Search Results
Photographs of McCarran Field signs, Las Vegas (Nev.), 2002
Date
2002
2017-09-08
Archival Collection
Description
Photos show McCarran Field signs during the day. Two surveys were conducted to gather information about this sign. One was conducted in 2002 and one was conducted in 2017. PDFs are available for both surveys. See the 2017 survey PDF for additional information that is not included in the object description.
Site address: 6005 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: McCarran International Airport
Sign details: On the south end of the Strip, the very last sign on the east side before you arrive at Sunset Blvd Facing West the two stone pylons are set approximately fifty feet off of the street at the end of a dual-lane stretch of pavement separated by an island of grass. The banner marquis between the two pylons stretches over this area of grass.
Sign condition: Structure 3 Surface 3 Lighting 4 Notes: The surface of the pylon is in good shape considering its age and its environmental condition. It is essentially left to fend for itself against the elements, being in the flat expanse of an airfield. The stone, plaques, and paint treatment are all badly worn, with the stone pylons, appearing the least worn.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The original McCarran Air Field entrance is constructed of two masonry pylons sit on an island of grass, and serve as an entrance to the private Hughes executive airport terminal. Each individual tower is adorned with a propeller attached to the front and the representation of a bird's wing crowning the tops Both facets are constructed of steel. When facing the structures the left has a plaque on the bottom section with the inscription "1948" while the one on the right reads "Las Vegas". Between the two pylons a stretch of text in white channel letters and white neon, large text in the old "Frontier style text reads McCarran Airport. The signage sits independently on top of a sturdy connecting steel cabinet, which supports the words "executive terminal" in smaller channel letters, with white neon. The cabinet is a painted blue horizontal plane tapering wider on either end in rounded profile patterns. The wings are outlined in pink neon, while the propellers are outlined in rose neon with a circle of white in the middle.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Masonry
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: none
Sign environment: The surrounding area is rather dark due to the wide expanse of the airfield which stretches out behind the sign. It truly is a last marker for the end of the Strip, and stands alone. Even though it is in close proximity to the major strip resorts of the Four Seasons as well as the Mandalay Bay and various small roadside hotels, it seems to stand in solitude.
Sign - date of installation: 1948
Sign - date of redesign/move: The blue banner of steel and white letters was added after its initial construction.
Sign - thematic influences: The masonry pylons are constructed in an adobe style masonry reminiscent of the desert landscape surroundings. Designed for the airport, the appendages stem obviously around the theme of flight. This may be denoted from the propeller and the wing. The juxtaposition of the two elements, one being the method of flight in nature and the other man made, serves as a reminder of mans fascination with flight. The added banner's text is in the pioneer fashion of the original Last Frontier.
Sign - artistic significance: Opened in 1948, the sign was intended for use as a marker for the endpoint of the Strip. " It was part of the city's expanding policy creating a jet-scale entrance for the city," Jorg Rudemer from Lost Las Vegas. Artistic significance also lies in the combination of materials using masonry, steel and, neon. The piece successfully combined these elements to provide an architecturally solid design by day, which was cohesive with its surrounding landscape. A metamorphosis takes place at night as the sign is transformed into a glowing specter of its daytime counterpart. The surrounding area is rather dark as the pylon rises up out of the darkness as a neon marker for the property. The illuminated wing and propeller stand out as the significant and successful partners in the world of flight.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Masonry; Paint
Site address: 6005 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: McCarran International Airport
Sign details: On the south end of the Strip, the very last sign on the east side before you arrive at Sunset Blvd Facing West the two stone pylons are set approximately fifty feet off of the street at the end of a dual-lane stretch of pavement separated by an island of grass. The banner marquis between the two pylons stretches over this area of grass.
Sign condition: Structure 3 Surface 3 Lighting 4 Notes: The surface of the pylon is in good shape considering its age and its environmental condition. It is essentially left to fend for itself against the elements, being in the flat expanse of an airfield. The stone, plaques, and paint treatment are all badly worn, with the stone pylons, appearing the least worn.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The original McCarran Air Field entrance is constructed of two masonry pylons sit on an island of grass, and serve as an entrance to the private Hughes executive airport terminal. Each individual tower is adorned with a propeller attached to the front and the representation of a bird's wing crowning the tops Both facets are constructed of steel. When facing the structures the left has a plaque on the bottom section with the inscription "1948" while the one on the right reads "Las Vegas". Between the two pylons a stretch of text in white channel letters and white neon, large text in the old "Frontier style text reads McCarran Airport. The signage sits independently on top of a sturdy connecting steel cabinet, which supports the words "executive terminal" in smaller channel letters, with white neon. The cabinet is a painted blue horizontal plane tapering wider on either end in rounded profile patterns. The wings are outlined in pink neon, while the propellers are outlined in rose neon with a circle of white in the middle.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Masonry
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: none
Sign environment: The surrounding area is rather dark due to the wide expanse of the airfield which stretches out behind the sign. It truly is a last marker for the end of the Strip, and stands alone. Even though it is in close proximity to the major strip resorts of the Four Seasons as well as the Mandalay Bay and various small roadside hotels, it seems to stand in solitude.
Sign - date of installation: 1948
Sign - date of redesign/move: The blue banner of steel and white letters was added after its initial construction.
Sign - thematic influences: The masonry pylons are constructed in an adobe style masonry reminiscent of the desert landscape surroundings. Designed for the airport, the appendages stem obviously around the theme of flight. This may be denoted from the propeller and the wing. The juxtaposition of the two elements, one being the method of flight in nature and the other man made, serves as a reminder of mans fascination with flight. The added banner's text is in the pioneer fashion of the original Last Frontier.
