Search the Special Collections and Archives Portal
Search Results
Photographs of Downtowner Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), June 28, 2017
Date
2017-06-28
2017-09-06
Description
The Downtowner Motel sign sits at 129 North Eighth Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 129 N 8th St
Sign owner: Robert and Ada Cohen
Sign details: Original Construction year of this building was 1935 and maintains the Art Deco design to the building. This location was originally built for a motel or apartments, but has mainly been used for motels since its construction.
Sign condition: 5- In great condition and looks as though it may have been restored or repainted recently because of how good it looks
Sign form: Double sided Porte Cochere (Facing both sides of the street)
Sign-specific description: This sign is above their two story building, as used as a directional sign for the tunnel passageway to the parking lot since there is a linear arrow pointing diagonally from the top of the sign to where the drivers would need to go. This arrow is lined with chasing incandescent light bulbs. To building side of the arrow there is a long thin red parallel trapezoid that spells out "MOTEL" in a painted white block font that is lined with Skeletal Neon that illuminates red at night. Underneath this one about a foot down is another long thin red parallel trapezoid that has white painted letters stating "Downtowners APTS." the downtowner part is a cursive font that illuminates blue at night,a and the Apts. part is in block letter that illuminates red at night.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent light bulbs
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on N 8th Street just a few blocks north of the Fremont Street East District, but near Ogden.
Sign - date of installation: Roadside Architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html says it has been there since at least the mid 1960's
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is remnant of the vintage motorcade motel signs that one could see along any highway during the traveling era of the 50's/60's.
Sign - artistic significance: The arrow is reminiscent of the 1950's/60's directional arrows.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Roadside Architecture http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html , Downtowner Motel website http://downtownerlv.com/
Survey - research notes: The building showcases remnants of Art deco style and mid-century modern architectural styles. The panels in between the doors/windows have the art deco design and then the canopies above the windows and doorways have a mid-century modern curvilinear canopies.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Chasing; Directional; Pole sign
Site address: 129 N 8th St
Sign owner: Robert and Ada Cohen
Sign details: Original Construction year of this building was 1935 and maintains the Art Deco design to the building. This location was originally built for a motel or apartments, but has mainly been used for motels since its construction.
Sign condition: 5- In great condition and looks as though it may have been restored or repainted recently because of how good it looks
Sign form: Double sided Porte Cochere (Facing both sides of the street)
Sign-specific description: This sign is above their two story building, as used as a directional sign for the tunnel passageway to the parking lot since there is a linear arrow pointing diagonally from the top of the sign to where the drivers would need to go. This arrow is lined with chasing incandescent light bulbs. To building side of the arrow there is a long thin red parallel trapezoid that spells out "MOTEL" in a painted white block font that is lined with Skeletal Neon that illuminates red at night. Underneath this one about a foot down is another long thin red parallel trapezoid that has white painted letters stating "Downtowners APTS." the downtowner part is a cursive font that illuminates blue at night,a and the Apts. part is in block letter that illuminates red at night.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent light bulbs
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This location is on N 8th Street just a few blocks north of the Fremont Street East District, but near Ogden.
Sign - date of installation: Roadside Architecture website http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html says it has been there since at least the mid 1960's
Sign - thematic influences: This sign is remnant of the vintage motorcade motel signs that one could see along any highway during the traveling era of the 50's/60's.
Sign - artistic significance: The arrow is reminiscent of the 1950's/60's directional arrows.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Roadside Architecture http://www.roadarch.com/signs/nvvegas2.html , Downtowner Motel website http://downtownerlv.com/
Survey - research notes: The building showcases remnants of Art deco style and mid-century modern architectural styles. The panels in between the doors/windows have the art deco design and then the canopies above the windows and doorways have a mid-century modern curvilinear canopies.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Chasing; Directional; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of The Palm Piazza sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 18, 2017
Date
2017-04-18
2017-09-09
Description
The Palm Piazza sign sits at 1919 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 1919 Fremont St
Sign owner: Zen Real Estate Holding
Sign details: This building dates back to 1936 and was made for commercial living accommodations/ deluxe motel. Previous to the Palm Piazza opening this location was called the Ariza Motel which was abandoned for a few years. Kamran Foulad in 2013 purchased this building to renovate it in an effort to revitalize downtown. The Palm Piazza opened as an apartment complex in late 2013.
Sign condition: 4- slight fading but still in good condition
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: There is a black base of the sign that is not very tall which holds a back lit plastic sign that has an image of a lady under a palm-tree leaf canopy and the location's phone number in black numbers. Above this is a blue steel backing that in the shape of a sideways trapezoid which is about half of the width of the black sign beneath it (and is laid on the building side of the sign). This portion has black back lit plastic letters that spell out "The Palm Piazza" in a bubbly cursive font towards the top of the sign. Then below this in yellow skeletal neon tubes they have "Luxury Living" spelled out in a thin tight cursive font. On the road side of the sign there is an arrow blue steel arrow that points down towards the black portion of the sign. The arrow is outlined in yellow neon tubes and has "Enjoy Las Vegas" in clear print font skeletal neon tubes.
