
The Tumbleweed motel which opened in approximately 1949, had the telephone number of 1014W.
The Tumbleweed's advertisement stated "A new, elegantly furnished, soundproof, 25 unit motel. Beautyrest box-spring mattresses. Large, ventilated rooms, Frigidaire air-cooled in summer, steam-heated in winter. Las Vegas' Newest and Nicest, yet moderate rates. Swimming pool available."

Sharing the property was the Pyramids Motel, whose opening date is unknown but the cars in the pictures are dated 1950s. The Pyramids was owned by Molasky family.

In the 1950s, the Pyramids boasted room phones, heated swimming pool, TVs, baby sitters, refrigeration, free show reservations, and a glass enclosed sun area.
The following two scans are donated by Howard Klein.

In 1961, Pyramids consisted of 46 rooms with offset dressing areas. It boasted free TV, show reservations and courtesy coffee. It contained refrigerated air conditioning, tub and shower combination, and a telephone in each room. It still contained a pool, and glassed in sun area, but added that cribs were available and it welcomed pets.
Somewhere between 1961 and 1964, apparently this property was to become the Riverboat Casino owned by George Goldberg, the same owner of the Flamingo Capri. In November of 1964, Goldberg was advised that he would have raze the ranch house apartments at the rear of the Capri for additional parking spaces for the soon to be Riverboat.
In 1971, the River Boat Casino opened (I have no other information on this property).
Apparently, something happened because nine years later, in 1973, the following was written:
"The Riverboat Queen may open on July 2nd after all, with the Mickie Finn Show in its showroom, aptly named the Mark Twain Theatre Lounge by Rocky Sennes. With Shelby Williams and the other execs conferring on final details, we had carte blanche to explore the premises at leisure. The interior is immediately reminiscent of the Showboat Hotel/Casino, with accent on the same period and hues . . . While wondering about the Riverboat we wondered if it would be slightly haunted by the ghost of George Goldberg, whose longtime dream it was to introduce his own Riverboat (with moat) to the Strip area. G.G. was the owner of the Flamingo Capri before his demise." - Etta Cortez, June, 1973
(Thanks to Andy Bandit for providing me with some of the time-line for this resort.)
On July 2, 1973, at 4:00pm, the dream of Selby and Claudine Williams came true. They opened their Holiday Casino. Many longtime Las Vegans comprised the congenial staff including Jimmy Moore, and Perri family members Michael, Anthony, Paul, Peter, and Joseph formerly at the El Cortez, and slot shift boss Mike Roncevic formerly at the Landmark & Desert Inn.
There is a plaque outside of Harrah's stating:
"Let it be known that this special plaque is dedicated to honor Shelby and Claudine Williams for their notable accomplishments and unselfish contributions to Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. and the entire community of Las Vegas. On this very site on July 2, 1973, the Williams opened the Holiday Casino, the forerunner of today's Harrah's Las Vegas. Since then, the Las Vegas tourism industry and the entire Silver State have benefited tremendously from the couple's tireless energy and boundless generosity. The Williams have touched every aspect of life in Las Vegas, from education to hospitality/tourism to government, and without doubt, their kindness and caring have enhanced immeasurably the qualify of life for everyone. Shelby and Claudine Williams are true "treasures" to Harrah's Las Vegas and the State of Nevada."

"Biggest news of the week was the opening of the beautiful Holiday Casino on the Strip, adjacent to the Holiday Inn. Fabulous wishes of success to owner Shelby Williams and his associates. Jimmy Moore is in charge of the casino. The interior is alive with tastefully selected shades of red and an escalator delivers visitors to the mezzanine area for the bingo sessions. The Mickey Finn Show opened the Mark Twain Theatre and Kay Fleming with Tony Carlo are entertaining in the Show Bar, off the casino area." - Etta Cortez, July, 1973
Click Here for a picture and announcement for the resort.
When asked about the name Mark Twain, Shelby Williams, and Jimmy Moore provided the following, reminding everyone that Moore once worked on a riverboat.
"Samuel Clemens had a tremendous sense of humor - he had to - to adopt Mark Twain as his pen name - when it was a river term - not a name. As riverboats approached shallower waters, the shout "mark twain" indicated a depth of twelve feet, or two fathoms." - Shelby Williams/Jimmy Moore, July, 1973
In 1996, Claudine Williams granted Susan Berman, author of "Lady Las Vegas" an interview:
"I came here with my husband Shelby Williams, a gambler from Texas. First we came on our way to California in 1946. We stayed at the El Rancho. The town was so small. Then we came back as Jake Friedman's guests at the Sands in 1952, and we fell in love with the town. We owned a private club in Galveston, Texas, called the Rose Garden. We decided we wanted to move here." - Claudine Williams
Susan Berman goes on to state that the Williams first bought the Silver Slipper in 1964. Howard Hughes bought it from them. In 1972, they started the Holiday Casino, then Harrah's bought it. After Shelby died, they asked Claudine to stay on as CEO.

