. The per capita income for the county was $18,543. About 7.20% of families and 10.40% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.10% of those under age 18 and 7.10% of those age 65 or over.

2010 Census Data

As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 51,980 people, 19,808 households, and 14,137 families living in the county. The population density was 26.0 inhabitants per square mile (10.0/km²). There were 22,547 housing units at an average density of 11.3 units per square mile (4.4 units/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 85.0% white, 2.5% American Indian, 1.4% Asian, 0.8% black or African American, 0.3% Pacific islander, 6.4% from other races, and 3.7% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 14.8% of the population. In terms of ancestry, 20.0% were German, 18.5% were English, 15.5% were Irish, 5.9% were Italian, and 5.3% were American.

Of the 19,808 households, 33.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.3% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 28.6% were non-families, and 22.1% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02. The median age was 40.9 years.

The median income for a household in the county was $48,433 and the median income for a family was $56,106. Males had a median income of $45,319 versus $31,536 for females. The per capita income for the county was $21,041. About 8.7% of families and 12.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.9% of those under age 18 and 6.6% of those age 65 or over.

Climate

Lyon County has a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The county receives an average of:

• 8 inches of rain per year
• 16 inches of snow per year
• 251 sunny days per year

Summer highs in July average around 91°F, while winter lows in January average around 21°F.

Economy and Tourism Highlights

Lyon County's economy has evolved from its historical roots in mining and agriculture to a more diversified base, with tourism playing an increasingly significant role. The county's rich mining heritage continues to contribute to its economic landscape, with 343 active mines as of recent data. In 2018, Lyon County produced over 390,000 tons of gypsum and 116,000 tons of limestone, highlighting the ongoing importance of mineral extraction to the local economy.

Agriculture remains a vital sector, particularly in the fertile Mason Valley. The county's agricultural activities benefit from the water resources provided by the Walker and Carson rivers, supporting a variety of crops and livestock operations.

Tourism has emerged as a growing economic driver, capitalizing on Lyon County's natural beauty and historical significance. The Lahontan State Recreation Area, with its expansive 69-mile shoreline, offers diverse recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, and water sports. Fort Churchill Historic State Park and Dayton State Park further enhance the county's outdoor recreation offerings, attracting visitors interested in hiking and exploring Nevada's history.

The county's 17 roadside historical markers serve as points of interest for history enthusiasts, showcasing Lyon County's rich past and its role in Nevada's development. These markers, along with preserved historical sites, contribute to the area's appeal as a destination for cultural tourism.

Community events throughout the year celebrate Lyon County's heritage and local traditions, drawing visitors and fostering a sense of community among residents. These events not only preserve cultural identity but also stimulate local businesses and the hospitality sector.

County Commission Structure

Lyon County's governance structure has evolved over time, with the current Commissioner/Manager form established to provide effective administration and representation. The Board of County Commissioners serves as the legislative and governing body, responsible for establishing policies to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of Lyon County residents.

Key Developments

• **Transition to Commissioner/Manager Form**: Introduced an appointed County Manager to implement board decisions and oversee county functions.
• **Expansion to a Five-Member Board**: Commissioners are elected from geographic districts to ensure representation across the county's diverse communities.
• **Staggered Four-Year Terms**: Designed to maintain continuity in governance while allowing for regular electoral input.

Recent History

• **2022**: Andrew Haskin appointed as Interim County Manager following the retirement of Jeff Page.
• **2023**: Scott Keller assumed the District 2 seat, replacing Vida Keller.

Current Board of County Commissioners (as of 2024)

• **Wes Henderson (Vice Chair)** - District 1
• **Scott Keller** - District 2
• **Tammy Hendrix** - District 3
• **Robert Jacobson** - District 4
• **Dave Hockaday (Chair)** - District 5

