Memo

Nevada Day: Embracing the Battle Born Spirit!

February 9, 2024

Mike Johnson

While Nevada Day is officially celebrated on the last Friday of October, today, October 31, holds a special significance. It's the real birthday of Nevada, a day that's more than a historical footnote—it's a testament to the unyielding spirit that has propelled our state forward. Today, let’s delve into the essence of Nevada Day and discover how the spirit of being "Battle Born" is integral to both Nevada and Onboarded.

Nevada's State Flag

On October 31, 1864, amidst the tumult of the Civil War, Nevada emerged as the 36th state in the Union. This wasn’t just a political maneuver; it was a bold statement. The admission of Nevada was expedited to not only bolster Abraham Lincoln's reelection campaign but also to ensure that the Union had access to Nevada's rich silver mines, which played a crucial role in funding the war effort. This moment, fraught with conflict and challenge, is the crucible from which our proud moniker, the Battle Born State, was forged.

But what does it truly mean to be "Battle Born"? It’s more than a catchy phrase; it’s a legacy of emerging triumphant from adversity. This ethos is etched into the very fabric of Nevadan culture, shaping our values and our approach to life's hurdles. It's about standing resilient in the face of challenges and transforming obstacles into opportunities. I encourage you to step back in time and visit Virginia City, for instance. It's a must see and a stark reminder of Nevada's miners perseverance through brutal conditions to extract silver and gold that would eventually shape our state's destiny—this is the essence of the Battle Born spirit.

Some of the Onboarded Crew visiting Virginia City last year

As I reflect on Nevada Day, I’m reminded of a childhood spent camping in the Sierras, absorbing the stories of perseverance that shaped the American West. Influenced by figures like Mark Twain, Ansel Adams, and John Steinbeck, and inspired by films like Jeremiah Johnson, I found a deep connection to the Battle Born spirit. It’s this very spirit that inspired the inception of Onboarded. We are not just a company; we are a testament to the power of resilience, much like the state we proudly call home.

Discovering Nevada's Charm: Five Fun Facts

For those who haven’t yet had the pleasure of experiencing Nevada’s charm, here are five fun facts to pique your curiosity:

  1. Home to the Loneliest Road in America: Nevada’s Highway 50 offers a unique and tranquil driving experience, with vast horizons that invite introspection. One of my favorite drives! My actual favorite is 395 south from Carson City to Bridgeport, CA. 
  2. A Haven of Mountains: With over 300 named mountain ranges, Nevada is the most mountainous state in the country. It’s true!
  3. Sand Mountain: Located in the Nevada desert, Sand Mountain is a two-mile-long singing sand dune. When conditions are right, the sand emits a sound similar to a low-flying airplane or distant thunder, due to the movement of the grains. Great for UTV riding!
  4. Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park: This unique park not only has preserved the remains of an old mining town but is also home to the largest collection of Ichthyosaur fossils in North America. Ichthyosaurs were prehistoric marine reptiles that swam in the ocean that once covered central Nevada.
  5. The Mystery of Area 51: This highly secretive military base in southern Nevada has been the center of countless alien and UFO conspiracy theories. Then again, today’s conspiracy is tomorrow’s Pulitzer. 

Bonus Fact: Onboarded was founded on the shores of Lake Tahoe in Nevada in 2022, carrying forward the state's legacy of resilience and innovation.

Let’s rekindle the Battle Born spirit in each of us. Here's to being bold, brave, and Battle Born.

Happy Nevada Day! 

Nevada Day 2023... I snapped the photo