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Photograph of Mayor Oran K. Gragson attending the groundbreaking for a new research facility for EG&G, May, 1963
Date
1963-05
Description
Las Vegas Mayor Oran K. Gragson attending the groundbreaking for a new research facility for Edgerton, Germeshausen & Grier (EG&G), May 1963. Pictured L-R: U. S. Nevada Senator Howard Cannon, U. S. Nevada Senator Alan Bible, Herbert E. Grier (?), and Las Vegas Mayor Oran Gragson (far right). The sign behind them reads "New Research Facility for Edgerton, Gereshausen & Grier Airport Industrial Tract Development of E. Parry Thomas-Jerry Mack and Haas-Haynie Corp." Oran Kenneth Gragson (February 14, 1911 – October 7, 2002) was an American businessman and politician. He was the longest-serving mayor of Las Vegas, Nevada, from 1959 to 1975. Gragson, a member of the Republican Party, was a small business owner who was elected Mayor on a reform platform against police corruption and for equal opportunity for people of all socio-economic and racial categories. Gragson died in a Las Vegas hospice on October 7, 2002, at the age of 91. The Oran K. Gragson Elementary School located at 555 N. Honolulu Street, Las Vegas, NV 89110 was named in his honor. Howard Walter Cannon (January 26, 1912 – March 5, 2002) was an American politician. He served as a United States Senator from Nevada from 1959 until 1983 as a member of the Democratic Party. In 1956, Cannon ran for the United States House of Representatives to succeed Republican incumbent Clarence Clifton Young, who ran for the U.S. Senate, but lost the Democratic primary to former Congressman Walter Baring, who then won the general election. In 1958, he was elected to the United States Senate, unseating Republican Senator George W. Malone with 58% of the vote.. Cannon was nearly defeated in his first re-election bid in 1964, holding off Republican Lieutenant Governor Paul Laxalt in one of the closest Senate elections ever. Alan Harvey Bible (November 20, 1909 – September 12, 1988) was an American lawyer and politician. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as a United States Senator from Nevada from 1954 to 1974. He previously served as Attorney General of Nevada from 1942 to 1950. In 1952, Bible was narrowly defeated for the Democratic nomination for the United States Senate, losing to political newcomer Thomas B. Mechling by 475 votes. However, after the death of Senator McCarran in September 1954, Bible was elected to the Senate the following November to fill the remainder of McCarran's term. He defeated Republican Ernest S. Brown, who had been appointed to McCarran's seat by Governor Charles H. Russell, by a margin of 58%-42%. He was reelected in 1956, 1962, and again in 1968 and represented Nevada in the United States Senate from December 2, 1954, until his resignation on December 17, 1974. During his time in the United States Senate, he was chairman of the Committee on the District of Columbia (Eighty-fifth through Ninetieth Congresses), the Joint Committee on Washington Metropolitan Problems (Eighty-fifth and Eighty-sixth Congresses), and the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Small Business (Ninety-first through Ninety-third Congresses). He is buried in Reno, Nevada.
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Kings Row Trailer Park Neon Survey document, September 14, 2017
Date
2017-09-14
Description
Information about the Kings Row Trailer Park sign that sits at 3660 Boulder Hwy.
Site address: 3660 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Kings Row Trlr Pk Inc
Sign details: This property is still functioning as a mobile home park along Boulder Highway. They are one of the largest RV parks in Southern Nevada and within a close distance to downtown and Boulder Station Casino. They advertise that they have some of the best deals in town as well as about 200 spaces available. They have been operating in Las Vegas for more than 60 years.
Sign condition: 5 - in great condition, well maintained
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center and directional elements
Sign-specific description: This sign is made up of many different small cabinets. The top is a painted crown that is plastic and backlit. This sits on top of a red minimal arrow sign that points to the direction of the trailer park. This sign has yellow incandescent light bulbs lining the edge with "Kings Row" painted in white paint on the top of the sign, "Trailer Park" painted in bold yellow text in the center, and the text is outlined with neon tubes. The cabinet under this is a long, red trapezoid with "OVERNITES" painted on it in bold white text that is also outlined with neon tubes. Under this is what appears to be an iron flourish on top of another plastic backlit sign. This sign as "RV SPACES" painted on it in bold red text over yellow paint, "INDOOR HOMES TRAILERS CAMPING" in bold red text against a white background, and "MOBILE HOME SPACES POOL REC HALL" in bold red text against a yellow background. Under this is another iron flourish. Following that sign is a plastic backlit reader board. Under that is a plastic backlit sign with "CAMPERS" in white text and underlined against a red background. Finally, there is another plastic sign in the shape of an arrow with "Kings Row" in a light blue script, "ENTRANCE " in red, and "TRAILER PARK" in black inscribed on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent, backlit
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: This property sits along Boulder High way and near many other RV rental businesses. It is also down the street from Boulder Station Hotel & Casino.
