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.
Information about the Bunkhouse Saloon sign that sits at 124 S 11th St. Site address: 124 S 11th St Sign owner: 11th Street Tavern LLC and Jillian is the manager (no last name found) Sign details: This location opened in 1953, but has recently reopened under new ownership. This location is known for their concert venue as well as their southern style bar food. Sign condition: 3-4- some fading in the plastic so it does not show as clear as an image as it could. Sign form: Pylon Sign-specific description: This sign has a black steel base with a sign box on top. This sign box is steel but has wood renderings on the sides of it. The sign box contains a back lit plastic sign that is red with yellow lettering that states "The Bunkhouse Saloon" in a swirly western font. Below this is a reader board. Sign - type of display: Backlit plastic sign and reader board Sign - media: Steel, wood and plastic Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic backlit sign and readerboard Sign environment: This location is downtown on East Fremont across the street from PublicUs and a food market. Sign - thematic influences: Their saloon theme is portrayed in the font on their sign. This theme could also pay homage to the early Las Vegas and Old West theme with the saloon idea. Survey - research locations: Asessor's Page, Bunkhouse website http://www.bunkhousedowntown.com/about/ and google images. Survey - research notes: Tried to contact manager for information on sign but no response. Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond Survey - date completed: 2017-08-23 Sign keywords: Pylon; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Reader board