Ruby Mountains by Stephen Ingram/USFWS	Muskrat at Ruby Lake NWR, Credit: USFWS

Ruby Valley is rich in history. Evidence of prehistoric people who roamed throughout northeastern Nevada can be found all along the west side of the refuge, in the Ruby Mountains. Numerous springs can be found, as well as abundant food sources including game animals, seeds, nuts, and roots. In 1859, Captain J.H. Simpson explored the valley as an alternative route to the west coast. His account provides a first-hand glimpse of the area.

Historic markers identify the Hastings Cutoff Trail, which passes through the refuge and continues west by way of Overland Pass-the same route followed by the ill-fated Donner Party. Ruby Valley was also an important stop on the East-West Pony Express route. The log building that served as the Pony Express Station now stands at the Northeastern Nevada Museum in Elko, Nevada. Ruby Valley was also the home station for the Overland Mail Route and from 1862 to 1869 housed the Fort Ruby Military post, constructed to protect the Overland Mail route from Paiute Indian raiders.

Bressman Cabin at Ruby Lake NWR, Credit: USFWS

In 1880, Pennsylvanian Jacob Bressman, his daughter Deby, and Deby's husband, Lew Benson, sold their freight hauling business in nearby Eureka County. They bought cattle, built a cabin, and settled in the Ruby Valley. Their cabin and Jacob's grave site, located on the refuge 1.5 miles north of headquarters, have been preserved and stand as a tribute to these early pioneers.