Sign - date of installation: Possibly c. 1962
Sign - date of redesign/move: Current sign not the original, which was a long rectangular shape cabinet
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is very unique to the RV park. To emphasize the "Kings Row" theme, the crown perched on the top of the sign is designed to help with this. Much of this sign is used to tell motorists and pedestrians what the property has.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is elaborate. There are many different elements to this sign overall. This sign is that there is a crown to signify the royal theme of this property, possibly as a way to differentiate from other RV park signs around town.
Survey - research locations: Kings Row website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Pole sign; Roadside; Directional; Reader board
Site address: 3660 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Kings Row Trlr Pk Inc
Sign details: This property is still functioning as a mobile home park along Boulder Highway. They are one of the largest RV parks in Southern Nevada and within a close distance to downtown and Boulder Station Casino. They advertise that they have some of the best deals in town as well as about 200 spaces available. They have been operating in Las Vegas for more than 60 years.
Sign condition: 5 - in great condition, well maintained
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center and directional elements
Sign-specific description: This sign is made up of many different small cabinets. The top is a painted crown that is plastic and backlit. This sits on top of a red minimal arrow sign that points to the direction of the trailer park. This sign has yellow incandescent light bulbs lining the edge with "Kings Row" painted in white paint on the top of the sign, "Trailer Park" painted in bold yellow text in the center, and the text is outlined with neon tubes. The cabinet under this is a long, red trapezoid with "OVERNITES" painted on it in bold white text that is also outlined with neon tubes. Under this is what appears to be an iron flourish on top of another plastic backlit sign. This sign as "RV SPACES" painted on it in bold red text over yellow paint, "INDOOR HOMES TRAILERS CAMPING" in bold red text against a white background, and "MOBILE HOME SPACES POOL REC HALL" in bold red text against a yellow background. Under this is another iron flourish. Following that sign is a plastic backlit reader board. Under that is a plastic backlit sign with "CAMPERS" in white text and underlined against a red background. Finally, there is another plastic sign in the shape of an arrow with "Kings Row" in a light blue script, "ENTRANCE " in red, and "TRAILER PARK" in black inscribed on it.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent, backlit
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: This property sits along Boulder High way and near many other RV rental businesses. It is also down the street from Boulder Station Hotel & Casino.
Sign - date of installation: Possibly c. 1962
Sign - date of redesign/move: Current sign not the original, which was a long rectangular shape cabinet
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is very unique to the RV park. To emphasize the "Kings Row" theme, the crown perched on the top of the sign is designed to help with this. Much of this sign is used to tell motorists and pedestrians what the property has.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is elaborate. There are many different elements to this sign overall. This sign is that there is a crown to signify the royal theme of this property, possibly as a way to differentiate from other RV park signs around town.
Survey - research locations: Kings Row website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Pole sign; Roadside; Directional; Reader board
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Inspire Theater Neon Survey document, August 18, 2017
Date
2017-08-18
Description
Information about the Inspire Theater sign that sits at 107 S Las Vegas Blvd.
Site address: 107 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Fremont LV Blvd LLC
Sign details: The original construction year of the building dates back to 1952. Though in 2013 the building was redesigned to open as the Inspire theater in 2014. The Inspire Theater offers a variety of venues including a 150 seated theater, a rooftop patio and multiple cocktail bars.
Sign condition: 5 - new sign with good quality day and night
Sign form: Blade and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is all connected though it wraps around the whole building, it starts with a long rectangular blade with their logo then goes in a rectangle around the building and ends with their logo on a shorter blade with their logo. The longer white rectangular blade portion begins on the corner of the building above their rooftop lounge (which meets together back to back with a smaller rectangular blade). If you are going north on Las Vegas Blvd you will see the big blade which reads "INSPIRE" in channeled silver thin print font letters. The adjacent blade is a bit shorter, so you can see a portion of the big blade over the smaller one if you are looking at the building from the East Fremont District, with this overlay it looks like there is a letter "I" and a dash(-) underneath it. On the actual portion of the shorter blade there are the "INSPIRE" thin channeled font letters, which are identical in design to the other side of the sign but just a smaller font. The outside edges of these back-back signs are horizontally lined with neon tubing. These blades then continue around the building into two horizontally neon lined strips that make the building have a decorated shed feature to it. This then makes a rectangular feature around the whole building. In between the top of the rectangle and the bottom, there is a balcony where guests can hang out. Though on both the left and the right sides of the blade there are plasma screens that show advertisements for their property. Also on the west side of the building there are thin horizontal strips of LED/plasma lights that sparkle in an iridescent fashion.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: T.V. screens, LED
Sign animation: Flasher and iridescent light flow
Sign environment: On the corner of South Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont St. East, the first property on the south side of the Fremont St East District.