Sign - type of display: Neon and back lit plastic signs
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic portion of the sign
Sign environment: This area is located East Fremont close to Bruce Street. There are other motels surrounding this area.
Sign - date of installation: This sign has been up in form that we see today in 2013, though it looks as though they re-purposed/redesigned the sign that the Ariza Motel (previous property name) had. The previous sign has been up since at least 2007.
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2013- Ariza Motel blade taken down and the rest of the sign redesigned for the Palm Piazza.
Sign - thematic influences: Previous to the apartment complex it was a motel and their signs still has remnants of that 1950/60's motel sign design particularly with the arrow.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Review Journal article discussing the renovation of the building https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/developer-eyeing-overlooked-las-vegas-downtown-area-gets-city-boost/, Google map sattelite/ roadside view
Survey - research notes: On the top portion of the blue steel sign there are 3 short black steel beams coming out of it which used to hold an old MOTEL blade sign which was taken down around 2013.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Neon; Backlit; Plastic; Steel; Pole sign
Site address: 1919 Fremont St
Sign owner: Zen Real Estate Holding
Sign details: This building dates back to 1936 and was made for commercial living accommodations/ deluxe motel. Previous to the Palm Piazza opening this location was called the Ariza Motel which was abandoned for a few years. Kamran Foulad in 2013 purchased this building to renovate it in an effort to revitalize downtown. The Palm Piazza opened as an apartment complex in late 2013.
Sign condition: 4- slight fading but still in good condition
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: There is a black base of the sign that is not very tall which holds a back lit plastic sign that has an image of a lady under a palm-tree leaf canopy and the location's phone number in black numbers. Above this is a blue steel backing that in the shape of a sideways trapezoid which is about half of the width of the black sign beneath it (and is laid on the building side of the sign). This portion has black back lit plastic letters that spell out "The Palm Piazza" in a bubbly cursive font towards the top of the sign. Then below this in yellow skeletal neon tubes they have "Luxury Living" spelled out in a thin tight cursive font. On the road side of the sign there is an arrow blue steel arrow that points down towards the black portion of the sign. The arrow is outlined in yellow neon tubes and has "Enjoy Las Vegas" in clear print font skeletal neon tubes.
Sign - type of display: Neon and back lit plastic signs
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic portion of the sign
Sign environment: This area is located East Fremont close to Bruce Street. There are other motels surrounding this area.
Sign - date of installation: This sign has been up in form that we see today in 2013, though it looks as though they re-purposed/redesigned the sign that the Ariza Motel (previous property name) had. The previous sign has been up since at least 2007.
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2013- Ariza Motel blade taken down and the rest of the sign redesigned for the Palm Piazza.
Sign - thematic influences: Previous to the apartment complex it was a motel and their signs still has remnants of that 1950/60's motel sign design particularly with the arrow.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's Page, Review Journal article discussing the renovation of the building https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/developer-eyeing-overlooked-las-vegas-downtown-area-gets-city-boost/, Google map sattelite/ roadside view
Survey - research notes: On the top portion of the blue steel sign there are 3 short black steel beams coming out of it which used to hold an old MOTEL blade sign which was taken down around 2013.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Neon; Backlit; Plastic; Steel; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of El Portal gift shop, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 18, 2017
Date
2017-04-18
2017-08-11
Description
The El Portal Gift Shop sits at 310 Fremont Street inside the Fremont Street Experience. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 310 Fremont St
Sign owner: HS Family LP c/o J. Blut
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1928 (Assessor). The El Portal Theatre opened June 21, 1928 as the first building in Las Vegas to install air conditioning (Cinema Treasures). The theater closed in the 1970's and the site became El Portal Gifts and then a Native American arts and crafts store (Cinema Treasures). The current owner has received approval to turn the building into a food court and tavern (Lazara, 2017).
Sign condition: Condition is 5. The cabinet, paint and lighting are all in top condition. A few light bulbs are missing from the light boxes on either side of the sign.
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: The metal "L" shaped cabinet points inward toward the building. The cabinet is painted turquoise. Two rows of white incandescent bulbs run along the spine of the cabinet. "El" is spelled out horizontally across the top of the sign in white cursive channel letters with the interior outlined in white neon. "PORTAL" runs vertically down the cabinet in sans serif white channel letters with the interiors filled with three rows of white neon. At the bottom of the sign is a white channel arrow which is filled in by three rows of turquoise neon. The sign is inserted between two rectangular light boxes which angle out from the building to the edge of the sign. The light boxes are outlined with clear incandescent light bulbs, have a red and turquoise Native American blanket style design on each end and state "INDIAN ARTS &CRAFTS" in serif Native American style lettering. The light boxes are made to appear as if they are supported by two totem poles painted in back, white, red and turquoise.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent (with lightboxes adjacent)
Sign - media: Steel (and plastic in adjacent lightboxes)
Sign - non-neon treatments: Lightboxes adjacent to sign
Sign environment: In the Fremont Street Experience. Sounded by other storefronts and casinos.
