Search Results
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 "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign replica, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 14, 2017
Date
2017-03-14
2017-09-28
Archival Collection
Description
A replica of the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign sits at a median near Boulder Highway at dusk. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Commissioned by the Boulder Hwy casinos
Sign details: This sign is to pay homage to the original 1959 Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, but to honor the "Boulder Strip". There are many casinos within this area of Boulder Hwy similar to our famous Las Vegas Blvd. sign.
Sign condition: 5- Very good condition and still works very good
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This sign is a replica of the current Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign with identical design and materials used, but is just smaller than the real one
Sign - type of display: Neon, plastic back lit portion and incandescent light bulbs
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs on the exterior of the sign.
Sign environment: In the middle of the median on Boulder Hwy. In the middle of the road in front of the East side Cannery and close to the Longhorn casino as well.
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: Identical in design of the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign but a bit smaller.
Sign - artistic significance: Googie style is portrayed in the design of this sign.
Survey - research locations: Google maps roadside view, Sign website discussing welc. To fab L.V. sign in general and year of replica installation https://www.signs.com/blog/15-surprising-facts-about-the-las-vegas-sign/ , Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/nov/25/ask-mr-sun/
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-28
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Incandescent; Chasing; Steel
Site address: Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Commissioned by the Boulder Hwy casinos
Sign details: This sign is to pay homage to the original 1959 Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, but to honor the "Boulder Strip". There are many casinos within this area of Boulder Hwy similar to our famous Las Vegas Blvd. sign.
Sign condition: 5- Very good condition and still works very good
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This sign is a replica of the current Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign with identical design and materials used, but is just smaller than the real one
Sign - type of display: Neon, plastic back lit portion and incandescent light bulbs
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs on the exterior of the sign.
Sign environment: In the middle of the median on Boulder Hwy. In the middle of the road in front of the East side Cannery and close to the Longhorn casino as well.
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: Identical in design of the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign but a bit smaller.
Sign - artistic significance: Googie style is portrayed in the design of this sign.
Survey - research locations: Google maps roadside view, Sign website discussing welc. To fab L.V. sign in general and year of replica installation https://www.signs.com/blog/15-surprising-facts-about-the-las-vegas-sign/ , Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/nov/25/ask-mr-sun/
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-28
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Incandescent; Chasing; Steel
Mixed Content
Photographs of Fergusons Motel sign at sundown, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-16
Archival Collection
Description
The Fergusons Motel sign, restored by Downtown Project, sits at 1028 Fremont Street. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 1028 Fremont St
Sign owner: 1028 Fremont LLC (Assessor) /Downtown Las Vegas Project (Bruzda, 2016; Millward, 2017; Schoenmann, 2013; Snel 2014)
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1946 (Assessor). The business opened originally as the Franklin Motel (RoadsideArchitecure.com). The motel may have been renamed Ferguson's in 1962 (Las Vegas motels-Then and Now). The current sign probably dates from the late 1950's or 1960's and is not from the Franklin (RoadsideArchitecture.com). Downtown Project partners purchased Fergusons Motel in December 2012 and the property was closed as of 2013 (Schoennmann, 2013). The Downtown Project planned to convert the motel's 69 rooms into retail shops, offices, taverns and a restaurant (Schoenmann). As of May 2017, no construction had been completed and The Downtown Project had altered its plans to instead use the site for residences, restaurants and art space (Millward, 2017).
Sign condition: Condition is 5. The sign has been reconditioned to look like new.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: The sign is mounted on a rectangular metal pole which is painted yellow. Attached to the street side of the pole are several metal cabinets joined to form an "L" shape which points toward the motel. The bottom cabinet contains the word "KITCHENS", which runs horizontally in white painted sans serif letters and white sans serif skeleton neon letters. Below "KITCHENS" is a white plastic light box. Below the lightbox are two rows of intertwining clear light bulbs. The bottom of the metal cabinet is shaped like two undulating waves. Over the top of "KITCHENS" is a small cabinet which spells out "VACANCY" in white san serif letters which are covered by clear skeleton neon sans serif letters spelling out, "Sorry NO VACANCY". The word "MOTEL" runs vertically down the sign in white painted and white neon letters, all san serif. Neon tubes outline the letters while another tube runs down the center. Running down the street side of the sign are three intertwining rows of clear light bulbs. The top of the cabinet is painted green in the shape of a chevron or boomerang. The bottom sides of the boomerang intersect at a perpendicular angle and the top is curved. The tip of the boomerang juts out from the sign toward the hotel. The interior of the boomerang is traced by three rows of skeleton neon. On top of the boomerang is a yellow circle outlined in light blue. The blue outline contains 16 clear light bulbs. The yellow interior of the circle has 16 spiral rows of clear light bulbs running from the exterior to the interior of the circle. The yellow pole which supports the sign runs through a lozenge shaped blue metal cabinet. The cabinet states, "FERGUSONS" in Googie style white letters and skeleton neon and "DOWNTOWN" is sans serif white letters and skeleton neon. Above the cabinet, attached to a pole, is a white statue of a climbing figure which is similar to other figures on Fremont Street and was likely added to the sign by the Downtown Project.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and plastic. Possibly fiberglass for the climbing figure.