Sign - date of installation: 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is incorporated into the architecture, as well as the sign wraps around the entire building which is remnant of the decorated shed look. The sign is related to the theater theme since the blade style sign was very prominent for the 1950's and 60's movie theater signs, such as the El Portal movie theater sign.
Sign - artistic significance: Their sign is very remnant of a 1950's Movie theater sign with the blade and wrap around of Neon, since they are a modern day theater it seems as if it's a retro throwback.
Survey - research locations: Inspire website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Steel; LED; Flashing; Video screen
Site address: 107 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Fremont LV Blvd LLC
Sign details: The original construction year of the building dates back to 1952. Though in 2013 the building was redesigned to open as the Inspire theater in 2014. The Inspire Theater offers a variety of venues including a 150 seated theater, a rooftop patio and multiple cocktail bars.
Sign condition: 5 - new sign with good quality day and night
Sign form: Blade and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is all connected though it wraps around the whole building, it starts with a long rectangular blade with their logo then goes in a rectangle around the building and ends with their logo on a shorter blade with their logo. The longer white rectangular blade portion begins on the corner of the building above their rooftop lounge (which meets together back to back with a smaller rectangular blade). If you are going north on Las Vegas Blvd you will see the big blade which reads "INSPIRE" in channeled silver thin print font letters. The adjacent blade is a bit shorter, so you can see a portion of the big blade over the smaller one if you are looking at the building from the East Fremont District, with this overlay it looks like there is a letter "I" and a dash(-) underneath it. On the actual portion of the shorter blade there are the "INSPIRE" thin channeled font letters, which are identical in design to the other side of the sign but just a smaller font. The outside edges of these back-back signs are horizontally lined with neon tubing. These blades then continue around the building into two horizontally neon lined strips that make the building have a decorated shed feature to it. This then makes a rectangular feature around the whole building. In between the top of the rectangle and the bottom, there is a balcony where guests can hang out. Though on both the left and the right sides of the blade there are plasma screens that show advertisements for their property. Also on the west side of the building there are thin horizontal strips of LED/plasma lights that sparkle in an iridescent fashion.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: T.V. screens, LED
Sign animation: Flasher and iridescent light flow
Sign environment: On the corner of South Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont St. East, the first property on the south side of the Fremont St East District.
Sign - date of installation: 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign is incorporated into the architecture, as well as the sign wraps around the entire building which is remnant of the decorated shed look. The sign is related to the theater theme since the blade style sign was very prominent for the 1950's and 60's movie theater signs, such as the El Portal movie theater sign.
Sign - artistic significance: Their sign is very remnant of a 1950's Movie theater sign with the blade and wrap around of Neon, since they are a modern day theater it seems as if it's a retro throwback.
Survey - research locations: Inspire website, assessor's website
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-18
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Steel; LED; Flashing; Video screen
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Genuine Auto Parts Neon Survey document, September 23, 2017
Date
2017-09-23
Description
Information about the Genuine Auto Parts sign that sits at 3738 Boulder Hwy.
Site address: 3738 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Carquest Auto parts/ Golden State Supply/ Cannon Property LLC
Sign details: This building was built in 2014 which replaced a different Auto Parts building which still carried Car Quest. This location sells self-installation car parts. The sign itself was for the Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation.
Sign condition: 5- Still in pristine condition since recently restored
Sign form: Roadside pylon sign
Sign-specific description: This sign has a long black steel base. The main portion of the sign is a steel orange jelly bean shape that has a yellow arrow surrounding it and points towards the building. The yellow arrow has flashing incandescents. Below the arrow states "Genuine" painted on the board in white block letters with a thin black trim. Underneath the word Genuine is a painted black square that has white letters spelling out "AUTO" and "PARTS" underneath, both in white neon. In between these words is the start of the yellow arrow. Under the black box is painted "3738 Boulder HWY" in the painted white block font with a thin black trim. This sign stays true to its original design for the Charleston Auto Parts sign with the arrow and Auto Parts words, and the only thing changed was the word Charleston to Genuine and the address from Main Street to Boulder Hwy.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Flashing incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on Boulder HWY with an RV sales lot next door. The original sign was located between Main and Charleston.
Sign - date of installation: 2014 in this location - original sign was for Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation. Original installation year would have been circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2014 restored and put in this location though if it is the Charleston Auto Parts sign restored then the sign itself would date back to the 50's
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is remnant of the old time auto shop sign particularly with the arrow to accommodate to the car consumer era of the 50's/60's.
Sign - artistic significance: Restoring the sign and putting it back up for a similar purpose stays true to Vegas history by having the Neon live on.
