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Ruth J. Kiley oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ruth J. Kiley conducted by Claytee D. White on January 24, 2013 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Kiley discusses her personal history and living in the Eastwood neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nevada. She describes local restaurants that were popular during the mid 1960s, the development of downtown Las Vegas, and race relations in the 1960s. Lastly, Kiley recalls attending and graduating from Rancho High School in Las Vegas.

Johnny Griffin oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Johnny Griffin conducted by Claytee D. White on September 13, 2010 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Griffin discusses his personal history and working at an all-white country club as a golf caddy. He recalls receiving a golf scholarship to Jackson State University, and describes starting a junior golf program at Craig Ranch Park in North Las Vegas, Nevada. Later, Griffin discusses his senior golf tour and the history of black golfing in Las Vegas.

David L. Washington oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with David L. Washington conducted by Claytee D. White on March 18, 2009 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Washington discusses his personal history, education, experiences in the military, and becoming a firefighter in Las Vegas, Nevada. Washington talks about his employment at the Las Vegas Fire & Rescue department, explains the procedures for certain fire emergencies, and what it was like when women joined the department in the 1960s. Finally, he recalls becoming the City of Las Vegas Fire Chief.

Christina Frausto oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Christina Frausto conducted by Claytee D. White on November 16, 2015 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Frausto discusses her personal history, her career as an artist, and owning an art gallery in Boulder City, Nevada and Las Vegas, Nevada. She describes her involvement with Desert Sculptures, the Boulder City Preservation Committee, and the Historic Boulder City Foundation.

Fedora Bontempi Simpkin Photograph Collection

Abstract

The Fedora Bontempi Simpkin Photograph Collection (1970-1983) consists of black-and-white and color photographic prints depicting Clark County, Nevada Mother's Day Celebrations and mother of the year award ceremonies. Pictured honorees include Grace Hayes, Frances Liberace, and Joyce Straus. Other images include Fedora Bontempi Simpkin with Nevada Senator Howard W. Cannon and Nevada Governor Richard Bryan.

John Nichols Photograph Collection

Abstract

The John Nichols Photograph Collection (approximately 1930-1950) is comprised of black-and-white photographic prints depicting the western region of the United States including Southern Nevada, the Hoover Dam (then known as Boulder Dam), Lake Mead, and various desert landscapes. Photographs were collected by former Las Vegas and Boulder City, Nevada resident, John Nichols, who is a longtime art collector and gallery owner based in California.

Elmo and Charlotte Ellsworth Photograph Collection

Abstract

The Elmo and Charlotte Ellsworth Photograph Collection (approximately 1940-1959) is comprised of black-and-white photographic prints and negatives. The images depict Charlotte and Elmo Ellsworth. Also included is an image of Elmo Ellsworth on horseback at the Las Vegas, Nevada airport for the arrival of the first United Airlines flight and an image of people at the Last Frontier Village in Las Vegas.

Elizabeth Harrington Photograph Collection

Abstract

The Elizabeth Harrington Photograph Collection (approximately 1910-1959) is comprised of black-and-white and color photographic prints and negatives. The images primarily depict the Kiwanis Club in Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as the Potosi mine in Nevada. Other images depict early Helldorado parades, airplanes at Anderson Field (Rockwell Field), and First State Bank employees. Also included are images of locations in Las Vegas, including Las Vegas grammar schools, the El Portal Theater, El Rancho Vegas, Fremont Street, Overland Hotel, and the Old Arizona Club.

Jennilee Thayer oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Jennilee Thayer conducted by Claytee D. White on August 12, 2009 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Thayer discusses arriving to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1936 when it was still a mining town. She describes early Henderson, Nevada, attending Basic High School, and recalls her father’s employment at the Basic Magnesium Plant. Lastly, Thayer discusses her employment in show production, atomic bomb testing, and changes in Las Vegas.

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