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Young Electric Sign Company (YESCO) Corporate Records
To request this item in person:
Collection Number: MS-00403
Collection Name: Young Electric Sign Company (YESCO) Corporate Records
Box/Folder: N/A
Collection Name: Young Electric Sign Company (YESCO) Corporate Records
Box/Folder: N/A
Archival Component
Photographs of A Little White Chapel, Las Vegas (Nev.), February 1, 2017
Date
2017-02-01
2017-08-11
Description
A Little White Chapel sits at 1301 South Las Vegas Boulevard. The Stratosphere Tower can be seen in the background. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1301 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Charlotte Richards
Sign details: Charlotte Richards came to Las Vegas at the age of 17, for her husband had abandoned her with 3 kids. Took a job at The Little church of the West. She married the man that helped her and that gave her the job there. After her second husband died she moved on and bought A Little White Wedding Chapel in 1967. A little White Wedding Chapel had been opened since 1951.
Sign condition: 4 - Still in relatively good condition.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon sign is mainly white with splashes of red schemes particularly with the red hearts that are outlined in neon. The Two red hearts are represented underneath the name of the property in channeled rusty gold letters. The hearts have a gold ribbon rendering surrounding them also outlined in skeletal neon. The square design at the top of the sign resembling a chapel roof. Underneath the main portion of the sign is a plastic backlit sign that also has a heart on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon and plastic backlit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic.
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic backlit portion
Sign environment: Close to downtown, Next to Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel and two hostels.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO , confirmed by owner Charlotte Richards
Sign - date of installation: 1960
Sign - thematic influences: The hearts are a theme seen in many other chapel signs across the valley.
Survey - research locations: A Little white Wedding Chapel's website. Las Vegas Review Journal articles. Las Vegas Sun articles. Youtube Podcast, Downtown Podcast, Channel: Vegas Talk, A Little White Wedding Chapel and representatives.
Survey - research notes: YESCO maintains sign which was confirmed by Charlotte Richards the owner.
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Roadside; Pole sign; Back to back
Site address: 1301 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Charlotte Richards
Sign details: Charlotte Richards came to Las Vegas at the age of 17, for her husband had abandoned her with 3 kids. Took a job at The Little church of the West. She married the man that helped her and that gave her the job there. After her second husband died she moved on and bought A Little White Wedding Chapel in 1967. A little White Wedding Chapel had been opened since 1951.
Sign condition: 4 - Still in relatively good condition.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon sign is mainly white with splashes of red schemes particularly with the red hearts that are outlined in neon. The Two red hearts are represented underneath the name of the property in channeled rusty gold letters. The hearts have a gold ribbon rendering surrounding them also outlined in skeletal neon. The square design at the top of the sign resembling a chapel roof. Underneath the main portion of the sign is a plastic backlit sign that also has a heart on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon and plastic backlit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic.
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic backlit portion
Sign environment: Close to downtown, Next to Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel and two hostels.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO , confirmed by owner Charlotte Richards
Sign - date of installation: 1960
Sign - thematic influences: The hearts are a theme seen in many other chapel signs across the valley.
Survey - research locations: A Little white Wedding Chapel's website. Las Vegas Review Journal articles. Las Vegas Sun articles. Youtube Podcast, Downtown Podcast, Channel: Vegas Talk, A Little White Wedding Chapel and representatives.
Survey - research notes: YESCO maintains sign which was confirmed by Charlotte Richards the owner.
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Roadside; Pole sign; Back to back
Mixed Content
Mon Bel Ami Neon Survey document, August 19, 2017
Date
2017-08-19
Description
Information about the Mon Bel Ami sign that sits at 607 S Las Vegas Blvd.
Site address: 607 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Mon Bel Ami- Maudie Dog Trust
Sign details: Mon Bel Ami Wedding Chapel originally was the Silver Bell Wedding Chapel owned by nineteen year old Jim Duszynski. He moved from Toledo, Ohio and purchased the small wedding chapel for five dollars in 1958. Silver Bell wedding Chapel eventually moved across the street adding a steeple to an old masonic lodge hosting dozens of weddings. In 2002 the building caught on fire where the property was later purchased by new ownership. In 2003 the new ownership re-named Silver Bell Wedding Chapel to Mon Bel Ami Wedding chapel. The new chapel replaced the Silver Bell panel and painted over the SB. Currently the sign has been removed and donated to the Neon Museum and replaced with new signage.
