In 1998, six years after President George Bush signed a moratorium that stopped all nuclear weapons test, the Nevada Test Site History Foundation was formed to preserve the site's information. Members have been gathering memorabilia since then. A couple of guys decided we need to preserve this history. A model train set featuring Area 25, where nuclear reactors were tested, sits in the corner. A mannequin's head wears a pair of goggles used to protect against the bright explosions.
Visitors also receive a complimentary sample of a borosilicate glass marble.
The controversy surrounding the testing at the site 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas and the devastation after bombs were dropped on Japan are not part of the center's displays. In recent years, some former workers have complained of illness caused by radiation exposure. Legislation compensating them is working its way through Congress. It will include 8,000 square feet of permanent exhibit space and a smaller area for temporary exhibits. The foundation's recent affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution allows the exchange of items.