In 1974, the Mark Twain Lounge showcased Jo Ann Castle, Dixieland Band & Follies, Wild World of Burlesque, Tom Jones '74, and A Touch of Burlesque.

In 1976 the Mark Twain Lounge showcased Wild World of Burlesque.
In 1977, Shelby Williams who had been in and out of intensive care for five years died.
Also in 1977, Harrah's Showroom showcased Spellbound starring Ayala.
In February of 1980, Holiday Inns, Inc. acquired Harrah's Hotel Casino Company. Holiday Inn at the time had 1,600 hotels and interests in two casinos: a casino under construction in the marina district in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and a 40% ownership interest in River Boat Casino, Inc., a casino adjacent to the Holiday Inn hotel on the Las Vegas strip.
In 1979, Mark Twain Theater showcased The Wild World of Burlesque. The Maitre d' was Sven Levin. Cocktail shows were $5.50.
In 1980, Mark Twain showcased Wild World of Burlesque. The Maitre d was Sven Levin.
In 1981, Mark Twain showcased Wild World of Burlesque. The Maitre d' was Sven Levin.
Holiday also offered $12,500 bingo for $.20 on all regular games.
In 1982, Mark Twain showcased Wild World of Burlesque for $6.95 which included two drinks.
In January of 1983, Holiday Inns, Inc. acquired the remaining 60% interest in River Boat Casino, Inc. Harrah's assumes management of the casino and hotel and later than year bought the resort.
During this year, Holiday showcased Mark Twain: Wild World of Burlesque. The Maitre d' was Sven Levin.

Holiday advertised 1,000 new rooms. The New Galley Restaurant offered $1.17 for a deluxe breakfast served 24 hours, $2.47 for the deluxe luncheon buffet, and $3.47 for the dinner buffet.
In 1984, Mark Twain showcased Wide World of Burlesque. The Maitre d' was Sven Levin.
May of 1985, Holiday Inns, Inc. shareholders approved a new corporate name, Holiday Corporation. The new umbrella organization reflected the growing diversity of the company's products -- Harrah's Casinos, Holiday Inn hotels, Embassy Suites Hotels and Hampton Inn hotels. Later this year, they merged the next door property River Boat Casino.
Holiday had bingo in the casino. The Manager was Rita Callaway. The resort held 10 gaming tables and the Manager was Ruth Schaefer.
The Holiday Theatre showcased Rocky Sennes Roaring 20's Revue.
During this year the Galley Buffet was $1.27 for breakfast, $2.57 for lunch, and $3.57 for dinner.
Claudine's was truly a fine dining and romantic autumn decor restaurant. It offered the highest quality prime beef, lobster, salmon, and lamb. Prices ranged from $13.95 to complete dinners for $35.
On July 4, 1988, Holiday invited everyone to "Ship on the Strip" with an old fashioned picnic from 11:00am to 11:00pm in the Galley Buffet. In addition to its Baron of beef au jus, Virginia baked ham and roast turkey, the Galley added barbeque ribs, fried chicken and beef stew.
During this year Holiday showcased Roaring 20s Revue featuring Sue Kim/Kim Brothers/Saly Brothers. The Atrium Lounge showcased Class Act.
In November of 1989, Holiday announced the name of new spin-off company, The Promus Companies Incorporated.
In January of 1990, Holiday stockholders approved transfer of Holiday Inn hotel business to Bass PLC and the spin-off of Holiday Corporation's remaining brands (Harrah's, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Homewood Suites) and assets into The Promus Companies.
"Bill Morris was a minority owner in the Holiday Casino. Shelby Williams and his wife Claudine were the owners of it originally when Bill was involved. Shelby died, and everyone thought Claudine would give it up and sell it or let Morris run it. Claudine went it alone and turned it into a huge success. When Harrah's wanted to buy in, she sold a percentage for $60 million. Later Harrah's asked her to sell the remainder. She told them she would take $120 million for the remainder and they accepted the offer with Claudine staying on as a Chairperson. Morris sold his interest in the neighborhood of 6 million." - Donator L, early 2002
During this year, Holiday Theatre showcased Keep Smilin' America. Atrium Lounge showcased Dick Contino.
In April of 1992, the conversion of Holiday Casino to Harrah's Las Vegas was completed.


