El Cortez
600 Fremont
1941-present

In its early years the El Cortez had some "colorful" owners, including Ben "Bugsy" Siegel. When the current owner, Jackie Gaughan, sold his other properties to the Barrick Group, he retained ownership of the El Cortez. I understand that he lives there, and is sometimes seen in the casino.

I love the message on this postcard, postmarked 5/3/49: Dear Elaine, Spent the night in Las Vegas & what a place. They have legal gambling here & stay open all night! We played the slot machines & I more than doubled my money so quit. Have had a wonderful time but so busy. Will write you all about it soon. Love, Catherine

The interior... (I have no idea what date)

And some stuff...the money clip is really cool. It's leather covered and can be opened flat, then the 2 halves spring back together when you let go.

A better picture of the ashtray, it's pretty rare and you might not ever see another one