Sign - thematic influences: The El Portal building is Spanish Colonial style. The light boxes are Native American style.
Survey - research locations: Recorder's office
Survey - research notes: Cinema Treasures. (n.d.). El Portal Theatre. Retrieved from http://cinematreasures.org/theaters/1888 Lazara, G. (2017 June 13). The old El Portal Theatre to become a tavern. Retrieved from http://www.ktnv.com/news/the-old- el-portal- theatre-to- become-a- tavern
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Light box; Plastic
Site address: 310 Fremont St
Sign owner: HS Family LP c/o J. Blut
Sign details: The building was constructed in 1928 (Assessor). The El Portal Theatre opened June 21, 1928 as the first building in Las Vegas to install air conditioning (Cinema Treasures). The theater closed in the 1970's and the site became El Portal Gifts and then a Native American arts and crafts store (Cinema Treasures). The current owner has received approval to turn the building into a food court and tavern (Lazara, 2017).
Sign condition: Condition is 5. The cabinet, paint and lighting are all in top condition. A few light bulbs are missing from the light boxes on either side of the sign.
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: The metal "L" shaped cabinet points inward toward the building. The cabinet is painted turquoise. Two rows of white incandescent bulbs run along the spine of the cabinet. "El" is spelled out horizontally across the top of the sign in white cursive channel letters with the interior outlined in white neon. "PORTAL" runs vertically down the cabinet in sans serif white channel letters with the interiors filled with three rows of white neon. At the bottom of the sign is a white channel arrow which is filled in by three rows of turquoise neon. The sign is inserted between two rectangular light boxes which angle out from the building to the edge of the sign. The light boxes are outlined with clear incandescent light bulbs, have a red and turquoise Native American blanket style design on each end and state "INDIAN ARTS &CRAFTS" in serif Native American style lettering. The light boxes are made to appear as if they are supported by two totem poles painted in back, white, red and turquoise.
Sign - type of display: Neon and incandescent (with lightboxes adjacent)
Sign - media: Steel (and plastic in adjacent lightboxes)
Sign - non-neon treatments: Lightboxes adjacent to sign
Sign environment: In the Fremont Street Experience. Sounded by other storefronts and casinos.
Sign - thematic influences: The El Portal building is Spanish Colonial style. The light boxes are Native American style.
Survey - research locations: Recorder's office
Survey - research notes: Cinema Treasures. (n.d.). El Portal Theatre. Retrieved from http://cinematreasures.org/theaters/1888 Lazara, G. (2017 June 13). The old El Portal Theatre to become a tavern. Retrieved from http://www.ktnv.com/news/the-old- el-portal- theatre-to- become-a- tavern
Surveyor: Mitchell Cohen
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-11
Sign keywords: Blade; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Light box; Plastic
Mixed Content
Photographs of Luv-it Frozen Custard stand, Las Vegas (Nev.), January 27, 2017
Date
2017-01-27
2017-08-25
Description
Luv-it Frozen Custard sits north of the Las Vegas Strip at 505 East Oakey Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 505 E Oakey Blvd
Sign owner: Brittany and Brandon Tiedemann
Sign details: Luv-It Frozen Custard has been a Las Vegas dessert shop since 1973. They specialize in their "shakes, cones, malts, and hard packs to go." The same family, the Tiedemann's, have been operating the business for four generations. The great-grandmother of the family who opened this modest frozen custard stand originally worked at another famous frozen custard shop called Leon's in Milwaukee, WI. She brought her desire to make frozen custard to Las Vegas and made her own signature flavors. They have been using the same vendors and products to create their delectable ever since they opened. They say the only thing that has changed since they opened is "a new generation of the family and a new color for our building."
Sign condition: 4, the sign is in very good condition. However, the red paint in the letters has faded away slightly.
Sign form: Fascia, Backlit
Sign-specific description: The sign has a very modest design. The signage when looking at the front facade of the building is broken up into three different sections. The first section on the left hand are the words "Luv It" in red, serif style font and a small red heart between the two words. These words are up against a plain white background. Next to that is a small square sign that has a painted vanilla custard cone on it, also with a white background. The sign next to that reads "Frozen Custard" in the same shade of red as the "Luv It" sign and has a white background as well. On the right side of the building over the walk-up window is another sign that reads "Luv It Frozen Custard," which appears to be a combination of the "Luv It" and "Frozen Custard" signs on the front of the building.
Sign - type of display: Backlit
Sign - media: Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: The environment for this humble frozen custard stand straddles Las Vegas Boulevard and a residential neighborhood nearby. It resides near other popular properties along Las Vegas Boulevard as well, such as: Viva Las Arepas, Art of Flavors, Dino's Lounge, and many wedding chapels. It also sits fairly close to John S. Park Historic Neighborhood.
Sign - date of installation: 1973
Sign - thematic influences: The sign looks old fashioned today because they had it ever since they opened. It is a modest sign to reflect the modest business. The element of the sign that reflects back to the business is the frozen yogurt cone portion of the sign that tells you what the business is for.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign uses a symbol to articulate what the business serves. This has been a popular technique for businesses because it is easy for motorists and pedestrians to see what the business is for without having to read any other text.