Also in 1992, Commander's Theatre showcased Spellbound. Court of Two Gators showcased The Imperials, High Voltage, ShBoom, and Ghalib Ghallab.

Spellbound was named the 1993 Best Magic Review by the International Magic Awards. Star Jeff Hobson was named 1993 Best Comedy/Magician.
On April 24, 1994, Harrah's met with unwanted publicity when there as an armed robbery at the cashier's cage when young gang members stole $97,000.

In June of 1995, Promus Companies Inc., spun-off its hotel brands (Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites) into a new corporation. The remaining company, which consisted of the Harrah's brand, all Harrah's assets and a majority of the Promus headquarters assets and people, was then renamed Harrah's Entertainment, Inc., returning the Harrah's name to the New York Stock Exchange for the first time since 1980. Harrah's stock symbol is HET. Michael Rose was chairman and Philip Satre was President and CEO.
In June of 1995, a Kevin, Kentucky, man fed $20 in a Quartermania progressive slot machine winning $914,541. He stated the cash was to be split with his girlfiend and to send her granddaughter through college.
Also in 1995, CBS Studios opened a test laboratory for people to view pilot TV shows. One floor above the casino, tourists sat quietly in the dark, passing judgment on the shows the rest of America may see months later. When they see something they liked, they pushed a green button on a hand-held control. If the show was not to their liking, they pushed a red button. During the peak of the pilot season in mid-May, a screening began every 15 minutes. Harrah's marketing vice president Mike Leonard noted that the test procedure did more than simply help determine program lineups. It also provided Harrah's with one of the most unique entertainment options in the Las Vegas area.
In 1995, Harrah's showcased Spellbound: A Concert of Illusion. The Comedy Club showcased Evening at the Improv. It was reported that Spellbound had been updated with new cast members, high-tech illusionists Mark Kalin and Jinger, and new dance numbers. The show's one holdover was comedian Jeff Hobson.
In 1995, Ed McMahon took the stage at The Improv to introduce the 1994-1995 Star Search comedy champions.
In the end of 1995, Jay Leno brought The Tonight show to MGM Grand. The show went live by satellite feed to the Flamingo where Wayne Kotter, performing at the Improv at Harrah's was acting as a Tonight Show correspondent. Stationed behind a blackjack table, it was Kotter's duty to pick an onlooker from the crowd to play the game, which entailed both Kotter and the player each cutting a deck of cards. If the card the player cut was higher than the one Kotter cut, the player received a Tonight Show t-shirt. If it was lower, the guy loses his shirt to The Tonight Show. More information on the show can be found at the MGM page.

In May of 1996, it was noted that 74 year old Claudine Williams, who was the only woman in the Gaming Hall of Fame still remained at the helm of Harrah's.
"They have to drag me out screaming." Claudine Williams

In 1996, it was reported that Harrah's was undergoing a huge face-lift. A model was made as to what the resort was going to look like since the riverboat was being abandoned.
In 1996, Commanders Theatre showcased Spellbound starring Mark Kalin and Jinger. The Improv showcased Anthony Clark, Pablo Francisco, and Karlton Johnson.
In April of 1997, it was reported that renovations to the resort were on time. Included in the renovations were six giant 22,000 pound 23-carat gold-leaf jesters. Built from steel and glass reinforced polyester resin, the jesters stand 32 feet high and wear size 43 shoes. The new 35-story hotel tower with its 1,000 rooms would go on line with the first 525 rooms in May.

