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KNPR "Las Vegas: Mississippi of the West or Promised Land?" radio documentary

Identifier

OH-03311

Abstract

Nevada Public Radio (KNPR) radio documentary entitled ""Las Vegas: Mississippi of the West or Promised Land?" hosted by William J. Drummond and Faith Fancher that aired on June 24, 1991. In this two-part series, the hosts and a variety of guests discuss racial segregation in Las Vegas, Nevada's past and the racial climate of the city in 1991. Guests include, but are not limited to, Peter Lyn Hayes, Joe Williams, Roosevelt Fitzgerald, Eugene Moehring, James West, Eric Cooper, Sarah Knight Preddy, and Frank Hawkins.

Archival Collection

Inez and Edward Harper oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03312

Abstract

Oral history interview with Inez and Edward Harper conducted by Claytee D. White on July 18, 1996 for the African Americans in Las Vegas: a Collaborative Oral History Project. In this interview, the Harpers talk first about their upbringing and education in Fordyce, Arkansas. Inez Harper explains how she came to Las Vegas, Nevada at the age of sixteen with her first husband in 1953; Edward Harper explains that he came two years later, working in construction until his marriage to his first wife and moving to Los Angeles, California in 1957. The couple met after his return to Las Vegas in 1960 and married in 1962. Together they discuss employment opportunities, income, the living conditions on the Westside and the entertainment venues on Jackson Street. They also remark on their perspective of race relations and discrimination in Las Vegas in the 1960s and 1970s.

Archival Collection

George Kielak oral history presentation

Identifier

OH-03313

Abstract

Oral history presentation by George Kielak to an unidentified group recorded on February 1, 2007. In his talk, Kielak explains that he was born in Warsaw, Poland in 1929 and was nine years old when Germany occupied the country. He describes what it was like living under the German occupation forces and comments that of all the occupied countries during World War II, Poland suffered the most severe restrictions and punishments. He then outlines the progress of the war from 1939 to 1944, a period in which he joined the Polish resistance movement. He explains that after the resistance fighters rose up against the Germans in 1944 Russia would not help, leading to the collapse of the movement, his capture by the German forces, and his seven month internment in a POW camp. He describes immigrating to England at the end of the war because Poland became part of the Soviet Union. After serving in the British Army, he immigrated to the United States in 1950. At the end of the presentation he shows maps and photographs and answers questions from the audience.

Archival Collection

Richard "Chick" Perkins oral history interview

Identifier

OH-04001

Abstract

Oral history interview with Richard "Chick" Perkins conducted by an unidentified interviewer on February 5, 1974 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview Perkins responds to questions about the history of the city of Las Vegas, Nevada, the Pueblo de Grande archaelogical site, and the Lost City, Museum in Overton, Nevada. He provides a detailed response to questions about the indigenous peoples of the southern Nevada area, looking at their customs, culture, and perceptions regarding white settlement in the area.

Archival Collection

Harold Minsky oral history interview

Identifier

OH-04002

Abstract

Oral history interview with Harold Minsky conducted by an unidentified interviewer on August 15, 1973 for the UNLV University Libraries Oral History Collection. In this interview, Minsky discusses his upbringing, education, and early work history in the entertainment business. He talks about his desire to join the family business despite his father's encouragement to study law. He speaks at length about how his father, Abe, and his three uncles started their burlesque business in a building owned by his grandfather. He explains what caused the split between his father and uncles and explains that the only bad advice his father gave him was to stay in New York City, New York. He also discusses his take-over of the business and many of the dancers that worked in burlesque.

Archival Collection

Willis Clark Evans oral history interview

Identifier

OH-04003

Abstract

Oral history interview with Willis Clark Evans conducted by Bernard Timberg on February 5, 1974 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Evans discusses his father, Native American archaeologist Willis Lyman Evans, his mother, Jessie Dave Evans, his uncle, Henry "Hank" Dave as he recounts his upbringing and family history. He shares memories of family trips around the United States, hunting trips, learning traditional crafts from his father, finding artifacts, and visiting Richard "Chick" Perkins at the Lost City Museum. He also recounts stories about his mother and her Shoshone family, including stories about his uncle's experiences as a ranch worker in Northern Nevada.

