Claire Hofer Hewes, the daughter of Theodore R. Hofer and Flora Kingsley Hofer, pioneers of western Nevada, was born in 1898. Theodore Hofer arrived in Nevada to take a position as messenger boy for the U.S. Mint at Carson City. He later became director of the mint. Meanwhile, he pursued many business and social interests with various members of the community. Flora Kingsley Hofer, who traveled west on a wagon train, arrived in the capital city in the early days of Nevada's statehood. With T. R. Hofer, she raised a family of six children. The Hofers were all well-known members of Carson City society. Mrs. Hewes's interview is especially interesting for the sociological information it contains, as the Hofers were leaders in the social group to which they belonged.