Duane Leroy Bliss was born in Massachusetts, but set out early in life to seek his future and his fortune in the gold fields of the Comstock.


Bliss had always been considered an adventurous soul and he used his intellect and his personal drive for success, to build a business empire to be envied by all. He owned much of the lumber in Tahoe and the flume system and the railroad to move it.

Bliss lived a lavish lifestyle for the time and built a mansion that reflected his success. To this day The Bliss Mansion stands as a testament to his life.

Located directly across the street from the Governor’s Mansion in historic Carson City, Nevada, the Bliss Mansion was the largest grandest house in the state when it was constructed in 1879. The building was an 8000 square foot Victorian Italinate. Spread over 3 stories, it towered above the other homes in the neighborhood as a symbol of success.

It boasted wrap-around porches, 2 parlors, 6 bedrooms, indoor plumbing, and a ballroom used for special events and entertaining. It was the first residence in Carson City to have gas lighting installed, and to use a telephone system that linked the house to the Bliss business ventures.

The Bliss Mansion has a full rich history, and has been completely restored to its original glory. Today it is operated as an historic Bed and Breakfast in Carson City.