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs, light box
Sign environment: In the East Fremont district this motel is surrounded by other motels many of which are also currently closed.
Sign - date of installation: Circa late 1950's/ 1960's
Sign - date of redesign/move: The sign is probably from the late 1950's or 1960's (RoadsideArchitecture.com). A postcard from the 1960's shows the background of the "MOTEL" portion of the sign painted black (Garofalo, 2011). Below "FERGUSONS" hung two smaller signs: the top sign displayed the AAA symbol and the words, "Phone", "Pool" and "T-V" (Garofalo, 2011). The lower sign displayed three badges (auto clubs?).
Sign - artistic significance: The sign design style is Googie.
Survey - research locations: Bruzda, N. (2016 May 2). Construction planned for Fergusons Motel in downtown Las Vegas still yet to be seen. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/construction-planned-for-fergusons-motel-in-downtown-las-vegas-still-yet-to-be-seen/ Clark County Assessor. Parcel No. 139-35-201-006. Retrieved from http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/PropertyRecords.aspx?H=redrock&P=assrrealprop/pcl.aspx Garofalo, M. (2011 November 1). Still standing-Fergusons[sic] Motel [Photograph]. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/vintageroadtrip/6305057708/in/photolist-aBa4Zw-qeNAZa-fxWx3V-54q1dr-7qs1A1-81uYMJ-9i1MAF-pUfCjM-m57jkW-8BzGrN-nM1Nyq-zCCx9s-EJBciL-BkTrgS-zpiF94-aW6aKv-2ZFRQ4-opLfq5-riESKk-n8Wdz-qmMWgN-riESNg-FW15N3-dvx2N-7As5GF-aC7z44-omUMSx-qmMWKy-5XLHvx-evbtLo-onbi7i-635ftN-UhMyz7-8sfVoW-BVWgRY-m8qWB8-ev8mFD-6sadvS-8FdMPf-pBdbtQ-etP68R-pfCeRE-54HNiA-9uFAxg-3b4UbW-FWTWBt-pjCShX-8Bv6mp-aUDgVc-qUKBLu Las Vegas motels-Then and now. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://stefanidrivesvegas.com/2.html Millward, W. T. (2017 May 8). Plans to turn Fergusons Motel into mixed-use campus advance. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/downtown/plans-to-turn-fergusons-motel-into-mixed-use-campus-advance/ RoadsideArchitecture.com. Fergusons Motel. Retrieved from http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html Schoenmann, J. (2013 July 3). Joe Downtown: Ferguson Motel being converted into taverns, retail spaces. Las Vegas Sun. Retrieved from https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/jul/03/joe-downtown-ferguson-motel-being-converted-tavern/ Snel, A. (2014 August 5). New plans proposed for rundown Fremont Street motel. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/new-plans-proposed-for-rundown-fremont-street-motel/
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-16
Sign keywords: Steel; Plastic; Fiberglass; Incandescent; Pole sign; Neon
Site address: 1028 Fremont St
Sign owner: 1028 Fremont LLC (Assessor) /Downtown Las Vegas Project (Bruzda, 2016; Millward, 2017; Schoenmann, 2013; Snel 2014)
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1946 (Assessor). The business opened originally as the Franklin Motel (RoadsideArchitecure.com). The motel may have been renamed Ferguson's in 1962 (Las Vegas motels-Then and Now). The current sign probably dates from the late 1950's or 1960's and is not from the Franklin (RoadsideArchitecture.com). Downtown Project partners purchased Fergusons Motel in December 2012 and the property was closed as of 2013 (Schoennmann, 2013). The Downtown Project planned to convert the motel's 69 rooms into retail shops, offices, taverns and a restaurant (Schoenmann). As of May 2017, no construction had been completed and The Downtown Project had altered its plans to instead use the site for residences, restaurants and art space (Millward, 2017).
