Lake Mead Virtual Museum

Boulder City Boat Landing

The Boulder City boat landing and beach was popular due to its proximity to town. This aerial view provides a view of the facilities available.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: March 1936

LAKE 1003

Three docks on the lake with buildings on them and many boats around them.

National Park Service Barge

A National Park Service barge is being launched at Boulder City boat landing. Business quickly saw the potential for recreation on the new lake and offered a variety of tours. Emery's "Red Boats" and "Cashman's Scenic Cruises" were both popular attractions.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: April, 1936

LAKE 1004

Small crowd of people on docks with small buildings at the end.

Buzz Holmstrom in Rowboat

Buzz Holmstrom poses at Hemenway Wash wearing his life jacket in the rowboat that he navigated from Green River, Wyoming to Lake Mead. He built his own boats to run whitewater rivers.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: November 25, 1937

LAKE 1126

A man in a hat rows a boat on a lake with mountains in the background.

Buzz Holmstrom in Rowboat

Buzz Holmstrom in the rowboat that he navigated from Green River, Wyoming, to Lake Mead. Photo, November 25, 1937 at Hemenway Wash.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: November 25, 1937

LAKE 1128

Buzz Holmstrom

Buzz Holmstrom was a pioneer of running the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. He was the first to float all the way from Green River, Wyoming to Boulder Dam solo. Upon arrival, he was photographed at the Boulder City boat landing.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: November, 1937

LAKE 1129

A man in a hat stands on a dock with one hand on his hip.

Tourist Camp

Grand Canyon Airways operated a tourist camp at Pierce Ferry, Arizona for visitors who enjoyed "roughing it" a bit in a remote location.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 1344

Small cabins with tent roofs with desert plant in foreground and mountains in background.

Fishing for Bass

From the time it was created by the building of Hoover Dam, fishing was very popular at Lake Mead. Here, a group of men proudly hold up strings of large-mouthed bass caught in the lake.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: April 1938

LAKE 1384

Four men standing next to each other and holding strings of large fish.

Boulder Dam Tours

With the construction of Hoover Dam, entrepreneurs quickly realized the potential for tourist-oriented businesses. Boulder Dam Tours offered passenger boat tours on the vessel "Hualapai" in Hidden Canyon.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 1498

Boat on lake and between mountains with people on it.

St. Thomas Flooding

St. Thomas was founded in 1865 by Mormon settlers. Preliminary studies projected that the town of St. Thomas would be flooded by Lake Mead and residents were told that they would have to relocate.

Photographer: Unknown

LAKE 1506

Single boat on rising waters with foliage surrounding it.

Expedition Party

Norman D. Nevills (top center) transported the first women down the Colorado River in 1938. Dr. Elzada Clover and her student Lois Jotter from U. of Michigan, hired Nevills to take them through the Grand Canyon to catalog plant life. The trip drew national attention.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: August 1938

LAKE 1629

Seven people pose for a photo while sitting on a boat.

Neville Expedition Party

The Nevills Expedition Party on Lake Mead at the western end of Grand Canyon.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: August, 1938

LAKE 1638

Three boats on river with people on them and mountains in the background.

Neville Expedition

Emery Kolb, a photographer who opened a studio on the rim of the Grand Canyon and documented his and his brother's adventure on the Green and Colorado rivers, is seen here filming the Nevills Expedition Party on Lake Mead.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: August 1938

LAKE 1641

Man stands on small boat with a camera on a tripod, while two people stand nearby.

Overton Beach

At one time, Overton Beach served as one of the most popular spots for visitors to park their RVs, picnic and enjoy the other recreation opportunities at the park. Due to current low lake levels, the area is temporarily close to the public.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: 1938

LAKE 1701

Single car and tent in distance on lake beach with mountains in the background.

Swimming at Boulder Beach

Boulder Beach was just a short drive from Las Vegas and made a perfect destination for families interested in a day of water-oriented recreation such as swimming. The park built a number of facilities at the beach to improve the visitor experience.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: September, 1938

LAKE 1724

People swim around and sit on a small floating dock on a lake.

Map

This map of Grand Canyon and the Boulder Dam area shows the different tour routes between the two "Wonders of the World."

Photographer: Unknown
Date: December, 1936

LAKE 186

Map of Grand Canyon and surrounding area.

Rangers at Headquarters

Portrait of Lake Mead rangers. Back, L to R: Leon Michel (Overton), unknown, unknown, Don Eggerman (Chief Ranger), Walt Sutherland (Boulder Beach District Ranger), Front L to R: unknown, Joe Keefe (Asst Chief Ranger), Don Squier (Overton), Dean Dazey (Willow Beach, Eldorado Canyon).

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: January 31, 1955

LAKE 1998

Nine Rangers in uniform pose for a photo in front of a National Park Service building.

National Park Service Boat

The National Park Service boat, the "Lt. J. C. Ives" was named in honor of the Joseph Christmas Ives who was an early explorer of the Colorado River.

Photographer: Unknown

LAKE 209

Boat on lake with a canoe flipped upside down, tied on top, and American Flag attached to the back.