County Managers

County Manager	Start Year	End Year	Leadership Style	Key Events
Steve Snyder	1990	2004
Donna Kristaponis	2005	2007	Focused on planning, development, and infrastructure management.	Faced several crises in her first month, including the Silver City schoolhouse fire and West Nile virus detection. Oversaw significant county growth and development. Improved labor relations and communication between departments. Developed a comprehensive traffic plan for Lyon County.
Dennis William Stark	2007	2010	Focused on establishing clear guidelines and procedures for county operations.	Conducted leadership seminars and workshops. Secured a $400,000 grant for a brownfield development project. Managed the county through budget constraints during the Great Recession. Addressed issues related to the Crystal Clear waterline project. Resigned in June 2010, receiving a severance package. Sanctioned by the Nevada Commission on Ethics in 2012 for improperly trying to influence a library board member regarding his wife's employment.
Jeff Page	2010	2022
Andrew Haskin	2022	Present

= Religion =

Religious Symbols Collage

As of 2022, approximately 60.0% of Lyon County residents identified as religious. This translates to a significant portion of the population, reflecting the diverse religious landscape of the county. Based on these estimates, Lyon County has approximately 32 religious locations, catering to various faiths and denominations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the religious affiliations, their estimated number of adherents, and the number of locations for each religion:

Religious Affiliation	Total #	Percentage	# of Locations'
Religiously unaffiliated	25,415	40%	-
Protestant	17,156	27%	19
Catholic	10,802	17%	3
Latter-day Saint	3,177	5%	5
Christian	2,542	4%	3
Jewish	1,271	2%	1
Jehovah’s Witness	1,271	2%	3
Hindu	635	1%	1

Citations

“Estimated Religious Locations in Lyon County, Nevada.” Available at: example.com/lyon-county-religious-locations “PRRI Census of American Religion — 2022.” Available at: prri.org/spotlight/prri-2022-american-values-atlas-religious-affiliation-updates-and-trends

Museums

The Lyon County Museum in Yerington showcases the region's diverse history and heritage. It features eight buildings of artifacts and exhibits, covering topics from Native American culture to pioneers, miners, farmers, and ranchers. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday, with special group tours available by appointment.

Entertainment and the Arts

The Bunny Ranch, a famous legal brothel, is located in Lyon County. It's part of Nevada's legal sex industry and attracts tourists from around the world. However, the presence of brothels in the county is a subject of debate regarding their impact on the local economy and community.

Education

Lyon County School District serves the area with 18 schools:

• **8 Elementary schools**
• **5 Middle schools**
• **5 High schools**

These include schools in Dayton, Fernley, Silver Springs, Smith Valley, and Yerington.

Libraries

The Lyon County Library System has five branches located throughout the county:

• **Dayton**
• **Fernley**
• **Silver Springs**
• **Smith**
• **Yerington**

Television Stations

Lyon County is part of the Reno, Nevada television market. Some of the stations that serve the area include:

• **KTVN (CBS affiliate)**
• **KOLO-TV (ABC affiliate)**
• **KNPB (PBS affiliate)**

Several low-power stations also serve specific communities within Lyon County, such as Silver Springs and Yerington.

Major highways

• Interstate 11 (Future)
• Interstate 80
• Interstate 80 Business (Wadsworth–Fernley)
• U.S. Route 50
• U.S. Route 95
• 
  U.S. Route 50 Alternate
• 
  U.S. Route 95 Alternate
• State Route 208
• State Route 338
• State Route 339
• State Route 340
• State Route 341
• State Route 427
• State Route 439
• State Route 823
• State Route 824
• State Route 827
• State Route 828
• State Route 829

Adjacent counties and city

• Washoe County - north
• Storey County - northwest
• Churchill County - east
• Douglas County - west
• Carson City - west
• Mineral County - southeast
• Mono County, California - southwest

Adjacent Counties and City

• **Washoe County** - north
• **Storey County** - northwest
• **Churchill County** - east
• **Douglas County** - west
• **Carson City** - west
• **Mineral County** - southeast
• **Mono County, California** - southwest

Demographics

Historical population

Census	Pop.	Note	%±
1870	1,837		—
1880	2,409		31.1%
1890	1,987		−17.5%
1900	2,268		14.1%
1910	3,568		57.3%
1920	4,078		14.3%
1930	3,810		−6.6%
1940	4,076		7.0%
1950	3,679		−9.7%
1960	6,143		67.0%
1970	8,221		33.8%
1980	13,594		65.4%
1990	20,001		47.1%
2000	34,501		72.5%
2010	51,980		50.7%
2020	59,235		14.0%
2023 (est.)	62,583		5.7%
U.S. Decennial Census 1790-1960 1900-1990 1990-2000 2010-2018