Survey - research locations: Luvit website
Survey - research notes: https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/sep/16/sketchy-neighborhood- bites-back/
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Fascia; Backlit; Plastic; Paint
Site address: 505 E Oakey Blvd
Sign owner: Brittany and Brandon Tiedemann
Sign details: Luv-It Frozen Custard has been a Las Vegas dessert shop since 1973. They specialize in their "shakes, cones, malts, and hard packs to go." The same family, the Tiedemann's, have been operating the business for four generations. The great-grandmother of the family who opened this modest frozen custard stand originally worked at another famous frozen custard shop called Leon's in Milwaukee, WI. She brought her desire to make frozen custard to Las Vegas and made her own signature flavors. They have been using the same vendors and products to create their delectable ever since they opened. They say the only thing that has changed since they opened is "a new generation of the family and a new color for our building."
Sign condition: 4, the sign is in very good condition. However, the red paint in the letters has faded away slightly.
Sign form: Fascia, Backlit
Sign-specific description: The sign has a very modest design. The signage when looking at the front facade of the building is broken up into three different sections. The first section on the left hand are the words "Luv It" in red, serif style font and a small red heart between the two words. These words are up against a plain white background. Next to that is a small square sign that has a painted vanilla custard cone on it, also with a white background. The sign next to that reads "Frozen Custard" in the same shade of red as the "Luv It" sign and has a white background as well. On the right side of the building over the walk-up window is another sign that reads "Luv It Frozen Custard," which appears to be a combination of the "Luv It" and "Frozen Custard" signs on the front of the building.
Sign - type of display: Backlit
Sign - media: Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign environment: The environment for this humble frozen custard stand straddles Las Vegas Boulevard and a residential neighborhood nearby. It resides near other popular properties along Las Vegas Boulevard as well, such as: Viva Las Arepas, Art of Flavors, Dino's Lounge, and many wedding chapels. It also sits fairly close to John S. Park Historic Neighborhood.
Sign - date of installation: 1973
Sign - thematic influences: The sign looks old fashioned today because they had it ever since they opened. It is a modest sign to reflect the modest business. The element of the sign that reflects back to the business is the frozen yogurt cone portion of the sign that tells you what the business is for.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign uses a symbol to articulate what the business serves. This has been a popular technique for businesses because it is easy for motorists and pedestrians to see what the business is for without having to read any other text.
Survey - research locations: Luvit website
Survey - research notes: https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/sep/16/sketchy-neighborhood- bites-back/
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-25
Sign keywords: Fascia; Backlit; Plastic; Paint
Mixed Content
Photograph of Le Thai sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 10, 2016
Date
2016-04-10 to 2017-08-15
Description
The sign for Le Thai restaurant sits at 523 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 523 Fremont St
Sign owner: Dan and Shauna Coughlin, Dan doubles as the chef as well
Sign details: The buildings original construction year was 1934. The restaurant opened in November of 2011, Le Thai offers a famous Three curry made by Chef Dan Coughlin as well as other traditional Thai food inspired by Dans grandma and mom from Thailand. They also have a beer garden behind their main restaurant. Dan was the owner to Mix zone cafe and is the son of the owner of the King and I (Nikki Bujadham). This building has a tin facade with a pull out canopy for outdoor seating.
Sign condition: 5- looks very new and in amazing condition
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: The blade is mainly made of plastic that is backlit at night time, but has a dark steel border. At the top of the sign is a circle that has Le written in black cursive on the sign, and illuminates red neon at night. Also on this circle portion of the sign it states Downtown Las Vegas in a smaller print type font. This circle is outlined in incandescents, as well as the incandescents being surrounded by red neon. Below the circle there is a red curved arrow that states Thai in black letters that have a white trim, this font looks italicized and has little circles on a part of each of the letters, this makes it a very distinct font for them specifically. Underneath the Words Thai, the sign states Noodles & Bar in a regular white block type font.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent light bulbs and neon
Sign - media: Plastic and Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics on plastic portion of the sign are backlit
Sign animation: Chasing:
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: In the East side of Fremont Street, located in between Las Vegas Blvd and 6th street. To the west of the property is the Dont Tell Mama Bar and to the east is Commonwealth. Currently across the street is the Therapy restaurant and the old Emergency Arts building.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Owners Shauna and Dan
Sign - date of installation: 2012
Sign - thematic influences: The font that they use for Le and Thai are quite different but it shows the blend of how their restaurant is and does make it more distinguishable since their font draws the attention of people walking by.
Sign - artistic significance: With the usage of both Neon and incandescent the sign really does pop out which is a similar trend to many signs over the age, particularly since there is a lot of pedestrian traffic in the region. The arrow is a great direction indicator, as well as it showcases the 1950s blade sign trend with the arrow at the bottom.
Survey - research locations: Le Thai restaurant website https://lethaivegas.com/, Assessor's page, and contact with Le Thai LLC
Survey - research notes: The assessor's page said the buildings original construction year was 1934 though there was no record of what it originally opened up as.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-15
Sign keywords: Graphics; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Blade; Chasing; Incandescent; Neon; Back to back
Site address: 523 Fremont St
Sign owner: Dan and Shauna Coughlin, Dan doubles as the chef as well
Sign details: The buildings original construction year was 1934. The restaurant opened in November of 2011, Le Thai offers a famous Three curry made by Chef Dan Coughlin as well as other traditional Thai food inspired by Dans grandma and mom from Thailand. They also have a beer garden behind their main restaurant. Dan was the owner to Mix zone cafe and is the son of the owner of the King and I (Nikki Bujadham). This building has a tin facade with a pull out canopy for outdoor seating.
Sign condition: 5- looks very new and in amazing condition
Sign form: Blade
Sign-specific description: The blade is mainly made of plastic that is backlit at night time, but has a dark steel border. At the top of the sign is a circle that has Le written in black cursive on the sign, and illuminates red neon at night. Also on this circle portion of the sign it states Downtown Las Vegas in a smaller print type font. This circle is outlined in incandescents, as well as the incandescents being surrounded by red neon. Below the circle there is a red curved arrow that states Thai in black letters that have a white trim, this font looks italicized and has little circles on a part of each of the letters, this makes it a very distinct font for them specifically. Underneath the Words Thai, the sign states Noodles & Bar in a regular white block type font.
Sign - type of display: Incandescent light bulbs and neon
Sign - media: Plastic and Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics on plastic portion of the sign are backlit
Sign animation: Chasing:
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: In the East side of Fremont Street, located in between Las Vegas Blvd and 6th street. To the west of the property is the Dont Tell Mama Bar and to the east is Commonwealth. Currently across the street is the Therapy restaurant and the old Emergency Arts building.
Sign manufacturer: YESCO
Sign designer: Owners Shauna and Dan
Sign - date of installation: 2012
Sign - thematic influences: The font that they use for Le and Thai are quite different but it shows the blend of how their restaurant is and does make it more distinguishable since their font draws the attention of people walking by.
Sign - artistic significance: With the usage of both Neon and incandescent the sign really does pop out which is a similar trend to many signs over the age, particularly since there is a lot of pedestrian traffic in the region. The arrow is a great direction indicator, as well as it showcases the 1950s blade sign trend with the arrow at the bottom.
Survey - research locations: Le Thai restaurant website https://lethaivegas.com/, Assessor's page, and contact with Le Thai LLC
Survey - research notes: The assessor's page said the buildings original construction year was 1934 though there was no record of what it originally opened up as.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-15
Sign keywords: Graphics; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Blade; Chasing; Incandescent; Neon; Back to back
Mixed Content
Photographs of White Sands Motel signs, Las Vegas (Nev.), 2002
Date
2002
Description
Daytime views of the White Sands Motel signs on the Strip. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 3889 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign details: Just south of the Tropicana Hotel Casino, the white Sands Motel begins the stretch of decaying properties that comprise the south end of the strip. In the parking lot outside a small low rise office, and rows of rooms the distinct pylon sign for the White Sands Motel faces north/south.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: Two legs, in the shape of an "A" with a pole running up through the center, support a black, internally lit message center. The face of the cabinet is two sectioned with a larger portion sitting below a smaller section. The smaller top section has neither a face nor a backing. The interior parts lie exposed to the elements revealing the internal workings. Growing out of the center of the cabinet, tall thin internally lit rectangular cabinet runs into the sky approximately fifteen feet. The cabinet is designated into twelve sections by steel borders. Plastic red letters, reside inside this row of panels, horizontally spelling "White Sands" in all capital letters, with one space between the two words and one below the last word. At the very peak of the sign, a triangular shape, with a rounded top, appears to be back lit also. A smaller section sits on top of this as well. The tall cabinet, the peak, and the top antenna, are lined on the edges with raceways and incandescent bulbs. The resultant effect all of the pieces together is an image of a rocket or missile. Next to the drive on the streets edge, a small red, internally lit, message center faces north /south. The white flexible plastic face is treated with red text, and a logo for the establishment. Across the top of the cabinet "Entrance" is spelled and "Motel" across the bottom. The White sands logo is a red half circular shape with a white silhouette of palm trees, and "White Sands" across the top edge of the half circle.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: Chasing, flashing, oscillating
Notes: The text, which resides on the southern wall and reads "Casino," is filled with incandescent bulbs that all illuminate at the same time, and oscillate. They then shut off at the same time, and then repeat. The raceways of incandescent bulbs chase each other while the neon, which surrounds the back lit, plastic, screens on this wall flash on then off. The bottom two raceways sandwiching the reflective panel chase from left to right, while the remainder of the raceways surrounding the signs, run right to left. The incandescent bulbs on the pylon chase each other gracefully up the length of the pylon. The animation is patterned so as to appear as if a section of several bulbs are pulsing its way up the towers, hugging the edge of the bulbous tops. The raceways continue around the east face of the building. The umbrellas in the plaza behind the pylon, also are animated with incandescent bulbs chasing each other downward along the raceways.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Chasing; Flashing; Oscillating; Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Graphics
