Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort

This past weekend we made our way to the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort. Our whole family had been there before, but not together. A few years ago DeEllen had taken the kids with a group of home-schoolers, and I went there with a friend that was visiting from out of town.

The first flag that flew in Las Vegas.

We figured it was time we visited the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort as a family. On our way there, DeEllen noted that this was going to be our first "real" family outing we could write about on this blog, and we were going to the place where Las Vegas started. I thought that was a great observation. I wish we had planned it that way!

For those that don't know, the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort was built in 1855 and it was the first settlement in the Las Vegas valley by non-native people. It is located at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Washington Ave. The fort today is owned and operated by the Nevada Division of State Parks. 

There is a portion of the original wall still standing today, and other parts of the fort have been reconstructed. Along with the walls, a ranch house that was built on part of the foundation in 1865 is still standing. Inside the ranch house are several displays and photos depicting life in the Las Vegas Valley in the late 1800's. Along with the history of the fort itself, you can also learn about the history of early Southern Nevada. There is a short film you can watch in the visitor center, and there are several more displays, photos, etc...

I won't tell anymore of the history of the fort, I encourage you to go and visit in person! Here is a link to the website: http://www.parks.nv.gov/olvmf.htm

By the way, one of the best things about visiting the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort is the cost, it's only $1.00 for adults and kids under 12 are free! So, if you're looking for something fun to do with your family that won't cost a lot, GET OFF THE STRIP! ...and go to the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort.