From the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas, OH-01039. On March 25, 1981, collector Sonny Neighbors interviewed his mother, Margo Knowles (born October 13th, 1935 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa) at her home in Las Vegas, Nevada. Margo speaks about growing up and going to school in Las Vegas. She also discusses her work as a telephone operator in Las Vegas, and at the Nevada Test Site in Nye County, Nevada.
On February 26, 1977, collector Joe Sant interviewed local Nevadan business owner, Robert D. Howell (born November 22nd, 1939 in Las Vegas, Nevada) in his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. This interview covers Las Vegas in the old days, from Mr. Howell’s personal experience of being born and raised in Nevada. During this interview, Mr. Howell also discusses the early above ground atomic tests, local environmental and social changes, the economic landscape, the Mormon Fort, religious beliefs, and local recreation. The interview concludes with discussion on air pollution.
On March 9, 1975, Maisie Gibson interviewed Fred Gibson (born 1927 in Golden, Colorado) about his life in Nevada. Gibson first talks about his family’s background, their move to Nevada, and his education in early Las Vegas schools. He also mentions his service in the U.S. Army, his college education, and his occupation as an engineer at various companies. Gibson then talks about the various locations at which he has lived, his membership in clubs and charitable organizations, and his memories of the first properties on Fremont Street as well as those of the Helldorado Parade. The interview then covers the topics of mining, the atomic testing, economic and environmental changes, and social changes. The interview concludes with a discussion on the growth and development of Henderson, Nevada.