Site address: 3889 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign details: Just south of the Tropicana Hotel Casino, the white Sands Motel begins the stretch of decaying properties that comprise the south end of the strip. In the parking lot outside a small low rise office, and rows of rooms the distinct pylon sign for the White Sands Motel faces north/south.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: Two legs, in the shape of an "A" with a pole running up through the center, support a black, internally lit message center. The face of the cabinet is two sectioned with a larger portion sitting below a smaller section. The smaller top section has neither a face nor a backing. The interior parts lie exposed to the elements revealing the internal workings. Growing out of the center of the cabinet, tall thin internally lit rectangular cabinet runs into the sky approximately fifteen feet. The cabinet is designated into twelve sections by steel borders. Plastic red letters, reside inside this row of panels, horizontally spelling "White Sands" in all capital letters, with one space between the two words and one below the last word. At the very peak of the sign, a triangular shape, with a rounded top, appears to be back lit also. A smaller section sits on top of this as well. The tall cabinet, the peak, and the top antenna, are lined on the edges with raceways and incandescent bulbs. The resultant effect all of the pieces together is an image of a rocket or missile. Next to the drive on the streets edge, a small red, internally lit, message center faces north /south. The white flexible plastic face is treated with red text, and a logo for the establishment. Across the top of the cabinet "Entrance" is spelled and "Motel" across the bottom. The White sands logo is a red half circular shape with a white silhouette of palm trees, and "White Sands" across the top edge of the half circle.
Sign - type of display: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit
Sign - media: Steel; Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Graphics; Paint
Sign animation: Chasing, flashing, oscillating
Notes: The text, which resides on the southern wall and reads "Casino," is filled with incandescent bulbs that all illuminate at the same time, and oscillate. They then shut off at the same time, and then repeat. The raceways of incandescent bulbs chase each other while the neon, which surrounds the back lit, plastic, screens on this wall flash on then off. The bottom two raceways sandwiching the reflective panel chase from left to right, while the remainder of the raceways surrounding the signs, run right to left. The incandescent bulbs on the pylon chase each other gracefully up the length of the pylon. The animation is patterned so as to appear as if a section of several bulbs are pulsing its way up the towers, hugging the edge of the bulbous tops. The raceways continue around the east face of the building. The umbrellas in the plaza behind the pylon, also are animated with incandescent bulbs chasing each other downward along the raceways.
Surveyor: Joshua Cannaday
Survey - date completed: 2002
Sign keywords: Chasing; Flashing; Oscillating; Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Graphics
Mixed Content
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
Wee Kirk o' the Heather Neon Survey document, August 13, 2017
Date
2017-08-13
Description
Information about the Wee Kirk o' the Heather sign that sits at 231 S Las Vegas Blvd.
Site address: 231 S Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Wee Kirk Property Group LLC
Sign details: Wee Kirk O' the Heather is one of the oldest standing Wedding Chapels to still remain in operation to this day. The building was originally constructed in 1925. Two wedding chapels Wee Kirk O' the Heather and the Hitching Post both opened in 1940 across the street from each other though the Hitching Post has been torn down. Wee Kirk O' the Heather is Scottish themed where the name translates to "Little Chapel of the Lucky Flowers." Since the chapel is considered as one of the oldest wedding chapels here in Vegas, there are quite a few wedding renewals or generational marriages. The site has been featured in multiple Las Vegas films; such as "Fools Rush In, "Intolerable Cruelty," and many more.
Sign condition: 4.5 - The sign is well maintained, no damage is seen.
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: The current sign is circa mid-2000s. It is mainly a white plastic backlit sign that states "Wee Kirk o the Heather" in a violet swirled font. There is a yellow reader board underneath this. Below the reader board is a small 'Open" sign that contain incandescent light bulbs. Above the logo is a neon rendering of a flower in skeletal neon. The original sign and establishments color scheme was dark blue, mustard yellow and pure white. The protruding cantilever construction is a beautiful decorative white leaf and floral bouquet with a mustard yellow vase. On the bottom is a dark blue faux wood, zig zagged at both ends of the structure and features traditional Gothic font in white. Connected to the faux wood structure is the hanging sign held by two poles with a sign that says "Wedding Chapel; Everything Arranged."
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit portion.
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This location is on Las Vegas Blvd. South and Bridger Ave. This is just a few blocks south of Fremont Street. The property is surrounded by the Villa Inn Hotel-Motel and Lloyd D George Courthouse.
Sign - date of installation: Circa Early-2000's
Sign - date of redesign/move: Transition form older sign to current sign in Early-2000's
Sign - thematic influences: The sign beckons to the current trend of minimal square clean designs that is simple, white, purple and yellow with a trim of leaf and floral design at the top rendered in Neon. The flower design is symbolic to the meaning of "Wee Kirk o the Heather" translation into Wedding chapel of Lucky Flowers.