Planting of Fingerlings

With the popularity of fishing, the park service quickly realized that the fish population would need to be managed for sustainability. Here, the Bureau of Fisheries, in partnership with the NPS, is planting fingerlings in Lake Mead.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: June 1939

LAKE 2146

Five men surround pickup truck with machinery on back in ankle deep lake water, one person holds a bucket.

Las Vegas Boat Harbor

As park visitation increased, development and maintenance of boat docks and facilities such as these at Las Vegas Boat Harbor were needed to provide a better experience for visitors.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January, 1957

LAKE 2312

Girl in pigtails stands on beach beside lake dock with boats tied up to it.

Diagramatic Map of Lake Mead

This illustrative map of Lake Mead region was posted on the outside wall of Belknap's Photo Center in Boulder City, NV.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: 1955

LAKE 232

Flag Raising

District Park Ranger Dean Dazey and Asst. Carl Anderson raising flag at Boulder Ranger Station.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: March 20, 1957

LAKE 2330

One Ranger in uniform stands next to a National Park Service sign while another raises the American Flag on a flagpole.

Swimming Lake Mead Lodge

The Lake Mead Lodge, the first hotel on Lake Mead, became a popular place to stay after WW II for locals, tourists and celebrities. The lodge provided entertainment and facilities such as this swimming pool, along with scenic views of Boulder Basin.

Photographer: Tidwell-Wells
Date: August 1957

LAKE 2371

Four women lounge by pool in front of building while two people swim.

Superintendent Supernaugh

William Supernaugh, park assistant superintendent, poses for a portrait in his office at Boulder City Headquarters.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: March 14, 1957

LAKE 2405

Man sits on a chair smiling with lighter and cigarette in his hands.

Overton Ranger Station

Two way radio phone equipment stands in a corner of the Overton Ranger station. In a park as large as Lake Mead, the ability of rangers to communicate with each other via radio was critical.

Photographer: D. E. Cole
Date: November 25, 1939

LAKE 2453

Communication equipment in corner of a room by a window with a folding chair next to it.

Indian Mortar Holes

Native Americans used stone mortars to grind items on this rock surface near Las Vegas Wash. The holes were created by the friction of this work over long periods of time.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 2629

Fred MacMurray Fishing

Actor Fred MacMurray holds a large fish he caught while enjoying a day on the lake with friends. The lake was a popular getaway for celebrities due to its proximity to Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

Photographer: Bureau of Reclamation
Date: March 1940

LAKE 2684

Five men fishing in a boat while one of them smiles and holds up a fish.

Lakeview Point

The National Park Service created information kiosks to help orient visitors to the services, facilities and programs offered in the park. Here, visitors enjoy the spectacular view at Lakeview Point and learn more about the park.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January, 1957

LAKE 2691

Girl in pigtails sits on small stone wall by man looking at National Park Service bulletin board as people stand nearby.

"Chuck Line"

A "Chuck Line" Rotary barbecue on the shore of Lake Mead.

Photographer: Harry Allwine
Date: April 15, 1940

LAKE 2702

Crowds of people wait in a line in a dirt parking lot next to a lake.

Ranger Station

In order to improve the visitors' experience, the park built ranger stations such as this one at Boulder Beach in the developed areas.

Photographer: Welles
Date: July, 1956

LAKE 2740

Small building with National Park Service sign on it and man standing in doorway.

Boulder Harbor

Fortification Hill provides a distinctive backdrop for Boulder Harbor. It is an extinct volcano made predominately of basalt and is an easily identifiable landmark.

Photographer: Bert Long & Harry Allwine
Date: September 19, 1940

LAKE 2945b

Two docks on lake by mountains with parking lot of cars in foreground.

Las Vegas Wash

Though the lake has always been a favorite destination for recreation, conditions can be hazardous. To boost safety, the park provided swimming areas like this at Las Vegas Wash and hired lifeguards.

Photographer: Maurice Sullivan
Date: July 10, 1950

LAKE 2967

Lifeguard stand on beach by lake with people on floating dock.

National Park Service West Checking Station

This checking station between Boulder City and Railroad Pass welcomed visitors traveling from the west to the park.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: March, 1937

LAKE 303

Small building with three people standing by it, one on a ladder.

Lakeshore Road

The recreation area provided scenic roadways through Nevada and Arizona. By the 1950s driving for pleasure was a common recreation activity. This car has just entered the park on Lakeshore Road and is passing Boulder Beach.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: 1956

LAKE 3080

Car driving on road next to National Park Service sign.

Columbine Falls

The Colorado River flows into Lake Mead from western Grand Canyon. This view is from the head of Columbine Falls on the river.

Photographer: Ed Schenk
Date: January 10, 1941

LAKE 3253

People stand on cliff overlooking a lake and mountains.

Construction of Hualapai Lodge

The Hualapai Lodge (later renamed Lake Mead Lodge) was the first hotel on Lake Mead and one of the first visitor facilities constructed within the recreation area. It was built in Boulder Beach where it was easily accessible to visitors and close to the lakeshore.

Photographer: Don Erskinen
Date: May 27, 1941

LAKE 3540

Many cars and people among construction framework of buildings nearby a lake.

Kellett KD-1 at Boulder City Airport

This NPS aircraft was built by the Kellett Autogiro Company. The Kellett KD-1 was the first practical rotary-wing aircraft used by the United States Army and inaugurated the first scheduled air-mail service using a rotary-wing aircraft.

Photographer: Don Erskine
Date: May 5, 1941

LAKE 3542

National Park Service autogyro in a hangar with man kneeling down next to a crate and machine parts.

Las Vegas Wash

The boat dock at Las Vegas Wash was a popular place for launching boats before the drought conditions caused the lake levels to drop.

Photographer: Welles
Date: July 1956

LAKE 3556

Fish Caught

The new lake created by the construction of the dam made great fish habitat. Bass were introduced in 1935 and thrived. These fish were caught in the upper Virgin Basin.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: April 1941

LAKE 3558

Two people whose heads you can't see stand holding string of fish on a rope.

I. H. and Janice Whitehouse

Concessioners I. H. and Janice Whitehouse, pose in front of the Lake Mead Marina.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 25, 1955

LAKE 3665

Man with a hat poses with a woman in a suit and glasses.

Hemenway Harbor

Its beautiful scenery and proximity to town made Hemenway Harbor a popular destination.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 19, 1955

LAKE 3666

Car driving on road that goes towards a lake with mountains in the background.

Hemenway Wash Boat Landing

Hemenway Wash boat landing is seen here at a time when the lake was at 1,220 feet elevation.

Photographer: Don Erskine
Date: July 25, 1941

LAKE 3691

View of a lake with mountains in the background.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area Headquarters

Though snow is rare in Boulder City, it is not impossible as seen in this photo of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area Headquarters.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 7, 1955

LAKE 3711

Cars on road in front of National Park Service building with small amount of snow.

Ted Barnett

Visitors could stop by the headquarters in Boulder City to get information on the park. Ranger Ted Barnett stands ready to answer their questions.

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: April 28, 1955

LAKE 3721

Man in uniform poses in front of a map under glass surface.

"Hualapai II"

Visitors enjoy a day on the lake on the 65' "Hualapai II." Concessions such as this make Lake Mead a popular destination for recreation from the beginning.

Photographer: Don Erskine
Date: August 29, 1941

LAKE 3805

Boat on a lake with people at the deck on top.

"El Rancho Vegas"

The vessel, "El Rancho Vegas" tipped over as it was being taken from Boulder Beach at Lake Mead.

Photographer: Erskine
Date: October 28, 1941

LAKE 3889

Boat tipped over into lake with men working next to it.

Portable Dressing Rooms

In the 1930s, Boulder Beach was one of three areas within the park that offered visitor facilities such as these portable dressing rooms and picnic shelters. This variety of amenities made Lake Mead a popular destination for families to vacation and enjoy water sports.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: August, 1936

LAKE 391

Small buildings with picnic tables in front.

Harbor Entrance

This beacon marked the entrance to Boulder Harbor.

Photographer: Don Erskine
Date: November 10, 1941

LAKE 3929

Light beacon at edge of cliff overlooking lake with a boat on it.

J.M. Good

Park Ranger J.M. Good poses at Lakeview Point.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 28, 1955

LAKE 3963

Man in uniform stands on cliff looking over a lake.

Lakeshore Road

Shown here is the intersection of US 93 and Lakeshore Road. The railroad that carried materials to the dam site can still be seen.

Photographer: Datis E. Cole
Date: August 2, 1939

LAKE 3971

Las Vegas Wash

Lake levels have always fluctuated and the park has had to develop plans that Las Vegas Wash to show low water.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 19, 1955

LAKE 3973

View of mountains and lake in the distance.

Hemenway Harbor

Hemenway Harbor offered a number of facilities for visitors. It was popular due to its proximity to town and beautiful scenery.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 25, 1955

LAKE 3975

Several trailers and food truck next to nearby lake.

Campground at Hemenway Wash

Trees and other vegetation were planted in campground around the park to provide privacy, windbreak and shade for campers. This campground at Hemenway Wash displays some of this new landscaping.

Photographer: R. D. Starrett
Date: December 28, 1942

LAKE 3996

Grand Canyon Swimmers

Grand Canyon swimmers, John Daggett and William Beer pose wearing their life vests at Pearce Ferry. They later wrote a book about their journey which has never been equaled or duplicated.

Photographer: Squire
Date: May 5, 1955

LAKE 4023

Two men stand beside several bags with hands on hips wearing life vests next to a lake with mountains behind them.

Installation of Navigational Aids

Navigational aids were essential for boater safety. Workers Gene Gatzke (left) and Jack Herse install this one at Boulder Islands.

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: January 12, 1956

LAKE 4087

Two men on a boat on the lake fixing a floating beacon.

Lakeshore Trailer Park

The Lakeshore Trailer Park at Boulder Beach offered flat lots with enough space for 2 trailers and cars. Trees were planted to provide shade and privacy for campers.

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: April 9, 1955

LAKE 4133

Cars and travel trailers next to a lake.

Info Sign Boulder Beach

Enthusiastic park rangers engaged the public with campground programs designed to educate and entertain visitors at the Boulder Beach Campground. Programs included nature walks and lectures on history.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: November, 1956

LAKE 4159

National Park Service Evening Programs sign.

Rae Kenny

Rae Kenny, a lifeguard at Boulder Beach, poses on the life guard station platform. Lifeguards provided an element of safety on a lake that could be hazardous for swimmers.

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: September 13, 1955

LAKE 4167

Woman in swimsuit sits on lifeguard stand overlooking a lake.

String of Bass

As the reservoir filled, local fishermen and tourists flocked to the lake to fish. Three anglers display the large number of bass they caught at Lake Mead.

Photographer: George Grant
Date: June 10, 1945

LAKE 4223

Three men hold up string of dozens of fish on a rope.

National Park Service Warehouse

Built in 1932 during the construction of the Boulder Dam as a storage facility for the Six Companies Inc. Railroad, the historic National Park Service warehouse in Boulder City is now used by the park for maintenance operations, offices and workshops.

Photographer: Gordon C. Baldwin
Date: July 10, 1944

LAKE 4248

Large building with a car and some smaller buildings next to it.

Boat Launch

Until drought conditions lowered the level of the lake, Las Vegas Bay was once a heavily visited marina.

Photographer: Schaach-Barnett
Date: October 20, 1960

LAKE 4302

Many cars in parking lot nearby lake with a dock and many boats on it.

Prince Regent of Iraq

Prince Regent of Iraq, Emir Abdul Ilah (third from right) carries on a conversation with park staff members and others while on National Park Service Vessel #4.

Photographer: Gordon C. Baldwin
Date: June 12, 1945

LAKE 4375

Lake Mead Regatta

As the largest reservoir in the Southwest, Lake Mead provided open space for special boating events like this Lake Mead Regatta at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: May 10 1956

LAKE 4446

Fishing on Lake Mead

The popularity of fishing at Lake Mead soon put pressure on fish populations and the park service realized that they would have to manage them for sustainability.

Photographer: Bill Russell & G.C. Baldwin
Date: June 1946

LAKE 4448

Six men pose for photo on a boat with dozens of fish lined up on it.

Hamburger Stand

It took a while for permanent infrastructure to be built in the new park. In the meantime, food trucks such as this sold food and refreshments to visitors.

Photographer: Bill Russell
Date: Unknown

LAKE 4449

Rainbow Trout

A visitor enjoys showing the rainbow trout she caught at Willow Beach. Rainbow trout thrived in the cold water released below Hoover Dam.

Photographer: Bill Russell
Date: May 13, 1946

LAKE 4462

Woman squats down next to lake with two fish on a rope in her hands.

Crowds at Hemenway Harbor

A family prepares for a day on the lake at Hemenway Harbor. Hemenway was a popular destination due to its proximity to town and was often congested as can be seen here by the number of cars in the parking lot.

Photographer: J.M. Good
Date: April 9, 1955

LAKE 4472

People stand on a dock with several boats tied up to it and many cars parked in distance.

Air Sea Rescue

Due to the size of the lake, The US Coast Guard and other military branches often conducted practice operations on Lake Mead. This Air Sea Rescue plane practices landing at the lower basin of Lake Mead.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: June 9, 1955

LAKE 4492

U.S. Air Force airplane floating on a lake.

Boating on Lake Mead

Some days, conditions made for glass-smooth water and a perfect day for boating on Lake Mead.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: August, 1946

LAKE 4499

Boat with reflection in water, six people at back of the boat.

Bill Leicht

Park Ranger Bill Leicht shows off the new summer uniform at Boulder Beach Campground.

Photographer: Maurice Sullivan
Date: May 10, 1949

LAKE 4516

Man in uniform standing in front of foliage.

National Park Service Sign

A National Park Service sign on welcomes visitors driving on the highway from Boulder City to Hoover Dam.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: January 4, 1955

LAKE 4561

Man in uniform stands next to Lake Mead sign.

Catch at Overton Dock

Three proud fishermen hold up their stringer of fish caught at Overton Dock.

Photographer: L. J. Mitchell
Date: September 1, 1955

LAKE 4562

Three men stand holding a string of dozens of fish.

Dressing Rooms at Las Vegas Wash

As park visitation increased, facilities such as these men's dressing rooms at Las Vegas Wash were built to provide a better visitor experience.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 4582

Lake Mead Lodge

The spectacular views from Lake Mead Lodge along with its proximity to town made it a popular destination. This photo shows a view of the lodge from the west on Lakeshore Road looking north east.

Photographer: Maurice Sullivan
Date: March 24, 1948

LAKE 4628

Lakeshore Trailer Court

The spectacular views from Lake Mead Lodge along with its proximity to town made it a popular destination. This photo shows a view of the lodge from the west on Lakeshore Road looking north east.

Photographer: J. M. Good
Date: April, 9, 1955

LAKE 4630

Man sits on curb at dirt road with small building nearby.

Boating Office

A boating office (#267) is parked next to a dock at Lake Mead.

Photographer: Ward W. Yeager
Date: February, 1954

LAKE 4636

Man stands on a dock at window of bus food stand.