Sign condition: The condition of the sign is a 5. From what I can tell the sign has been kept maintained. No paint has chipped, and the LED is still working perfectly.
Sign form: The sign is a pole sign and not attached to the building.
Sign-specific description: The sign is a pole based free standing sign. The heavy curved triangle is in the color burnt sienna made of steel. The pole itself is a faux marble with swirls circulating the pole etched into the pole. The sign is tastefully ornate, yet simple in design. The pole transitions into a Chapean Tuscan architectural feature. The typography is slightly thick and light up white at night. The actual light features surround the typography and takes the shape of the curved triangle. The light is LED based.
Sign - type of display: LED
Sign - media: Steel and concrete
Sign environment: It is next door to Graceland Wedding Chapel and near Nevada Legal Services, US Labor Department Wage and Hour Divisions, Dougie J's Cafe, Thunderbird Lounge, and Rogue Toys.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Mid 2000's
Sign - date of redesign/move: After 2003 the ownership from Silver Bells changed and renamed the chapel to Mon Bel Ami. The Silver Bells Wedding sign was donated to the Neon Museum.
Sign - thematic influences: The design resembles faux Tuscan elements, simple yet semi- ornamental.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign resembles the early 2000's trend with faux semi ornate but sleek contemporary design within architecture. The sign is quite reminiscent of Wynn Hotel, Palazzo, and Encore.
Survey - research locations: Mon Bel Ami wedding chapel website https://www.monbelami.com/historic-wedding-chapel-sign-neon-museum-vegas/ , Asessor's Page
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-19
Sign keywords: Steel; Concrete; Pole sign; Neon
Site address: 607 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Mon Bel Ami- Maudie Dog Trust
Sign details: Mon Bel Ami Wedding Chapel originally was the Silver Bell Wedding Chapel owned by nineteen year old Jim Duszynski. He moved from Toledo, Ohio and purchased the small wedding chapel for five dollars in 1958. Silver Bell wedding Chapel eventually moved across the street adding a steeple to an old masonic lodge hosting dozens of weddings. In 2002 the building caught on fire where the property was later purchased by new ownership. In 2003 the new ownership re-named Silver Bell Wedding Chapel to Mon Bel Ami Wedding chapel. The new chapel replaced the Silver Bell panel and painted over the SB. Currently the sign has been removed and donated to the Neon Museum and replaced with new signage.
Sign condition: The condition of the sign is a 5. From what I can tell the sign has been kept maintained. No paint has chipped, and the LED is still working perfectly.
Sign form: The sign is a pole sign and not attached to the building.
Sign-specific description: The sign is a pole based free standing sign. The heavy curved triangle is in the color burnt sienna made of steel. The pole itself is a faux marble with swirls circulating the pole etched into the pole. The sign is tastefully ornate, yet simple in design. The pole transitions into a Chapean Tuscan architectural feature. The typography is slightly thick and light up white at night. The actual light features surround the typography and takes the shape of the curved triangle. The light is LED based.
Sign - type of display: LED
Sign - media: Steel and concrete
Sign environment: It is next door to Graceland Wedding Chapel and near Nevada Legal Services, US Labor Department Wage and Hour Divisions, Dougie J's Cafe, Thunderbird Lounge, and Rogue Toys.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Mid 2000's
Sign - date of redesign/move: After 2003 the ownership from Silver Bells changed and renamed the chapel to Mon Bel Ami. The Silver Bells Wedding sign was donated to the Neon Museum.
Sign - thematic influences: The design resembles faux Tuscan elements, simple yet semi- ornamental.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign resembles the early 2000's trend with faux semi ornate but sleek contemporary design within architecture. The sign is quite reminiscent of Wynn Hotel, Palazzo, and Encore.
