Ranger Ray Day

On Saturday, February 18, please join us here at the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort to celebrate Black History Month by recognizing our own Ray Richardson. Ray was Nevada State Parks first black ranger and has been with the agency for more than 45 years!

Raymond Richardson was born and raised in the Las Vegas Valley.  Since the 1930s his family owned and lived on property west of what is now Valley View Road.  Ray worked a few Las Vegas Strip jobs out of high school before deciding to apply with the State of Nevada. And this is where his Nevada State Parks career started!

Initially employed as a seasonal Park Aid at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park (1975), Ray quickly worked his way up to Ranger I over the years.  In no time, he then became Ranger II.  Primarily now in a law enforcement capacity, Ray was a valuable resource in interpretation and history at the parks in worked in as well.  Often leading hikes,  assisting in search and rescue, sharing history, and leading assorted maintenance projects,  Ray became one of the most informed and helpful employees in the system.  His budding family even lived within several state parks!  Giving his children and wife the opportunity to enjoy nature and history as part of life, just like Ray.  In fact, Ray’s wife Carolyn, also works for Nevada State Parks!

Ray retired in 2006 from full time work.  But still works at the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort part time. 

Please enjoy refreshments and cake at our open house celebrating Black History within Nevada State Parks history by recognizing Ray Ranger and his day!

Be sure and say hello and ask Ray any State Park related questions – he is our resident expert and a wealth of information.

WHAT: Ranger Ray Day

WHEN: Saturday, February 18, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

WHERE: Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park