Medallion honoring Washoe Tribe unveiled at state museum

A gathering at the Nevada State Museum on Wednesday marked the first time a member of the Washoe Tribe was commemorated on one of the museum’s medallions.

While people gathered for the unveiling in the museum concourse, historic Coin Press No. 1 was minting new medallions depicting Datsolalee, otherwise known as Louisa Keyser.

Datsolalee’s famous basketry spanned the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century.

“It’s important for us to recognize Washoe women — past, current and future — for their strength, courage and resiliency,” Washoe Tribe Vice Chairman Patrick Burtt told the Appeal.

Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California Vice Chairman Patrick Burtt, left, with Nevada State Museum Tribal Liaison Anna Camp at the museum for the unveiling of the new Datsolalee medallion Wednesday. (Scott Neuffer photo) 

Sold in the museum store, the medallion was designed to recognize Women History’s Month and Native Americans in Nevada.

“This is the first one, the first Native American,” said Museum Director Josh Bonde.

For every medallion sold, the museum will donate a portion to the Washoe Tribe’s cultural program. The medallion costs $80, and $5 will go to the Washoe Tribe in perpetuity, Bonde said.

“I think this is a big step in the right direction,” he said.

Information about the museum is available at https://www.carsonnvmuseum.org/.