Las Vegas is a city synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the allure of chance. But behind the shimmering facades of its renowned casinos lies a vibrant history woven intricately by the lives of the workers who built and sustained this entertainment mecca. Recently, a monumental effort led by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Special Collections and Archives has breathed new life into over 800 unique videos chronicling the stories of these casino workers. This transformational initiative, titled “Doubling Down: Preserving the Stories of the Workers and Dreamers Behind the Las Vegas Casino Industry,” marks a significant step in acknowledging and preserving the rich narratives that shaped this iconic city.
The Digital Preservation Project
The successful digitization of these crucial video recordings can largely be credited to a Recordings at Risk Grant provided by the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR). This generous funding, supported by the Mellon Foundation, aims to preserve rare and unique audiovisual content, ensuring its accessibility for future researchers and the public. A total of 17 projects were selected for funding in this funding cycle, highlighting the importance and scholarly value of the content being preserved.
Sarah Quigley, the director of Special Collections and Archives at UNLV, expressed the project’s significance: “By digitizing these videos, we have enhanced their accessibility for modern users, bringing to life the stories they contain while adding rich visual and audio context to the Las Vegas historical narrative.” This initiative not only safeguards the tapes from degradation due to aging and environmental damage but also serves to amplify the voices of those who have been pivotal in the development of Las Vegas as a global entertainment hub.
The Scope of the Collection
The digitization project encompasses a staggering collection of 846 videos spanning decades—from the 1960s through the 2010s. Among these, approximately 450 videos have been made available online, while the remaining footage can be accessed in the Special Collections and Archives Reading Room at Lied Library or virtually upon request. These videos provide an invaluable window into the evolution of Las Vegas, chronicling significant events, labor movements, and cultural milestones through the eyes of its dedicated workers.
Leading the project was Sarah Jones, head of Special Collections and Archives Technical Services, who meticulously selected a range of historically significant clips that showcase the diversity of content available. The following highlights represent just a glimpse of the rich history preserved within these collections.
Noteworthy Video Highlights
Titanic Resorts Inc. Press Conference (1999)
In this fascinating clip, Stratosphere founder Bob Stupak shares his ambitious vision for a Titanic-themed casino and resort on the Las Vegas Strip. As he passionately describes his plans, the announcement culminates with a performance by Robert Goulet, bringing theatrical flair to the event. This video not only illuminates the sometimes extravagant concepts behind Vegas resorts but also provides insights into historical economic and cultural trends as the city evolved into a world-renowned entertainment capital.
MGM Pickets Footage of Workers on Strike
Documenting a pivotal moment in labor history, this footage captures members of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 as they strike for better wages and job security outside the MGM. The video provides a firsthand look at the labor movements that shaped the working conditions in the casino industry and highlights the collective efforts of workers advocating for their rights.
Stardust Resort and Casino Lido de Paris Original Transfer Master (1988)
Venture behind the scenes of one of Las Vegas’ most iconic shows, the Lido de Paris, with this captivating b-roll footage. It captures the glamour and exuberance of the show’s dress rehearsals at the Stardust Hotel. The video not only showcases the artistic talent and elaborate production values of the performance but also reflects on the integral role live entertainment has played in defining Las Vegas’ cultural landscape.
A Go-Go Act and Caesars Palace Under Construction (1966)
This video transports viewers back to the vibrant 1960s as it chronicles the burgeoning expansion of Las Vegas, highlighted by the construction of Caesars Palace. Featuring performers from “Let’s Go A-Go-Go,” it beautifully captures the city’s dynamic growth and evolution, offering a rare glimpse into a transformative era marked by newfound opulence and entertainment.
Inside the Count Room at Circus Circus
Delve into a rarely seen aspect of casino operations with this informative video showcasing the coin count room at Circus Circus. The footage illustrates the behind-the-scenes workings of the casino, where large sums of money are meticulously counted and verified—an essential process that underscores the financial intricacies of the gaming industry.
Oral Histories Collection by Penelope Ruchman
This collection features nearly 100 oral history interviews conducted by longtime gaming professional Penelope Ruchman from 1999 to 2001. These recordings provide invaluable narratives from former casino industry workers, offering insights into their experiences and contributions to the evolving landscape of Las Vegas.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
The digitization of these videos not only serves as a vital tool for historical documentation but also acts as a bridge connecting the past with future generations. By enhancing the accessibility of these captivating stories, UNLV’s Special Collections and Archives is ensuring that the legacy of Las Vegas casino workers continues to inspire and inform. As the city evolves, so too does the importance of preserving its unique history, allowing us to appreciate the hard work and dreams that have shaped Las Vegas into the vibrant, pulsing heart of entertainment it is today.