Survey - research locations: Mon Bel Ami wedding chapel website https://www.monbelami.com/historic-wedding-chapel-sign-neon-museum-vegas/ , Asessor's Page
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-19
Sign keywords: Steel; Concrete; Pole sign; Neon
Text
Photograph of businesses and casinos on Fremont Street, Las Vegas, Nevada, circa 1931-1943
Date
1931 to 1943
Description
Left to right: Young Electric Sign Co. workers on scaffolding in front of the Westerner Gambling Hall and Saloon (owned by the Stockers), Kolstad's Toggery men's store, the Monte Carlo Club, the Keyhole Bar, Steel's Jewelry. Site Name: Monte Carlo Club (Las Vegas, Nev.); Westerner Gambling Hall and Saloon (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Image
Blue Angel Motel Neon Survey document, August 12, 2017
Date
2017-08-12
Description
Information about the Blue Angel Motel that sits at 2110 Fremont St.
Site address: 2110 Fremont St
Sign owner: Bartsas Mary 22 LLC
Sign details: Motel was originally constructed c. 1956. Sits on a 2.54 acre site. Property was later changed to Club 2110, but now is vacant.
Sign condition: Unknown - Angel is being repaired by City Centennial Commision and YESCO, and will believed to be placed on medium of Fremont and Charleston once restored. 4 - Arches were repainted at unknown time from original blue to a deep forest green, "Blue Angel" was removed and "Night Club" was put up in blue angels place. "Motel" wording on flag portions of the sign was painted over and replaced with "Club 2110". doesn't have any form of lighting, appears to be in decent condition.
Sign form: Angel - Sculpted Pole Sign/ Monument Sign, Arches: Pole sign with protruding arches on either side. Originally the left side arch would have rested on the Blue Angel motel building, but when it was torn down so was the connection, so it is free hanging off the pole support system.
Sign-specific description: Angel: Pole sign with sculpture of Angel on top. Was internally illuminated, her skin, hair, halow, pole, wand, used to illuminate. Two flag signs hung off of angel pedestal, one read "Motel" other would read "Blue Angel" on opposite sides of the pole. Would of glowed with blue neon. Arches: Repainted by new owner: Arcs protruding on either side of the pole with the words "Night" and "Club" on each other arches. There are flag like components going down the pole support with stars on the opposite side of each component. Slight directional tool of the flags that point downwards to the ground. The stars do not have any lighting system of their own (no neon or bulbs). Each flag component is double sided with painted on graphics.
Sign - type of display: Neon, and internally illuminated plastic
Sign - media: Steel, fiberglass
Sign animation: Possible rotation of the angel?
Sign environment: The property is surrounded by other motels, shopping centers and gas stations
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign architect of record: C. 1956
Sign - date of installation: C. 1956
Sign - date of redesign/move: Angel - 2014 repaint, 2017 refurbishment, c. 2014 repaint of arches
Sign - thematic influences: Believed that angel was modeled after Marilyn Monroe
Sign - artistic significance: 1950s pop culture themes - Marilyn Monroe and Disney-esque angel
Survey - research locations: Motel site, www.roadarch.com, UNLV photo collections, assessor's website
Surveyor: Danny Jacobs
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-12
Sign keywords: Sculptural; Neon; Steel; Fiberglass; Pole sign; Internally illuminated; Incandescent
Site address: 2110 Fremont St
Sign owner: Bartsas Mary 22 LLC
Sign details: Motel was originally constructed c. 1956. Sits on a 2.54 acre site. Property was later changed to Club 2110, but now is vacant.
Sign condition: Unknown - Angel is being repaired by City Centennial Commision and YESCO, and will believed to be placed on medium of Fremont and Charleston once restored. 4 - Arches were repainted at unknown time from original blue to a deep forest green, "Blue Angel" was removed and "Night Club" was put up in blue angels place. "Motel" wording on flag portions of the sign was painted over and replaced with "Club 2110". doesn't have any form of lighting, appears to be in decent condition.
Sign form: Angel - Sculpted Pole Sign/ Monument Sign, Arches: Pole sign with protruding arches on either side. Originally the left side arch would have rested on the Blue Angel motel building, but when it was torn down so was the connection, so it is free hanging off the pole support system.
Sign-specific description: Angel: Pole sign with sculpture of Angel on top. Was internally illuminated, her skin, hair, halow, pole, wand, used to illuminate. Two flag signs hung off of angel pedestal, one read "Motel" other would read "Blue Angel" on opposite sides of the pole. Would of glowed with blue neon. Arches: Repainted by new owner: Arcs protruding on either side of the pole with the words "Night" and "Club" on each other arches. There are flag like components going down the pole support with stars on the opposite side of each component. Slight directional tool of the flags that point downwards to the ground. The stars do not have any lighting system of their own (no neon or bulbs). Each flag component is double sided with painted on graphics.