Archival Collection

James Deacon lecture for UNLV "Man and the Environment" course

Identifier

OH-04005

Abstract

Closing lecture presented by Dr. James E. Deacon on May 17, 1974 for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Environmental Studies course "Man and the Environment." Deacon presents his students with a question of what makes "man" unique among all the creatures of the Earth and suggests that it begins with the ratio of brain to brawn. He reminds them that the course was considered as much a social science as a natural science because of the questions it had posed them, and mentions the involvement of UNLV history professor Dr. Scott Locicero. The remainder of the lecture delves more deeply into how humans learned to exploit their environment and control against hunger, predation, and disease, but without consideration for the limits of that exploitation. He closes by suggesting that the modern world may prove to be a "DIY extinction event" if humankind fails to modify its actions.

Archival Collection

Clement Bernier oral history presentation

Identifier

OH-04004

Abstract

Oral history presentation by Clement "Clem" Bernier for an unidentified audience of students, approximately 1977. In his presentation, Bernier identifies himself as a "hotel man" and explains that he has been general manager of the Hacienda Hotel and Casino for a year and considered it a very different challenge to his earlier years in hotel management. He discusses how he became a hotel general manager, the work involved in learning the trade, and the differences between managing a regular hotel and managing a hotel and casino. He also asks and takes questions from the audience.

Archival Collection

Ruby Gordon oral history interview

Identifier

OH-04006

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ruby Gordon conducted by Claytee D. White on October 29, 2004 for the African Americans in Las Vegas: a Collaborative Oral History Project. In this interview, Gordon talks about her birth and early upbringing in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and Las Vegas, Nevada, where her parents moved when she was seven years old. She discusses her parent's decision to move for better opportunities and the kind of work they did, then speaks extensively about her education through high school, her early marriage, and raising six children. She also talks about the difficulties that mothers faced while trying to work and raise children, especially those with health issues. Later she talks about her involvement with the Elks fraternal organization and explains that there were different lodges for whites and Blacks, based primarily on location, the lodges regularly interacted and worked together on civic and charity programs. Finally, she expands on her own work history in early childhood education, working for the state, and for Child Haven.

Archival Collection

Claes Oldenburg Photograph

Identifier

PH-00448

Abstract

The Claes Oldenburg Photograph consists of a single black-and-white photograph taken by Patricia Mortati in March 1981 of sculptor Claes Oldenburg. The photograph depicts Oldenburg watching the installation of the Flashlight, which is reflected in a window behind Oldenburg. The Flashlight is steel sculpture created by Oldenburg and artist Coosje Van Bruggen for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas's campus.

Archival Collection

Ronald Sharp Collection on MAD Building for Project Rover

Identifier

MS-01138

Abstract

The Ronald Sharp Collection on MAD Building for Project Rover (approximately 1958-1963) contains a brochure and photographs of the Maintenance, Assembly, and Disassembly (MAD) Building for Project Rover located at the Nuclear Rocket Development Station at the Nevada Test Site. The MAD building was one of the major centers for testing activities for Project Rover which was a United States project to develop a nuclear-thermal rocket. The materials also include photographs of an engine transporting a Kiwi nuclear rocket reactor from the MAD building to the test site and a mushroom nuclear cloud. Also included are photographs of Ronald Sharp and New Mexico artist Jose Sanchez, presumably at the MAD Building.

Archival Collection

Eddie Eliscu oral history interviews

Identifier

OH-02593

Abstract

Oral history interviews with Eddie Eliscu conducted by Arnold Shaw between approximately 1986-1987 for the Arnold Shaw Oral History Project on Las Vegas Entertainers. In these interviews, Eliscu reflects upon his career in entertainment, from serving as a social director at Camp Copake, New York to songwriting for stage and film. He describes his upbringing in a non-musical family, his first performances, and the more prominent professional developments of his career.

Archival Collection

Vivian "Viv" Frehner oral history interview

Identifier

OH-00626

Abstract

Oral history interview with Vivian "Viv" Frehner conducted by Gregg Carter on July 20, 1974 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Frehner talks about his upbringing in St. Thomas, Nevada, his marriage, his early work as a sheriff's deputy, a rancher, farmer, and road maintenance worker. He recalls going to the movies for twenty cents as a child, catching wild horses to ride in rodeos as a teenager, and the heat of Las Vegas, Nevada summers after he moved there for work as a young man for work. He remembers seeing dozens of artisan wells in Las Vegas well into the 1940s, the opening of Flamingo Hotel and Casino, the death of actress Carole Lombard in a 1941 plane crash outside Las Vegas, and the 1950s above-ground nuclear testing by the U. S. government.

