History Lesson: Las Vegas’ Historic Westside Neighborhood
The Historic Westside neighborhood of Las Vegas is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich history that spans over a century. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement of African American railroad workers to its present-day status as an emerging cultural and economic hub, the Westside has played a critical role in the history and development of Las Vegas and continues to be a vital part of the city's identity. This article provides a history lesson for those who want to get to know the dynamic trajectory of the Historic Westside.
In this article, we discuss:
The origins of the Historic Westside as an African American neighborhood for railroad works
How the Westside became the hub of African American culture in Las Vegas during the segregation area
An overview of a few neighborhood landmarks including the Moulin Rouge, Las Vegas’ first desegregated hotel and casino
Plans for the future of the Historic Westside neighborhood
origins of the historic westside
JT McWilliams, 1930s (Source: UNLV Archives)
The Westside neighborhood was first settled in the early 1900s by African American railroad workers who were brought to Las Vegas to work on the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. These workers, many of whom were former slaves, were drawn to the area by the promise of steady work and the opportunity to build new lives for themselves and their families.
Over time, the Westside neighborhood grew and evolved, becoming home to a diverse community of residents from all walks of life. The area started to become known for its vibrant culture, with a thriving music scene and a bustling nightlife off the famed Las Vegas Strip.
The Westside During the Segregation era in Las Vegas
The Westside played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Many residents of the neighborhood participated in protests and demonstrations, fighting for equal rights and an end to segregation. The Westside was also home to several prominent civil rights leaders, including Dr. James McMillan and Dr. Johnnie Jackson, who were active in the movement and worked to improve the lives of African Americans in Las Vegas.
During the era of segregation in the United States, the Westside was one of the few places in Las Vegas where African Americans were allowed to live and work. This was due to the discriminatory practice of redlining, where banks and other financial institutions would refuse to provide mortgages and other loans to people of color in certain neighborhoods, effectively limiting their ability to buy property. Beginning in the 1940s, Black entertainers were not permitted to stay at the casinos where they performed on the Las Vegas Strip. As a result, they would frequent clubs in West Las Vegas following their shows to unwind and often engage in impromptu jam sessions with other performers. This led to the development of a thriving music scene and a bustling nightlife in the Westside, which attracted a diverse community of residents from all walks of life.
cotton club, jackson ave (source: review Journal)
Jackson Avenue, located in the Historic Westside neighborhood of Las Vegas, has a rich and storied history. This historic street was once the heart of the Westside community, home to a variety of businesses and institutions that served the residents of the neighborhood.
In the early days of the Westside, Jackson Avenue was lined with small, family-owned businesses, including grocery stores, barbershops, and nightclubs. These businesses were not only a source of economic stability for the community but also served as important gathering spaces for residents. This street was also home to several African American churches, which served as important community hubs and provided a sense of unity and connection for residents.
landmarks in the historic westside
moulin rouge, 1955 (source: unlv archives)
The Moulin Rouge and the Westside School are two important landmarks in the Historic Westside neighborhood of Las Vegas. Both have played a significant role in the history and development of the community, and continue to be an important part of the Westside's cultural heritage.
The Moulin Rouge was the first desegregated hotel and casino in Las Vegas, opening its doors in 1955. It was a symbol of hope and progress for the African American community in Las Vegas, who had long been excluded from many of the city's hotels and casinos. The Moulin Rouge was a popular destination for both locals and visitors, and featured performances by some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis Jr., and Louis Armstrong.
The Westside School, on the other hand, was an elementary school, which served the African American community in the Westside neighborhood. It was an important institution in the community, providing education and opportunity for the children of the Westside. The school was closed in the late 1970s, but the building has been preserved and is now used as a community center and event space.
These two landmarks are important reminders of the Westside's rich history and cultural heritage. They are also a testament to the resilience and determination of the Westside community, who have overcome discrimination and adversity to build a vibrant and thriving community. Today, both the Moulin Rouge and the Westside School continue to be an important part of the Westside community, serving as cultural reminders for residents and visitors alike.
the future of the neighborhood
The Historic Westside neighborhood of Las Vegas is currently undergoing a revitalization effort through the HUNDRED Plan in Action, which aims to improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the community's cultural and economic vitality. This plan focuses on a holistic approach to community development, addressing issues such as affordable housing, economic development, education, and public safety.
One of the key components of the HUNDRED Plan in Action is the development of affordable housing in the Westside. The plan aims to increase the supply of affordable housing in the neighborhood, which will help to stabilize the community and prevent displacement of residents. Additionally, the plan also includes efforts to improve the energy efficiency of existing housing, which will help to reduce costs for residents and improve their quality of life.
to conclude
The Historic Westside neighborhood of Las Vegas has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, when it was settled by African American railroad workers. Despite discriminatory practices such as redlining and segregation, the Westside community thrived and became a center of African American culture and commerce. Landmarks such as the Moulin Rouge and the Westside School are significant to the community's history and heritage. The HUNDRED Plan in Action is currently being implemented to revitalize the area and improve the quality of life for residents, with a focus on affordable housing, economic development, education, and public safety.
If you are interested in learning more about the work that we’re doing to revitalize the Historic Westside, please contact us here.