Sign condition: Condition is 5. The sign has been reconditioned to look like new.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: The sign is mounted on a rectangular metal pole which is painted yellow. Attached to the street side of the pole are several metal cabinets joined to form an "L" shape which points toward the motel. The bottom cabinet contains the word "KITCHENS", which runs horizontally in white painted sans serif letters and white sans serif skeleton neon letters. Below "KITCHENS" is a white plastic light box. Below the lightbox are two rows of intertwining clear light bulbs. The bottom of the metal cabinet is shaped like two undulating waves. Over the top of "KITCHENS" is a small cabinet which spells out "VACANCY" in white san serif letters which are covered by clear skeleton neon sans serif letters spelling out, "Sorry NO VACANCY". The word "MOTEL" runs vertically down the sign in white painted and white neon letters, all san serif. Neon tubes outline the letters while another tube runs down the center. Running down the street side of the sign are three intertwining rows of clear light bulbs. The top of the cabinet is painted green in the shape of a chevron or boomerang. The bottom sides of the boomerang intersect at a perpendicular angle and the top is curved. The tip of the boomerang juts out from the sign toward the hotel. The interior of the boomerang is traced by three rows of skeleton neon. On top of the boomerang is a yellow circle outlined in light blue. The blue outline contains 16 clear light bulbs. The yellow interior of the circle has 16 spiral rows of clear light bulbs running from the exterior to the interior of the circle. The yellow pole which supports the sign runs through a lozenge shaped blue metal cabinet. The cabinet states, "FERGUSONS" in Googie style white letters and skeleton neon and "DOWNTOWN" is sans serif white letters and skeleton neon. Above the cabinet, attached to a pole, is a white statue of a climbing figure which is similar to other figures on Fremont Street and was likely added to the sign by the Downtown Project.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and plastic. Possibly fiberglass for the climbing figure.
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs, light box
Sign environment: In the East Fremont district this motel is surrounded by other motels many of which are also currently closed.
Sign - date of installation: Circa late 1950's/ 1960's
Sign - date of redesign/move: The sign is probably from the late 1950's or 1960's (RoadsideArchitecture.com). A postcard from the 1960's shows the background of the "MOTEL" portion of the sign painted black (Garofalo, 2011). Below "FERGUSONS" hung two smaller signs: the top sign displayed the AAA symbol and the words, "Phone", "Pool" and "T-V" (Garofalo, 2011). The lower sign displayed three badges (auto clubs?).
Sign - artistic significance: The sign design style is Googie.
Survey - research locations: Bruzda, N. (2016 May 2). Construction planned for Fergusons Motel in downtown Las Vegas still yet to be seen. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/construction-planned-for-fergusons-motel-in-downtown-las-vegas-still-yet-to-be-seen/ Clark County Assessor. Parcel No. 139-35-201-006. Retrieved from http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/assessor/Pages/PropertyRecords.aspx?H=redrock&P=assrrealprop/pcl.aspx Garofalo, M. (2011 November 1). Still standing-Fergusons[sic] Motel [Photograph]. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/vintageroadtrip/6305057708/in/photolist-aBa4Zw-qeNAZa-fxWx3V-54q1dr-7qs1A1-81uYMJ-9i1MAF-pUfCjM-m57jkW-8BzGrN-nM1Nyq-zCCx9s-EJBciL-BkTrgS-zpiF94-aW6aKv-2ZFRQ4-opLfq5-riESKk-n8Wdz-qmMWgN-riESNg-FW15N3-dvx2N-7As5GF-aC7z44-omUMSx-qmMWKy-5XLHvx-evbtLo-onbi7i-635ftN-UhMyz7-8sfVoW-BVWgRY-m8qWB8-ev8mFD-6sadvS-8FdMPf-pBdbtQ-etP68R-pfCeRE-54HNiA-9uFAxg-3b4UbW-FWTWBt-pjCShX-8Bv6mp-aUDgVc-qUKBLu Las Vegas motels-Then and now. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://stefanidrivesvegas.com/2.html Millward, W. T. (2017 May 8). Plans to turn Fergusons Motel into mixed-use campus advance. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/downtown/plans-to-turn-fergusons-motel-into-mixed-use-campus-advance/ RoadsideArchitecture.com. Fergusons Motel. Retrieved from http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html Schoenmann, J. (2013 July 3). Joe Downtown: Ferguson Motel being converted into taverns, retail spaces. Las Vegas Sun. Retrieved from https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/jul/03/joe-downtown-ferguson-motel-being-converted-tavern/ Snel, A. (2014 August 5). New plans proposed for rundown Fremont Street motel. Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved from https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/new-plans-proposed-for-rundown-fremont-street-motel/
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-16
Sign keywords: Steel; Plastic; Fiberglass; Incandescent; Pole sign; Neon
Mixed Content
Lawless Center Neon Survey document, August 25, 2017
Date
2017-08-25
Archival Collection
Description
Information about the Lawless Center sign that sits at 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd.
