The Nevada Historical Society's building may be closed for an exciting remodel, but you can still enjoy their fascinating lectures at the Sierra View Library during their closure. NHS Nevada History - On The GO! Series is combining their three history programs that delve into Nevada History, Lake Tahoe, and the American Gaming Archives gambling and gaming history. Make sure to visit Sierra View Library on the first Saturday of every month to learn more about Nevada’s history through these engaging talks that are geared towards audiences of all ages.

May 3, 2025

Speaker: Michael E. Fischer, historian
Title of Talk:  Baby Face Nelson in Nevada

Summary of Talk: Few people living in Nevada today know that Baby Face Nelson, whose given name was Lester Gillis, spent a great deal of time in Nevada. He was avoiding the heat from the authorities in the Midwest. In Reno, he was afforded protection from arrest and incarceration because of his connections with Bill Graham and James McKay. Their political and business connections covered almost the entire state.

A vicious killer and borderline psychopath, Nelson lived in Nevada during the period when he was the most wanted criminal in America. In this presentation, Michael E. Fischer explores Nelson’s time in the state and explains why such a notorious killer could hide out here in plain sight. It is the story of politics, corruption, and crime in 1930s Nevada.

Speaker bio: is a retired dentist who has many years of experience in private sector cultural affairs management. Fischer has served on the Board of Directors of the Western Folklife Center, serves on the board of the Douglas County Historical Society, the board of the Thunderbird Lodge Preservation Society and the Nevada Agricultural Foundation.

Fischer is actively involved with the H. F. Dangberg Home Ranch in Douglas County and was a Douglas County Commissioner for eight years. He was appointed Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs by Governor Gibbons in 2007 and served in the Sandoval Administration until Cultural Affairs was merged with Tourism. Fischer’s interest in Nevada history began as a child when his family visited historic sites around the state.