Music & Fashion
Step into the vibrant sounds and styles that defined frontier life and beyond.
Frontier Pop Culture Comes Alive
The Music & Fashion exhibit explores how music, clothing, and popular culture shaped White Pine County’s social landscape from the frontier era through the mid-20th century. Discover vintage instruments, period costumes, and fashion accessories that reveal the evolving tastes and influences of the region’s diverse communities.
From lively fiddle tunes at local dances to elegant hats and dresses worn on special occasions, this exhibit highlights how culture created connections and expressions of identity in a changing world. Listening stations and costume displays invite visitors to experience the energy and creativity of White Pine’s past.
- Fun Fact
Did you know that fiddle music was once the soundtrack of every Western dance hall? Local musicians kept communities connected, while frontier fashion blended practicality with the latest styles from the East.
Why It Matters: Reflecting Community and Change Through Style
Music and fashion are powerful mirrors of society, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and transformation. In White Pine County, these cultural elements helped foster a sense of belonging and celebration amid the challenges of frontier and mining life. The exhibit illustrates how popular culture adapted and thrived, blending Native American influences, immigrant traditions, and modern trends.
By preserving these artifacts, the museum honors the everyday stories of residents who used music and style to express resilience, creativity, and connection—reminding us that culture is as vital as history in understanding a community’s soul.
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.
Exhibit Sponsors
We’re deeply grateful for our generous sponsors - your support brings history to life and makes unforgettable community events possible.