Sign - artistic significance: Opened in 1948, the sign was intended for use as a marker for the endpoint of the Strip. " It was part of the city's expanding policy creating a jet-scale entrance for the city," Jorg Rudemer from Lost Las Vegas. Artistic significance also lies in the combination of materials using masonry, steel and, neon. The piece successfully combined these elements to provide an architecturally solid design by day, which was cohesive with its surrounding landscape. A metamorphosis takes place at night as the sign is transformed into a glowing specter of its daytime counterpart. The surrounding area is rather dark as the pylon rises up out of the darkness as a neon marker for the property. The illuminated wing and propeller stand out as the significant and successful partners in the world of flight.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Masonry; Paint
Mixed Content
neo000058-004
Date
2017-09-21
Description
Sign animation: Chasing, flashing, oscillating
Notes: The text fascia sign just to the north of the giant glass display illuminates with a background of neon tubing which chases from right to left. The pattern of colors running across are a sequence banks of red, pink purple and blue vertical neon tubing, chase each other creating a pulsating movement of the individual banks of these colors. While they are animating, the channel letters, which spell "Riviera," are dark and proceed to light up one letter at a time. Once all lit they remain lit, until the background stops with all the bars illuminated. Once all the bars are lit, the interiors of the letters turn off one at a time starting on the far right. The giant mirrored section of the building, advertising for the Splash stage show. The sequence can be best described from its dramatic powering up. The entire sign comes alive with a rapid upward chasing pattern covering the surface of the tower. Once alive, small white bulbs grow out of the end of the space on the top and bottom of the end of the "Splash" text. Once all the previous elements are illuminated, the letters in the Splash logo shut off, illuminate one letter at a time in red neon, then the white neon figure of the seal balancing a ball on the end of it's nose, lights up. The neon bordered circular raceway, then animates with the bulbs in the center chasing each other in a clock-wise sequence. Once lit the vast array of white bulbs grown out of the end of the text begin to gently oscillate, as well as the sparse assortment of floating and attached incandescent bulbs on the wall of the tower. Once the bulbs animate for a few seconds, the entire wall chases downward, becoming black as night, except for the Slash logo text. Underneath the entire front side of the western face of the Riviera, the incandescent bulbs which cover the entire surface oscillate in a wildly, while the ringed entablature on the wall animates quietly in comparison. The multi-colored rings of neon tubing chase each other from left to right, chasing the distance then repeating. The sequence then changes direction and chase from left to right. Creating the tops and bottoms of the entablature are raceways lined with incandescent bulbs that chase each other from left to right. On the surface of the west wall incandescent bulbs chase each other along the raceways which run horizontally around the internally lit cabinets. The small vertical raceways which run inside the clear plastic boxes chase each other from top to bottom, but all the raceways are offset to each other by a few seconds. At the North end of the property the signage for the Riviera's, "Nickeltown" gambling attraction, dominates the corner. He animation on the large exploding sculptural fountain lights up the entire corner. The three rocketing pieces of steel are wrapped in repeating bands of their corresponding colors of blue, purple and yellow. All three simultaneously chase from bottom to top, until completely lit. Then they begin to animate in a chasing pattern from bottom to top. After a few moments of chasing, they chase from beginnig to top once more, leaving al the tubes dark in its path. Along the circular entablature, which runs the circumference of the top mass of the fountain, incandescent bulbs chase each other from right to left, but only on the side which faces the casino. The wall, which faces north, contains the multicolored banks of vertical neon bars that animate in a specific pattern. They chase each other from right to left, then only the purple neon tubing illuminates, they chase again, then only the blue neon tubing illuminates. They chase once again, and then only the gold bars illuminate. The bars chase yet one more time, then all of the tubing illuminates, thus ending the sequence. The main entrance to nickel town is adorned with neon text and images, but only the stars higher up on the wall itself animate. The incandescent bulbs elevated above the surface of the mirrored wall, animate in a soft oscillating pattern, adding the twinkling effect. The larger five pointed stars are animated on the interior by a center of oscillating incandescent bulbs, while concentric neon shapes echo outward in the yellow, purple and blue colors seen on the adjacent wall facing north. The smaller snow-flake esque star shapes are alive with oscillating incandescent bulbs. Looking upward along the north face of the closest tower, the giant vertical, Riviera channel letters animate one character at a time, oscillate then shuts off.
Notes: The text fascia sign just to the north of the giant glass display illuminates with a background of neon tubing which chases from right to left. The pattern of colors running across are a sequence banks of red, pink purple and blue vertical neon tubing, chase each other creating a pulsating movement of the individual banks of these colors. While they are animating, the channel letters, which spell "Riviera," are dark and proceed to light up one letter at a time. Once all lit they remain lit, until the background stops with all the bars illuminated. Once all the bars are lit, the interiors of the letters turn off one at a time starting on the far right. The giant mirrored section of the building, advertising for the Splash stage show. The sequence can be best described from its dramatic powering up. The entire sign comes alive with a rapid upward chasing pattern covering the surface of the tower. Once alive, small white bulbs grow out of the end of the space on the top and bottom of the end of the "Splash" text. Once all the previous elements are illuminated, the letters in the Splash logo shut off, illuminate one letter at a time in red neon, then the white neon figure of the seal balancing a ball on the end of it's nose, lights up. The neon bordered circular raceway, then animates with the bulbs in the center chasing each other in a clock-wise sequence. Once lit the vast array of white bulbs grown out of the end of the text begin to gently oscillate, as well as the sparse assortment of floating and attached incandescent bulbs on the wall of the tower. Once the bulbs animate for a few seconds, the entire wall chases downward, becoming black as night, except for the Slash logo text. Underneath the entire front side of the western face of the Riviera, the incandescent bulbs which cover the entire surface oscillate in a wildly, while the ringed entablature on the wall animates quietly in comparison. The multi-colored rings of neon tubing chase each other from left to right, chasing the distance then repeating. The sequence then changes direction and chase from left to right. Creating the tops and bottoms of the entablature are raceways lined with incandescent bulbs that chase each other from left to right. On the surface of the west wall incandescent bulbs chase each other along the raceways which run horizontally around the internally lit cabinets. The small vertical raceways which run inside the clear plastic boxes chase each other from top to bottom, but all the raceways are offset to each other by a few seconds. At the North end of the property the signage for the Riviera's, "Nickeltown" gambling attraction, dominates the corner. He animation on the large exploding sculptural fountain lights up the entire corner. The three rocketing pieces of steel are wrapped in repeating bands of their corresponding colors of blue, purple and yellow. All three simultaneously chase from bottom to top, until completely lit. Then they begin to animate in a chasing pattern from bottom to top. After a few moments of chasing, they chase from beginnig to top once more, leaving al the tubes dark in its path. Along the circular entablature, which runs the circumference of the top mass of the fountain, incandescent bulbs chase each other from right to left, but only on the side which faces the casino. The wall, which faces north, contains the multicolored banks of vertical neon bars that animate in a specific pattern. They chase each other from right to left, then only the purple neon tubing illuminates, they chase again, then only the blue neon tubing illuminates. They chase once again, and then only the gold bars illuminate. The bars chase yet one more time, then all of the tubing illuminates, thus ending the sequence. The main entrance to nickel town is adorned with neon text and images, but only the stars higher up on the wall itself animate. The incandescent bulbs elevated above the surface of the mirrored wall, animate in a soft oscillating pattern, adding the twinkling effect. The larger five pointed stars are animated on the interior by a center of oscillating incandescent bulbs, while concentric neon shapes echo outward in the yellow, purple and blue colors seen on the adjacent wall facing north. The smaller snow-flake esque star shapes are alive with oscillating incandescent bulbs. Looking upward along the north face of the closest tower, the giant vertical, Riviera channel letters animate one character at a time, oscillate then shuts off.
Photographs of Fun City Motel, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 1, 2017
Date
2017-03-01
2017-08-30
Archival Collection
Description
The Fun City Motel sits at 2233 South Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 2233 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Rick Trusdell and Chetak Development Corporation
Sign details: Originally the Glenn Vegas Motel in early 50's then the sign was reused for Holiday Motel in 1960's and later to the Fun City Motel circa 1970's to current.
