Search the Special Collections and Archives Portal

Ruth Moore Weaver oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Ruth Moore Weaver conducted by her grandson, Danny Weaver, on November 22, 1986 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Weaver begins by discussing her early life and family history. Weaver describes how Las Vegas, Nevada has developed and changed, as well her and her husband's participation in community organizations. She talks about her husband's jobs, how she prefers living in Southern Nevada compared to other areas, and segregation in the city.

Helen and Thomas Taney oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Thomas Taney and his wife, Helen Taney, conducted by Anthony Foley on October 22, 1972 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Mr. Taney discusses moving to Las Vegas, Nevada to work in the factories and Mrs. Taney discusses moving to Las Vegas for adventure. Mrs. Taney talks about her music career and Mr. Taney talks about the importance of the railroad and the mining industry in Nevada. Lastly, Mr. Taney describes the changing water levels in Las Vegas as well as the growth of the city.

Harold Stocker oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Harold Stocker conducted by Ralph Roske and Elizabeth Warren on November 30, 1971 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Stocker discusses his upbringing, family life, and his experiences working the Northern Club owned by his mother, Mayme Stocker. Lastly, Stocker talks about the history of gambling and prohibition.

Frank Watts oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Frank Watts conducted by Franklin Conn on April 01, 1981 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Watts discusses his personal history and Las Vegas, Nevada history. Watts describes working at the El Rancho Hotel and Casino as a comptroller and the development of other casinos in Las Vegas. Watts goes on to describe the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he was a professor during the 1960s and 1970s. He also talks about working at the Riviera, organized crime in Las Vegas, and the growth of the city.

Jan Van Tuyl oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Jan Van Tuyl conducted by D.R. Brainard on March 21, 1976 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Van Tuyl discusses his personal history, specifically his educational background and growing up in Las Vegas, Nevada. Van Tuyl talks about his military service in the United States Air Force and his transition to education. Later, Van Tuyl discusses coaching a gymnastics team, the Las Vegas Comets.

Lela Holliday oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Lela Holliday conducted by Jeff Stewart on February 29, 1980 for the Ralph Roske Oral History Project on Early Las Vegas. In this interview, Holliday discusses her family background, growing up in Oklahoma, and eventually arriving in Las Vegas, Nevada in 1944. Holliday then describes early Las Vegas, the rapid growth of the city, and Las Vegas climate.

Thelma D. Oldfield oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Thelma D. Oldfield conducted by Irene Rostine on February 29, 1992 for the Women's Research Institute of Nevada (WRIN) Las Vegas Women Oral History Project. Oldfield opens her interview with a description of her work responsibilities at the Basic Magnesium Plant starting in 1943. She then discusses her employment at a chemical plant transporting chlorine. Oldfield also talks about her job responsibilities and her union participation. Oldfield's husband interjects his recollections throughout the interview.

Lucille Matyas oral history interviews

Abstract

Oral history interviews with Lucille Matyas conducted by Irene Rostine on November 18, 2010 and December 02, 2010 for the Women's Research Institute of Nevada (WRIN) Las Vegas Women Oral History Project. Matyas opens her interview by discussing her family's move to Las Vegas, Nevada and her mother's turbulent marriage to a Las Vegas constable in 1935. She then describes working at the phone company after school to avoid the dangers of her home life.

Subscribe to