Boulder Yacht Harbor

Politicians often visited Lake Mead in response to requests for new legislation regarding the park. Here, Secretary McKay, Senator Pat McCarran and Regional Director of the National Park Service, M.R. Tillotson, enjoy a day out of the office while at the Boulder Yacht Harbor.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: October 27, 1953

LAKE 4647

Three men sit near back of boat with American Flag attached it.

National Park Service Boat "Ives"

The National Park Service boat "Ives" patrols the lake at Kingman Wash. Fortification Hill and the Arizona Paint Pots can be seen in the background.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: 1950

LAKE 4700

Single boat on a lake with mountains in background.

Superintendent Richey and Congressman Clifford Young

Superintendent Richey (on left) and Congressman Clifford Young enjoy some time on a power boat at Lake Mohave.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: November 20, 1954

LAKE 4703

Two men sit in a boat on a lake with an American flag attached.

Boat Dock at Overton

At one time, known for its small, sandy beaches and sheltered coves, Overton Beach was one of the most popular spots for visitors to enjoy the recreation opportunities. The park built facilities such as this boat dock to improve the visitor experience at Overton Beach.

Photographer: Ward W. Yeager
Date: February 25, 1954

LAKE 4759

Camping at Boulder Beach

Mr. and Mrs. John Hamuller enjoy a camping trip at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: April 7, 1954

LAKE 4801

Man and woman sit at picnic table in a campsite with a tent and shade umbrella.

Camping at Boulder Beach

Mr. and Mrs. John Hamuller cook a meal while camping at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: O.W. Wallis
Date: April 7, 1954

LAKE 4804

Man and woman stand by barbeque grill in a campsite with a tent, awning, and picnic table.

RV Camping

RV Camping at Lake Mead has always been popular. The park built pads to accommodate the trailers and planted trees and other vegetation to provide shade and privacy.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater & O.W. Wallis

LAKE 4805

RV trailers lined up beside the edge of a lake.

Ranger Don Squire

District Ranger Don Squire models a proposed new uniform hat for summer wear in front of the Boulder City Headquarters.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: April 19, 1954

LAKE 4831

Man in uniform poses in front of National Park Service building.

Ranger Don Squires

District Ranger Don Squires models a helmet-type uniform hat in front of park headquarters in Boulder City.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: April 21, 1954

LAKE 4832

Man in uniform poses while wearing a helmet.

Boulder Basin

The view of Boulder Basin from Lakeview Point is spectacular. Photographed with infrared film.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: 1952

LAKE 4929

Launching Ramp

A park ranger looks out over the still water at the Stewarts Point launch ramp in the Overton Arm area of Lake Mead.

Photographer: Egermayer
Date: October 18, 1954

LAKE 4949

Man in uniform stands next to boat launch on a lake.

Bath House

At one time, Overton Beach was one of the most popular spots for visitors to park their RVs, picnic and enjoy the other recreational opportunities in the park. Facilities such as this bath house were constructed to improve the visitors' experience.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: July 12, 1951

LAKE 5116

Small wooden building with sign that says Men on it.

Cabins at Temple Bar

As the only marina on the lake in Arizona, Temple Bar offered a less crowded place to recreate. Visitors could stay in these small rustic cabins and enjoy fishing where the Colorado River flows from the Grand Canyon.

Photographer: L. J. Mitchell
Date: July 10, 1951

LAKE 5118

Concessioner's Dock

The Temple Bar area offered secluded and sandy coves and beaches accessible only by boat. Visitors could launch their boats and purchase supplies at this concessioner's dock.

Photographer: L. J. Mitchell
Date: July 19, 1951

LAKE 5120

Man leans against floating building attached to dock on a lake with boat tied up to it.

Boat Dock

This boat dock at Overton Beach was a popular launch site for visitors. The Overton Beach area offered sandy coves and beaches that could only be accessed by boat. Concessioners offered supplies and rentals.

Photographer: Ward W. Yeager
Date: July 1951

LAKE 5129

People stand under structure at end of a dock on a lake with many boats tied up to it.

Cafe

No weekend at the Overton Beach would be complete without a stop at the cafe and store for refreshments.

Photographer: Ward W. Yeager
Date: July 1951

LAKE 5130

Building that has a porch with two chairs on it.

Ranger Station

This ranger station at Pearce Ferry was located in a remote area of the large recreation area. It provided a place for visitors to get information along with improving safety.

Photographer: Donald J. Jolley
Date: July 12, 1951

LAKE 5150

People stand on porch of wooden building with trucks parked nearby.

Future Headquarters Location

This empty lot is where park headquarters would later be built in Boulder City. The Los Angeles power building can be seen in the background.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: January 9, 1950

LAKE 5218

Vacant building lot with large building with cars parked nearby it in distance.

Great Basin-Colorado River Committee

The Great Basin-Colorado River Committee group enjoys an outing on the lake and pose for this photo in a cove three miles above Boulder Canyon.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: November 16, 1950

LAKE 5235

People stand on and in front of a boat tied to shore, one man looking through a video camera.

Auto Accident

Driving for pleasure was a common activity for families in the 50s and Lake Mead offered miles of scenic roadways. Unfortunately, automobile accidents like this one took place and rangers would assist and investigate.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: December 15, 1950

LAKE 5248

Park Ranger stands next to a wrecked car.