Sign - type of display: Neon, and internally illuminated plastic
Sign - media: Steel, fiberglass
Sign animation: Possible rotation of the angel?
Sign environment: The property is surrounded by other motels, shopping centers and gas stations
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign architect of record: C. 1956
Sign - date of installation: C. 1956
Sign - date of redesign/move: Angel - 2014 repaint, 2017 refurbishment, c. 2014 repaint of arches
Sign - thematic influences: Believed that angel was modeled after Marilyn Monroe
Sign - artistic significance: 1950s pop culture themes - Marilyn Monroe and Disney-esque angel
Survey - research locations: Motel site, www.roadarch.com, UNLV photo collections, assessor's website
Surveyor: Danny Jacobs
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-12
Sign keywords: Sculptural; Neon; Steel; Fiberglass; Pole sign; Internally illuminated; Incandescent
Text
Photographs of Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), 2002
Date
2002
Description
Daytime views of the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign on the Strip. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign sits as a welcome to travelers entering the Las Vegas experience via Las Vegas Blvd The sign itself resides in the middle of traffic median directly in the middle of the road.
Sign condition: Structure 5 Surface 5 Lighting 5
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is a classic roadside pole design which faces North/South. It is double backed, internally lit with a border of yellow incandescent bulbs along the flat edge of its width. Across the top of the sign seven white neon circles house separate red neon letters which form the word welcome. Crowning the sign at the very peak, above the word welcome, is a seven pointed neon star comprised of orange and yellow neon. The cabinet itself is faced with translucent white plastic and treated with blue and red painted text. The South side of the sign reads with the Neon welcome word then in blue painted text "To Fabulous" in a 50's style text reminiscent of that used in the Last Frontier property, and cursive. The Words "Las Vegas" are spelled in all caps, in red block text. And below that in smaller blue text the word "Nevada" are spelled in all caps block text.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: chasing, flashing
Sign environment: The famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign sits alone at the South end of the strip and is often the very first sign a traveler encounters when entering the strip. It casts a surprisingly powerful glow over the barren median which it stands. It stands as a gateway to the extravaganza that is Las Vegas. When leaving the main drag headed south the sign has an equal effect of being a lone gateway in and out of the Strip.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - thematic influences: Although it has no specific theme, it is from a specific period in Las Vegas History. It is the quintessential roadside pylon design. With an exposed steel center pole double backed marquee it is reminiscent of the common design of the roadside motor inn.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has become perhaps the most copied icon of Las Vegas, as it was never copyrighted. It is a ubiquitous symbol of the city.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Chasing; Flashing; Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Graphics
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign sits as a welcome to travelers entering the Las Vegas experience via Las Vegas Blvd The sign itself resides in the middle of traffic median directly in the middle of the road.
Sign condition: Structure 5 Surface 5 Lighting 5
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is a classic roadside pole design which faces North/South. It is double backed, internally lit with a border of yellow incandescent bulbs along the flat edge of its width. Across the top of the sign seven white neon circles house separate red neon letters which form the word welcome. Crowning the sign at the very peak, above the word welcome, is a seven pointed neon star comprised of orange and yellow neon. The cabinet itself is faced with translucent white plastic and treated with blue and red painted text. The South side of the sign reads with the Neon welcome word then in blue painted text "To Fabulous" in a 50's style text reminiscent of that used in the Last Frontier property, and cursive. The Words "Las Vegas" are spelled in all caps, in red block text. And below that in smaller blue text the word "Nevada" are spelled in all caps block text.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: chasing, flashing
Sign environment: The famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign sits alone at the South end of the strip and is often the very first sign a traveler encounters when entering the strip. It casts a surprisingly powerful glow over the barren median which it stands. It stands as a gateway to the extravaganza that is Las Vegas. When leaving the main drag headed south the sign has an equal effect of being a lone gateway in and out of the Strip.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - thematic influences: Although it has no specific theme, it is from a specific period in Las Vegas History. It is the quintessential roadside pylon design. With an exposed steel center pole double backed marquee it is reminiscent of the common design of the roadside motor inn.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign has become perhaps the most copied icon of Las Vegas, as it was never copyrighted. It is a ubiquitous symbol of the city.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Chasing; Flashing; Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Graphics
Mixed Content
Arizona Charlie's Hotel and Casino Neon Survey document, August 18, 2017
Date
2017-08-18
Description
Information about the Arizona Charlie's Hotel and Casino sign that sits at 4575 Boulder Hwy.
