November is all about celebrating the heart of preservation. From historic cemeteries to the Burlesque Hall of Fame’s tribute to Latine culture, we’re honoring stories that connect us to Nevada’s rich heritage. In this issue, take a walk through past projects, like the revitalization of the El Rancho Hotel and Casino in Wells, and look ahead to our upcoming events, including our first Cocktails & True Tales and the much-anticipated Home + History Las Vegas 2025.

Together, let’s keep preserving the stories and spaces that make Nevada unique. Thank you for being a part of this important work!

PRESERVATION SPOTLIGHT

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum

Historic preservation involves identifying, protecting, and celebrating historic resources and communities. The Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum in Las Vegas showcased this mission with its exhibit, Let’s Get Loud!, which ran through October 20^th, and explored the profound influence of Latine music, movement, and visual culture on the art of burlesque. "Latine culture has been integral to the development of modern burlesque," noted Emmie Pappa Eddy, Ph.D. candidate at Indiana University and lead researcher for the exhibit. "From music and movement to costume design, today’s burlesque owes much to the creativity and innovations of countless Latine artists." Through Let’s Get Loud!, visitors experienced the vibrant cultural exchange that has shaped burlesque history, leaving audiences inspired and captivated. Visit the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum to experience the captivating stories and vibrant history that bring the living legacy of burlesque to life as an art form and cultural phenomenon.

Still intrigued by historic cemeteries after NPF’s October Woodlawn Tours? Explore more historic cemeteries across Nevada! Visit sites like the Old Tonopah Cemetery, where weathered tombstones tell stories of early settlers and miners from Nevada’s silver mining days. Discover the haunting beauty of these historic landscapes and the enduring spirit of Nevadans! 

https://oldtonopahcemetery.com/ 

NPF'S LEGACY: PAST PROJECTS

Nevada Preservation Foundation has worked on preservation projects throughout Nevada, including a historic hotel and casino in Elko County. The El Rancho Hotel and Casino has been a significant community space for Wells since its construction in 1949. Originally a hotel and casino, the El Rancho became a central venue for community events, hosting quinceañeras, parties, and serving as a popular restaurant. Damaged by a 6.0-magnitude earthquake in 2008, this historic midcentury building was revitalized with support from NPF, city funding, and grants. Restoration efforts included reclaiming original bricks and nominating the property for the National Register of Historic Places. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023, the El Rancho remained a resilient landmark in downtown Wells.

UPCOMING PROGRAMMING

Stroll & Shop: John S. Park Historic Walking Tour + Cactus Club Plant Sale

Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 10am 

Explore Las Vegas’ First Suburb: The John S. Park Historic Neighborhood Walking Tour 

Discover the fascinating history and unique architecture of John S. Park Historic Neighborhood and explore nearly 100 years of history packed into one fascinating block. See charming historic homes and unique architecture while learning how Las Vegas grew from a small railroad town to the lively metropolis it is today. Hear stories of the city’s founders, from influential figures to colorful characters, and discover how the atomic era and other historic events shaped this vibrant community.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city’s past and a deeper appreciation for its rich heritage. After the tour, swing by the Downtown Cactus Club’s Fall Plant Sale. It’s a great chance to discover the area’s history and architectural gems—and pick up a unique plant to bring home! $25.

• Please note that this walking tour does not include entering homes.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT

A Las Vegas resident since 2015, April has been an enthusiastic NPF volunteer since 2019. Once a D+ history student who thought of history class as prime nap time, she didn’t discover her passion for the past until moving to NYC in her 20s, when she began to understand the important role historic places play in appreciating the past.

As a tour manager with Taste Buzz Food Tours, April loves surprising guests with early Las Vegas history (yes, the city existed before 1950!) and showcasing the local side of Vegas. In her spare time, she enjoys sipping on budget barley water in beloved, well-worn bars, scouting for deals on half-off days at Savers, and keeping an eye on the neighborhood happenings.

A LOOK AHEAD

Join us for our first Cocktails & True Tales: An Oral History Happy Hour! Dive into the rich history of The Historic Commercial Center District and enjoy captivating stories from locals about its days as one of the most popular hangouts in town. Don’t miss out on an evening of drinks and stories on December 6!

Keep an eye on NPF socials and join our mailing list for the latest updates! Be the first to snag tickets for Home + History Las Vegas May 1-4, 2025!

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