Las Vegas' Golden Era

Most people are not aware that Las Vegas got it's start as a major hub in the early 1930's as traffic west increased and the town began to grow. However, it wasn't until the early 1950's that Las Vegas began forming as a major gambling and entertainment mecca. Join the author's tales of working as a crew member moving up to leadership roles within major productions of the day in "Sin City". As he recounts the many celebrities who performed during Las Vegas' heyday, the productions worked on, issues encountered, and each star's preferences and quirks, the reader will be swept away within a Golden Era of show business and the activities of headliners during a time when Las Vegas was making a name for itself. From Howard Hughes' real estate to the Rat Pack, and on to major productions in the 1970's, each detail is a reflection of a city that never rests, and now it has evolved into today's glitzy entertainment and gambling capital. Additionally, the author's filming of the second major production show at the Stardust Hotel is currently on You Tube under "Stardust 16mm film 1959."

Las Vegas enjoyed legalized gaming since 1931, the modest gaming parlors were saloons with sawdust on the floors, most with table games, and few, if any slot machines.  The town was serviced mainly by the Union Pacific Railroad. Las Vegas' population consisted of ranchers, farmers and merchants, people who worked hard and played hard.  It's claim to fame was bustling Fremont Street where most of the houses of chance were located. Inevitably Hoover Dam and the Second World War would bring thousands to the area, and in a few years would see a transformation the world has ever witnessed. This is my personal account starting shortly after the war when the population was reeling from the deprivation of the last few years and sought the release afforded by Las Vegas.  Gaming became more sophisticated, the sawdust was gone; the draw now was great climate, low prices and entertainment.