On March 1, 1980, Larry E. Cooper interviewed general contractor Ernest (Ernie) Jackson Junior (born December 6th, 1932 in Bruce, Mississippi) in Cooper’s home about his experiences in the Westside as a Black Las Vegas resident. Jackson Jr. discusses the lack of property buyers on the Westside and his goals of improving the Westside by building on the land. Jackson Jr. also discusses his youth as a baseball star for Las Vegas High School in the fifties.

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