Site address: 4575 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: American Casino and Entertainment Properties LLC
Sign details: Currently Arizona Charlie's Boulder is owned by the Parent company American Casino and Entertainment Properties LLC. The original Arizona Charlie's on Decatur was first opened around the 1980's owned by Ernest Becker III and his three sons. These locations were named for Becker's uncle Charlie Meadows. The Becker family has had a long history of development and real estate. Arizona Charlie's Boulder opened in 2001.
Sign condition: 5 - looks new
Sign form: Super Pylon
Sign-specific description: Octagonal design. Effigy of a cowboy at its center in an oval plastic backlit sign. There is the words "Arizona Charlie's Boulder" in channeled neon letters. Underneath is a Reader Board with a LED video screen.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent, Plasma T.V. screen and reader board
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED plasma screen and Incandescents
Sign animation: Flasher for incandescent bulbs
Sign environment: A residential area surrounds the property, and adjacent to the main property is their own RV park.
Sign manufacturer: Possibly YESCO
Sign - date of installation: c. 2007
Sign - thematic influences: The Red and yellow/gold color scheme adds an old west and cowboy theme to the sign. The old West theme was very prominent in Las Vegas in the 1940's.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Arizona Charlie's Website
Survey - research notes: http://www.arizonacharliesboulder.com/?gclid=Cj0KEQjw9uHOBRDtz6CKke3z6ecBEiQAu0Jr3mlOR65dHh6OypoEF3LcYOCTWpwRltGP9Kh6YWjwBKgaApoi8P8HAQ
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Flashing; Reader board; Video screen
Site address: 4575 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: American Casino and Entertainment Properties LLC
Sign details: Currently Arizona Charlie's Boulder is owned by the Parent company American Casino and Entertainment Properties LLC. The original Arizona Charlie's on Decatur was first opened around the 1980's owned by Ernest Becker III and his three sons. These locations were named for Becker's uncle Charlie Meadows. The Becker family has had a long history of development and real estate. Arizona Charlie's Boulder opened in 2001.
Sign condition: 5 - looks new
Sign form: Super Pylon
Sign-specific description: Octagonal design. Effigy of a cowboy at its center in an oval plastic backlit sign. There is the words "Arizona Charlie's Boulder" in channeled neon letters. Underneath is a Reader Board with a LED video screen.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent, Plasma T.V. screen and reader board
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED plasma screen and Incandescents
Sign animation: Flasher for incandescent bulbs
Sign environment: A residential area surrounds the property, and adjacent to the main property is their own RV park.
Sign manufacturer: Possibly YESCO
Sign - date of installation: c. 2007
Sign - thematic influences: The Red and yellow/gold color scheme adds an old west and cowboy theme to the sign. The old West theme was very prominent in Las Vegas in the 1940's.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Arizona Charlie's Website
Survey - research notes: http://www.arizonacharliesboulder.com/?gclid=Cj0KEQjw9uHOBRDtz6CKke3z6ecBEiQAu0Jr3mlOR65dHh6OypoEF3LcYOCTWpwRltGP9Kh6YWjwBKgaApoi8P8HAQ
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Flashing; Reader board; Video screen
Text
Lawless Center Neon Survey document, August 25, 2017
Date
2017-08-25
Description
Information about the Lawless Center sign that sits at 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd.
Site address: 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd
Sign owner: Patricia Van Buskirk
Sign details: This location opened 1962, and has been family owned since then. This is a shopping center where businesses within it have changed over the years.
Sign condition: Needs some retouching but in good shape, 4
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon contains a mid-century modern star at the top of it that is painted white with skeletal neon that also illuminates white. Though each corner of the star has an incandescent light bulb. Under this are two googie style shapes one rusty-red and the other is a teal blue. These shapes have white letters stating "Lawless Center" in a mid-century modern font. The first word illuminates blue and the second is red. Underneath is a plastic reader board but does not illuminate at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic for reader board but does not illuminate at night
Sign environment: This location is on East Lake Mead in a residential area, but also has an auto body and paint store near it.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Brian "Buzz" Lemming
Sign - date of installation: 1963
Sign - thematic influences: In the Mid-century modern design, Atomic and space theming popular during the era.