Archival Collection

Brittney Erickson oral history interview

Identifier

OH-02454

Abstract

Oral history interview with Brittney Erickson conducted by Claytee D. White on August 14, 2015 for the Building a Las Vegas Tech Culture oral history project. In this interview, Erickson talks about growing up in Henderson in a household that pursued the family-owned business, her education and work as a teacher, and "The Spirit Project", a web-based software tool that links government agencies to people with social challenges.

Archival Collection

Maryann Picchi Collection on Las Vegas Showgirls and Entertainment

Identifier

MS-01141

Abstract

The Maryann Picchi Collection on Las Vegas Showgirls and Entertainment (approximately 1965-2009) contains newspapers clippings and programs for different shows on the Las Vegas Strip that featured showgirls from the 1970s to the 1990s. Shows represented in this collection includes Casino de Paris, Folies Bergère, and Jubilee!. Materials include programs for Stardust Resort and Casino cast and crew member reunions. Materials were donated by Maryann Picchi who used to perform as a showgirl for the Stardust.

Archival Collection

UNLV Libraries Collection of Hotel and Casino Promotional and Publicity Materials

Identifier

MS-01136

Abstract

UNLV Libraries Collection of Hotel and Casino Promotional and Publicity Materials (1943-2002) includes press kits, press releases, promotional materials, and newspaper and magazine clippings for various hotels and casinos in Nevada, the United States, and international locations. This collection consists entirely of material that was previously cataloged.

Archival Collection

Ruthe Deskin oral history interview

Identifier

OH-02789

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ruthe Deskin conducted by Anthony Ferri on April 17, 2000 for the Communication and Community in Las Vegas research study. In this interview, Deskin talks about her upbringing in Yerington, Nevada, her degree in journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), and her permanent move to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1945. She discusses her early jobs working for KENO and KLAS radio stations as an advertising and continuity editor, her public relations work for the Last Frontier Hotel, and then starting what would become her life work with Hank Greenspun's Las Vegas Sun newspaper in 1954. Later, she talks about her column "Memo to Hank" and Greenspun's "Where I Stand" column, about how Las Vegas changed over her fifty year tenure at the newspaper, politicians, racial inequality, and highlights of her career.

Archival Collection

Ron Lewis Papers

Identifier

MS-01142

Abstract

The Ron Lewis Papers (approximately 1937-2021) contain photographs, newspaper clippings, and correspondence documenting the life and career of dancer and choreographer Ron Lewis. Materials in this collection represent shows Lewis choreographed in Las Vegas, Nevada, the United States, and internationally including Bare Touch, Casino de Paris, The Act, and Vive les Girls. Materials also include photographs of Lewis with Liza Minnelli and promotional materials, press clippings, and interviews for Liza at the Palace, which was directed and choreographed by Lewis.

Archival Collection

Eileen Lancaster Family Photographs

Identifier

PH-00446

Abstract

The Eileen Lancaster Family Photographs contains studio portraits and group photographs taken between approximately 1813 to 1900 of various members of Eileen Lancaster's family. Several of the photographs include notes written on the back by Lancaster listing the name of the family member and the place the photograph was taken. Several of the studio portraits indicate that they were shot at photograph studios in Bradford, England; Hamburg, Germany; Iowa; and Kentucky.

Archival Collection

Las Vegas Fiber Arts Guild oral history project interviews

Identifier

OH-03424

Abstract

The Las Vegas Fiber Arts (LVFA) Guild oral history project interviews (2020-2023) consist of interviews conducted by the LVFA Guild of their membership. The interviews cover a wide range of topics, and members discuss their individual history of weaving and the fiber arts, preferred methods, and different types of fibers. Interviewees also discuss mentors within the craft, their level of involvement with the guild, and the different events that the LVFA Guild organizes in Las Vegas, Nevada. Digital audio and transcripts available.

Archival Collection

Reflections: The Las Vegas Asian American & Pacific Islander Web Archive

Identifier

MS-01112

Abstract

Reflections: The Las Vegas Asian American & Pacific Islander Web Archive is comprised of archived websites captured in 2022 and 2023 that are related to UNLV University Libraries community documentation project, "Reflections: The Las Vegas Asian American & Pacific Islander Oral History Project." Archived websites represent local Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) civic and service organizations and individuals that have been interviewed as part of the oral history project. The collection includes archived websites of organizations such as the Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce, the Asian-American Advocacy Clinic, Asian Community Development Council, and Thai Culture Foundation. Archived websites of individuals represented in this collection includes entrepreneur, real estate investor, and motivational speaker Lisa Song Sutton and magician Juliana Chen.

