The collection consists of seven numbered art prints, hand signed by Arizona artist, Erni Cabat, with accompanying certificates of authenticity. The prints were created from original gouache paintings of scenes from casino life, and distributed by Nevada Magazine to mark the 50th anniversary of gambling in Nevada in 1981.
The Castaways Hotel and Casino Photograph Collection, approximately 1963 to 1987, consists of black-and-white and color photographic prints and negatives. Images depict the exterior of the entrance to the property, the mega-pylon sign, the pool area, and the “Gateway to Luck” replica temple in the courtyard area. The interior images depict various hotel rooms and suites, a couple dining, and a performance by Rusty Isabel, an entertainer in the Kon Tiki Lounge inside the property.
In this clip, Judith Steele discusses celebrating the High Holidays and how she influenced Clark County School District to allow Jewish children to observe these days without their absence counting against their attendence record.
On March 9, 1981, Laura Button interviewed Sam Earl (born 1912 in Virgin, Utah) about his life in Nevada. Also present during the interview is Sam’s wife, Melissa Earl. The three discuss a wide range of topics from the early development of Las Vegas, Sam’s work on the Boulder Dam, the Earls’ early residence in a tent, and the family’s religious participation. The interview also covers gambling, Block 16, the first members of the police force, recreational activities, and the Helldorado parade. Sam also talks about his work as a building contractor, including some of the buildings and casino properties he helped build, and the interview moves to a discussion of the development of the Las Vegas Strip. The interview concludes with Sam’s description of his work as a truck driver and a discussion on welfare benefits.
On March 3, 1980, David Alexander interviewed community volunteer, Ray Keith (born October 1st, 1911 in Montgomery, Alabama) in her home in Las Vegas, Nevada about her life and memories of Southern Nevada. The two discuss how Keith first arrived in Las Vegas and the addresses that she has lived at. The interview concludes with Keith explaining how she helped to charter the “Home of the Good Shepherd” housing facilities with local Las Vegas women in the sixties.