Site address: 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd
Sign owner: Patricia Van Buskirk
Sign details: This location opened 1962, and has been family owned since then. This is a shopping center where businesses within it have changed over the years.
Sign condition: Needs some retouching but in good shape, 4
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon contains a mid-century modern star at the top of it that is painted white with skeletal neon that also illuminates white. Though each corner of the star has an incandescent light bulb. Under this are two googie style shapes one rusty-red and the other is a teal blue. These shapes have white letters stating "Lawless Center" in a mid-century modern font. The first word illuminates blue and the second is red. Underneath is a plastic reader board but does not illuminate at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic for reader board but does not illuminate at night
Sign environment: This location is on East Lake Mead in a residential area, but also has an auto body and paint store near it.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Brian "Buzz" Lemming
Sign - date of installation: 1963
Sign - thematic influences: In the Mid-century modern design, Atomic and space theming popular during the era.
Sign - artistic significance: According to Buzz Lemming it is designed after Sputnik, the star looking part on top.
Survey - research locations: Review Journal artricle https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/naming-las-vegas-lawless-center-history-a-mystery-worth-solving/ (all information from this article).
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Pole sign; Back to back
Site address: 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd
Sign owner: Patricia Van Buskirk
Sign details: This location opened 1962, and has been family owned since then. This is a shopping center where businesses within it have changed over the years.
Sign condition: Needs some retouching but in good shape, 4
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon contains a mid-century modern star at the top of it that is painted white with skeletal neon that also illuminates white. Though each corner of the star has an incandescent light bulb. Under this are two googie style shapes one rusty-red and the other is a teal blue. These shapes have white letters stating "Lawless Center" in a mid-century modern font. The first word illuminates blue and the second is red. Underneath is a plastic reader board but does not illuminate at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic for reader board but does not illuminate at night
Sign environment: This location is on East Lake Mead in a residential area, but also has an auto body and paint store near it.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Brian "Buzz" Lemming
Sign - date of installation: 1963
Sign - thematic influences: In the Mid-century modern design, Atomic and space theming popular during the era.
Sign - artistic significance: According to Buzz Lemming it is designed after Sputnik, the star looking part on top.
Survey - research locations: Review Journal artricle https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/naming-las-vegas-lawless-center-history-a-mystery-worth-solving/ (all information from this article).
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Pole sign; Back to back
Text
Photographs of The Ambassador Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 28, 2016
Date
2016-04-28 to 2017-08-14
Archival Collection
Description
The Ambassador sign, restored by Downtown Project sits at a parking lot near the intersection of 9th Street and East Fremont Street. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survery Data Sheet.
Site address: 9th St and Fremont St
Sign owner: Jackie Gaughan(ca.1952)
Sign details: Opened ca. 1940 by Joseph Mikulich but was called Ambassador Auto Court, Jackie Gaughan renamed it in 1952 as "Jackie Gaughan's Ambassador East". This location closed down in 1996 and was demolished 2007. Currently this location holds a parking lot, but the sign was restored in 2013 and put back in its original location.
Sign condition: 5- Was recently restored and is in great condition.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The building has been demolished, the sign has been restored and put on Fremont street. It is large red signage with a googie style "A" on top that looks like an arch. Vertically are the letters " MOTEL" in red neon. In a ribbon fashion around the letters are chasing incandescent light bulbs. In smaller white letters used to say "Ambassador Motel East" but now it states "Llamas stay for free" in a cursive white neon font. Beneath the letters is a reader board.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescents and backlit reader board.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and Incandescents.
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs.
Sign environment: This is located East side of Fremont Street across the street from Atomic Liquors.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2013 Restoration
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has been a part of the recent trend to restore old signs on Fremont Street to keep the downtown neon culture alive.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has a retro 50's/ 60's motel sign trend to it.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun Article -https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/jun/21/joe-downtown-motel-long-gone-ambassador-sign-being/ Classic Vegas website -http://classiclasvegas.squarespace.com/classic-las-vegas-blog/2007/12/19/the-ambassador-east.html Vintage Las Vegas Website -http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Ambassador+Motel+
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-17
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Chasing; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Back to back
Site address: 9th St and Fremont St
Sign owner: Jackie Gaughan(ca.1952)
Sign details: Opened ca. 1940 by Joseph Mikulich but was called Ambassador Auto Court, Jackie Gaughan renamed it in 1952 as "Jackie Gaughan's Ambassador East". This location closed down in 1996 and was demolished 2007. Currently this location holds a parking lot, but the sign was restored in 2013 and put back in its original location.