Sign condition: This is rated a 2 since the structure is in semi-salvage condition. No treatment seems to have been done. The damage from the sun has left the bright red hue into a grayish purple color. Part of the neon lettering from Fun City is not in working condition.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: The Fun City Motel sign was installed in 1952. However, the sign has been used in other properties before it became the Fun City Motel. The Sign was first used for the Glenn Motel circa 1950's with a western theme. The reason why the Fun City Motel doesn't resemble Googie influence is because the original funky curvilinear shape was designed to be a peanut. The Glenn Vegas Motel sign included an illustrated rodeo cowgirl holding a looped rope towards the left end of the sign. In the middle top of the sign is a woman diver; towards the bottom of the sign is an outline of a pool with the word swimming pool in the middle. The peanut shape is painted black. In-between all the designs; in large letters Glenn Vegas Motel is written in white with the female diver drawing separating the two words. Underneath the peanut shaped structure is a rectangular sign held by two hooks on each sign with the word motel. The entire structure itself is held by two steel poles with a blue incandescent directional squiggly arrow facing downwards. The Holiday Motel version changed from the black background to a brilliant red with white large neon letters reading Holiday. The sign removed all implication of the western theme and changed the squiggly directional arrow from light blue to a silver hue. There were two additions to the sign; the first is the word motel vertically connected to the side of the directional arrow and second is a circular structure in white and yellow. Later with the Fun City Motel sign there wasn't much change from Holiday Motel. The only significant change was the name of the establishment. The fun city lettering lights up in multiple colors like the rainbow at night. And the two poles that hold up the structure were painted to black. Today the sign itself has lost all its brilliant red hue and is now a gray color from over sun exposure and no maintenance done to the sign. The directional incandescent arrow is still bright yellow.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and fiber glass
Sign animation: Chasers for the incandescent directional arrow. The circular structure on the tops of the curvilinear shape have incandescent lights following a circular motion.
Sign environment: This location is on the North end of the strip near the Holiday House, Holiday Motel, and Kaei Thai restaurant.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1970's
Sign - date of redesign/move: 1950's the sign was used for Glenn Vegas Motel, and in 1960's into the Holiday Motel.
Sign - thematic influences: The fun city sign is funky with an odd curvilinear shape that was originally used for a western theme motel as a peanut. Today the theme seems to be clownish with its colorful palette and rainbow neon.
Sign - artistic significance: The fun city sign is funky with an odd curvilinear shape that was originally used for a western theme motel as a peanut. Today the theme seems to be clownish with its colorful palette and rainbow neon.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, Photographs on the internet from Vintage Vegas website http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Fun+City+Motel
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Chasing; Pole sign; Roof Sign; Back to back; Backlit
Site address: 2233 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Rick Trusdell and Chetak Development Corporation
Sign details: Originally the Glenn Vegas Motel in early 50's then the sign was reused for Holiday Motel in 1960's and later to the Fun City Motel circa 1970's to current.
Sign condition: This is rated a 2 since the structure is in semi-salvage condition. No treatment seems to have been done. The damage from the sun has left the bright red hue into a grayish purple color. Part of the neon lettering from Fun City is not in working condition.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: The Fun City Motel sign was installed in 1952. However, the sign has been used in other properties before it became the Fun City Motel. The Sign was first used for the Glenn Motel circa 1950's with a western theme. The reason why the Fun City Motel doesn't resemble Googie influence is because the original funky curvilinear shape was designed to be a peanut. The Glenn Vegas Motel sign included an illustrated rodeo cowgirl holding a looped rope towards the left end of the sign. In the middle top of the sign is a woman diver; towards the bottom of the sign is an outline of a pool with the word swimming pool in the middle. The peanut shape is painted black. In-between all the designs; in large letters Glenn Vegas Motel is written in white with the female diver drawing separating the two words. Underneath the peanut shaped structure is a rectangular sign held by two hooks on each sign with the word motel. The entire structure itself is held by two steel poles with a blue incandescent directional squiggly arrow facing downwards. The Holiday Motel version changed from the black background to a brilliant red with white large neon letters reading Holiday. The sign removed all implication of the western theme and changed the squiggly directional arrow from light blue to a silver hue. There were two additions to the sign; the first is the word motel vertically connected to the side of the directional arrow and second is a circular structure in white and yellow. Later with the Fun City Motel sign there wasn't much change from Holiday Motel. The only significant change was the name of the establishment. The fun city lettering lights up in multiple colors like the rainbow at night. And the two poles that hold up the structure were painted to black. Today the sign itself has lost all its brilliant red hue and is now a gray color from over sun exposure and no maintenance done to the sign. The directional incandescent arrow is still bright yellow.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and fiber glass
Sign animation: Chasers for the incandescent directional arrow. The circular structure on the tops of the curvilinear shape have incandescent lights following a circular motion.
Sign environment: This location is on the North end of the strip near the Holiday House, Holiday Motel, and Kaei Thai restaurant.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1970's
Sign - date of redesign/move: 1950's the sign was used for Glenn Vegas Motel, and in 1960's into the Holiday Motel.
Sign - thematic influences: The fun city sign is funky with an odd curvilinear shape that was originally used for a western theme motel as a peanut. Today the theme seems to be clownish with its colorful palette and rainbow neon.
Sign - artistic significance: The fun city sign is funky with an odd curvilinear shape that was originally used for a western theme motel as a peanut. Today the theme seems to be clownish with its colorful palette and rainbow neon.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, Photographs on the internet from Vintage Vegas website http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Fun+City+Motel
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Chasing; Pole sign; Roof Sign; Back to back; Backlit
Mixed Content
Photographs of Gateway Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 12, 2017
Date
2017-03-12
2017-08-30
Archival Collection
Description
The Gateway Motel sign sits in early evening light at the northeast corner at 928 South Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet
Site address: 928 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Vinod Soni and Gateway Motel Inc
Sign details: The Gateway Motel dates back to early 1930's and could be considered one of the earliest motels to pop up in Las Vegas. Before the name changed to Gateway Motel it was named as the Gateway Auto Court circa 1930-1946 it was known as the Gateway Auto Court. The first sign was built circa 1930's and their new remodeled sign which is still in use today was built circa 1950's. The 1950's sign was originally painted darker colors and had a larger graphic of a gate. The original 1930's sign has the streamline modern influence that was prominent in 1930's and 40's. The sign itself is a pole sign with a square structure at the top. The font Auto-Court is in pure neon with that fire-red hue; the font is placed in the middle to stand out the most. The word Gateway is on top of Auto-Court in black with black streamline lines surrounding the word. Underneath is a small wooden board hanging probably stating no vacancy. The background color of the square structure is in pure white and the pole is chrome.
Sign condition: The condition of the sign is a 3.5. Some of the neon is not working when it's turned on at night. The paint has some sun/UV damage since it looks faded. The reader board has a stained effect from sun damage.
Sign form: Pylon with three separate signs converged into one.