2000 census

As of the census of 2000, there were 34,501 people, 13,007 households, and 9,443 families living in the county. The population density was 17 people per square mile (6.6 people/km²). There were 14,279 housing units at an average density of 7 units per square mile (2.7/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 88.62% White, 0.65% Black or African American, 2.45% Native American, 0.61% Asian, 0.14% Pacific Islander, 4.59% from other races, and 2.94% from two or more races. 10.97% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 13,007 households, out of which 33.20% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.40% were married couples living together, 9.10% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.40% were non-families. 21.40% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.30% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02.

In the county, the population was spread out, with 27.10% under the age of 18, 6.60% from 18 to 24, 27.30% from 25 to 44, 25.20% from 45 to 64, and 13.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.50 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.00 males.

The median income for a household in the county was $40,699, and the median income for a family was $44,887. Males had a median income of $34,034 versus $25,914 for females. The per capita income for the county was $18,543. About 7.20% of families and 10.40% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.10% of those under age 18 and 7.10% of those age 65 or over.

From 2000 until 2008, Lyon County was one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States. However, its growth rate collapsed during 2008.

2010 census

As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 51,980 people, 19,808 households, and 14,137 families living in the county. The population density was 26.0 inhabitants per square mile (10.0/km²). There were 22,547 housing units at an average density of 11.3 units per square mile (4.4 units/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 85.0% white, 2.5% American Indian, 1.4% Asian, 0.8% black or African American, 0.3% Pacific islander, 6.4% from other races, and 3.7% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 14.8% of the population. In terms of ancestry, 20.0% were German, 18.5% were English, 15.5% were Irish, 5.9% were Italian, and 5.3% were American.

Of the 19,808 households, 33.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.3% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 28.6% were non-families, and 22.1% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02. The median age was 40.9 years.

The median income for a household in the county was $48,433 and the median income for a family was $56,106. Males had a median income of $45,319 versus $31,536 for females. The per capita income for the county was $21,041. About 8.7% of families and 12.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.9% of those under age 18 and 6.6% of those age 65 or over.

Communities

"Republic of Molossia", near Dayton

Cities

• Fernley
• Yerington (county seat)

Census-designated places

• Dayton
• Silver City
• Silver Springs
• Smith Valley
• Stagecoach

Other unincorporated places

• Argo
• Artesia
• Bucklands Station
• Cambridge
• Churchhill
• Como
• Davis Station
• Greenville
• Hoye
• Hudson
• Johntown
• Ludwig
• Lux
• Marshland
• Mason
• Mound House
• Nordyke
• Palmyra
• Pine Grove
• Ramsey
• Rapids City
• Rockland
• Simpson
• Stone Cabin
• Sutro
• Sweetwater
• Thompson
• Tippecanoe
• Twin Flat
• Wabuska
• Walker River
• Weeks
• Wellington
• Willington Springs
• Wichman

Politics

Although not so historically Republican as neighboring Douglas County, Lyon is nonetheless a powerfully Republican county. The last Democrat to carry the county was Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940 – the county was one of three in Nevada to vote for Barry Goldwater in 1964 – and Jimmy Carter in 1976 is the last Democrat to pass forty percent of Lyon County's vote.

An advisory question about Lyon County's legal brothels was put on the 2018 ballot. "Lyon County Question 1" asked whether or not voters wanted to rescind Title 3, Chapter 5, which is the Lyon County Brothel Ordinance. Out of 20,674 votes cast, 4,031 voted to have it rescinded, and 16,643 voted to keep the brothels open in Lyon County.