Sign condition: 5- Was recently restored and is in great condition.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The building has been demolished, the sign has been restored and put on Fremont street. It is large red signage with a googie style "A" on top that looks like an arch. Vertically are the letters " MOTEL" in red neon. In a ribbon fashion around the letters are chasing incandescent light bulbs. In smaller white letters used to say "Ambassador Motel East" but now it states "Llamas stay for free" in a cursive white neon font. Beneath the letters is a reader board.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescents and backlit reader board.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and Incandescents.
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs.
Sign environment: This is located East side of Fremont Street across the street from Atomic Liquors.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2013 Restoration
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has been a part of the recent trend to restore old signs on Fremont Street to keep the downtown neon culture alive.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has a retro 50's/ 60's motel sign trend to it.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun Article -https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/jun/21/joe-downtown-motel-long-gone-ambassador-sign-being/ Classic Vegas website -http://classiclasvegas.squarespace.com/classic-las-vegas-blog/2007/12/19/the-ambassador-east.html Vintage Las Vegas Website -http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/Ambassador+Motel+
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-17
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Chasing; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Back to back
Mixed Content
Photographs of Fremont East District sign, June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-30
Archival Collection
Description
The Fremont East District sign sits near the intersection of Fremont St and Eighth St. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site name: Fremont Street (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: Fremont St and 8th St
Sign owner: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont East District
Sign details: The Fremont East District really formed together in 2002 for a coalition to maintain the vintage Las Vegas feel particularly by bringing out some vintage looking Neon Signs. This coalition became known as the Fremont East Entertainment District (FEED). Since this area is already close to the Fremont Street Experience with foot traffic the 2007 revitalization also was an effort to create pedestrian friendly sidewalks.
Sign condition: 5 - Very good condition
Sign form: Pole mounted signs
Sign-specific description: The two gateway signs are identical in design to welcome drivers and pedestrians into the Fremont Street District. These signs go across all of the lanes of Fremont Street, so there are two poles on the opposite sidewalks and then two curved steel beams connecting the sidewalk poles, and the main logo is on the curved pole portion. The two steel sidewalk beams each have a yellow curved googie style design. Right above the curved yellow design, on top of the sidewalk beams each have a red starburst orbit. In the middle curved beam there are red channeled Fremont Street East in a mid century modern semi-cursive font, with yellow neon tubes within the channeled letters. Underneath the Fremont Street East letters there is the word DISTRICT in the red channeled block letters.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign animation: Yellow neon on gateway signs flash
Sign environment: The gateway to Fremont East District from both the East and West end. One sign is at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont an the other is at the intersection of 8th St.
Sign manufacturer: Fluoresco Lighting and Signs
Sign designer: John Lutz
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign really brings back the mid-century modern theme, and the old Vegas theme as well. The starbursts are similar to the one from the Sweetheart Wedding Chapel Sign.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign speaks to the 1950s/1960s mid-century modern design with the starburst orbits and the yellow curved design.
Survey - research locations: Fremont East website, Floresco
Survey - research notes: Floresco Website http://www.fluoresco.com/pages/about/history.php, as well as contact with Gary Grider of Floresco, Las Vegas Today and Tomorrow Website, http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/fremonteast.htm
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Flashing; Neon; Steel; Plastic; Pole sign
Site name: Fremont Street (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: Fremont St and 8th St
Sign owner: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont East District
Sign details: The Fremont East District really formed together in 2002 for a coalition to maintain the vintage Las Vegas feel particularly by bringing out some vintage looking Neon Signs. This coalition became known as the Fremont East Entertainment District (FEED). Since this area is already close to the Fremont Street Experience with foot traffic the 2007 revitalization also was an effort to create pedestrian friendly sidewalks.
Sign condition: 5 - Very good condition
Sign form: Pole mounted signs
Sign-specific description: The two gateway signs are identical in design to welcome drivers and pedestrians into the Fremont Street District. These signs go across all of the lanes of Fremont Street, so there are two poles on the opposite sidewalks and then two curved steel beams connecting the sidewalk poles, and the main logo is on the curved pole portion. The two steel sidewalk beams each have a yellow curved googie style design. Right above the curved yellow design, on top of the sidewalk beams each have a red starburst orbit. In the middle curved beam there are red channeled Fremont Street East in a mid century modern semi-cursive font, with yellow neon tubes within the channeled letters. Underneath the Fremont Street East letters there is the word DISTRICT in the red channeled block letters.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign animation: Yellow neon on gateway signs flash
Sign environment: The gateway to Fremont East District from both the East and West end. One sign is at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont an the other is at the intersection of 8th St.