Transmission Tower

This transmission tower was built at the park's warehouse to supply power to the boat dock at Hemenway Harbor. The warehouse was originally built for storage by the Six Companies, Inc. Railroad and the rails are still visible in the flooring, evidence of the building's past use. Electrician Bob Beard standing.

Photographer: Maurice Sullivan
Date: December 8, 1950

LAKE 5264

Practice Jump

The large size of Lake Mead and its proximity to base made it a perfect training spot for the Air Force. Here an Air Force paramedic does a practice jump at the lower basin of Lake Mead.

Photographer: O. W. Wallis
Date: June 9, 1955

LAKE 5274

Person with parachute nears water landing area in lake.

Publicity for Clark County Gem Collectors

Models pose for a publicity shot for Clark County Gem Collectors at Boulder Basin.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: June 12, 1950

LAKE 5283

Two women in swimsuits stand holding rocks, one with a bag on her shoulder and another with a hammer.

National Park Service Boat "Lt. Ives"

Workers perform maintenance on the National Park Service boat "Lt. Ives" at Willow Beach. The boat was named in honor of early Colorado River explorer, Lt. Joseph Christmas Ives who was commanded to explore up the river from its mouth to determine how far up it was navigable.

Photographer: Mitchell
Date: January 24, 1952

LAKE 5318

Two men scrub hull of boat that is on a boat trailer.

House Trailer

House trailer and body at Temple Bar, Arizona from Squatter file.

Photographer: L.J. Mitchell
Date: October, 1951

LAKE 5324

Small wooden building with bed frame out front.

Lifetime Pass Presentation

Chief Ranger and Superintendent George Baggley present Donald J. Jolley a lifetime parks pass upon his retirement.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: January, 1952

LAKE 5359

Two men stand each holding one side of an award and one holding a portfolio.

Park Headquarters

Construction of park headquarters began in 1952 at the intersection of Nevada Highway and Wyoming Street in downtown Boulder City. The building would provide offices for administrative staff and also be a place for visitors to get information about the park.

Photographer: R.C. Burns
Date: April 11, 1952

LAKE 5399

Construction site with building framework.

Park Headquarters

Park headquarters would be an easily identifiable building where residents and tourists could get information on the park and facilities.

Photographer: R.C. Burns
Date: July 10, 1952

LAKE 5444

Construction site with partially built building.

Park Headquarters

Construction of park headquarters began in 1952 at the intersection of Nevada Highway and Wyoming Street in downtown Boulder City. The building would provide offices for administrative staff and also be a place for visitors to get information about the park.

Photographer: R.C. Burns
Date: March 3, 1952

LAKE 5475

Construction site above and below ground, partial building framework.

Auto Accident

The park provided many miles of scenic roads to travel. Park rangers oversaw safety on these roads and investigated accidents that happened in the park. This is photo evidence of an automobile accident on Lakeshore Road.

Photographer: Mitchell
Date: November 9, 1952

LAKE 5540

Closeup of floor of driver's side of car where an empty liquor bottle sits.

Camping Party at Boulder Beach

The park built a number of campgrounds in the park for recreation. The campground at Boulder Beach was a favorite for many families such as this one.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: August 28, 1952

LAKE 5625

Woman sits at a picnic table in front of a tent with two children nearby.

Ground Breaking Ceremony

Boulder City, "The City that Built Hoover Dam," was a great stopping point on the way to or from the park. In a 1953 ceremony, the park broke ground for a new administration building on the corner of Wyoming and Nevada Highway that served as headquarters and also a place for visitors to get information.

Photographer: Russell K. Grater
Date: February 27, 1953

LAKE 5643

Several men in suits stand in a group next to a large digging machine.

Boulder Beach

Picnic shelters and facilities such as these at Boulder Beach provided opportunities for families to spend the day at the park and enjoy cooking in the outdoors together.

Photographer: Chan T. Howell
Date: March 29, 1953

LAKE 5649

Group of people stand next to barbeque at a picnic area.

George F. Baggley

George F. Baggley, superintendent at Lake Mead National Recreation Area from November 1946 - August 1954, poses at his desk.

Photographer: R. C. Burns
Date: March, 1953

LAKE 5666

Man sits at a desk with papers and a telephone on it.

Las Vegas Wash

Las Vegas Wash is the primary channel that drains the Las Vegas valley's excess water and terminated at Las Vegas Bay. The wash once featured wetlands that would naturally filter the water.

Photographer: Chan Howell
Date: July 5, 1953

LAKE 5689

Many parked cars and crowds of people on a beach by a lake.

Las Vegas Wash

Prior to the current drought conditions which caused the lake level to drop, Las Vegas Bay, where the Las Vegas Wash empties into the lake, was once a heavily visited marina.

Photographer: Chan Howell
Date: July 5, 1953

LAKE 5690

Navigational Beacon

This navigational beacon marked the entrance to Boulder Harbor and aided navigation after dark and inclement weather.

Photographer: Unknown

LAKE 5754

Light beacon open to expose it's light bulbs.

Communications

Rangers Mitchell and Leicht demonstrate communications after installation of the 2738 KC Monitor Receiver.