Sign-specific description: The sign is made out of glass, steel, plastic, and concrete. The color palette is light blue, white and a cream white. The sign is designed in separate sections. The white cream based portion is situated at the top with a gate and bridge illustrative design in glass tubes and neon. The gate itself lights up yellow with red on the side. The font Gateway is larger than the gate and is in the color white when lit up. Underneath the Gateway word is a subliminal directional arrow pointing towards the motel buildings This section is in the color sky blue with the word motel in massive white letters. Underneath the directional arrow is the reader board surrounded by the steel light blue border. The reader board states Free Wi-Fi and HBO. Underneath in the left corner is a small light blue board that states "no vacancy" in neon. These three separate signs are all connected like blocks with a concrete pillar structure holding up the sign. During the evening, the light blue paint is not shown and is just pure black with the neon illuminating the sign.
Sign - type of display: Neon and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel, plastic and concrete
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This location is on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Charleston. This is right next to the original Dona Maria Tamales restaurant.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: From a 1930's streamline modern sign to a 1950's Mid-Century modern architectural roadside motel sign.
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is influenced by Mid-Century Modern roadside architecture, with the directional arrow as a staple in many motel roadside designs of the 1950's and 60's to accommodate the car consumer era.
Sign - artistic significance: One main trends of the 1950's designs with neon signs is using illustrative motifs with the inclusion of directional arrows to lend to the highway travelers an idea of where the property is located. To make sure these travelers don't miss the establishment in an empty road.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Roadside Architecture Website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas.html , Neon Museum book Spectacular, Vintage Las Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Gateway+Motel
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Concrete; Roadside; Reader board; Back to back
Site address: 928 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Vinod Soni and Gateway Motel Inc
Sign details: The Gateway Motel dates back to early 1930's and could be considered one of the earliest motels to pop up in Las Vegas. Before the name changed to Gateway Motel it was named as the Gateway Auto Court circa 1930-1946 it was known as the Gateway Auto Court. The first sign was built circa 1930's and their new remodeled sign which is still in use today was built circa 1950's. The 1950's sign was originally painted darker colors and had a larger graphic of a gate. The original 1930's sign has the streamline modern influence that was prominent in 1930's and 40's. The sign itself is a pole sign with a square structure at the top. The font Auto-Court is in pure neon with that fire-red hue; the font is placed in the middle to stand out the most. The word Gateway is on top of Auto-Court in black with black streamline lines surrounding the word. Underneath is a small wooden board hanging probably stating no vacancy. The background color of the square structure is in pure white and the pole is chrome.
Sign condition: The condition of the sign is a 3.5. Some of the neon is not working when it's turned on at night. The paint has some sun/UV damage since it looks faded. The reader board has a stained effect from sun damage.
Sign form: Pylon with three separate signs converged into one.
Sign-specific description: The sign is made out of glass, steel, plastic, and concrete. The color palette is light blue, white and a cream white. The sign is designed in separate sections. The white cream based portion is situated at the top with a gate and bridge illustrative design in glass tubes and neon. The gate itself lights up yellow with red on the side. The font Gateway is larger than the gate and is in the color white when lit up. Underneath the Gateway word is a subliminal directional arrow pointing towards the motel buildings This section is in the color sky blue with the word motel in massive white letters. Underneath the directional arrow is the reader board surrounded by the steel light blue border. The reader board states Free Wi-Fi and HBO. Underneath in the left corner is a small light blue board that states "no vacancy" in neon. These three separate signs are all connected like blocks with a concrete pillar structure holding up the sign. During the evening, the light blue paint is not shown and is just pure black with the neon illuminating the sign.
Sign - type of display: Neon and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel, plastic and concrete
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This location is on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Charleston. This is right next to the original Dona Maria Tamales restaurant.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: From a 1930's streamline modern sign to a 1950's Mid-Century modern architectural roadside motel sign.
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is influenced by Mid-Century Modern roadside architecture, with the directional arrow as a staple in many motel roadside designs of the 1950's and 60's to accommodate the car consumer era.
Sign - artistic significance: One main trends of the 1950's designs with neon signs is using illustrative motifs with the inclusion of directional arrows to lend to the highway travelers an idea of where the property is located. To make sure these travelers don't miss the establishment in an empty road.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Roadside Architecture Website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas.html , Neon Museum book Spectacular, Vintage Las Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Gateway+Motel
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Concrete; Roadside; Reader board; Back to back
Mixed Content
Photographs of Somerset Shopping Center sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 4, 2017
Date
2017-04-04
2017-09-01
Archival Collection
Description
The Somerset Shopping Center sign sits at 252 Convention Center Drive. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 252 Convention Center Dr
Sign owner: Somerset Shopping Center CO LP
Sign details: This shopping center was built in 1966 next to the Somerset House Motel. The motel was demolished in 2011; however, the shopping center is still around. Some businesses that reside in the shopping center include: a hair and nail salon, a dry cleaners, an Ethiopian restaurant, and a place for banquets to name a few.
Sign condition: 5, the sign is in beautiful condition.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: This pole sign sits close to the street so motorists and pedestrians can view it easily. A light blue pole holds up the main portion of this sign, as well as back lit plastic signs on each side of the pole that display what businesses are in the shopping center. The sign itself consists of a yellow ring that encircles three other signs. This yellow circle is covered in incandescent light bulbs that chase when the sign is lit up at night. Also, extending from this yellow circle are light blue poles in various lengths that are surrounded in neon tubes and oscillate around the yellow circle when the sign is lit up at night. In the center of the circle are three signs. The first sign is an elongated oval that has the word "SOMERSET" painted on it in bold white letters with a black outline on a light blue background. Neon tubes outline these letters. The sign under that is a large rectangle shape with each of the sides curving inward. There are also incandescent light bulbs lining the outer edge of this sign that chase when the sign is lit up. This sign has the word "SHOPPING" painted on it in bold white text against a red background. Neon tubes outline each letter of this word. The sign under this is another elongated oval that is a similar size to the "SOMERSET" sign. This sign reads "CENTER" in bold white text against a red background and neon tubes outline this word as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent light bulbs and back lit
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic portion of sign
Sign animation: Oscillating, chasing
Sign environment: The shopping center that this sign is located in is about a block away from the Strip and is near a few monumental properties. It resides close to the Las Vegas Country Club, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the Guardian Angel Cathedral that Paul Revere Williams designed. It is down the road from casinos like the Wynn, Encore, Circus Circus, and the Westgate. The Peppermill, an iconic Las Vegas restaurant, is down the street as well. It was down the street from the Stardust when that property was up and running.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Most likely 1966, 1960's era
Sign - thematic influences: The design of this sign is very eye-catching from the road, as are many roadside signs throughout this era of the city. Bold text and light animation make this a standout sign to attract motorists and pedestrians to the shopping center.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign appears to have some Googie design influence throughout it. It has a space age feel to it because of the yellow circle that surrounds the "SOMERSET SHOPPING CENTER" signs and the blue poles that extend from it also add to this style.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/searchbybusinessname.aspx , Vintage Las Vegas website http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/somerset , Roadside architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas.html
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-01
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Oscillating; Chasing; Pole sign
Site address: 252 Convention Center Dr
Sign owner: Somerset Shopping Center CO LP
Sign details: This shopping center was built in 1966 next to the Somerset House Motel. The motel was demolished in 2011; however, the shopping center is still around. Some businesses that reside in the shopping center include: a hair and nail salon, a dry cleaners, an Ethiopian restaurant, and a place for banquets to name a few.