Sign - artistic significance: The theme of both the sign and architectural building is of a small cottage themed chapel with a minimalist sign. The usage of yellow and purple added to the kitsch theme with the added purple wood trimming to the building. The coloring of the building is similar to the colors in their sign.
Survey - research locations: Wee Kirk O the Heather website https://www.weekirk.com/ , UNLV archives, and Vintage Vegas http://vintagelasvegas.com/search/wee+kirk+of+the+heather , viewing the sign in person, and speaking to a representative on their website.
Surveyor: Gisselle Tipp
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-13
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Reader board
Text
Vegas Trailer Supply Neon Survey document, September 10, 2017
Date
2017-09-10
Description
Information about the Vegas Trailer Supply sign that sits at 3076 Fremont St.
Site address: 3076 Fremont St
Sign details: There is no information regarding the history of this property. According to their business page on Yelp, the business has closed.
Sign condition: 4, the sign is in good condition though it is not confirmed it the sign is still in working condition.
Sign form: Roadside pole sign
Sign-specific description: This sign is unique because there are two different signs featured for this property. One of the signs is supported by a large white pole. The top portion of this sign is a faded blue oval with "Vegas" painted on it in white script. Under this is a plastic, back lit sign with the word "TRAILER" in a white, western-style text against a red background. Under this is another sign that reads "SUPPLY" in the same style as the "TRAILER" sign. Beneath this is another back lit plastic sign that has an interesting graphic with the words "custom truck" filling it in red text and the "T" in "custom" is also the "T" in "truck." Under "custom truck" are the words "truck accessories" written in an artful cursive text and the words "and More!" printed in a plain sans serif text. The other sign for this property stands under this one and has five different poles supporting it. It also is placed between a blue pole and the white pole that holds up the other sign. This sign is very stylistic. This includes large red arrow that is outlined with red neon tubes and is sandwiched between a blue, rectangular sign that reads "VEGAS" along the side of it in bold white letters and "TRAILER SUPPLY "in open cabinet yellow letters in the center. The "Vegas" letters are outlined with neon tubes that glow light blue when lit up. Under this is a plastic, back lit rectangular sign that reads "PROPANE" in bold blue text against a blue background.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This property was on East Fremont Street in an area that was filled with other business that would service or sell cars.
Sign - thematic influences: These signs combined have many different styles going on in them. The first sign has a western style of font possibly evoking a western theme that has been popular throughout many properties in Las Vegas as a throwback to our past as a small western town. The other sign, that is smaller in comparison to the other, is reminiscent of the Googie style signs that were prevalent in the 1950's because of the stylistic red arrow that is featured on it.
Sign - artistic significance: There are so many styles featured in these signs combined. This sign is an excellent study in how signs for the same property can include a mixed variety of design styles.
Survey - research locations: Yelp website https://www.yelp.com/biz/vegas-trailer-supply-las-vegas , Classic Las Vegas website http://classiclasvegas.squarespace.com/classic-las-vegas-blog/2015/5/25/neon.html , Las Vegas 360 website http://www.lasvegas360.com/1787/daily-neon-vegas-trailer-supply-neon-sign/
Survey - research notes: It was very difficult to find information regarding the history of this property.
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-10
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Steel; Backlit; Roadside; Pole sign
Site address: 3076 Fremont St
Sign details: There is no information regarding the history of this property. According to their business page on Yelp, the business has closed.
Sign condition: 4, the sign is in good condition though it is not confirmed it the sign is still in working condition.
Sign form: Roadside pole sign
Sign-specific description: This sign is unique because there are two different signs featured for this property. One of the signs is supported by a large white pole. The top portion of this sign is a faded blue oval with "Vegas" painted on it in white script. Under this is a plastic, back lit sign with the word "TRAILER" in a white, western-style text against a red background. Under this is another sign that reads "SUPPLY" in the same style as the "TRAILER" sign. Beneath this is another back lit plastic sign that has an interesting graphic with the words "custom truck" filling it in red text and the "T" in "custom" is also the "T" in "truck." Under "custom truck" are the words "truck accessories" written in an artful cursive text and the words "and More!" printed in a plain sans serif text. The other sign for this property stands under this one and has five different poles supporting it. It also is placed between a blue pole and the white pole that holds up the other sign. This sign is very stylistic. This includes large red arrow that is outlined with red neon tubes and is sandwiched between a blue, rectangular sign that reads "VEGAS" along the side of it in bold white letters and "TRAILER SUPPLY "in open cabinet yellow letters in the center. The "Vegas" letters are outlined with neon tubes that glow light blue when lit up. Under this is a plastic, back lit rectangular sign that reads "PROPANE" in bold blue text against a blue background.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign environment: This property was on East Fremont Street in an area that was filled with other business that would service or sell cars.
Sign - thematic influences: These signs combined have many different styles going on in them. The first sign has a western style of font possibly evoking a western theme that has been popular throughout many properties in Las Vegas as a throwback to our past as a small western town. The other sign, that is smaller in comparison to the other, is reminiscent of the Googie style signs that were prevalent in the 1950's because of the stylistic red arrow that is featured on it.
