The Mormon Fort
Southern Nevada has been home to many people
for centuries. The people who settled in Las Vegas came here because there
was water. Since the ancient times, natural springs of water flowed out
of the ground, forming streams and pools. This water allowed meadows to
grow.
In June 1855, missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons), came to Southern Nevada and built a fort
near the Las Vegas Springs. They planted
crops and built a school and a place to live. The fort was home to 30
missionaries who made the trek from Utah to Las Vegas.
The Mormon missionaries left Nevada in February 1857.
Other early settlers to the valley used the fort as a ranch and home.
Part of the Mormon Fort still stands. You can visit the fort, which is
located near Cashman Field at Washington Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard.
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