Saturday Events at the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort

Although now a world famous city, Las Vegas began in 1855 with a humble adobe fort along a creek. First settled by Mormon pioneers from Utah, the site later became the center of one of the most important ranches in southern Nevada. Now a state park, the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort preserves and interprets the birthplace of Las Vegas. Join park rangers for one or all of the Saturday programs and learn about Las Vegas’ pioneer heritage.

Old Fort Tours

Take a tour of the birthplace of Las Vegas with someone who works there.  This guided walk-through covers the timeline of settlement on the site and includes a discussion of historical visuals, artifacts and natural resources.

WHEN: Saturday, August 5, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. 

Native American Basket Craft

Southern Nevada has a rich history of beautiful Native American baskets, and now you can make your own basket replica using a paper cup and raffia.  This self-guided activity is meant for children ages 11 and younger, but many adults will also enjoy this craft.

WHEN: Saturday, August 12, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

Music of the Era

Music was a very important aspect of social life in early Las Vegas, and the park will bring back many of the songs from the olden days in this indoor concert. Join the Nevada Old Time Fiddlers as they perform some of the most important American folk songs of the pioneer era.

WHEN: Saturday, August 19, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

History Talk: Helen Stewart and the Las Vegas Ranch

Helen Stewart was a woman of great fortitude whose experience running the Las Vegas ranch bridges the historical gap between the old west and modern Las Vegas.  Enjoy a ranger-led talk on the remarkable life, legacy and family of the woman known as the “First Lady of Las Vegas”.

WHEN: Saturday, August 26, 11 a.m.