Uncle Dan: Reno Elks Lodge #597

Daniel C. Wheeler was born in 1840 as a native of Ohio. At the age of 18 he started west; crossing the plains and reaching Salt Lake City by 1858. Against the advice of almost everyone he knew, Dan, seven others and a pioneer named Nate Gregory set out across Nevada. When Dan reached the Truckee Meadows, (the area which is now Reno), there was only one other anglo man living in the area. Dan worked for this man as a "teamer". Being interested by the mining activities of the California camps, he gave up teaming for mining. In 1862, he returned to the Truckee Meadows and began running supplies to Virginia City. He continued in this line of work until 1867. ​ "Uncle Dan", (as he came to be lovingly known), made his fortune in the sheep business. He correctly calculated the profit in purchasing sheep herds in Oregon for sale in Virginia City. With his sons, he formed the D.C. Wheeler Company. The Elks of Reno have a fond remembrance for our brother D.C. Wheeler. "These are those who have less than we have and are in need. We won't miss the little we give, but will feel better for it." D.C. "Uncle Dan" Wheeler