Sign manufacturer: Fluoresco Lighting and Signs
Sign designer: John Lutz
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign really brings back the mid-century modern theme, and the old Vegas theme as well. The starbursts are similar to the one from the Sweetheart Wedding Chapel Sign.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign speaks to the 1950s/1960s mid-century modern design with the starburst orbits and the yellow curved design.
Survey - research locations: Fremont East website, Floresco
Survey - research notes: Floresco Website http://www.fluoresco.com/pages/about/history.php, as well as contact with Gary Grider of Floresco, Las Vegas Today and Tomorrow Website, http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/fremonteast.htm
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Flashing; Neon; Steel; Plastic; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Vegas Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-29
Archival Collection
Description
The Vegas Motel sign sits at 2212 East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 2212 Fremont St
Sign details: This motel was not found on the Assessor's page so there was not a record found on when the building was constructed. In between April of 2014 and May of 2015 the building was demolished though the signs still remain.
Sign condition: 3- Paint is still relatively nice on the sign but now there are just remains of lightbulbs/neon tubing.
Sign form: Pylon and a roadside directional sign
Sign-specific description: The main pylon is a rectangular beam with light blue paint at the bottom and white on top that has incandescent light bulbs. In the middle of the sign there are horizontal MOTEL white block font letters with each letter in an individual red circle as well as the letters outlined in skeletal neon. There is a red arch coming out of the letter M and ending over the letter L, and this arch goes to the top of the sign. Above the letters is a blue curvilinear sign box with a plastic back lit sign that has blue letters stating VEGAS. On the top of the sign is a white star burst. There also is a smaller roadside directional sign to the west of the main sign that has a white board painted with red letters stating Vegas Motel there is a big curved red arrow also on this one pointing to where they would have entered the driveway.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit sign and incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Possibly once had a flasher for the incandescent light bulbs, but can not be determined because there are just remains of the light bulbs currently.
Sign environment: This location was on East Fremont near Eastern Ave where many other motels used to stand, but many have been demolished. Many of the signs of these motels though are still up on though they are not all in working condition.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has remnants of Googie styles with the star as well as the arch portion of the sign.
Sign - artistic significance: The starburst on top is very similar to the star on Betty Willis Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign.
Survey - research locations: Google map satellite and roadside view. Attempted assessor's page, UNLV special collections and Stephanie Roadside, as well as Vintage Las Vegas but no records found.
Survey - research notes: This location was very difficult to research since the building is no longer there as well as that if you search Vegas Motel into a database to research nearly every motel in Vegas shows up, but also nothing was found for this one.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-29
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign
Site address: 2212 Fremont St
Sign details: This motel was not found on the Assessor's page so there was not a record found on when the building was constructed. In between April of 2014 and May of 2015 the building was demolished though the signs still remain.
Sign condition: 3- Paint is still relatively nice on the sign but now there are just remains of lightbulbs/neon tubing.
Sign form: Pylon and a roadside directional sign
Sign-specific description: The main pylon is a rectangular beam with light blue paint at the bottom and white on top that has incandescent light bulbs. In the middle of the sign there are horizontal MOTEL white block font letters with each letter in an individual red circle as well as the letters outlined in skeletal neon. There is a red arch coming out of the letter M and ending over the letter L, and this arch goes to the top of the sign. Above the letters is a blue curvilinear sign box with a plastic back lit sign that has blue letters stating VEGAS. On the top of the sign is a white star burst. There also is a smaller roadside directional sign to the west of the main sign that has a white board painted with red letters stating Vegas Motel there is a big curved red arrow also on this one pointing to where they would have entered the driveway.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit sign and incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Possibly once had a flasher for the incandescent light bulbs, but can not be determined because there are just remains of the light bulbs currently.
Sign environment: This location was on East Fremont near Eastern Ave where many other motels used to stand, but many have been demolished. Many of the signs of these motels though are still up on though they are not all in working condition.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has remnants of Googie styles with the star as well as the arch portion of the sign.
Sign - artistic significance: The starburst on top is very similar to the star on Betty Willis Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign.
Survey - research locations: Google map satellite and roadside view. Attempted assessor's page, UNLV special collections and Stephanie Roadside, as well as Vintage Las Vegas but no records found.
Survey - research notes: This location was very difficult to research since the building is no longer there as well as that if you search Vegas Motel into a database to research nearly every motel in Vegas shows up, but also nothing was found for this one.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-29
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 1, 2017
Date
2017-03-01
2017-09-09
Archival Collection
Description
The world famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada" sign sits at 5200 South Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign was originally installed 1959, quickly became an iconic sign for Las Vegas. Betty Willis never trademarked the sign. Betty Willis died at 91 in 2015. Betty Willis also designed the Moulin Rouge and Blue Angel Motel signs. The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a 25 foot sign which is considered smaller than a lot of the other signs in Las Vegas.