United States presidential election results for Lyon County, Nevada

Year	Republican		Democratic		Third party(ies)
	No.	%	No.	%	No.	%
2024	23,861	71.14%	8,954	26.70%	726	2.16%
2020	20,914	69.16%	8,473	28.02%	851	2.81%
2016	16,005	67.36%	6,146	25.86%	1,611	6.78%
2012	13,520	62.99%	7,380	34.38%	565	2.63%
2008	12,154	57.59%	8,405	39.83%	544	2.58%
2004	11,136	64.93%	5,637	32.87%	378	2.20%
2000	7,270	60.62%	3,955	32.98%	767	6.40%
1996	4,753	49.01%	3,419	35.25%	1,527	15.74%
1992	3,509	38.12%	2,777	30.17%	2,918	31.70%
1988	4,390	62.83%	2,301	32.93%	296	4.24%
1984	4,320	69.94%	1,673	27.08%	184	2.98%
1980	3,709	67.98%	1,288	23.61%	459	8.41%
1976	2,068	49.69%	1,866	44.83%	228	5.48%
1972	2,813	74.58%	959	25.42%	0	0.00%
1968	1,616	53.88%	939	31.31%	444	14.80%
1964	1,397	51.28%	1,327	48.72%	0	0.00%
1960	1,494	59.69%	1,009	40.31%	0	0.00%
1956	1,697	68.48%	781	31.52%	0	0.00%
1952	1,453	71.61%	576	28.39%	0	0.00%
1948	967	59.22%	629	38.52%	37	2.27%
1944	895	55.83%	708	44.17%	0	0.00%
1940	963	47.44%	1,067	52.56%	0	0.00%
1936	487	28.82%	1,203	71.18%	0	0.00%
1932	456	31.69%	983	68.31%	0	0.00%
1928	927	56.84%	704	43.16%	0	0.00%
1924	618	47.43%	231	17.73%	454	34.84%
1920	945	67.12%	344	24.43%	119	8.45%
1916	669	40.92%	769	47.03%	197	12.05%
1912	136	11.64%	438	37.50%	594	50.86%
1908	458	50.05%	364	39.78%	93	10.16%
1904	392	67.82%	164	28.37%	22	3.81%

Education

Lyon County has sixteen schools provided by the Lyon County School District.

Transportation

Air

There are three public airports in Lyon County:

• Yerington Municipal Airport, with a 5,800-foot-long runway.
• Silver Springs Airport, with a 7,200-foot-long runway capable of accepting 737s (its runway lights are visible when driving down on Fir Street from Ramsey Weeks cut-off to 95A).
• Tiger Field on US 95A about three miles from Fernley, with a gravel runway of 2,750 feet and a paved runway of 5,600 feet.

Railroads

The Central Pacific (the first transcontinental railroad) ran through the county, although a portion of the original route has been shifted for a new route south of Wadsworth in favor of Fernley. The Central Pacific later became the Southern Pacific Railroad which was merged into Union Pacific in 1996.

The Virginia and Truckee Railroad runs through Mound House in western Lyon County, on its way from Carson City to Virginia City.

The narrow-gauge Carson and Colorado Railroad had its terminus in Mound House, where it intersected with the V&T. It traveled east through Dayton, then turned south to the Mason Valley, and east again on its way to Walker Lake. Later a branch line connected the C&C to the Southern Pacific at Hazen. While the line west of Silver Springs was removed, the line from Hazen to Walker Lake (now standard gauge) is still in place, and used several times each week by the Union Pacific to service the NV Energy Fort Churchill Generating Station, near Yerington.

The Eagle Salt Works Railroad ran for 13.5 miles, primarily on the original Central Pacific grade from Luva (two miles east of Fernley) to Eagle Salt Works Railroad.

The Nevada Copper Belt Railroad ran on the west side of the Mason Valley.

Train

Amtrak's California Zephyr passenger train passes through, but does not stop in Lyon County. The nearest Amtrak passenger stations are located in Reno and Winnemucca. The California Zephyr runs from the San Francisco Bay Area to Chicago via Salt Lake City, Denver and Omaha.

Entertainment

Prostitution is licensed and legalized in Lyon county. There are several open ranches, including:

• Moonlite Bunny Ranch (the most famous Lyon Country brothel)
• Sagebrush Ranch

All are located in Mound House, which is on US Highway 50 adjacent to the line dividing Lyon and Carson City counties.

Several gambling casinos are located in various parts of Lyon County, as are numerous restaurants, clubs, saloons, etc.

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Lyon County, Nevada

External links

• Official website