About Us
We are Friends of The Fort, an organization of individuals who care about preserving The Old Fort grounds and property and its legacy as the birthplace of Las Vegas. Our members include people from all walks of life, living in and around Las Vegas, and many who live across the country and even beyond.
It’s easy to become a Friend of The Fort – choose the Membership program that works for you.
Our Story: Since 1983
Friends of The Fort is a not-for-profit chartered in the State of Nevada in 1983. Its mission, which stands to this day, is three-fold and highlighted below. Friends of The Fort is not a government agency; it was formed to support and work in close association with the organizations that have owned and managed the property.
The Old Fort was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on February 1, 1972, and acquired by the City of Las Vegas in 1989. 2 years later in 1991 the property was acquired by the State of Nevada and named The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, affording it long-term protections. Renovations and construction of a visitor center was completed in 2005.
Throughout its tenure, Friends of The Fort has been a liaison between the public and the agencies that operate the property. To dive deeper into the history of The Old Fort, check out our History page.
Our Mission: Three-Pronged
Assistance
Awareness
Research
The 2024 Board Members
Current Board Members (L to R):
Larry Moulton (President), Ramon Fagundo, Don Hotchkiss, Helen Mortenson (Trustee Emeritus), Michele Abbott, Ruth Rauma, Phyllis Weaver (Secretary/Treasurer), Kamau Bakari, Lisa Messenger (Vice President)