Survey - research locations: Asessor's Page, Recapturist Website http://www.recapturist.com/portfolio/charleston-auto-parts/, Roadside Architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html , Car Quest Auto Website https://www.carquest.com/stores/nv/las-vegas/14980
Survey - research notes: http://www.recapturist.com/portfolio/charleston-auto-parts/ shows this sign in its original form for the Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-23
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign; Directional
Site address: 3738 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Carquest Auto parts/ Golden State Supply/ Cannon Property LLC
Sign details: This building was built in 2014 which replaced a different Auto Parts building which still carried Car Quest. This location sells self-installation car parts. The sign itself was for the Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation.
Sign condition: 5- Still in pristine condition since recently restored
Sign form: Roadside pylon sign
Sign-specific description: This sign has a long black steel base. The main portion of the sign is a steel orange jelly bean shape that has a yellow arrow surrounding it and points towards the building. The yellow arrow has flashing incandescents. Below the arrow states "Genuine" painted on the board in white block letters with a thin black trim. Underneath the word Genuine is a painted black square that has white letters spelling out "AUTO" and "PARTS" underneath, both in white neon. In between these words is the start of the yellow arrow. Under the black box is painted "3738 Boulder HWY" in the painted white block font with a thin black trim. This sign stays true to its original design for the Charleston Auto Parts sign with the arrow and Auto Parts words, and the only thing changed was the word Charleston to Genuine and the address from Main Street to Boulder Hwy.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Flashing incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on Boulder HWY with an RV sales lot next door. The original sign was located between Main and Charleston.
Sign - date of installation: 2014 in this location - original sign was for Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation. Original installation year would have been circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2014 restored and put in this location though if it is the Charleston Auto Parts sign restored then the sign itself would date back to the 50's
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is remnant of the old time auto shop sign particularly with the arrow to accommodate to the car consumer era of the 50's/60's.
Sign - artistic significance: Restoring the sign and putting it back up for a similar purpose stays true to Vegas history by having the Neon live on.
Survey - research locations: Asessor's Page, Recapturist Website http://www.recapturist.com/portfolio/charleston-auto-parts/, Roadside Architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html , Car Quest Auto Website https://www.carquest.com/stores/nv/las-vegas/14980
Survey - research notes: http://www.recapturist.com/portfolio/charleston-auto-parts/ shows this sign in its original form for the Charleston Auto Parts, but was restored for the Genuine Auto Parts around 2012/13 for its 2014 installation.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-23
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign; Directional
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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
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Photographs of Fremont East District sign, June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-30
Description
The Fremont East District sign sits near the intersection of Fremont St and Eighth St. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site name: Fremont Street (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: Fremont St and 8th St
Sign owner: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont East District
Sign details: The Fremont East District really formed together in 2002 for a coalition to maintain the vintage Las Vegas feel particularly by bringing out some vintage looking Neon Signs. This coalition became known as the Fremont East Entertainment District (FEED). Since this area is already close to the Fremont Street Experience with foot traffic the 2007 revitalization also was an effort to create pedestrian friendly sidewalks.
Sign condition: 5 - Very good condition
Sign form: Pole mounted signs
Sign-specific description: The two gateway signs are identical in design to welcome drivers and pedestrians into the Fremont Street District. These signs go across all of the lanes of Fremont Street, so there are two poles on the opposite sidewalks and then two curved steel beams connecting the sidewalk poles, and the main logo is on the curved pole portion. The two steel sidewalk beams each have a yellow curved googie style design. Right above the curved yellow design, on top of the sidewalk beams each have a red starburst orbit. In the middle curved beam there are red channeled Fremont Street East in a mid century modern semi-cursive font, with yellow neon tubes within the channeled letters. Underneath the Fremont Street East letters there is the word DISTRICT in the red channeled block letters.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign animation: Yellow neon on gateway signs flash
Sign environment: The gateway to Fremont East District from both the East and West end. One sign is at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont an the other is at the intersection of 8th St.
Sign manufacturer: Fluoresco Lighting and Signs
Sign designer: John Lutz
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign really brings back the mid-century modern theme, and the old Vegas theme as well. The starbursts are similar to the one from the Sweetheart Wedding Chapel Sign.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign speaks to the 1950s/1960s mid-century modern design with the starburst orbits and the yellow curved design.
Survey - research locations: Fremont East website, Floresco
Survey - research notes: Floresco Website http://www.fluoresco.com/pages/about/history.php, as well as contact with Gary Grider of Floresco, Las Vegas Today and Tomorrow Website, http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/fremonteast.htm
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Flashing; Neon; Steel; Plastic; Pole sign
Site name: Fremont Street (Las Vegas, Nev.)