Sign - artistic significance: According to Buzz Lemming it is designed after Sputnik, the star looking part on top.
Survey - research locations: Review Journal artricle https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/naming-las-vegas-lawless-center-history-a-mystery-worth-solving/ (all information from this article).
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Pole sign; Back to back
Site address: 4100 E Lake Mead Blvd
Sign owner: Patricia Van Buskirk
Sign details: This location opened 1962, and has been family owned since then. This is a shopping center where businesses within it have changed over the years.
Sign condition: Needs some retouching but in good shape, 4
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon contains a mid-century modern star at the top of it that is painted white with skeletal neon that also illuminates white. Though each corner of the star has an incandescent light bulb. Under this are two googie style shapes one rusty-red and the other is a teal blue. These shapes have white letters stating "Lawless Center" in a mid-century modern font. The first word illuminates blue and the second is red. Underneath is a plastic reader board but does not illuminate at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic for reader board but does not illuminate at night
Sign environment: This location is on East Lake Mead in a residential area, but also has an auto body and paint store near it.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Brian "Buzz" Lemming
Sign - date of installation: 1963
Sign - thematic influences: In the Mid-century modern design, Atomic and space theming popular during the era.
Sign - artistic significance: According to Buzz Lemming it is designed after Sputnik, the star looking part on top.
Survey - research locations: Review Journal artricle https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/naming-las-vegas-lawless-center-history-a-mystery-worth-solving/ (all information from this article).
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Reader board; Pole sign; Back to back
Text
Photographs of Cash for Cars sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-27
Description
The Cash For Cars sign sits at 1716 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1716 Fremont St
Sign owner: California Auto Sales
Sign details: This location was built in 1971
Sign condition: 3- The sign has a lot of damage on the road side of the sign.
Sign form: Pylon that has characteristics of a blade
Sign-specific description: This roadside pylon has a long yellow thin round base that the sign hangs off of like a blade. It has 4 pieces of steel that connect it to the red portion of the sign. The main portion of the sign is all outlined in a red steel rectangle that contain incandescent light bulbs. Then from the top down there are 8 plastic rectangles that are back lit by reader boards that each say something different but all in the same font. The first one is a silhouette of a car followed by "Cars", " Direct", another silhouette of a car, "Great", "Deals", their phone number , then their address. Below the plastic back lit signs is a round steel sign with white painted letters stating, "Cash for Cars" in neon. This circle has a white border in incandescent light bulbs as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Plastic, incandescent and a plastic reader board
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Backlit plastic portion of sign and reader board
Sign animation: Chaser for incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on the east side of Fremont near Bruce St. and has many different motels near it, but is close to a residential area.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since at least 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has similar traits to the Genuine Auto Parts sign.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, google maps satellite and street view
Survey - research notes: On google maps road view you can see the sign in the 2007 view but it must be a lot older than that since even in that year it had quite a bit of damage but no other photos or records were found finding its exact year of installation.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-27
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Plastic; Incandescent; Chasing; Reader board; Pole sign
Site address: 1716 Fremont St
Sign owner: California Auto Sales
Sign details: This location was built in 1971
Sign condition: 3- The sign has a lot of damage on the road side of the sign.
Sign form: Pylon that has characteristics of a blade
Sign-specific description: This roadside pylon has a long yellow thin round base that the sign hangs off of like a blade. It has 4 pieces of steel that connect it to the red portion of the sign. The main portion of the sign is all outlined in a red steel rectangle that contain incandescent light bulbs. Then from the top down there are 8 plastic rectangles that are back lit by reader boards that each say something different but all in the same font. The first one is a silhouette of a car followed by "Cars", " Direct", another silhouette of a car, "Great", "Deals", their phone number , then their address. Below the plastic back lit signs is a round steel sign with white painted letters stating, "Cash for Cars" in neon. This circle has a white border in incandescent light bulbs as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Plastic, incandescent and a plastic reader board
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Backlit plastic portion of sign and reader board
Sign animation: Chaser for incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on the east side of Fremont near Bruce St. and has many different motels near it, but is close to a residential area.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since at least 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has similar traits to the Genuine Auto Parts sign.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, google maps satellite and street view
Survey - research notes: On google maps road view you can see the sign in the 2007 view but it must be a lot older than that since even in that year it had quite a bit of damage but no other photos or records were found finding its exact year of installation.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-27
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Plastic; Incandescent; Chasing; Reader board; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 1, 2017
Date
2017-03-01
2017-09-09
Description
The world famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada" sign sits at 5200 South Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign was originally installed 1959, quickly became an iconic sign for Las Vegas. Betty Willis never trademarked the sign. Betty Willis died at 91 in 2015. Betty Willis also designed the Moulin Rouge and Blue Angel Motel signs. The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a 25 foot sign which is considered smaller than a lot of the other signs in Las Vegas.
