For 99 years, Genoa has hosted this event and this was the first year we actually made it.

The Candy Dance originated in 1919 as an effort to raise money to purchase street lights for the small but enterprising community of Genoa, Nevada's first settlement. Lillian Virgin Finnegan, daughter of then prominent Judge Daniel Webster Virgin, suggested the idea of a dance and making candy to pass around during the dance as an incentive for a good turn-out of couples.
The Genoa community did raise the needed funds for streetlights, but realized the monthly electric bill had to be paid. The candy makers were then called upon each year to help promote the Candy Dance and pay a year's worth of electricity for the streetlights throughout the town. This annual event became the Big Event of the Season. Couples came from Reno, Carson City, Minden, Gardnerville and surrounding areas to join in the evening's fun.
This was also a day of history lessons. I had to stop at this darling home. This red brick cottage (1855) was built by William J. "Lucky Bill" Thorington, rancher, entrepreneur, polygamist, and the first man hanged in Nevada (lucky?). What a beautiful, historic spot in this quaint, little town.
I had no idea that our day would be as diverse as it was. I am drawn to Barn Sales. This one was extra appealing because it was at the Dake House. I had been here once before for an evening of communicating with ghosts.
While no ghosts were seen, unique items were ogled. I do love a sale like this. It's as if we were in a museum where treasures lurked.


In the 70s, the Candy Dance expanded by adding a two-day event - The Arts & Crafts Faire. The first Faire was held on the front lawn of a private residence. Within just a few years, it became so popular, it was moved to the Mormon Station Historic State Monument grounds. Today, thousands of shoppers come each day and the vendors are everywhere. There were great finds, unique items for purchase and delicacies to eat.

There was even a tractor exhibit and we were drawn to it.
This Model Z, the Plugoscillator, was made in 1919, and was interesting because of its "spark plug and high-tension magneto engine", oh and the intense chugging noise it made which drew us to it in the first place.
The Fairbanks Morse Co., which dates back to 1823, produced oil and naphtha engines in the 1890s before moving into kerosene and diesel engines, eventually becoming a dominant force in the fast-growing engine industry. The two old-timers hosting this display were informative and fun to talk with.
Also on display was my favorite local author, Todd Borg. It is always a good day when we bump into Todd.
If we are in town next year on the last weekend in September, we plan to attend the actual Candy Dance for its 100th Anniversary. Today was a great introduction to this historical event. Fun stuff just down the hill from us.