Sign - artistic significance: There are so many styles featured in these signs combined. This sign is an excellent study in how signs for the same property can include a mixed variety of design styles.
Survey - research locations: Yelp website https://www.yelp.com/biz/vegas-trailer-supply-las-vegas , Classic Las Vegas website http://classiclasvegas.squarespace.com/classic-las-vegas-blog/2015/5/25/neon.html , Las Vegas 360 website http://www.lasvegas360.com/1787/daily-neon-vegas-trailer-supply-neon-sign/
Survey - research notes: It was very difficult to find information regarding the history of this property.
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-10
Sign keywords: Neon; Plastic; Steel; Backlit; Roadside; Pole sign
Text
Ponderosa Motel (American Inn Motel) Neon Survey document, September 16, 2017
Date
2017-09-16
Description
Information about the Ponderosa Motel (American Inn Motel) sign that sits at 3325 Fremont St.
Site address: 3325 Fremont St
Sign owner: American Inn Motel LLC
Sign details: This location has been around since 1968, but mid-2016 it was renovated from the Ponderosa Inn Motel to the American Inn Motel but they use the same sign that was slightly redesigned for their use.
Sign condition: 5- very good condition and shines brightly at night
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon sign has a red steel beam base that has a reader board on the bottom portion of the sign. Above the reader board spells out "MOTEL" vertically in white Frontier font letters, with each letter in its own red square. Each letter of this is outlined in red skeletal neon. Above this is a rectangular plastic back lit sign (used to say Ponderosa on it) that now currently has the American Inn logo in it with white letters but a red and blue background. The whole sign is outlined in chasing incandescent light bulbs.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Incandescent light bulbs chasing all around the sign.
Sign environment: This property is very east on Fremont in between St. Louis street and Sahara. There are also many other motels and apartments surrounding this property. This motel is right next door to the Lucky Cuss Motel (their old sign is now one of the restored signs in the Las Vegas Signs project showcases on Las Vegas Blvd.).
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since around 2011
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2016 the plastic portion of the sign was swapped out from the Ponderosa motel sign and the American Inn sign that is currently there now.
Sign - thematic influences: The big MOTEL portion of this sign was very prominent on motel signs in the 50's/60's, such as the La Concha and Tam O' Shanter Motel signs.
Sign - artistic significance: Font was an old west Frontier font which was prominently popular in Las Vegas in the 1940's but has been recreated many times throughout Vegas history.
Survey - research locations: Booking.com website has information on the American Inn Motel https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/ponderosa-motel-las-vegas.html , google map sattelite view, Asessor's page
Survey - research notes: When trying to search Ponderosa Motel on google is when it was discovered that it has switched over to the American Inn motel, but google maps helped with dating when the switch occurred.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-16
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Chasing; Pole sign; Reader board
Site address: 3325 Fremont St
Sign owner: American Inn Motel LLC
Sign details: This location has been around since 1968, but mid-2016 it was renovated from the Ponderosa Inn Motel to the American Inn Motel but they use the same sign that was slightly redesigned for their use.
Sign condition: 5- very good condition and shines brightly at night
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This pylon sign has a red steel beam base that has a reader board on the bottom portion of the sign. Above the reader board spells out "MOTEL" vertically in white Frontier font letters, with each letter in its own red square. Each letter of this is outlined in red skeletal neon. Above this is a rectangular plastic back lit sign (used to say Ponderosa on it) that now currently has the American Inn logo in it with white letters but a red and blue background. The whole sign is outlined in chasing incandescent light bulbs.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit portion
Sign animation: Incandescent light bulbs chasing all around the sign.
Sign environment: This property is very east on Fremont in between St. Louis street and Sahara. There are also many other motels and apartments surrounding this property. This motel is right next door to the Lucky Cuss Motel (their old sign is now one of the restored signs in the Las Vegas Signs project showcases on Las Vegas Blvd.).
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since around 2011
Sign - date of redesign/move: 2016 the plastic portion of the sign was swapped out from the Ponderosa motel sign and the American Inn sign that is currently there now.
Sign - thematic influences: The big MOTEL portion of this sign was very prominent on motel signs in the 50's/60's, such as the La Concha and Tam O' Shanter Motel signs.
Sign - artistic significance: Font was an old west Frontier font which was prominently popular in Las Vegas in the 1940's but has been recreated many times throughout Vegas history.
Survey - research locations: Booking.com website has information on the American Inn Motel https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/ponderosa-motel-las-vegas.html , google map sattelite view, Asessor's page
Survey - research notes: When trying to search Ponderosa Motel on google is when it was discovered that it has switched over to the American Inn motel, but google maps helped with dating when the switch occurred.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-16
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Chasing; Pole sign; Reader board
Text
Refine my results
Content Type
Creator or Contributor
Subject
Archival Collection
Digital Project
Resource Type
Year
Material Type
Place
Language
Records Classification