Joe Curtis: The Man Behind the Signs, the Stories, and the History of Storey County
Joe Curtis thumbing through a directory from 1873
A Legacy of Local Involvement
Joe Curtis joined the Storey County Chamber board six months ago, but his connection to Virginia City goes back to 1957, when his family opened the Mark Twain Museum of Memories. The business later became the Mark Twain Bookstore, which ran until 2013.
Joe has supported the local economy and culture his entire life. He even designed the Chamber’s current logo and continues to serve the community through his business, On The Side Graphics and Signs.
Rooted in Service and Story
Joe’s background includes work with a federal agency, six years in the Army, a role with the Carson City Sheriff’s Department, and 21 years as Storey County’s Emergency Management Director. He currently chairs the Comstock Historic District Commission, a Governor’s appointed role he’s held for 12 years. Joe also sits on four other Comstock-related boards and has volunteered with the Storey County Fire Department for 49 years. One of the most fulfilling parts of Joe’s involvement is knowing his experience and advice are listened to and acted upon. “My background, knowledge, suggestions, and advice in Virginia City are actually appreciated,” he says.Potatoes, Pride, and a Lifetime on the Hill
Joe is known for quirky suggestions—including using potatoes instead of eggs at this year’s Easter event due to rising costs. “I guess I should be proud of that,” he jokes.
When asked what makes Virginia City feel like home, he said, “That’s a silly question. It is home—for me, since 1957.”
When Joe returned from the Army, he built his home, raised a family, and now enjoys time with his grandchildren. On warm days, he takes in the view from his deck, reflecting on how blessed and privileged he is to live here.
Together We Grow
“If you’re in business anywhere in Storey County, you should join the Chamber,” Joe says. “Together we grow our county and succeed in our own businesses.”
He describes the Chamber as “innovative, motivated… and a bunch of other ‘-ateds.’”
Joe hopes people remember Virginia City for its real story: “The true history is far more interesting than the phony ones people make up to impress tourists.”
Whether he’s sharing history, offering advice, or cracking a joke—like telling tourists the “V” on the hill stands for “Reno”—Joe Curtis helps keep the heart of Storey County alive.
Thank you, Joe, for helping preserve the history and spirit of this place. Your deep connection and willingness to share it remind us that the stories we carry—and choose to pass on—shape our community for generations to come.