Sign condition: 5, Taken care of by YESCO and Clark County
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The base of this sign is a blue rectangle outline. The main portion of the sign is a white rhombus shape. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas written in red and blue on a translucent white background. The word "Welcome" is spelled in red skeletal neon on Silver Coins with each letter on its own coin. On the back of the sign it states Drive Safely Come back Soon. This plastic portion of the sign is surrounded by incandescent light bulbs. On the top left portion of the sign where the blue base of the sign comes out of the top of the sign is the famous red star that is outlined in neon.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent, Neon and back lit plastic.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chaser for Incandescent light bulbs on the border of the sign.
Sign environment: This sign is in the median of Las Vegas Blvd. near the South most end of the Strip. This location has Mandalay Bay to the west of it and the airport to the east.
Sign manufacturer: Western Neon
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - date of redesign/move: Mid 2000s redesign of the median to accommodate parking for visitors.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is designed in the Googie style. This sign also has symbolism with the words Welcome, as each letter is on a silver coin to represent Nevada as the Silver State.
Sign - artistic significance: One of the most Significant signs for Las Vegas. It is easily recognizable and ingrained as part of Las Vegas culture.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/21/fabulous-las-vegas-sign-garners-historic-designati/ , Vegas website https://www.vegas.com/attractions/on-the-strip/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ http://www.lasvegaswhereto.com/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ Neon Museum Tour outline , Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/welcome+to+fabulous+las+vegas
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Chasing; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Incandescent; Neon; Pylon
Site name: Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign
Site address: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: YESCO
Sign details: The sign was originally installed 1959, quickly became an iconic sign for Las Vegas. Betty Willis never trademarked the sign. Betty Willis died at 91 in 2015. Betty Willis also designed the Moulin Rouge and Blue Angel Motel signs. The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a 25 foot sign which is considered smaller than a lot of the other signs in Las Vegas.
Sign condition: 5, Taken care of by YESCO and Clark County
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The base of this sign is a blue rectangle outline. The main portion of the sign is a white rhombus shape. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas written in red and blue on a translucent white background. The word "Welcome" is spelled in red skeletal neon on Silver Coins with each letter on its own coin. On the back of the sign it states Drive Safely Come back Soon. This plastic portion of the sign is surrounded by incandescent light bulbs. On the top left portion of the sign where the blue base of the sign comes out of the top of the sign is the famous red star that is outlined in neon.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent, Neon and back lit plastic.
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Chaser for Incandescent light bulbs on the border of the sign.
Sign environment: This sign is in the median of Las Vegas Blvd. near the South most end of the Strip. This location has Mandalay Bay to the west of it and the airport to the east.
Sign manufacturer: Western Neon
Sign designer: Betty Willis
Sign - date of installation: 1959
Sign - date of redesign/move: Mid 2000s redesign of the median to accommodate parking for visitors.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is designed in the Googie style. This sign also has symbolism with the words Welcome, as each letter is on a silver coin to represent Nevada as the Silver State.
Sign - artistic significance: One of the most Significant signs for Las Vegas. It is easily recognizable and ingrained as part of Las Vegas culture.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Sun article https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/21/fabulous-las-vegas-sign-garners-historic-designati/ , Vegas website https://www.vegas.com/attractions/on-the-strip/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ http://www.lasvegaswhereto.com/welcome-las-vegas-sign/ Neon Museum Tour outline , Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/welcome+to+fabulous+las+vegas
Surveyor: Wyatt Currie-Diamond
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Chasing; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Incandescent; Neon; Pylon
Mixed Content
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