Archival Collection

Lift Up Windsor Park Project Collection

Identifier

MS-01140

Abstract

The Lift Up Windsor Project Collection (approximately 2020-2023) contains digitized copies of North Las Vegas, Nevada City Council meeting minutes, geological and environmental impact statements, and other types of documentation originally published from the 1950s to 2010s that were collected by Sebastian Ross, graduate student at UNLV's Boyd School of Law and an archived version of the Lift up Windsor Park project website. Assemblywoman Dina Neal (now Nevada State Senator) led the project, which included faculty and students from UNLV's film department and law school, to research and advocate for Windsor Park, one of the first all-Black housing communities in North Las Vegas that was developed in the 1960s. The records in this collection represent the research material used for Windsor Park: The Sinking Streets documentary that tells the story of how the neighborhood was developed on top of an aquifer and seismic faults which have damaged homes over the past five decades.

Archival Collection

Shoah Survivors Project oral history interviews

Identifier

OH-04007

Abstract

The Shoah Survivors Project Oral History Interviews (2020 October) consist of four oral history interviews conducted in October 2020 and a project video created for the Shoah Survivors Project led by Roberta Sabbath and Shahab Zargari. The project interviewed four Holocaust survivors now living in Las Vegas, Nevada: Alexander Keuchel, Sabina Wagschal Callwood, Stephen Nasser, and Henry Kronberg. The collection also contains brief notes and partial transcripts for the video oral history interviews.

Archival Collection

Sarah Bartlett oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03277

Abstract

Oral history interview with Sarah Bartlett conducted by Sydney Bartlett on December 10, 2022 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Sarah recalls immigrating from Quezon City, Philippines as a young woman to Toronto, Canada. She recalls her childhood being full of rich cultural traditions, lots of family bonding time, and working to help support her family. Despite not having a college education, she secured a career as a title officer at Chicago Title, a position which she has held for twenty-five years. Sarah eventually met her husband, who shared a Filipino ancestry, and moved from Canada to Las Vegas, Nevada. Here they built their own life together, and despite hardships throughout her life, Sarah cherishes the unique experiences she has had living in Las Vegas.

Archival Collection

Erica Mosca oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03278

Abstract

Oral history interview with Erica Mosca conducted by Cecilia Winchell, Stefani Evans, and Jerwin Tiu on February 3, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Mosca reflects on her life journey from a low-income Asian American to a current serving Nevada State Assemblywoman. She recalls that most of her childhood was in Palm Springs, California where she enjoyed a diverse community of students within her education system. It was not until she moved to Navato, California where she first experienced the economic and resource gap between economically diverse areas. Mosca went on to be involved in a college readiness program and received a scholarship to Boston University. After college, Mosca went on to work for Teach for America where she was stationed on the east side of Las Vegas at Goldfarb Elementary School where she grew a passion for leadership. She eventually returned to school and graduated from Harvard University, returning to Las Vegas to start her nonprofit "Leaders in Training." Mosca hopes to inspire change in her communities by enacting legislation and initiatives targeted towards the communities she was and continutes to be a part of.

Archival Collection

Casiano Corpus Jr. oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03279

Abstract

Oral history interview with Casiano Corpus Jr. conducted by Cecilia Winchell and Stefani Evans on February 14, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Corpus Jr. details a difficult childhood in the Philippines, where society is highly socioeconomically stratified. He recalls his parents working a number of jobs to support their large family, and as soon as he finished his primary schooling, he also started working in construction. When his father was finally petitioned by his uncle to move to the United States, Corpus was at first reluctant to go, since he had a familiar life in the Philippines, but has come to love the United States and the life he created for himself. Immediately after moving to the United States, their family landed in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Corpus began working a number of jobs. He started out as a busboy at a Chinese restaurant before deciding that he wanted to work in a casino and moved to Union Plaza. His current job is as a porter at Palace Station, where he has been for the past 31 years. He has also been working to unionize Palace Station and Station casinos with the Culinary Union for the past twelve years. He talks about the hunger strike he organized, why he organizes with no fear, and what he hopes to see out of his efforts throughout the interview.

Archival Collection

Ernest Oon oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03291

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ernest Oon conducted by Cecilia Winchell, Stefani Evans, and Jerwin Tiu on February 16, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Oon recalls his childhood in Singapore, where his father worked on the Health and Sports Council for the Singaporean Government and his mother worked as a television assistant producer. Growing up, Oon recalls being very active, participating in everything from soccer to Tae Kwon Do. In an effort to continue his education without being being interrupted by Singapore's civil service program, Oon applied to college in the United States and ended up attending California State University. Although he was on the medicine track in Singapore, he switched to finance. After a series of jobs within credit banking, he is now a chief credit officer for Bank of Nevada. Throughout the interview, Oon reflects on the changes in his life living in different places, the street food from Singapore, and his unique tennis game.