Harrah's joined the acting scene when she hosted the two hour special The Dale Adriatico Show. Adriatico was a popular and well-known entertainer in the Philippines. Adriatico was in Vegas, along with several celebrities he interviewed, to film the segment, hoping it would turn into a 13-week series of shows.
In July 1997, Harrah's completed a $200 million renovation abandoning the showboat for a carnival theme. Of the $200 million, $31 million was spent on the Range Steakhouse, Adreotti's, and Asia. An additional $3 million was spent on advertising in Southern California.

At the grand re-opening Harry Connick, Jr., entertained at the Carnaval Court. Tino Wallenda, son of legendary tight-rope walker Karl Wallenda, walked 139 feet across a 1-inch steel cable, 99 feet above the ground. Celebrities also appeared included Sidney Poitier, Sandra Bullock, Minnie Driver, Stephen Baldwin, Lea Thompson, Mike Bergin, Dick Butkus and Steve and Elaine Wynn.
Harrah's sits on 17.3 acres. It contains 2,587 hotel rooms and 90 hotel suites located in the 23 story Mardi Gras North Tower, the 15 story Mardi Gras South Tower, and 35 story Carnaval Tower.
Harrah's also has 25,000 square feet of convention space, an arcade, outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities. Inside the Spa is a state-of-the-art health club, whirlpools, a steam room, and sauna and beauty salon.
Inside the resort, two brightly colored murals hang behind the front desk and tell the story of Las Vegas. A spectacular 30'x90' hand-painted mural folds and wraps from the exterior of the property to the interior is the largest such mural ever produced.
The casino is 86,664 square feet, containing 76 table games, eight Poker Games and 1,983 slot/video poker machines. It also has a 64 seat Race Book with 12 video screens, and 100 seat Sports Book with 14 video screens.
Restaurants include Asia, Cafe Andreotti, Club Cappuccino, Fresh Market Square Buffet, Garden Cafe, The Range Steakhouse, and Winning Streaks Stadium Cafe which is located within the Sports Book.
During this year Commanders Theatre showcased Spellbound '97. The Improv showcased nightly entertainment. The Court of Two Gators Lounge showcased nightly entertainment.
In August of 1998, Harrah's bought the off-Strip resort Rio for $880 million in stock and assumed debt.
In 1998, Showroom showcased Spellbound starring Ayala.
In 1999, Harrah's showcased the musical dance Spellbound, a Dick Foster production, with producer Lynn Foster. The Improv showcased several different comediennes nightly. Range Setakhouse Piano Bar showcased live entertainment nightly.
Spellbound is a magic show with a twist. By incorporating comedy and a special artistry act, our show goes a step beyond what the typical Las Vegas show offers." - Lynn Foster
Starring was Mexico's foremost illusionist, Joaquin Ayala with his wife Lilia as his assistant. Ayala combined ancient Mexican culture with state-of-the-art magic effects to highlight the show's themes, while bringing an international flair to the stage. A popular, urbanized tap dance routine is also mixed into the metropolitan city segment. Ayala uses dramatic masks and ballet-like stage craft. Ayala and his wife received international recognition for their talents in 1998, when they were bestowed with the Merlin Award for "Most Original Magic" from the International Magicians Society.
Spellbound also included comedy juggler Michael Holly. Holly's act accentuated his creative use of the medals that he awards to himself for accomplishing tricks. Also seen is the amazing agility of the performers known as Human Design, who have perfected the art form of slow-motion, control acrobatics with the use of no wires or ropes. Human Design depicts living statues whose talent of strength and balance keep all eyes glued to their slow-motion moves at all times.
Also showcased at Harrah's is Budd Friedman's world-famous Improv Comedy Club. Each week three new comedians perform, creating a show that is fresh, unique and very funny. Friedman opened the first Improvisation Night Club in 1963 on West 44th Street in New York City. He has been hosting comedy for more than three decades and is attributed with generating the fast-paced explosion on the comedy circuit.
Harrah's is definitely a casino with a flair for fun and excitement, and when guests visit The Improv, that's what they're going to get." - Budd Friedman
The newly-renovated Improv is housed in a 400 seat, custom built showroom that boasts the highest quality sound and lighting systems.
La Play Lounge has a nine-screen video wall with popular bands playing live music seven days a weeks. Musical mixes include Latin Rhythm, Jazz, Pop and Brazilian.
Shops include two Jackpot stores featuring a mix of Harrah's logo merchandise; Carnaval Corner that sells gourmet foods, cookbooks, coffees, liquors, glasses and cigars; On Stage which sells CDs (which you can listen to in the store before buying), entertainment-themed gift items such as picture frames, souvenirs, books and backstage gear from Harrah's shows; and Ghirardelli Chocolate Company which sells - well, that's obvious.