Photographer: Mitchell, R.C. Burns
Date: February 7, 1952

LAKE 5776

Two men in uniform stand near communications radio with a map on the wall behind them.

Ranger T. Barnett

Ranger T. Barnett demonstrates the weather board that he designed at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: James W. Schaack
Date: August, 1958

LAKE 5957

Man in uniform stands next to weather sign with arrows that point to weather conditions.

Lake Mead Sign

In homage to the popularity of fishing at the recreation area, an early Lake Mead logo was cut in the shape of a fish.

Photographer: James W. Schaack
Date: June, 1958

LAKE 5860

Sign shaped like a fish with LMNRA on it.

Ann Haigh and Daughter

St. Thomas residents Ann Haigh and one of her daughters, (Caroline, Alice or Mary) pose for a portrait.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 6064

Woman stands next to woman seated in a chair.

Daniel Bonelli

Daniel Bonelli was a Colorado River pioneer and was one of the first Morman settlers in the town of St. Thomas where he had a farm. He also started a ferry business at the junction of the Colorado and Virgin rivers.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 6065

Man with a beard stands posing next to an ornate chair.

Bonelli Landing

Daniel Bonelli operated a ferry boat landing at Bonelli Landing to provide transportation across the Colorado River before Hoover dam was built.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 6068

Two people sit near cliff overlooking a lake.

Daniel Bonelli Home

Daniel Bonelli was a Colorado River pioneer and was one of the first Morman settlers in the town of St. Thomas where he had a farm. He also started a ferry business at the junction of the Colorado and Virgin rivers. This is his home near Bonelli Landing.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 6069

Two people stand on porch of building with many columns.

Overton Ranger Station

Park operations were complex and ranged over a vast area. Ranger stations such as this one at Overton provided office space for rangers to work from and orientation for visitors.

Photographer: Squire
Date: June, 1959

LAKE 6081

Small building with steeply sloped roof and small porch.

Litter Cart

Maintaining and preserving the beauty of the landscape has always been a priority for the park and education plays a key role. This litter cart at Boulder Beach shares an important message with visitors.

Photographer: Morrow
Date: July, 1961

LAKE 6191

Man in uniform stands next to cart full of trash being pulled by a car.

Ranger Station

Lake Mead provided many recreational opportunities such as camping, boating and swimming. Ranger Stations such as this one were places visitors could stop for information and provided office space for district rangers.

Photographer: Natt N. Dodge / Maurice Sullivan
Date: August 30, 1949

LAKE 6201

Small building to the left with road on right, sign in center points to Swimming and Public Campgrounds.

West Checking Station

This checking station between Boulder City and Railroad Pass welcomed visitors traveling from the west to the park.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: 1937

LAKE 700

Small building on the side of the road with person standing nearby.

Lakeview Observation Point

Hoover Dam was an engineering feat that attracted visitors even while it was still under construction. Travelers have the opportunity to admire the stunning view of the lake it created at Lakeview Observation Point.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: June, 1936

LAKE 717

Many parked cars and small group of people overlook lake at circular parking lot.

Muddy Creek Formation

Muddy Creek Formation, Immediatly east of Temple Bar Wash.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: September 1936

LAKE 63

Large curved desert valley between rugged large hills, mountains in distance.

House Ruins and Mescal Pit

House ruins and mescal pit - North side of Lake Mead.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: March 1937

LAKE 152

Ruins consisting of different sized rocks scattered across desert landscape.

Emery (Columbine) Falls

Emery (Columbine) Falls - Five miles east of Pierce Ferry, Arizona.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 762

Waterfall trickles down between a textured rocky mountain surrounded by desert plants at the bottom.

Bowl of Hell Scene

A scene in the Bowl of Hell, about 1 mile east of the West End Chemical Company's Borax Mine.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: June 1937

LAKE 838

Textured mountain in shadows to the left , sunlit valley and rugged hill to right.

Monoliths at Las Vegas Wash

Monoliths at Las Vegas Wash.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: May 1937

LAKE 853

Three spaced out rectangle shaped mountains with desert landscape along the bottom.

Greggs Ferry

View toward Greggs Ferry from Observation Point, west of Pierce Ferry Airport along the Pierce Ferry Road.

Photographer: George Grant
Date: November 6, 1937

LAKE 1035

View of ridged and rocky rolling mountains with desert plants scattered across and a small glimpse of a body of water to the right-hand side.

Block Faulting West

Block faulting west of Pierce Ferry photographed from Pierce Ferry Airport.

Photographer: George Grant
Date: October 16, 1937

LAKE 1038

Mountains with pointed ridges at the tops and small ridges of desert landscape across the bottom.

1938 Flood Season Water Level

View north from near Lakeview Point showing water level at beginning of 1938 flood season - Time one second @ F/22 filter A.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: March 15, 1938 - 11:45 a.m.

LAKE 1309

Large body of water with multiple islands, mountains in the distance.

The Geology of the Hoover Dam Site & Vicinity

Copy of photo from Ransome's report on "The Geology of the Hoover Dam Site & Vicinity."

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 1333

Artist rendering of mountains with their names written above them in black lettering.

Heron Island

Heron Island - Aerial photo at Overton Arm, Lake Mead.

