Highway 50 | Lincoln Highway
Travel the historic route known as America’s “Loneliest Road” and its vital role in White Pine County.
The Road That Connected a Nation
This exhibit explores the history and significance of the Lincoln Highway—America’s first transcontinental highway—and its stretch through White Pine County, later designated as Highway 50. Through vintage photographs, road maps, signage, and travel artifacts, visitors discover how this route transformed transportation, commerce, and tourism in the region.
Stories of early motorists, roadside businesses, and communities built along the highway highlight the challenges and excitement of cross-country travel before the interstate era. The exhibit also touches on modern efforts to preserve and promote this iconic road.
- Fun Fact
Highway 50 earned the nickname “The Loneliest Road in America” due to its vast stretches of empty desert—but for travelers, it’s also one of the most scenic and historic drives in the country.
Why It Matters: Linking Local and National Journeys
The Lincoln Highway was a groundbreaking infrastructure project that helped unify the young United States, making coast-to-coast travel possible for the first time. For White Pine County, this road was a lifeline—bringing goods, visitors, and economic opportunities to a remote region. Its legacy continues today as a symbol of adventure, perseverance, and the American love of the open road.
By understanding the highway’s impact, visitors see how transportation networks shaped settlement patterns and cultural exchange, reinforcing White Pine’s place in the broader story of westward expansion and modernization.
What Our Visitors are Saying
"Great Little Town and Musuem. Very Knowledgeable young woman who had lots of information about the town and the cave bear. I Enjoyed the quaint decor inside, and the gifts / Souviners available."
Ann PetersonGoogle Review
"Really nice collection! I did not include pictures of everything, so you will need to visit to see all the treasures they have. The x-ray machine is stunning! They also have a complete Knights Templar uniform that is beautifully displayed. The one room schoolhouse is lovely. Really cool horse drawn manure spreader. Can see it all in couple hours."
Brigitte DubinGoogle Review
"Great slice of history and learning opportunities for kids and people who are not up on US Western history and mining. The cave vera skeleton was a real treat for my 3 year old to see!"
WyntrGoogle Review
"Full of history of the area with a ton of artifacts inside and out. Definitely worth a stop if you're in Ely. Good for your own knowledge and entertainment and too help support the museum also. Definitely check out the short face bear display!"
Brian 1724Google Review
"Not bad for a small town, went here and oh my days this place was amazing, despite me accidentally misgendering the cave bear skeleton (I apologize) it was so much fun! planning on coming back here soon!"
Swift RenardGoogle Review
"This is an awesome museum. We originally stopped on our way through Ely, NV just to pass the time and check out the complete skeleton of the Cave Bear that is on display, which we did and it was magnificent. I didn't expect to be leaving this museum 2 1/2 hours later. There is so much to see here. "
Laryssa B SantiniGoogle Review
"This was a great museum! Lots of cool buildings and exhibits to walk around and the staff was very friendly and helpful!"
Jessica ScanlanGoogle Review
"Hidden gem in historic mining country. The sweetest people, so many cool artifacts from bygone eras, including a short-nose cave bear skeleton! Also vintage-style toys for sale, Amerindian-made jewelry, rocks and crystals, and a really interesting selection of books. The cabin and 100+ year old machinery outside are fascinating to see. Bring your kids and check this place out!"
Gregory MillerGoogle Review
"Nice little museum. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Could use some cleaning but had a good time looking. Of course it was awesome to see the cave bear skeleton! It's well worth the small fee!"
Ch HallGoogle Review
Explore Our Gift Shop
Discover locally inspired treasures, unique souvenirs, books, and handmade crafts that celebrate the spirit and history of White Pine County, all available in our charming museum gift shop.
Your Historical Adventure Awaits.
Exhibit Sponsors
We’re deeply grateful for our generous sponsors - your support brings history to life and makes unforgettable community events possible.