In the winter of 1999, American fashion designer Nicole Miller created a one of a kind Boeing 737 jumbo jet for Harrah's Biggest Nights Dream Tour. Miller adorned the steel with a jumble of popular casino icons, including roulette wheels, playing cards and slot machines. Miller signed her creation at New Jersey's Teterboro Airport and was there to watch as her creation took to the air, carrying 15 lucky couples on the Tour which began at Harrah's Atlantic City, continued on to Harrah's Lake Tahoe and touching down at Harrah's Las Vegas. The high-flying rolling winners received $50,000 in cash, unlimited amenities, and the most stylish flight of their lives.
After designing a Harley Davidson and a Ferrari I knew that the next step should be an airplane." - Nicole Miller
In 1999, Harrah's received 10 first place awards in Casino Player magazine's "Best of Gaming" issue in the categories of Best Slots, Best Slot Club, Best Slot Tournaments, Best Table Tournaments, Best Promotions, Best Dealers, Best Hosts, Best Comps, Best Comedy Club and Where Players Feel the Luckiest.
For New Years Even Harrah's Spellbound production performed at 7:30pm ($39.95), and 10:30pm ($49.95). The gala featured party favors, champagne and a celebration with the cast. A special show at The Improv comedy club at 10:30pm featured several comics, and the $39.95 tickets included party favors.
On September 5, 2000, Harrah's was the target for crime when 32 year old Stephen Mullen and 31 year old Adam Frimmel, reportedly stole a wallet from a customer. The criminal complaint alleged the men used credit cards from the wallet at two hotels.
On September 7, 2000, the pair went back to Harrah's and stole cash from one woman and a purse from another. Inside the purse was more than $2,500 in cash and personal belongings. Security guards confronted the two men. As Frimmel ran off, Mullen resisted arrest and was tackled by guards. Police said that while guards struggled to handcuff him, he fired two shots. One of the shots struck 43 year old security guard Frank Willis in the abdomen and another hit 29 year old patron Heather M. Vitarelli in the back as she stood oblivious to the struggle. Vitarelli died. The security officers were then able to get the gun away from Mullen and handcuff him. Other officers caught Frimmel. The criminal complaint charged each of them with 20 criminal counts ranging from murder to petty larceny.
Sometime later, Frimmel was mistakenly released from the Clark County Detention Center but was later recaptured in New Jersey. Frimmel was also wanted in New Jersey for violation of parole and bail jumping.
In 2000, the Main Showroom showcased Takin' It Uptown starring Clint Holmes (1973's Playground of my Mind & Lowenbrau beer jingle). The Improve showcased Wendy Liebman, Judy Gold, Vinnie Favorito, Willie Barcena, Kathleen Madigan, and Cathy Ladman. The Comedy Cabaret is showcasing Magician Mac King.
Harrah's was a winner in the 2001 What's On Visitor's Choice Awards for Best Comedy Room with The Improv, Best Slots, and Best Video Poker.
In early 2001, Harrah's closed her Poker Room due to lack of patrons.

In 2001, restaurants contained in the resort include Asia, Cafe Andreotti's, Carnaval Corner, Club Cappuccino, Fresh Market Square Buffet, The Garden Cafe, Ghirardelli's Old Fashioned Chocolate Shop, and The Range Steakhouse.

