Jarmilla McMillan-Arnold’s father, Dr. James B. McMillan, was the first black dentist in the state of Nevada. Dr. McMillan’s colleagues consisted of Dr. West, the first black medical doctor in the state, and Dr. Ice, the first black surgeon in Nevada. This interview highlights and archives the solid foundation upon which Nevada’s black community was built. Jarmilla recalls early memories of growing up as the daughter of Las Vegas NAACP president Dr. McMillan. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, to a Caucasian and Indian mother who was a professional dancer. Jarmilla’s parents separated when she was very young and as a result she was raised by her paternal grandmother who owned a restaurant in Pontiac, Michigan. Jarmilla describes her grandmother as being well-known and highly regarded in the community where she maintained her business. Jarmilla attended Catholic schools in Detroit, Pontiac, and Las Vegas. Having moved to Las Vegas with her father, Jarmilla’s narrative offers keen insigh
Color portrait photograph of Ruth Eppenger D'Hondt working as a cocktail server for Caesars Palace, dated 1976. D'Hondt worked at Caesars Palace for twenty-six years.
Group portrait photograph of Ruth Eppenger D'Hondt and the Eppenger family, dated 1991. Left to right, seated: Hazel, Willie Maxine, Mattie Ruth (mother), Ruth. Standing: Billy, William (father), Jerry, and BJ (Benjamin).
Photograph of Ruth Eppenger D'Hondt graduating from the School of Evangelism at Second Baptist Church on January 5, 2000. Left to right: Annette (family friend), Erika (Ruth's daughter), Ruth, and Mattie and William Eppenger (Ruth's parents).