Site address: Fremont St and 8th St
Sign owner: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont East District
Sign details: The Fremont East District really formed together in 2002 for a coalition to maintain the vintage Las Vegas feel particularly by bringing out some vintage looking Neon Signs. This coalition became known as the Fremont East Entertainment District (FEED). Since this area is already close to the Fremont Street Experience with foot traffic the 2007 revitalization also was an effort to create pedestrian friendly sidewalks.
Sign condition: 5 - Very good condition
Sign form: Pole mounted signs
Sign-specific description: The two gateway signs are identical in design to welcome drivers and pedestrians into the Fremont Street District. These signs go across all of the lanes of Fremont Street, so there are two poles on the opposite sidewalks and then two curved steel beams connecting the sidewalk poles, and the main logo is on the curved pole portion. The two steel sidewalk beams each have a yellow curved googie style design. Right above the curved yellow design, on top of the sidewalk beams each have a red starburst orbit. In the middle curved beam there are red channeled Fremont Street East in a mid century modern semi-cursive font, with yellow neon tubes within the channeled letters. Underneath the Fremont Street East letters there is the word DISTRICT in the red channeled block letters.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign animation: Yellow neon on gateway signs flash
Sign environment: The gateway to Fremont East District from both the East and West end. One sign is at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Fremont an the other is at the intersection of 8th St.
Sign manufacturer: Fluoresco Lighting and Signs
Sign designer: John Lutz
Sign - date of installation: 2007
Sign - thematic influences: This sign really brings back the mid-century modern theme, and the old Vegas theme as well. The starbursts are similar to the one from the Sweetheart Wedding Chapel Sign.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign speaks to the 1950s/1960s mid-century modern design with the starburst orbits and the yellow curved design.
Survey - research locations: Fremont East website, Floresco
Survey - research notes: Floresco Website http://www.fluoresco.com/pages/about/history.php, as well as contact with Gary Grider of Floresco, Las Vegas Today and Tomorrow Website, http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/fremonteast.htm
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-30
Sign keywords: Flashing; Neon; Steel; Plastic; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Park on Fremont sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-11
Description
The Park on Fremont sign sits at 506 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 506 Fremont St
Sign owner: Justin Weniger and Ryan Doherty both with Corner Bar Management Group
Sign details: This building was constructed in 1956. Though the Park on Fremont opened in 2013 in the former Maharaja Hookah Cafe though the building's exterior was renovated to have more of a wooden facade. This place is claimed as a gastro-pub with rustic-chic decor. Their outside urban beer garden is well recognized with its cool rustic design presenting a teeter totter and a CInderella-like carriage.
Sign condition: 5, very good condition and has bright colors during the day and night
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: They have a long oval shaped blade placed on the left side of the building which is neighboring the public parking lot next door. The oval part of the blade is black with white letters spelling out PARK from the top to the bottom in a thick type font. These letters illuminate green at night time. Surrounding the black oval is a red arrow pointing towards the building (not the entrance) with LED light bulbs which illuminates yellow at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and LED lights
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED lights
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: LED lights around the perimeter of the blade.
Sign environment: This is the first bar/restaurant on the north side of the Fremont St. East district. To the west of the building is a public parking lot where YESCOs free-standing PBR sign Cool Blue is stationed. To the east is the RED dance club
Sign manufacturer: All Star Electrical Signs
Sign - date of installation: 2013
Sign - thematic influences: The blade with an arrow is is used on many other bar signs in the east Fremont District. Though many of these blade signs are above the entrance this one is on the left side of their building possibly to attract foot traffic from the Fremont Street Experience.
Sign - artistic significance: The blade with an arrow was a prominent sign design in the 50s and 60s.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Park on Fremont Website https://parkonfremont.com/ , UNLV (bio on Justin Weniger) https://www.unlvfootballfoundation.com/people/justin-weniger/ , google map roadside view, and contact with manager.
Survey - research notes: Owners Justin Weniger and Ryan Doherty founded WENDOH Media which showcases Vegas Seven magazine, DTLV.com, RunRebs.com, SPYONvegas.com, Critical Focus, Corner Bar Management and the Life is Beautiful Festival. With the Corner Bar Management they also own the Commonwealth which is downtown as well.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; LED; Steel; Chasing; Incandescent; Directional
Site address: 506 Fremont St
Sign owner: Justin Weniger and Ryan Doherty both with Corner Bar Management Group
Sign details: This building was constructed in 1956. Though the Park on Fremont opened in 2013 in the former Maharaja Hookah Cafe though the building's exterior was renovated to have more of a wooden facade. This place is claimed as a gastro-pub with rustic-chic decor. Their outside urban beer garden is well recognized with its cool rustic design presenting a teeter totter and a CInderella-like carriage.