Sign condition: 5, the sign is in beautiful condition.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: This pole sign sits close to the street so motorists and pedestrians can view it easily. A light blue pole holds up the main portion of this sign, as well as back lit plastic signs on each side of the pole that display what businesses are in the shopping center. The sign itself consists of a yellow ring that encircles three other signs. This yellow circle is covered in incandescent light bulbs that chase when the sign is lit up at night. Also, extending from this yellow circle are light blue poles in various lengths that are surrounded in neon tubes and oscillate around the yellow circle when the sign is lit up at night. In the center of the circle are three signs. The first sign is an elongated oval that has the word "SOMERSET" painted on it in bold white letters with a black outline on a light blue background. Neon tubes outline these letters. The sign under that is a large rectangle shape with each of the sides curving inward. There are also incandescent light bulbs lining the outer edge of this sign that chase when the sign is lit up. This sign has the word "SHOPPING" painted on it in bold white text against a red background. Neon tubes outline each letter of this word. The sign under this is another elongated oval that is a similar size to the "SOMERSET" sign. This sign reads "CENTER" in bold white text against a red background and neon tubes outline this word as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent light bulbs and back lit
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic portion of sign
Sign animation: Oscillating, chasing
Sign environment: The shopping center that this sign is located in is about a block away from the Strip and is near a few monumental properties. It resides close to the Las Vegas Country Club, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the Guardian Angel Cathedral that Paul Revere Williams designed. It is down the road from casinos like the Wynn, Encore, Circus Circus, and the Westgate. The Peppermill, an iconic Las Vegas restaurant, is down the street as well. It was down the street from the Stardust when that property was up and running.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Most likely 1966, 1960's era
Sign - thematic influences: The design of this sign is very eye-catching from the road, as are many roadside signs throughout this era of the city. Bold text and light animation make this a standout sign to attract motorists and pedestrians to the shopping center.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign appears to have some Googie design influence throughout it. It has a space age feel to it because of the yellow circle that surrounds the "SOMERSET SHOPPING CENTER" signs and the blue poles that extend from it also add to this style.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/searchbybusinessname.aspx , Vintage Las Vegas website http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/somerset , Roadside architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas.html
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-01
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Oscillating; Chasing; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Monterey Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), February 12, 2017
Date
2017-02-12
2017-09-04
Archival Collection
Description
Monterey Motel sits against a cloudy sky at 1133 South Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1133 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Monterey Motel Corp.
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1944 (Assessor). The business opened as the Monterey Lodge Motel (RoadsideArchitecture). A vintage postcard from 1954 shows The Monterrey Lodge Motel with much of the current architecture, although a different sign is present (Las Vegas motels then and now). The motel advertises itself as endorsed by several automobile clubs, including the Automobile Association of America (AAA).
Sign condition: Condition is 4, good. The cabinets, light boxes and neon are intact and in good condition. The paint shows slight fading and no flaking or peeling, except for light to moderate deterioration and rust on the bottom of the lower cabinet.
Sign form: Double pole sign
Sign-specific description: Double poles painted in bands of pink topped by bands of white support a rectangular reader board with a pink metal cabinet. Plastic pink sans serif letters spell out "FAMILY UNITS" on the face of the readerboard. On the lower motel side of the readerboard is a rectangular black plastic sign which states, "COLOR TV by RCA" in multi-colored san serif letters. At the top of the cabinet on the motel side is an arrow pointing toward the business. At the top of the north face of the cabinet is white coated skeleton neon tubing which states, "ENTER NO VACANCY" in sans serif letters. On the south face of the cabinet the lettering is reversed to say, "NO VACANCY ENTER". Mounted above the readerboard are three poles. The two outside poles are painted white and consist of round pedestals, shafts and capitals. The capitals are outlined in white skeleton neon. The rectangular interior pole is painted pink. A pink, rectangular bar (from an asterisk now covered by plastic wrap advertising) intersects the middle of all three poles. A rectangular shield shaped metal cabinet painted pink sits on the poles above the readerboard. White sans serif letters outlined in black paint and clear skeleton neon spell out "MOTEL". The three poles continue out of the cabinet to support a second pink metal readerboard which features "Monterey" spelled in plastic cursive letters. The three poles extend above the second reader board where they join to make an arch. The two outside poles are outlined in white skeleton neon.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Reader boards
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader boards
Sign environment: This is located on Las Vegas Boulevard South just north of the strip.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's-1960's (RoadsideArchitecture)
Sign - date of redesign/move: A 2009 photograph shows the sign painted blue (Virus, 2009). Flaking paint under the "COLOR TV by RCA" sign shows an older layer of blue paint. A sign of similar age in the parking lot of the motel is still painted the same light blue shown in the photograph.
Sign - thematic influences: There is a Googie star on the sign as well as an arch which was a popular 1950's/60's sign design. Also they advertise automobile clubs on their sign and have a western ranch style building which are also Mid-Century Modern trends as well.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign showcases Googie, Western and motor court artistic aspects.
Survey - research locations: Clark County Assessor, Parcel No. 162-03-112-034. Retrieved from http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/PropertyRecords.aspx?H=redrock&P=assrrealprop/pcl.aspx Las Vegas motels then and now. (n.d.) Monterey Lodge - 1133 South Las Vegas Blvd. Retrieved from http://stefanidrivesvegas.com/8.html RoadsideArchitecture. (n.d.). Monterey Motel. Retrieved from http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas3.html Virus, R. (2009 April 5). Monterey Motel, Las Vegas, NV. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/25229906@N00/5769946413/in/photostream/
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-04
Sign keywords: Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Neon; Pole sign; Back to back; Backlit
Site address: 1133 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Monterey Motel Corp.
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1944 (Assessor). The business opened as the Monterey Lodge Motel (RoadsideArchitecture). A vintage postcard from 1954 shows The Monterrey Lodge Motel with much of the current architecture, although a different sign is present (Las Vegas motels then and now). The motel advertises itself as endorsed by several automobile clubs, including the Automobile Association of America (AAA).
Sign condition: Condition is 4, good. The cabinets, light boxes and neon are intact and in good condition. The paint shows slight fading and no flaking or peeling, except for light to moderate deterioration and rust on the bottom of the lower cabinet.