Sign condition: 5, Taken care of by YESCO and Clark County
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The base of this sign is a blue rectangle outline. The main portion of the sign is a white rhombus shape. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas written in red and blue on a translucent white background. The word "Welcome" is spelled in red skeletal neon on Silver Coins with each letter on its own coin. On the back of the sign it states Drive Safely Come back Soon. This plastic portion of the sign is surrounded by incandescent light bulbs. On the top left portion of the sign where the blue base of the sign comes out of the top of the sign is the famous red star that is outlined in neon.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent, Neon and back lit plastic.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chaser for Incandescent light bulbs on the border of the sign.
Sign environment: This sign is in the median of Las Vegas Blvd. near the South most end of the Strip. This location has Mandalay Bay to the west of it and the airport to the east.
Sign manufacturer: Western Neon
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - date of redesign/move: Mid 2000s redesign of the median to accommodate parking for visitors.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is designed in the Googie style. This sign also has symbolism with the words Welcome, as each letter is on a silver coin to represent Nevada as the Silver State.
Sign - artistic significance: One of the most Significant signs for Las Vegas. It is easily recognizable and ingrained as part of Las Vegas culture.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/21/fabulous-las-vegas-sign-garners-historic-designati/ , Vegas website https://www.vegas.com/attractions/on-the-strip/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ http://www.lasvegaswhereto.com/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ Neon Museum Tour outline , Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/welcome+to+fabulous+las+vegas
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Chasing; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Incandescent; Neon; Pylon
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign was originally installed 1959, quickly became an iconic sign for Las Vegas. Betty Willis never trademarked the sign. Betty Willis died at 91 in 2015. Betty Willis also designed the Moulin Rouge and Blue Angel Motel signs. The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a 25 foot sign which is considered smaller than a lot of the other signs in Las Vegas.
Sign condition: 5, Taken care of by YESCO and Clark County
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The base of this sign is a blue rectangle outline. The main portion of the sign is a white rhombus shape. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas written in red and blue on a translucent white background. The word "Welcome" is spelled in red skeletal neon on Silver Coins with each letter on its own coin. On the back of the sign it states Drive Safely Come back Soon. This plastic portion of the sign is surrounded by incandescent light bulbs. On the top left portion of the sign where the blue base of the sign comes out of the top of the sign is the famous red star that is outlined in neon.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent, Neon and back lit plastic.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chaser for Incandescent light bulbs on the border of the sign.
Sign environment: This sign is in the median of Las Vegas Blvd. near the South most end of the Strip. This location has Mandalay Bay to the west of it and the airport to the east.
Sign manufacturer: Western Neon
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - date of redesign/move: Mid 2000s redesign of the median to accommodate parking for visitors.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is designed in the Googie style. This sign also has symbolism with the words Welcome, as each letter is on a silver coin to represent Nevada as the Silver State.
Sign - artistic significance: One of the most Significant signs for Las Vegas. It is easily recognizable and ingrained as part of Las Vegas culture.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/21/fabulous-las-vegas-sign-garners-historic-designati/ , Vegas website https://www.vegas.com/attractions/on-the-strip/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ http://www.lasvegaswhereto.com/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ Neon Museum Tour outline , Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/welcome+to+fabulous+las+vegas
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Chasing; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Incandescent; Neon; Pylon
Mixed Content
Sands Hotel & Casino (Las Vegas, Nev)
The Sands Hotel opened in Las Vegas, Nevada in December 1952. A controversial group of investors fronted by Texas gambler and oilman Jake Freedman and New York nightclub boss Jack Entratter built what was considered at the time one of the world’s most lavish hotels and a showcase Las Vegas resort. Freedman purchased the property itself for $15,000 and spent $600,000 on the construction. The Sands was designed by Googie California architect Wayne McAllister.
Corporate Body
Photographs of Starlite Motel at dusk, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 17, 2017
Date
2017-03-17
2017-09-05
Archival Collection
Description
The Starlite Motel sits at 1873 North Las Vegas Boulevard. Shortly after this photo was taken, the sign was scrubbed of its neon and made dormant. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1873 N Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: LAS VEGAS DRAGON HOTEL LLC
Sign details: This motel resides in North Las Vegas and is one of the few around that still offers traditional roadside lodging.