On November 11, 2001, Mandalay Bay hosted the USO benefit "Las Vegas Salutes the Spirit of America." Many impressionists were on hand. Pictured are Frank Marino as Joan Rivers, Andre Phillip Gagnon, Bill Acosta, Bob Anderson, Fred Travalena, Rich Little, and Joey Scinta. The event was arranged by Stardust's Wayne Newton, Monte Carlo's Lance Burton, and Harrah's Clint Holmes who were in attendance. Other celebrities in attendance were Bob Anderson, The Scintas, Siegfried & Roy, and Earl Turner. National media including Entertainment Tonight covered the event. They raised a total of $250,000.
In 2001, Main Showroom showcased Taking' It Uptown starring Clint Holmes, and Skin Tight adult revue.
The Improv showcased Max Alexander/Mike Loftus/Brian Duinkelman (1/15-21), Willie Barcena/Mike Burton/Becky Pedigo (529-6/3), Bobby Collins/Jack Thomas/Don Barnhart (1/9-14), Vinnie Favorito/Steve Seagrin/Brian Dunkelman (6/12-17), Bruce Fine/Tony Rock/Reno Collier (6/5-10), Charles Fleischer/Bill Swyer/Eric Passoja (6/26-7/1), Judy Gold/Mike Luftus/Elizabeth Beckwith (5/1-6), Bob Golub/Greg Schwem/Andy Campbell (1/7), Bob Golub/Doug Benson/Paul Goebel (5/22-27), Jeremy Hotz/Bruce Fine/Benny Ricardo (1/23-28), Jeremy Hotz/Bruce Smirnoff/Arnold Mukai (4/24-29), Wendy Liebman/John Diresta/Jeff Capri (8/5), Wendy Liebman/Phil Tag/David Gee (5/15-20), Kathleen Madigan/Gene Pompa/Gary Brightwell (4/22), Steve Marmel/Jeff Burghart/gary Brightwell (8/14-18), Kivi Rogers (1/30-2/4), Kivi Rogers/Bonnie McFarland/Chris Mancini (6/16-24), Stagebenders/Scott Henry/Avi Liberman (5/8-13), Rich Vos/Darryl Collier/Avi Liberman (8/7-12).
The Comedy Cabaret showcased Magician Mac King.
In May 2002 - Casino operators reached contract agreements with the union representing waitresses and housekeepers, virtually eliminating the prospect of a strike. The latest agreements between the Culinary Workers Union and the casinos were reached with Mandalay Resort Group, MGM Mirage, Park Place, Aztar Corp., and Harrah's. The new agreements cover about three-quarters of the 40,000 cooks, waitresses and housekeepers the union represents in Las Vegas. Under the new tentative contracts, workers will receive anaverage of $3.24 in increased hourly wages and benefits over the new contract's five-year life. Much of that will go to pay for higher health insurance costs, which workers will continue to receive free of charge.
In 2002, Main Showroom showcased Clint Holmes, and Skintight.

La Playa Lounge showcased continuous entertainment.
The Improv showcased Ric Ducomunn/Carol Leifer/Sue Kolinsky (5/7-12), Vinnie Favorito/Mike Preminger/Graham Elwood (5/14-19), Judy Gold/Bill Dwyer/Benny Ricardo (2/3), Rocky LaPorte/Jimmy Pardo/K.P.Anderson (5/21-26), Paul Provenzo/Marc Price/Avi Liberman (2/17), The Stagebenders/Gene Pompa/Andy Campbell (4/16-21), and Pam Stone/JOhn Jeffron/Bobby Kosser (8/4), Pam Stone/Steve Seagrin/Gary Brightwell (5/5).
The Comedy Cabaret showcased Magician Mac King.
Carnival Court showcased Cook E. Jarr, Fri. & Sat., Island Tyme Wed-Mon, The Kokomo Show Tues-Sun, Racquel Maartel Tues-Sun, Tony Marques Mon & Tues. The LaPlaya Lounge showcased live bands daily, and The Range Steakhouse Lounge showcased Calvin Brooks Tues-Sun.

In 2003, Clint Holmes Theater is showcasing Clint Holmes starring Clint Holmes (dark Sundays), and Skintight (dark Thursdays).
Improv Comedy Club will be showcasing Wendie Liebman/Brant von Hoffman/Ron Morey (5/11); Charles Fleischer/Don Barnhart (5/13-18); Greg Giraldo/Suli McCullough/Ophia Eisenberg (5/20/25); Vinnie Favorito/Lowell Sanders/Gary Brightwell (5/27-6/1).
La Playa Lounge will be showcasing continuous entertainment nightly.
Comedy Cabaret will be showcasing Magician Mac King (afternoons, dark Sundays & Mondays).
Click Here to see various souvenirs
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