Archival Collection

Nicole Cristina Espinosa oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03327

Abstract

Oral history interview with Nicole Cristina Espinosa conducted by Yancy Bayoro on November 17, 2022 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Espinosa recalls growing up in Vallejo, California as a first-generation Filipino-American. Because their parents had converted to Mormonism while still in the Philippines, Espinosa grew up surrounded by the Latter-day Saints (LDS) community, attending church every Sunday and going off to camp regularly. In their LDS community, the Espinosa family was often the only non-White family, while among the other Filipinos at school being the only Mormon among Catholics, creating a tension in their identity. Nevertheless, Espinosa had a large extended family nearby and fondly remembers spending time with them as a teenager. They talk about moving to Las Vegas, Nevada in high school because of the low cost of living and job opportunities. After graduating high school, Espinosa worked a number of jobs from TSA at the airport to retail at Urban Outfitters. Epinosa discusses their parent's experience with assimilation and the parts of Filipino culture that were left behind. Throughout the rest of the interview, Espinosa talks about a range of other topics such as public transportation, finding good food, and their AAPI identity.

Archival Collection

Carl Esteban oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03329

Abstract

Oral history interview with Carl Esteban conducted by William Bailey on December 2, 2022 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Esteban recalls growing up in Salinas, California in a predominantly Asian community before relocating with family to Las Vegas, Nevada in 2002. As a first generation Filipino America, Esteban's mother sacrificed her life in the Philippines to become the sole person in her family to immigrate to America. Esteban received his degree in Special Education and is currently pursuing to a master's degree in the same field. Esteban is currently a special education educator at the Yvonne Atkinson-Gates Center in North Las Vegas. Throughout the interview, Esteban discusses a wide range of topics spanning from his family migration story, his early childhood, his Filipino identity, Asian stereotypes as the model minority, and how his mentors helped shape him into the person he is today.

Archival Collection

Emily Persaud-Zamora oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03325

Abstract

Oral history interview with Emily Persaud-Zamora conducted by Cecilia Winchell and Stefani Evans on January 17, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Persaud-Zamora remembers growing up in Queens, New York and being exposed to numerous cultures and ethnicities. Though her parents separated when she was two, Persaud-Zamora maintained a steady relationship with both. Her mother was originally from Brazil and worked as a chef, primarily for private homes. Her father was an immigrant from Guyana, with roots in India, and did catering for large events and eventually moved to Georgia. Growing up she recalls being between two worlds, never feeling quite Brazilian enough or Asian enough, but still being connected to her Hindu roots in various ways. When she was fifteen, Persaud-Zamora and her mother moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she continued high school and describes the cultural differences between the two places she had lived. After high school, she received a degree in political science and ended up working in public policy. Her current position at Silver State Voices involves work with many different organizations across Nevada to advocate for progressive issues and underrepresented communities. Throughout the interview, Persaud-Zamora touches on a number of other issues, including her religion, traditions, and family.

Archival Collection

Jessica Guiao oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03326

Abstract

Oral history interview with Jessica Guiao conducted by Grecia Lopez on November 22, 2022 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Guiao recalls her childhood in Hayward, California, and being raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. She recalls not liking the climate of Nevada at first, and describes the friends she has made throughout her time in the city and the identity she has developed. Guiao discusses some of the pressures and stereotypes surrounding Asian Americans, such as what career path they should pursue or the aversion to embracing subcultures, and how she has consolidated her rebellion into her own identity. Throughout the interview, Guiao touches on other topics such as Filipino food, the long-standing history between Mexican and Filipino communities, Catholicism, goth culture, and anti-Asian hate and racism that she and her family has faced.

Archival Collection

Anna Nakazawa oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03330

Abstract

Oral history interview with Anna Nakazawa conducted by Donnielle Dove on November 29, 2022 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Nakazawa reflects on her upbringing in Las Vegas, Nevada what it was like growing up and what it was like growing up Asian-American in Southern Nevada. Nakazawa is currently enrolled at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and studying criminal justice. She recalls attending Saturday Japanese school every weekend until she was in high school, allowing her to connect with her cultural background and describes annual trips to Japan in the summer. Nakazawa's ambition and determination is something she takes pride in, and speaks of her multiple jobs and the financial opportunities they bring her. Furthermore, she discusses the importance of education and sharing Asian-American news on social media so more people have a better understanding of what is it like to be Asian-American.