Sign condition: 5 - Sign was recently updated with was appears to be newer neon and a different color scheme, going with a bright blue and brown. New white vinyl letters have been added.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: Previous to the spring 2017 upgrade: This pole sign extends out toward the street for motorists and pedestrians to see. This pole is a bright red color. A four pointed red star sits at the top of the red pole for everyone to see. This is outlined with neon tubes that glow blue at night. In the spaces between the points of the star the neon tube is bent to create smaller points. In the middle of the star painted in bold white script is the word "Starlite." This is also outlined with neon tubes to glow at night. Under this is the word "VACANCY" painted in bold white text, but the neon tubes that outline it light up red. Attached to the point of the star that extends toward the road is a long, rectangular sign that reads "MOTEL" in bold white text with a black outline on a light blue background. Extending from the "MOTEL" sign towards the red star are 3 smaller four pointed stars that have incandescent light bulbs in their center and are outlined by neon tubes that glow blue at night. On top of the "MOTEL" sign is another one of these four pointed stars that sits on the outer edge of the sign. Next to this is a larger, light blue four pointed star with an incandescent light bulb in the center and a smaller four pointed star made from a neon tube surrounding the light bulb. The neon tube that outlines the larger portion of the star is bent to create smaller points in the portions of the star without points.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: Unknown since update
Sign environment: The surrounding properties are Jerry's Nugget and the Silver Nugget casinos. It is also just down the street from the Cultural Corridor which includes the Neon Museum and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. The Las Vegas Library is also down the street.
Sign - date of installation: c. 1950s
Sign - date of redesign/move: Spring 2017
Sign - thematic influences: This property is one of many star-themed motels throughout the city. The 1950's was a popular time for space age/ star themed business due to the Space Age and explorations during this time period. Also, since the name of the property is the "Starlite Motel", the amount of stars included in this sign emphasizes this theme.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has a heavy influence of the Space Age due to the stars throughout the sign that are telling of the theme for the property. The specific stars for this sign have a Googie-like influence as well because they are very stylized in a futuristic manner.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, roadarch.com
Survey - other remarks: http://www.roadsidepeek.com/roadusa/southwest/nevada/vegas/lvmotel/lvnorthmotel/index.htm#sta rlitemotel
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-05
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Paint; Pole sign
Site address: 1873 N Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: LAS VEGAS DRAGON HOTEL LLC
Sign details: This motel resides in North Las Vegas and is one of the few around that still offers traditional roadside lodging.
Sign condition: 5 - Sign was recently updated with was appears to be newer neon and a different color scheme, going with a bright blue and brown. New white vinyl letters have been added.
Sign form: Pole
Sign-specific description: Previous to the spring 2017 upgrade: This pole sign extends out toward the street for motorists and pedestrians to see. This pole is a bright red color. A four pointed red star sits at the top of the red pole for everyone to see. This is outlined with neon tubes that glow blue at night. In the spaces between the points of the star the neon tube is bent to create smaller points. In the middle of the star painted in bold white script is the word "Starlite." This is also outlined with neon tubes to glow at night. Under this is the word "VACANCY" painted in bold white text, but the neon tubes that outline it light up red. Attached to the point of the star that extends toward the road is a long, rectangular sign that reads "MOTEL" in bold white text with a black outline on a light blue background. Extending from the "MOTEL" sign towards the red star are 3 smaller four pointed stars that have incandescent light bulbs in their center and are outlined by neon tubes that glow blue at night. On top of the "MOTEL" sign is another one of these four pointed stars that sits on the outer edge of the sign. Next to this is a larger, light blue four pointed star with an incandescent light bulb in the center and a smaller four pointed star made from a neon tube surrounding the light bulb. The neon tube that outlines the larger portion of the star is bent to create smaller points in the portions of the star without points.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: Unknown since update
Sign environment: The surrounding properties are Jerry's Nugget and the Silver Nugget casinos. It is also just down the street from the Cultural Corridor which includes the Neon Museum and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. The Las Vegas Library is also down the street.
Sign - date of installation: c. 1950s
Sign - date of redesign/move: Spring 2017
Sign - thematic influences: This property is one of many star-themed motels throughout the city. The 1950's was a popular time for space age/ star themed business due to the Space Age and explorations during this time period. Also, since the name of the property is the "Starlite Motel", the amount of stars included in this sign emphasizes this theme.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has a heavy influence of the Space Age due to the stars throughout the sign that are telling of the theme for the property. The specific stars for this sign have a Googie-like influence as well because they are very stylized in a futuristic manner.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, roadarch.com
Survey - other remarks: http://www.roadsidepeek.com/roadusa/southwest/nevada/vegas/lvmotel/lvnorthmotel/index.htm#sta rlitemotel
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-05
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Paint; Pole sign
Mixed Content