Sign condition: 5, very good condition and has bright colors during the day and night
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: They have a long oval shaped blade placed on the left side of the building which is neighboring the public parking lot next door. The oval part of the blade is black with white letters spelling out PARK from the top to the bottom in a thick type font. These letters illuminate green at night time. Surrounding the black oval is a red arrow pointing towards the building (not the entrance) with LED light bulbs which illuminates yellow at night time.
Sign - type of display: Neon and LED lights
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED lights
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: LED lights around the perimeter of the blade.
Sign environment: This is the first bar/restaurant on the north side of the Fremont St. East district. To the west of the building is a public parking lot where YESCOs free-standing PBR sign Cool Blue is stationed. To the east is the RED dance club
Sign manufacturer: All Star Electrical Signs
Sign - date of installation: 2013
Sign - thematic influences: The blade with an arrow is is used on many other bar signs in the east Fremont District. Though many of these blade signs are above the entrance this one is on the left side of their building possibly to attract foot traffic from the Fremont Street Experience.
Sign - artistic significance: The blade with an arrow was a prominent sign design in the 50s and 60s.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Park on Fremont Website https://parkonfremont.com/ , UNLV (bio on Justin Weniger) https://www.unlvfootballfoundation.com/people/justin-weniger/ , google map roadside view, and contact with manager.
Survey - research notes: Owners Justin Weniger and Ryan Doherty founded WENDOH Media which showcases Vegas Seven magazine, DTLV.com, RunRebs.com, SPYONvegas.com, Critical Focus, Corner Bar Management and the Life is Beautiful Festival. With the Corner Bar Management they also own the Commonwealth which is downtown as well.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; LED; Steel; Chasing; Incandescent; Directional
Mixed Content
Photographs of Pabst Blue Ribbon sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-07-22
Description
The Pabst Blue Ribbon sign sits near the intersection of Fremont Street and North Las Vegas Boulevard in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: Fremont St and Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: PBR Donated, but a part of Fremont Street East
Sign details: PBR held a revealing party when installed in 2015, right next to The Park on Fremont. YESCO manufactured the 30 feet tall sign is nicknamed Cool Blue. Previous to this sign in this location the Maharaja Hookah Cafe had their signage in the same location previous to 2013.
Sign condition: 5, just installed in 2015 so neon and paint are still in great condition
Sign form: Free Standing Sign
Sign-specific description: 30 feet tall, the sign is nicknamed Cool Blue. A 30 foot waiter holding his arm out with 3 beers on his arm and one in his hand. The beers are animated with them lighting up in order starting with the one closest to his body. His arm is resting on a PBR can. The waiters shirt and cheeks illuminate red neon while the rest of his body illuminates blue argon. The PBR beer can illuminates red and blue as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: The Beer cans on the waiters arm light up in order, starting with the one closest to his body.
Sign environment: This is located in the parking lot on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. North and Fremont St. East next to the Park on Fremont. This marks the beginning of the Fremont Street East District were other freestanding Neon signs are as well.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: 2015
Sign - thematic influences: The retro theme makes it look like a throwback to 1950s/60s advertisement. Also since it is for a beer company it shows that Neon does not always have to be for the Casinos here in Vegas. This is one of the first freestanding signs you see in the Fremont Street East District, thus showing that the Neon community downtown still is thriving and still defines our culture here.
Survey - research locations: YESCO website http://www.yesco.com/news/yesco-installs-pabst-blue-ribbon-neon-sign/ , Vital Vegas website https://vitalvegas.com/downtowns-fremont-east-gets-a-new-neon-sign-courtesy-of-pbr/ , google map roadside view
Survey - research notes: Since this is a freestanding sign it is difficult to find any specific information on a single owner or why this sign was placed there specifically.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-07-22
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Back to back; Monument sign
Site address: Fremont St and Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: PBR Donated, but a part of Fremont Street East
Sign details: PBR held a revealing party when installed in 2015, right next to The Park on Fremont. YESCO manufactured the 30 feet tall sign is nicknamed Cool Blue. Previous to this sign in this location the Maharaja Hookah Cafe had their signage in the same location previous to 2013.
Sign condition: 5, just installed in 2015 so neon and paint are still in great condition
Sign form: Free Standing Sign
Sign-specific description: 30 feet tall, the sign is nicknamed Cool Blue. A 30 foot waiter holding his arm out with 3 beers on his arm and one in his hand. The beers are animated with them lighting up in order starting with the one closest to his body. His arm is resting on a PBR can. The waiters shirt and cheeks illuminate red neon while the rest of his body illuminates blue argon. The PBR beer can illuminates red and blue as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: The Beer cans on the waiters arm light up in order, starting with the one closest to his body.