Sign form: Double pole sign
Sign-specific description: Double poles painted in bands of pink topped by bands of white support a rectangular reader board with a pink metal cabinet. Plastic pink sans serif letters spell out "FAMILY UNITS" on the face of the readerboard. On the lower motel side of the readerboard is a rectangular black plastic sign which states, "COLOR TV by RCA" in multi-colored san serif letters. At the top of the cabinet on the motel side is an arrow pointing toward the business. At the top of the north face of the cabinet is white coated skeleton neon tubing which states, "ENTER NO VACANCY" in sans serif letters. On the south face of the cabinet the lettering is reversed to say, "NO VACANCY ENTER". Mounted above the readerboard are three poles. The two outside poles are painted white and consist of round pedestals, shafts and capitals. The capitals are outlined in white skeleton neon. The rectangular interior pole is painted pink. A pink, rectangular bar (from an asterisk now covered by plastic wrap advertising) intersects the middle of all three poles. A rectangular shield shaped metal cabinet painted pink sits on the poles above the readerboard. White sans serif letters outlined in black paint and clear skeleton neon spell out "MOTEL". The three poles continue out of the cabinet to support a second pink metal readerboard which features "Monterey" spelled in plastic cursive letters. The three poles extend above the second reader board where they join to make an arch. The two outside poles are outlined in white skeleton neon.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Reader boards
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader boards
Sign environment: This is located on Las Vegas Boulevard South just north of the strip.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's-1960's (RoadsideArchitecture)
Sign - date of redesign/move: A 2009 photograph shows the sign painted blue (Virus, 2009). Flaking paint under the "COLOR TV by RCA" sign shows an older layer of blue paint. A sign of similar age in the parking lot of the motel is still painted the same light blue shown in the photograph.
Sign - thematic influences: There is a Googie star on the sign as well as an arch which was a popular 1950's/60's sign design. Also they advertise automobile clubs on their sign and have a western ranch style building which are also Mid-Century Modern trends as well.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign showcases Googie, Western and motor court artistic aspects.
Survey - research locations: Clark County Assessor, Parcel No. 162-03-112-034. Retrieved from http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/PropertyRecords.aspx?H=redrock&P=assrrealprop/pcl.aspx Las Vegas motels then and now. (n.d.) Monterey Lodge - 1133 South Las Vegas Blvd. Retrieved from http://stefanidrivesvegas.com/8.html RoadsideArchitecture. (n.d.). Monterey Motel. Retrieved from http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas3.html Virus, R. (2009 April 5). Monterey Motel, Las Vegas, NV. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/25229906@N00/5769946413/in/photostream/
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-04
Sign keywords: Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Neon; Pole sign; Back to back; Backlit
Mixed Content
Photographs of Algiers signs, Las Vegas (Nev.), 2002
Date
2002
Archival Collection
Description
Views of the Algiers Hotel signs at dusk on the Strip. Information about the sign is available in the Souther Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site name: Algiers Hotel (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: 2845 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Larry Kiefer
Sign details: Located on the NE corner of Riviera Blvd and Las Vegas Blvd The facade of the Algiers building itself is comprised of storefronts, while the hotel portion lies through an archway, behind the facade. The entire stucco front is illuminated and treated with neon borders and font. Across the narrow parking lot stands the Algiers pylon sign, along Las Vegas Blvd
Sign condition: Structure 3 Surface 3 Lighting 4
Sign form: Pylon; Fascia
Sign-specific description: The façade and pylon/pole sign work together to create the attraction of the Algiers. The pole sign is double backed sign with neon marquee logo at the top and an internally lit, white, plastic front, message board with vinyl lettering. The top section of the message board is a rear lit, plastic, graphically treated sign, while the bottom of the board is an electronic message center. Crowning the very top of the structure is a sculpted crown-shape comprised of the polished brass raceways, which also adorn the top and lower portions of the pylon. These raceways contain 11 watt white incandescent bulbs which chase each other from top to bottom. The Algiers logo is channel lettering with double neon of the rose colored variety. The word "Hotel" is spelled in ruby neon. The façade of the building is comprised of five different sections. The first contains the Algiers logo in channel letters filled with blinking incandescent bulbs and outlined in ruby neon. Texts " Hotel, Restroom, Video poker, pool and entrance," are spelled in rose colored neon. The next four sections are storefronts with neon borders in their windows. Each section is separated by a section of vertical, polished, gold raceways with chasing animated bulbs. The backlit graphically treated storefront marquees adorned with an incandescent bulb border. The last section of the building supports a metal sign box with double neon letters spelling "Algiers". Above each section, the storefront crowns to a point, reminiscent of a classic Persian gateway or spire. Each swooping section is bordered with vibrant neon.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: Chasing, flashing, oscillating
Notes: The text, which resides on the southern wall and reads "Casino," is filled with incandescent bulbs that all illuminate at the same time, and oscillate. They then shut off at the same time, and then repeat. The raceways of incandescent bulbs chase each other while the neon, which surrounds the back lit, plastic, screens on this wall flash on then off. The bottom two raceways sandwiching the reflective panel chase from left to right, while the remainder of the raceways surrounding the signs, run right to left. The incandescent bulbs on the pylon chase each other gracefully up the length of the pylon. The animation is patterned so as to appear as if a section of several bulbs are pulsing its way up the towers, hugging the edge of the bulbous tops. The raceways continue around the east face of the building. The umbrellas in the plaza behind the pylon, also are animated with incandescent bulbs chasing each other downward along the raceways.
Sign environment: The Algiers is settled across the street from the Circus Circus and shares the lot with the Candlelight Wedding Chapel.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: 1953
Sign - date of redesign/move: Refinished in 1992 by Larsen Sign
Sign - thematic influences: The Algiers is an Arabian nights/Persian theme, mixed with the vestiges of classic Vegas aesthetics, such as the polished, gold, animated raceways, the roadside pole sign design, the text, and the similarity to the classic desert paradise theme of the 50's through today. Examples of this classic style are the Sands, the Dunes, the Aladdin, and the Sahara.
Sign - artistic significance: As mentioned above it is a representation of an era in Vegas and the thematic influence of the desert themed establishment.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Flashing; Oscillating; Chasing; Pylon; Fascia; Incandescent; Neon; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Graphics; Paint; Pole sign
Site name: Algiers Hotel (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: 2845 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Larry Kiefer
Sign details: Located on the NE corner of Riviera Blvd and Las Vegas Blvd The facade of the Algiers building itself is comprised of storefronts, while the hotel portion lies through an archway, behind the facade. The entire stucco front is illuminated and treated with neon borders and font. Across the narrow parking lot stands the Algiers pylon sign, along Las Vegas Blvd
Sign condition: Structure 3 Surface 3 Lighting 4
Sign form: Pylon; Fascia
Sign-specific description: The façade and pylon/pole sign work together to create the attraction of the Algiers. The pole sign is double backed sign with neon marquee logo at the top and an internally lit, white, plastic front, message board with vinyl lettering. The top section of the message board is a rear lit, plastic, graphically treated sign, while the bottom of the board is an electronic message center. Crowning the very top of the structure is a sculpted crown-shape comprised of the polished brass raceways, which also adorn the top and lower portions of the pylon. These raceways contain 11 watt white incandescent bulbs which chase each other from top to bottom. The Algiers logo is channel lettering with double neon of the rose colored variety. The word "Hotel" is spelled in ruby neon. The façade of the building is comprised of five different sections. The first contains the Algiers logo in channel letters filled with blinking incandescent bulbs and outlined in ruby neon. Texts " Hotel, Restroom, Video poker, pool and entrance," are spelled in rose colored neon. The next four sections are storefronts with neon borders in their windows. Each section is separated by a section of vertical, polished, gold raceways with chasing animated bulbs. The backlit graphically treated storefront marquees adorned with an incandescent bulb border. The last section of the building supports a metal sign box with double neon letters spelling "Algiers". Above each section, the storefront crowns to a point, reminiscent of a classic Persian gateway or spire. Each swooping section is bordered with vibrant neon.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: Chasing, flashing, oscillating
Notes: The text, which resides on the southern wall and reads "Casino," is filled with incandescent bulbs that all illuminate at the same time, and oscillate. They then shut off at the same time, and then repeat. The raceways of incandescent bulbs chase each other while the neon, which surrounds the back lit, plastic, screens on this wall flash on then off. The bottom two raceways sandwiching the reflective panel chase from left to right, while the remainder of the raceways surrounding the signs, run right to left. The incandescent bulbs on the pylon chase each other gracefully up the length of the pylon. The animation is patterned so as to appear as if a section of several bulbs are pulsing its way up the towers, hugging the edge of the bulbous tops. The raceways continue around the east face of the building. The umbrellas in the plaza behind the pylon, also are animated with incandescent bulbs chasing each other downward along the raceways.
