Oral history interviews with Richard Bryan conducted by Kristin Guthre on November 10, 2011 and an unknown date for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. Bryan begins by discussing his father’s time as a law student in Washington, D.C. and the influence his father had on his decision to pursue law. Bryan then chronicles moving to Las Vegas, Nevada in the 1940s and growing up in the Huntridge Community near Charleston Boulevard. Bryan recounts attending both the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of California, Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco, California. Bryan describes his experiences in the Las Vegas District Attorney’s office and the Army Reserve. He then recalls his political career as a member of the Nevada Senate, his role as the Attorney General of Nevada, the Governor of Nevada, and as a United States Senator. Lastly, Bryan discusses political issues in Nevada and the United States during his time in office such as debates about renewable energy, environmentalism, and preservation.
Archival Collection
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On March 8, 1980, Gary Wood interviewed Carl Ciliax (born 1941 in Las Vegas, Nevada) about his experiences living in Nevada. Ciliax first describes his family history, his early interests in wildlife, and his background and education in artwork. Ciliax then discusses his early experiences in hunting and his eventual interest in conservationism and preservation, including his involvement with organizations that sought the protection of desert bighorn sheep and the protection of wildlife in general. The two talk more about wildlife, the early development of Las Vegas, and the effects of the atomic testing. The interview concludes with Ciliax’s recollection of recreational activities and some of his thoughts on conservationism.
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The Hotel Las Vegas was the first hotel in Las Vegas, a tent set up for people who came to participate in the land auction. Managed by Pop Squires." Transcribed from back of photo: "Hotel Las Vegas 1905. Hotel Las Vegas, built by Las Vegas Trading Co. in 1905 was located on North Main Street between Stewart and the creek across from Woodards Down Town Camp on grounds later occupied by Elwells Ware House. All canvas and lumber used in building was cut to size and holes bored in Los Angeles, ready to be bolted together on arrival in Las Vegas. Hotel had 20 rooms. Floor space was 40 x 130 ft. Kitchen and Dining Room are seen next door to Hotel on the right. This Hotel was managed by Chas. P. Squires. Photo by Eddie Gillette, 1905." Transcribed from Special Collections sheet: "Selling of L.V. First L.V. Hotel pic cap. First Las Vegas Hotel -- The Hotel Las Vegas was made ready for the first buyers of real estate at the 1905 auction when the Las Vegas Trading Co., managed by Charles (Pop) Squires, opened the registry. All canvas and lumber used in building was cut to size and holes bored in Los Angeles, a prefab forerunner. Hotel Las Vegas boasted 20 rooms and was regarded as the top 'night spot' of its day."
Site Name: Hotel Las Vegas
Address: 1 Fremont Street
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