Posted in Nevada
January 16, 2018
The Beautiful Park In Nevada With A Hauntingly Violent Past
On the surface, nothing about Kiel Ranch Historic Park reveals itself as particularly out of the ordinary. The park itself is a serene place located in the Las Vegas Valley. However, what makes this park unique is its hauntingly violent history. This park was developed from the remains of one of the region’s very first settlements. It started off as a beautiful ranch, but violence and crime would leave a dark stain on this humble settlement.
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At first, it resembles any other city park with places to picnic and sidewalks for strolling. However, the park was built from the remnants of one of the region's very first settlements.
At the time, the ranch was a peaceful and prosperous place. Kiel used it to grow citrus, apples, and other produce. However, it wasn't long until things turned sour for the ranch.
In 1890, Kiel's two sons were murdered on the land, as well. Their murders were originally thought to be a murder-suicide, but it was established later that their deaths were a double murder.
In the 1940s it was bought and turned into a tourist destination. Many celebrities visited the ranch at this time including Mickey Rooney. The ranch's small spring provided a sweet oasis amid the desert heat.
As Vegas flourished all around it, the ranch became an eye sore sitting on a vacant lot. Although the city has owned the property since the 1970s, it wasn't until 2016 that the property was revived and turned into a public park.
At over 150 years old, these are some of the oldest buildings in the Silver State. They may not be in perfect condition but they contain a variety of stories of the ranch's tumultuous past. The park contains numerous interpretive signs with information about the area's history.
Kiel Ranch's history is tragic, but this park serves as a reminder of what life was like in Vegas before all the glitz and glam. You'll find it at 2465 Kiel Way in North Las Vegas.
Have you been to Kiel Ranch? Did you know about its unique history? If you thought this was interesting, be sure to check out these 10 Interesting Things You Didn’t Know About Nevada’s History.
