Smith, Arlene Mathews, 1910-2004

Arlene Mathews Smith was born September 12, 1910 in Panaca, Nevada to David Charles Mathews and Carrie Lee. Arlene graduated from Lincoln County High School in Panaca, where she enjoyed learning about home economics. She was active in the local 4-H club and specialized in sewing. Because jobs in Panaca were scarce, Arlene started working at a drug store in Pioche, Nevada in 1929 after graduating from high school. She began working at the Oasis Café in Las Vegas, Nevada in 1930 and her sister Evelyn joined her there in 1931. She worked at the cafe for several years before taking a job as a seamstress in 1936 at Fanny Foss’ clothing shop on Fremont Street in Las Vegas. She married Leo Smith and the couple eventually retired in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mathews passed away on June 22, 2004.

Sources:

Patrick, Elizabeth Nelson. “As the Twig is Bent.” Las Vegas Review-Journal, August 30, 1981.

“Short Stories of Las Vegas Folks.” Las Vegas Review-Journal, July 23, 1930.