Sign environment: The Algiers is settled across the street from the Circus Circus and shares the lot with the Candlelight Wedding Chapel.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: 1953
Sign - date of redesign/move: Refinished in 1992 by Larsen Sign
Sign - thematic influences: The Algiers is an Arabian nights/Persian theme, mixed with the vestiges of classic Vegas aesthetics, such as the polished, gold, animated raceways, the roadside pole sign design, the text, and the similarity to the classic desert paradise theme of the 50's through today. Examples of this classic style are the Sands, the Dunes, the Aladdin, and the Sahara.
Sign - artistic significance: As mentioned above it is a representation of an era in Vegas and the thematic influence of the desert themed establishment.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Flashing; Oscillating; Chasing; Pylon; Fascia; Incandescent; Neon; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Graphics; Paint; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Inspire Theater Neon Survey document, August 18, 2017
Date
2017-08-18
Archival Collection
Description
Information about the Inspire Theater sign that sits at 107 S Las Vegas Blvd.
Site address: 107 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Fremont LV Blvd LLC
Sign details: The original construction year of the building dates back to 1952. Though in 2013 the building was redesigned to open as the Inspire theater in 2014. The Inspire Theater offers a variety of venues including a 150 seated theater, a rooftop patio and multiple cocktail bars.
Sign condition: 5 - new sign with good quality day and night
Sign form: Blade and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is all connected though it wraps around the whole building, it starts with a long rectangular blade with their logo then goes in a rectangle around the building and ends with their logo on a shorter blade with their logo. The longer white rectangular blade portion begins on the corner of the building above their rooftop lounge (which meets together back to back with a smaller rectangular blade). If you are going north on Las Vegas Blvd you will see the big blade which reads "INSPIRE" in channeled silver thin print font letters. The adjacent blade is a bit shorter, so you can see a portion of the big blade over the smaller one if you are looking at the building from the East Fremont District, with this overlay it looks like there is a letter "I" and a dash(-) underneath it. On the actual portion of the shorter blade there are the "INSPIRE" thin channeled font letters, which are identical in design to the other side of the sign but just a smaller font. The outside edges of these back-back signs are horizontally lined with neon tubing. These blades then continue around the building into two horizontally neon lined strips that make the building have a decorated shed feature to it. This then makes a rectangular feature around the whole building. In between the top of the rectangle and the bottom, there is a balcony where guests can hang out. Though on both the left and the right sides of the blade there are plasma screens that show advertisements for their property. Also on the west side of the building there are thin horizontal strips of LED/plasma lights that sparkle in an iridescent fashion.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: T.V. screens, LED
Sign animation: Flasher and iridescent light flow
Sign environment: On the corner of South Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont St. East, the first property on the south side of the Fremont St East District.
Sign - date of installation: 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is incorporated into the architecture, as well as the sign wraps around the entire building which is remnant of the decorated shed look. The sign is related to the theater theme since the blade style sign was very prominent for the 1950's and 60's movie theater signs, such as the El Portal movie theater sign.
Sign - artistic significance: Their sign is very remnant of a 1950's Movie theater sign with the blade and wrap around of Neon, since they are a modern day theater it seems as if it's a retro throwback.
Survey - research locations: Inspire website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Steel; LED; Flashing; Video screen
Site address: 107 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Fremont LV Blvd LLC
Sign details: The original construction year of the building dates back to 1952. Though in 2013 the building was redesigned to open as the Inspire theater in 2014. The Inspire Theater offers a variety of venues including a 150 seated theater, a rooftop patio and multiple cocktail bars.
Sign condition: 5 - new sign with good quality day and night
Sign form: Blade and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is all connected though it wraps around the whole building, it starts with a long rectangular blade with their logo then goes in a rectangle around the building and ends with their logo on a shorter blade with their logo. The longer white rectangular blade portion begins on the corner of the building above their rooftop lounge (which meets together back to back with a smaller rectangular blade). If you are going north on Las Vegas Blvd you will see the big blade which reads "INSPIRE" in channeled silver thin print font letters. The adjacent blade is a bit shorter, so you can see a portion of the big blade over the smaller one if you are looking at the building from the East Fremont District, with this overlay it looks like there is a letter "I" and a dash(-) underneath it. On the actual portion of the shorter blade there are the "INSPIRE" thin channeled font letters, which are identical in design to the other side of the sign but just a smaller font. The outside edges of these back-back signs are horizontally lined with neon tubing. These blades then continue around the building into two horizontally neon lined strips that make the building have a decorated shed feature to it. This then makes a rectangular feature around the whole building. In between the top of the rectangle and the bottom, there is a balcony where guests can hang out. Though on both the left and the right sides of the blade there are plasma screens that show advertisements for their property. Also on the west side of the building there are thin horizontal strips of LED/plasma lights that sparkle in an iridescent fashion.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: T.V. screens, LED
Sign animation: Flasher and iridescent light flow
Sign environment: On the corner of South Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont St. East, the first property on the south side of the Fremont St East District.
Sign - date of installation: 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is incorporated into the architecture, as well as the sign wraps around the entire building which is remnant of the decorated shed look. The sign is related to the theater theme since the blade style sign was very prominent for the 1950's and 60's movie theater signs, such as the El Portal movie theater sign.
Sign - artistic significance: Their sign is very remnant of a 1950's Movie theater sign with the blade and wrap around of Neon, since they are a modern day theater it seems as if it's a retro throwback.
Survey - research locations: Inspire website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Steel; LED; Flashing; Video screen
Text
Kings Row Trailer Park Neon Survey document, September 14, 2017
Date
2017-09-14
Archival Collection
Description
Information about the Kings Row Trailer Park sign that sits at 3660 Boulder Hwy.
Site address: 3660 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Kings Row Trlr Pk Inc
Sign details: This property is still functioning as a mobile home park along Boulder Highway. They are one of the largest RV parks in Southern Nevada and within a close distance to downtown and Boulder Station Casino. They advertise that they have some of the best deals in town as well as about 200 spaces available. They have been operating in Las Vegas for more than 60 years.
