Bertha Raffetto, the woman behind Nevada’s state song “Home Means Nevada,” was a composer, poet, and political activist in Reno. Despite never being paid for her iconic song, Raffetto’s creation has been a staple at Nevada events for decades. Born in 1885 in Iowa, Raffetto wrote the song in 1932 in just one day, capturing the beauty and essence of the Silver State. She performed the song at a Nevada Native Daughters picnic, and it was met with great enthusiasm from the audience and state leadership. In 1933, the Nevada Legislature unanimously approved “Home Means Nevada” as the official state song. Raffetto, who passed away in 1952, did not seek compensation for her work, citing the Great Depression and the need for cultural progress over monetary gain. Despite some criticism over the years, the song has endured as a tribute to Nevada’s history and natural beauty. Carolyn Singer of Henderson praised the original song in a 2007 letter to the editor, emphasizing the importance of preserving Nevada’s traditions. Raffetto’s legacy lives on through her timeless contribution to the state’s cultural heritage. For more information, contact Jessica Hill at jehill@reviewjournal.com and follow @jess_hillyeah on X.
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Who is the author of Nevada’s state song? | Nevada | News