Sign environment: This is located in the parking lot on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. North and Fremont St. East next to the Park on Fremont. This marks the beginning of the Fremont Street East District were other freestanding Neon signs are as well.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign - date of installation: 2015
Sign - thematic influences: The retro theme makes it look like a throwback to 1950s/60s advertisement. Also since it is for a beer company it shows that Neon does not always have to be for the Casinos here in Vegas. This is one of the first freestanding signs you see in the Fremont Street East District, thus showing that the Neon community downtown still is thriving and still defines our culture here.
Survey - research locations: YESCO website http://www.yesco.com/news/yesco-installs-pabst-blue-ribbon-neon-sign/ , Vital Vegas website https://vitalvegas.com/downtowns-fremont-east-gets-a-new-neon-sign-courtesy-of-pbr/ , google map roadside view
Survey - research notes: Since this is a freestanding sign it is difficult to find any specific information on a single owner or why this sign was placed there specifically.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-07-22
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Back to back; Monument sign
Mixed Content
Photograph of Therapy restaurant sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-06
Description
The sign for Therapy sits at 518 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 518 Fremont St
Sign owner: Jared Weiss and Sig Rogich (Motion Corp)
Sign details: The building is from 1951, so within the restaurant there are exposed bricks and wood ceiling from the original building. Therapy restaurant opened in 2015 as a gastropub with Daniel Octiveas as the chef. Previous to turning into the Therapy restaurant this location held a Dollar Store.
Sign condition: 5, a newer sign still in very good condition
Sign form: Hanging sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: Pink lettering. The T is a solid print type font, then the rest of the letters are in cursive. There is a period at the end of the word Therapy. Each individual letter is in its own channeled block to contain the light for each letter. Also above their door there is a small black rectangular sign with the Therapy logo (same manufacturing style as the letters previously noted). There is a pink arrow starting from the farthest (from the entrance) top of the sign pointing towards the entrance. On this arrow there are sparking incandescent light bulbs.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Flasher for Incandescent light bulbs on the arrow to show the entrance of the property.
Sign environment: This property is in between 6th and Las Vegas Blvd. on the North side of Fremont St. This district in the past few years has shaped into its own creative and artsy area.
Sign manufacturer: Vision Signs
Sign designer: Gerrit Blok and Rob McGuire
Sign - date of installation: 2015 when the restaurant opened
Sign - thematic influences: The sign above the door has the arrow which was a popular trend in 1950s signs with the car consumer era, but also helps with the pedestrian traffic on Fremont St.
Sign - artistic significance: The simple yet beautiful cursive font shows that there is simplicity and elegance. Also the arrow above the entrance could be a hint of subliminal messaging, as well as a great direction indicator. The channeled letters shows how to capture illumination compared to skeletal Neon.
Survey - research locations: Therapy website http://www.therapylv.com/ , Las Vegas Weekly Article https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2015/aug/12/therapy-downtown-restaurant-review-fremont-east/ , Acessor's office, discussion with owner and contact with Vision signs
Survey - research notes: Eater Las Vegas (2015 article) shows cool pictures of the building being renovated. https://vegas.eater.com/2015/6/25/8845981/las-vegas-restaurants-therapy#5
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Hanging; Building-front design; Fascia; Cantilever construction
Site address: 518 Fremont St
Sign owner: Jared Weiss and Sig Rogich (Motion Corp)
Sign details: The building is from 1951, so within the restaurant there are exposed bricks and wood ceiling from the original building. Therapy restaurant opened in 2015 as a gastropub with Daniel Octiveas as the chef. Previous to turning into the Therapy restaurant this location held a Dollar Store.
Sign condition: 5, a newer sign still in very good condition
Sign form: Hanging sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: Pink lettering. The T is a solid print type font, then the rest of the letters are in cursive. There is a period at the end of the word Therapy. Each individual letter is in its own channeled block to contain the light for each letter. Also above their door there is a small black rectangular sign with the Therapy logo (same manufacturing style as the letters previously noted). There is a pink arrow starting from the farthest (from the entrance) top of the sign pointing towards the entrance. On this arrow there are sparking incandescent light bulbs.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Flasher for Incandescent light bulbs on the arrow to show the entrance of the property.
Sign environment: This property is in between 6th and Las Vegas Blvd. on the North side of Fremont St. This district in the past few years has shaped into its own creative and artsy area.
Sign manufacturer: Vision Signs
Sign designer: Gerrit Blok and Rob McGuire
Sign - date of installation: 2015 when the restaurant opened
Sign - thematic influences: The sign above the door has the arrow which was a popular trend in 1950s signs with the car consumer era, but also helps with the pedestrian traffic on Fremont St.
Sign - artistic significance: The simple yet beautiful cursive font shows that there is simplicity and elegance. Also the arrow above the entrance could be a hint of subliminal messaging, as well as a great direction indicator. The channeled letters shows how to capture illumination compared to skeletal Neon.