Archival Collection

Catherine Scherwenka oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03274

Abstract

Oral history interview with Catherine Scherwenka conducted by Claytee D. White on February 28, 2020 for the Remembering 1 October Oral History Project. In this interview, Scherwenka recalls growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and later living in New York City. Scherwenka discusses travelling to India, and how her life changed after that trip. She talks about becoming a oneness meditator, her business, "Interviews Initiative", and coming to Las Vegas in the aftermath of 1 October to perform trauma meditation for first responders.

Archival Collection

UNLV University Libraries Photographs of the Response to the 1 October Shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada

Identifier

PH-00433

Abstract

UNLV University Libraries Photographs of the Response to the 1 October Shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada (2017-2019) are comprised of digital images captured to document the aftermath of the mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada. Following the October 1, 2017 killing of 58 people at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival on the Las Vegas Strip, the Las Vegas community responded in a variety of ways. This collection of photographs document the impromptu memorial created at the "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign, the funeral of Officer Charleston Hartfield, and different ways the community and organizations have remembered the tragedy since 2017. The collection also documents the Las Vegas Community Healing Garden at 1015 S. Casino Center Boulevard, envisioned by activists and built by volunteers, to honor the victims and give family members and the community a place to gather to remember.

Archival Collection

Jim P. Laurie Photographs of the MGM Grand and Las Vegas Hilton Fires

Identifier

PH-00450

Abstract

The Jim P. Laurie Photographs of the MGM Grand and Las Vegas Hilton Fires (1980-1981) is comprised of six digitized photographs depicting the fire at the MGM Grand Hotel on Friday, November 21, 1980 and one image from the fire at the Las Vegas Hilton on February 11, 1981. Photographs were taken by Jim P. Laurie on the day of the fires at the MGM Grand and Las Vegas Hilton. Laurie is a photographer who used to work for the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Archival Collection

Clyde F. Merrick Photographic Slides

Identifier

PH-00449

Abstract

The Clyde F. Merrick Photographic Slides (approximately 1971-1979) contain color photographic slides taken by Clyde F. Merrick, longtime resident of Las Vegas, Nevada. The majority of slides in this collection depict signs for different businesses around Las Vegas including the Las Vegas Strip and the Westside. Some of the businesses documented in this collection includes Fong's Garden, Leon's Shear Magic Beauty Salon, Lucas and Son's Antiques, Dick's Tricky Trikes, Mohan's Custom Tailors, the Twenty Grand Club, Owens TV Repair, and Caesars Palace. The collection also documents a variety of different types of businesses around Las Vegas including bars and nightclubs, beauty salons, car washes, gas stations, and restaurants. Merrick was also a car racing hobbyist and a number of slides in this collection depict what is presumed to be the Las Vegas Speedrome racetrack (later known the Las Vegas Motor Speedway). This collection also includes photographs of locations outside of Las Vegas and Southern Nevada.

Archival Collection

Hamed Ahmady oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03890

Abstract

Oral history interview with Hamed Ahmady conducted by Stefani Evans on March 22, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. Interviewed by Stefani Evans. Culinary Union Local 226 organizer Hamed Ahmady recalls his childhood as the oldest of six children in Mazar-e Sharif in northern Afghanistan. As an child, he remembers hearing about the September 11, 2001 attack in New York while living in a Taliban-controlled city on a television connected to a concealed antenna that received signals from Uzbekistan. He recalls how, one month after he graduated high school, he became an translator for the U.S. Army, which he did for more than four years. He talks about securing his Special Immigrant Visa (SIV); landing in Los Angeles, California in 2013 and moving his family to the United States; and supporting his siblings and parents in Afghanistan. He also discusses relocating his family from California to Las Vegas, Nevada in 2018, finding a mosque community, and working with Culinary Union Local 226.

