14.1 BASQUES IN THE SILVER STATE
California and Idaho are the two states with the largest Basque populations. In California the Basque community is mainly from Navarre and Iparralde, while in Idaho it is mostly from Bizkaia. In Nevada, equidistant between them, there is no clear predominance. Basques from Elko, for example, say that they speak a perfect euskara batua, this the natural blend of the dialects of Navarre, Bizkaia, and Iparralde.

14.2 FIRST RANCHES
The Basque population dates back to the nomadic shepherds who left California in search of pastures. In the early 1870's, however, there were at least two major ranches set up by Basques. In Elko County, in Independence Valley, the Altube brothers from California set up ranching operations in 1871. Also from California, Jean and Grace Garat bought land in the same county around 1874, which resulted in the YP ranch.

14.3 "PEOPLE OF NEVADA"
For many inhabitants of Nevada, the Basque presence, dating from the late 19th century, is part of the history and of their way of life. In the Castleman guide, the best known in the state, two whole pages under the heading "People of Nevada" are devoted to the Basques, their origin, their language, and their involvement in the life of the west. There is also mention of the hotels ("some of them among those of finest tradition in the state"), of the restaurants, and of the Basque-American customs. It recommends that one experience the Basque celebrations held in Nevada.