Survey - research locations: Therapy website http://www.therapylv.com/ , Las Vegas Weekly Article https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2015/aug/12/therapy-downtown-restaurant-review-fremont-east/ , Acessor's office, discussion with owner and contact with Vision signs
Survey - research notes: Eater Las Vegas (2015 article) shows cool pictures of the building being renovated. https://vegas.eater.com/2015/6/25/8845981/las-vegas-restaurants-therapy#5
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Hanging; Building-front design; Fascia; Cantilever construction
Mixed Content
Photographs of Don't Tell Mama signs, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-08-14
Description
Photos show the signs for Don't Tell Mama at 517 Fremont Street Suite 110 in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 517 Fremont St
Sign owner: Assessor's page stated T-Breo II LLC (possibly owner of the property, but no owner of the bar/business was found.
Sign details: Don't Tell Mama originally opened in 2008/9 as a New York style piano bar. The name is inspired by the 1966 song "Don't Tell Mama" in the Broadway show "Cabaret". They are known for their bartenders that double as entertainers as well as having open mic every night.
Sign condition: 3- The sign does show some aging and some of the neon piano keys currently do not work
Sign form: Hanging sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: The hanging sign is a rectangle sign is outlined in red neon with lower case letters "don't tell mama" is spelt out in a painted white font, but at night the letters are in red cursive skeletal neon. Below the font there is a piano key design. On the building right above the entrance the sign is an image of a closed grand piano neon sign. The body of the piano during the day has blue tubes and illuminates blue at night. Some of the keys are blue and others are red. Both signs are also plastic back lit so people can see the black and white piano keys with the neon on top of it.
Sign - type of display: Neon and backlit plastic
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic backlit sign
Sign animation: There may have been animation with the neon piano keys lighting up to look like the piano was being played but since many of these keys are not working it can not be confirmed.
Sign environment: Located in the East Fremont District in between Las Vegas blvd and 6th St. This bar has the Beauty Bar to the west of it and Le Thai restaurant to the east. Across the street is Therapy and the Emergency Arts center.
Sign manufacturer: Valley Signs and Lighting
Sign - date of installation: Sign has been up since at least 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign portrays the New York piano bar vibe they are going for, and since Neon is and was prominent New York it plays along with their theme as well.
Sign - artistic significance: Piano bars were prominent in the 1950's.
Survey - research locations: Don't Tell Mama website http://www.donttellmama.com/Dont_Tell_Mama/About.html, Asessor's page
Survey - research notes: There is a Don't Tell Mama in New York, but did not find an affiliation or a real connection.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Hanging; Building-front design; Fascia; Cantilever construction
Site address: 517 Fremont St
Sign owner: Assessor's page stated T-Breo II LLC (possibly owner of the property, but no owner of the bar/business was found.
Sign details: Don't Tell Mama originally opened in 2008/9 as a New York style piano bar. The name is inspired by the 1966 song "Don't Tell Mama" in the Broadway show "Cabaret". They are known for their bartenders that double as entertainers as well as having open mic every night.
Sign condition: 3- The sign does show some aging and some of the neon piano keys currently do not work
Sign form: Hanging sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: The hanging sign is a rectangle sign is outlined in red neon with lower case letters "don't tell mama" is spelt out in a painted white font, but at night the letters are in red cursive skeletal neon. Below the font there is a piano key design. On the building right above the entrance the sign is an image of a closed grand piano neon sign. The body of the piano during the day has blue tubes and illuminates blue at night. Some of the keys are blue and others are red. Both signs are also plastic back lit so people can see the black and white piano keys with the neon on top of it.
Sign - type of display: Neon and backlit plastic
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic backlit sign
Sign animation: There may have been animation with the neon piano keys lighting up to look like the piano was being played but since many of these keys are not working it can not be confirmed.
Sign environment: Located in the East Fremont District in between Las Vegas blvd and 6th St. This bar has the Beauty Bar to the west of it and Le Thai restaurant to the east. Across the street is Therapy and the Emergency Arts center.
Sign manufacturer: Valley Signs and Lighting
Sign - date of installation: Sign has been up since at least 2014
Sign - thematic influences: The sign portrays the New York piano bar vibe they are going for, and since Neon is and was prominent New York it plays along with their theme as well.
Sign - artistic significance: Piano bars were prominent in the 1950's.
Survey - research locations: Don't Tell Mama website http://www.donttellmama.com/Dont_Tell_Mama/About.html, Asessor's page
Survey - research notes: There is a Don't Tell Mama in New York, but did not find an affiliation or a real connection.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-14
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Hanging; Building-front design; Fascia; Cantilever construction
Mixed Content
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