A BRIEF FALLON HISTORY

Fallon can trace its roots back to the California Gold Rush and the subsequent western migration. Settlers making their way West were thankful to have survived the journey across the infamous "40-Mile Desert", the most treacherous stretch along the Emigrant Trail.

These settlers rested along the banks of the Carson River at a place known as Ragtown (so named for the clothes that could be seen drying on trees, shrubs and wagons) just down the road from present day Fallon. Ragtown became a trading outpost. The Pony Express skirted the area in the 1860's followed closely by the Overland Telegraph. Some scattered farms and freight stations marked this early area.

At the turn of the century, the Newlands Project, the first land reclamation project in the United States, diverted waters from the Truckee and Carson Rivers to reclaim the land from the desert, giving life to Fallon farms and ranches.

Fallon grew amidst the farms and ranches. The area experienced mining booms and agricultural importance. From 1915 until after World War II, Fallon hosted the Nevada State Fair. The Hearts O' Gold cantaloupe was produced in abundance from 1920 through 1930 and gained a national reputation for a melon with unmatched flavor and quality.

In 1942, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, an airfield was built by the Army Air Corp. This airfield near Fallon has had many uses and missions. Today, Naval Air Station Fallon is one of the premier training bases in the country. NAS Fallon is home to Naval Strike and Warfare Center and the famous Navy Fighter Weapons School, TOPGUN.

Today, Fallon farming and ranching industries remain a vital part of the area's economy and personality. Fallon is the county seat and government play's a role as well. Of course, NAS Fallon has also greatly added to Fallon's economy and continues to play a vital role in our nation's defense. If you look to the skies, you might see a Navy pilot with nerves of steel flying over a field of Heart O' Golds.

You can access the complete history of Fallon at the Churchill County Museum & Archives, 1050 S. Maine St., Fallon, NV 89406, (775) 423-3677. Visit the museum website at www.ccmuseum.org.