Archival Collection

Lorraine Longhi oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03892

Abstract

Oral history interview with Lorraine Longhi conducted by Stefani Evans on March 31, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. Longhi recalls growing up in Las Vegas, Nevada through eigth grade until she moved to Arizona. After graduating from high school and Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism & Mass Communication, Longhi worked for the Arizona Republic newspaper, where she covered education and city government. Longhi identifes as mixed race and speaks of a Las Vegas childhood punctuated with annual visits to her father's family in Yonkers, New York, and her mother's Taiwanese family in Taipei. In this interview, she discusses favorite Taiwanese and Italian foods she remembers from her childhood, and memories of cultural festivals at Chinatown Plaza. She also recalls first experiencing questions about her personal identity in Arizona, remarking in retrospect on the diversity of her childhood in Las Vegas. Longhi returned to Las Vegas in March 2022 to begin work as assistant city editor at the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Archival Collection

Gai Phanalasy oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03894

Abstract

Oral history interview with Gai Phanalasy conducted by Jerwin Tiu, Cecilia Winchell, and Stefani Evans on April 7, 2023 for the Reflections: the Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. Born on a Thailand refugee camp, Soukpaseut "Gai" Phanalasy describes his early upbringing in many different countries. Due to political tension, Phanalasy's family had to move from their native Laos to seek refugee in countries like Thailand, the Philippines, and eventually were granted asylum in Nashville, Tennessee in 1981. There, the Phanalasy family had to learn to assimilate to American culture, receiving aid from several religious organizations and the local Laos community. Phanalasy went on to attend Middle Tennessee State University, where he majored in mass communications and later decided to enter a broadcasting program where he interned at a radio station in Tennessee. His passion for photography began in 2007, and through a connection, he received a job offer from Fox 5 News in Las Vegas, Nevada. Since then, Gai has enjoyed a career in photography, including working as the state photographer in Carson City. After several projects, he returned to Las Vegas to work as the Multimedia Production Specialist for the City of Las Vegas where he has received many awards for his work. Gai emphasizes his love for his community, Las Vegas, and his passion of photography.

Archival Collection

Donna Silva oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03891

Abstract

Oral history interview with Donna Silva conducted by Claytee D. White on February 6, 2023 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Silva recalls her childhood living in Los Angeles, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; Valdosta, Georgia; and Japan. When her family settled in Las Vegas, her family joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, but Silva later left the organization as a teenager. Throughout the interview, Silva recalls memories of the Rolling Stones, Steve Wynn, Elvis, and doing lighting work throughout the city as the first female to join the stagehand's union. Silva's work in the hotel/casino industry provides insight in work on the casino floor and behind the curtains of entertainment venues. She worked as a cocktail waitress, cigarette girl, and then backstage as a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Her passion later turned to working with the Rape Crisis Center, where Silva has acquired training that allows her to go to hospitals to assist patients.

Archival Collection

Ron Tomlin oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03893

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ronald (Ron) Tomlin conducted by Claytee D. White on December 20, 2022 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Tomlin recalls growing up as child with his mother, Dorothy Dalton Tomlin, who started the Dotty Dee Dancers in 1952. Ron recalls spending much of his childhood with his grandmother while his mother toured the country with the Dotty Dee Dancers. In 1955, his father, Donald Sherwood Tomlin, opened a clothing store, Scottie's Clothing Store, in the Moulin Rouge shopping strip on the Westside of Las Vegas, where he sold the latest fashion trends to Black men. Ron traveled across country with his parents after high school, helped them run a small resort on the Russian River called the Bohemian Grove, and then began his photography career. Throughout his career as a photographer, he has photographed Mike Tyson, Naomi Campbell, and Elvis. Tomlin also talks about having a passion for dancing, like his mother.

Archival Collection

Stanley Paher oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03889

Abstract

Oral history interview with Stanley Paher conducted by Claytee D. White on March 20, 2023 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Paher recalls his childhood, being born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. His family built and owned the Gateway Auto Court, now the Gateway Motel, at the corner of Las Vegas and Charleston Boulevards. After a brief period serving in the United States Navy and obtaining a bachelor's degree, Paher entered the master's program at the University of Nevada, Reno. Paher discusses his love of researching and writing about Nevada ghost towns, including writing his first book on the subject in 1970. He recalls seeing the physical book on the printing press, and talks about the profound impact that moment had on his life. It led to the founding of Nevada Publications, and his involvement with 59 Las Vegas and northern Nevada authors from 1970 through 2023. Paher has written fifteen books on Nevada, Arizona, and California.

Archival Collection

Hughes Aircraft Retirees Association Records

Identifier

MS-01146

Abstract

The Hughes Aircraft Retirees Association (HARA) Records (1940-2018) contain a variety of publications, organizational charts and technical reports, audiovisual materials, and photographs related to Hughes Aircraft Company and Hughes Electronics. These materials were gathered by members of the Hughes Aircraft Retirees Association, a social organization for retirees of Hughes Aircraft Company including Boeing, Raytheon, and Kinecta.

