Born in New York City in 1843, Louise Mackay spoke four languages and became known for her quick wit, generosity and charm, and was a hostess of international fame in Paris and London. But her focus was always on her husband John Mackay, her children and extended family. Louise and John met in 1866 and they were married in Virginia City. John's physical stamina and knowledge of Nevada's Comstock Lode, and his wise choices in partners, paid off when they hit the silver bonanza that made the mining district famous.

Veronica Fraser has been active in community theater for more than 30 years in three states. Shortly before the COVID 19 pandemic began, she enrolled in a class at OLLI called, "Be a Chautauquan." She had just finished reading "The Bonanza King" by Gregory Crouch, and about a hundred years of Nevada history opened for her along with a connection to Louise and John Mackay.