Only In Your State: Republic of Molossia
July – August 2019
Nevada has many treasures, but only some of them earn the title of truly unique.
The word unique gets thrown around a lot, and its true meaning is often muddled. Merriam-Webster defines the word as “being the only one” and “being without a like or equal.” In this section, we highlight Nevada treasures that are not only special, but are truly unique and can be found nowhere else in the world; treasures that can be found only in your state.
“Business or pleasure?”
If you’ve traveled outside of the U.S., you may have heard this phrase muttered by stoic customs agents upon stamping your passport. But, did you know this scenario can play out within the confines of our great state?
Enter the Republic of Molossia—a sovereign, independent nation located near Dayton that is completely landlocked by official U.S. territory. Established as a kingdom in 1977, the nation was transformed into the People’s Democratic Republic, before becoming an official republic in 1999. Molossia couples a sense of humor with a whole lot of spirit to create the 11.3-acre nation, which comes complete with its own currency, navy, bank, space program, railroad, postal service, measurement system, and even time zone. Anyone who has an interest can visit the Republic of Molossia, but be sure to bring your passport—seriously.
The mastermind behind this little slice of sovereignty is His Excellency President Grand Admiral Colonel Doctor Kevin Baugh, president and Raïs of Molossia, protector of the nation and guardian of the people. President Baugh lives on the territory with his family and pets, though the Nevada territory isn’t the only land the republic lays claim to. Other swaths include territories in both northern and southern California, the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, and Pennsylvania, along with a 50,000-acre parcel on Venus.
Currently, the provinces in the Pacific Ocean and on Venus are not accepting visitors, but the Republic of Molossia’s Dayton location is, by appointment only. Passports are recommended and will be stamped upon entry. Guests should plan to spend about an hour exploring the sovereign nation. Details and scheduling can be found at molossia.org.