Archival Collection

Tia Ka'auamo oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03896

Abstract

Oral history interview with Tia Ka'auamo conducted by Jerwin Tiu and Stefani Evans on April 28, 2023 for the Reflections: The Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islanders Oral History Project. In this interview, Tia Ka'auamo recalls her childhood in Hilo, Hawai'i, and in rural Makawao, Maui as the middle of three daughters born of a Korean-Japanese father and a Filipino-Okinawan mother. She discusses living in state-funded housing in Hawai'i, and with various family members due to difficult personal situations. Ka'auamo discusses earning a bachelor's degree in psychology, spending a summer study abroad in Berlin, Germany, and attending law school. She talks about learning Tagalog from her paternal grandmother, who was punished if she used her language in school, and questions the ways others use language, food, and culture proficiency to determine their identity. Ka'auamo moved to Las Vegas in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and currently works a legal records specialist for the Office of the City Attorney at the City of Las Vegas. She also recently organized the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Committee of city employees.

Archival Collection

Joanne Ullman oral history interview

Identifier

OH-03895

Abstract

Oral history interview with Joanne Ullman conducted by Jerwin Tiu, Cecilia Winchell, and Stefani Evans on April 21, 2023 for the Reflections: The Las Vegas Asian American and Pacific Islander Oral History Project. In this interview, Ullman describes her childhood in a close-knit family in New Jersey. She discusses having a balance of Filipino culture at home, while also experiencing the impact of growing up in both an ethnic and socioeconomic minority. Ullman discusses studing molecular biology at Montclair State University, and upon graduating, researching at a science museum under a breast surgeon, where she also met her husband. Shortly after, she began consulting work and relocated with her family to Las Vegas, Nevada. Ullman went on to pursue a masters degree in data analysis at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and then eventually her Ph.D. in psychology. Currently, she spends her time as a full-time professor at UNLV teaching statistics. Throughout the interview, Ullman reflects on her career with fondness, having achieved many feats in research, publishing, and is proud of the way she has raised her family.

Archival Collection

Cliff Trenier Papers

Identifier

MS-01137

Abstract

The Cliff Trenier Papers (approximately 1950-1999) document the life and career of Clifton "Cliff" Trenier, who performed with various siblings across the United States beginning in the 1940s. The collection contains photographs of Cliff with his twin brother Claude performing, documents and newspaper clippings relating to the musical group's tours and their numerous performances in Las Vegas, Nevada including at the Moulin Rouge. Also included in the collection are photographs of Cliff's wife, Bedez, and correspondence between the couple up until Cliff's illness and death in 1983.

Archival Collection

Donna Silva Lighting Design Plans

Identifier

MS-01151

Abstract

The Donna Silva Lighting Design Plans (1986-1996) contain blueprints and schedule binders for a number of projects Silva worked on in Las Vegas, Nevada including the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, The Orleans Hotel & Casino, Golden Nugget, and the MGM Grand Hotel. Also included are lighting plans for the Foxwoods Resort Casino (operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation) in Connecticut, Caesars Atlantic City, and Players Island (now CasaBlanca Resort) in Mesquite, Nevada.

Archival Collection

The Yell Negatives

Identifier

PH-00447

Abstract

The Yell Negatives (approximately 1971-1974) contain photographic negatives from various events held at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) that were used for the student newspaper, The Yell (which is now known as The Scarlet & Gray Free Press). Events documented include UNLV football games and political events hosted at UNLV's campus featuring candidates including as Jim Bilbray, David Towell, and Sargent Shriver.

Archival Collection

Charles Hunsberger oral history interview

Identifier

OH-00089

Abstract

Oral history interview with Charles Hunsberger conducted by Ann Langevin in 2010 for StoryCorp. Hunsberger was a former director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District. Also included with the interview are notes of support and encouragement to Hunsberger from former colleagues and friends in honor of his 90th birthday. Digital audio available; no transcript available.

Archival Collection

Arthur and Joe Lyon Papers

Identifier

MS-01149

Abstract

The Arthur and Joe Lyon Papers (1930-1935, 1985, 2020) document the first transnational automobile trip taken from North America to Central America in 1930 by Arthur and Joe Lyon, two brothers from McDermitt, Nevada. The materials in this collection include Arthur and Joe Lyon's passports with stamps from their trip and their travel scrapbook. Materials also include the brothers' handwritten notes about their trip from the 1930s and original typescript for Central America Through a Windshield written in 1985. The collection also includes a published hardcover copy of 1930: From Manhattan to Managua, North America's First Transnational Automobile Trip published in 2020.

Archival Collection