Sign condition: 5 - in great condition, well maintained
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center and directional elements
Sign-specific description: This sign is made up of many different small cabinets. The top is a painted crown that is plastic and backlit. This sits on top of a red minimal arrow sign that points to the direction of the trailer park. This sign has yellow incandescent light bulbs lining the edge with "Kings Row" painted in white paint on the top of the sign, "Trailer Park" painted in bold yellow text in the center, and the text is outlined with neon tubes. The cabinet under this is a long, red trapezoid with "OVERNITES" painted on it in bold white text that is also outlined with neon tubes. Under this is what appears to be an iron flourish on top of another plastic backlit sign. This sign as "RV SPACES" painted on it in bold red text over yellow paint, "INDOOR HOMES TRAILERS CAMPING" in bold red text against a white background, and "MOBILE HOME SPACES POOL REC HALL" in bold red text against a yellow background. Under this is another iron flourish. Following that sign is a plastic backlit reader board. Under that is a plastic backlit sign with "CAMPERS" in white text and underlined against a red background. Finally, there is another plastic sign in the shape of an arrow with "Kings Row" in a light blue script, "ENTRANCE " in red, and "TRAILER PARK" in black inscribed on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent, backlit
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: This property sits along Boulder High way and near many other RV rental businesses. It is also down the street from Boulder Station Hotel & Casino.
Sign - date of installation: Possibly c. 1962
Sign - date of redesign/move: Current sign not the original, which was a long rectangular shape cabinet
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is very unique to the RV park. To emphasize the "Kings Row" theme, the crown perched on the top of the sign is designed to help with this. Much of this sign is used to tell motorists and pedestrians what the property has.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is elaborate. There are many different elements to this sign overall. This sign is that there is a crown to signify the royal theme of this property, possibly as a way to differentiate from other RV park signs around town.
Survey - research locations: Kings Row website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Pole sign; Roadside; Directional; Reader board
Site address: 3660 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Kings Row Trlr Pk Inc
Sign details: This property is still functioning as a mobile home park along Boulder Highway. They are one of the largest RV parks in Southern Nevada and within a close distance to downtown and Boulder Station Casino. They advertise that they have some of the best deals in town as well as about 200 spaces available. They have been operating in Las Vegas for more than 60 years.
Sign condition: 5 - in great condition, well maintained
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center and directional elements
Sign-specific description: This sign is made up of many different small cabinets. The top is a painted crown that is plastic and backlit. This sits on top of a red minimal arrow sign that points to the direction of the trailer park. This sign has yellow incandescent light bulbs lining the edge with "Kings Row" painted in white paint on the top of the sign, "Trailer Park" painted in bold yellow text in the center, and the text is outlined with neon tubes. The cabinet under this is a long, red trapezoid with "OVERNITES" painted on it in bold white text that is also outlined with neon tubes. Under this is what appears to be an iron flourish on top of another plastic backlit sign. This sign as "RV SPACES" painted on it in bold red text over yellow paint, "INDOOR HOMES TRAILERS CAMPING" in bold red text against a white background, and "MOBILE HOME SPACES POOL REC HALL" in bold red text against a yellow background. Under this is another iron flourish. Following that sign is a plastic backlit reader board. Under that is a plastic backlit sign with "CAMPERS" in white text and underlined against a red background. Finally, there is another plastic sign in the shape of an arrow with "Kings Row" in a light blue script, "ENTRANCE " in red, and "TRAILER PARK" in black inscribed on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent, backlit
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: This property sits along Boulder High way and near many other RV rental businesses. It is also down the street from Boulder Station Hotel & Casino.
Sign - date of installation: Possibly c. 1962
Sign - date of redesign/move: Current sign not the original, which was a long rectangular shape cabinet
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is very unique to the RV park. To emphasize the "Kings Row" theme, the crown perched on the top of the sign is designed to help with this. Much of this sign is used to tell motorists and pedestrians what the property has.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is elaborate. There are many different elements to this sign overall. This sign is that there is a crown to signify the royal theme of this property, possibly as a way to differentiate from other RV park signs around town.
Survey - research locations: Kings Row website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Pole sign; Roadside; Directional; Reader board
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Wee Kirk o' the Heather Neon Survey document, August 13, 2017
Date
2017-08-13
Archival Collection
Description
Information about the Wee Kirk o' the Heather sign that sits at 231 S Las Vegas Blvd.
Site address: 231 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Wee Kirk Property Group LLC
Sign details: Wee Kirk O' the Heather is one of the oldest standing Wedding Chapels to still remain in operation to this day. The building was originally constructed in 1925. Two wedding chapels Wee Kirk O' the Heather and the Hitching Post both opened in 1940 across the street from each other though the Hitching Post has been torn down. Wee Kirk O' the Heather is Scottish themed where the name translates to "Little Chapel of the Lucky Flowers." Since the chapel is considered as one of the oldest wedding chapels here in Vegas, there are quite a few wedding renewals or generational marriages. The site has been featured in multiple Las Vegas films; such as "Fools Rush In, "Intolerable Cruelty," and many more.
Sign condition: 4.5 - The sign is well maintained, no damage is seen.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The current sign is circa mid-2000s. It is mainly a white plastic backlit sign that states "Wee Kirk o the Heather" in a violet swirled font. There is a yellow reader board underneath this. Below the reader board is a small 'Open" sign that contain incandescent light bulbs. Above the logo is a neon rendering of a flower in skeletal neon. The original sign and establishments color scheme was dark blue, mustard yellow and pure white. The protruding cantilever construction is a beautiful decorative white leaf and floral bouquet with a mustard yellow vase. On the bottom is a dark blue faux wood, zig zagged at both ends of the structure and features traditional Gothic font in white. Connected to the faux wood structure is the hanging sign held by two poles with a sign that says "Wedding Chapel; Everything Arranged."
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit portion.
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This location is on Las Vegas Blvd. South and Bridger Ave. This is just a few blocks south of Fremont Street. The property is surrounded by the Villa Inn Hotel-Motel and Lloyd D George Courthouse.
Sign - date of installation: Circa Early-2000's
Sign - date of redesign/move: Transition form older sign to current sign in Early-2000's
Sign - thematic influences: The sign beckons to the current trend of minimal square clean designs that is simple, white, purple and yellow with a trim of leaf and floral design at the top rendered in Neon. The flower design is symbolic to the meaning of "Wee Kirk o the Heather" translation into Wedding chapel of Lucky Flowers.
Sign - artistic significance: The theme of both the sign and architectural building is of a small cottage themed chapel with a minimalist sign. The usage of yellow and purple added to the kitsch theme with the added purple wood trimming to the building. The coloring of the building is similar to the colors in their sign.
Survey - research locations: Wee Kirk O the Heather website https://www.weekirk.com/ , UNLV archives, and Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/wee+kirk+of+the+heather , viewing the sign in person, and speaking to a representative on their website.
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-13
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Reader board
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