Photographer: Unknown
Date: Unknown

LAKE 2228

Aerial view of Island of complex shape, other hills in backgroud.

Lakeview Point Visitors

Lakeview Point visitor use.

Photographer: Wallis
Date: January 1957

LAKE 2690

Six cars parked side by side along a stone wall and people observe a body of water surrounded by mountains.

Red Mt. and Black Mt.

Red Mt. and Black Mt. showing trails to summit.

Photographer: Harry Allwine
Date: July 12, 1940

LAKE 2794

Desert mountain covered in plants with a trail marking along the top and a body of water behind it, flat top mountains in the distance.

Low Water on Lake Mead

Low water on Lake Mead.

Photographer: Bill Belnap
Date: May 5, 1957

LAKE 2975

Many cars parked on the shoreline surrounded by desert landscape and a body of water with boats scattered across it, mountains in the distance.

Grand Canyon and Lake Mead

Grand Canyon and Lake Mead, note driftwood.

Photographer: Don Erskine
Date: June 17, 1941

LAKE 3610

Mountain rises straight up in background and a body of water at the bottom with a large amount of floating driftwood.

Low Water in Lake Mead

Low water in Lake Mead (1089.67) Lowest 1089.49 - 4-22-55.

Photographer: Good with companion Egermayer
Date: April 28, 1955

LAKE 3723

Large body of water with boats scattered across and rock formations throughout, showcasing water line markings and creating a shoreline.

Icicles

Icicles formed on tree at NPS headquarters building - Water sprinklers on during morning and by noon ice had formed on trees,

Photographer: Gordon C. Baldwin
Date: January 1942

LAKE 4068

Leaf-less tree with icicles hanging from two lower branches with a paved road and houses in the background.

Crowd at Boulder Beach Campground

Crowded condtitions at Boulder Beach Campground.

Photographer: J. M. Good
Date: April 9, 1955

LAKE 4078

A clothesline hung between two parked camping trailers and surrounded by other parked cars and trees, a view of lake and mountains in the distance.

Lake Mead

Lake Mead, looking toward Muddy Mountains.

Photographer: C. Howell
Date: Unknown

LAKE 4523

Muddy and textured mountains with a glimpse of a body of water behind them and mountains in the distance with a cloudy sky above.

Regatta at Boulder Beach

Crowd at regatta at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: M. Sullivan
Date: November 12, 1950

LAKE 4661

Rows of parked cars side-by-side on the shoreline overlooking lake, mountains in distance.

Yacht Harbor

Yacht harbor at Boulder Beach

Photographer: R. Grater
Date: 1951

LAKE 4699

Cars parked side-by-side on the shoreline overlooking a body of water, mountains in distance, boats scattered on water.

Boulder Beach Campground

Boulder Beach Campground - Aerial.

Photographer: Schaack
Date: 1960

LAKE 4737

Aerial view of large group of trees surrounded by desert and paved roads.

Hualpai Wash

Hualpai Wash showing heavy visitor use of outlying area.

Photographer: R. Grater
Date: April 16, 1954

LAKE 4826

Mountains with a body of water in distance, parked cars and tents along the shoreline.

Dust Storm

Dust storm at Las Vegas Wash.

Photographer: R. K. Grater
Date: June 15, 1954

LAKE 4878

Desert landscape with tire markings across the flat plain as clouds of dust cover the mountains in the distance.

Lakeview Point Visitors

Lakeview Point - To show area proposed for orientation exhibit.

Photographer: R. K. Grater
Date: February 24, 1951

LAKE 5198

Textured mountains with a dirt parking area below that is surrounded by a stone wall. Two cars four people.

Las Vegas Wash Beach

Beach use at Las Vegas Wash looking south.

Photographer: Keefe and Mitchell
Date: April 5, 1953

LAKE 5642

Two parked cars facing the camera foreground, many cars and lake shoreline behind.

Testing infra-red film

Lake Mead taken near Lakeview Point - Testing infra-red film.

Photographer: R. K. Grater
Date: August 1951

LAKE 5778

Textured mountain in lower right, lake with water appearing black has two islands, cumulus clouds in distance.

Paved Strip into Lake

Visitor use showing paved strip into lake at Boulder Beach.

Photographer: R. Grater
Date: July 6, 1952

LAKE 5805

Car at right and left, people on beach and in water behind.

Las Vegas Bay Development

Las Vegas Bay development.

Photographer: Schaack
Date: 1960

LAKE 5926

Aerial view of large hills at lower right, cars in parking area to lower left, lake with many boats upper area.

Storm Damage at Hemenway Harbor

Storm damage at Hemenway Harbor - Five boats sunk or badly damaged following all night winds.

Photographer: Schaack
Date: January 1959

LAKE 5948

Damaged boats scattered across large body of water with mountains in the distance and boat debris across the shoreline.

Lake Mead Cup Races

Lake Mead Cup Races - Part of crowd as seen from judges stand.

Photographer: Schaak
Date: 1959

LAKE 5982

Beach crowded with cars and people, mountains in distance.

Boulder Beach Campground

Aerial view, Boulder Beach Campground, trailer park and Lodge.

Photographer: Schaak
Date: 1960

LAKE 5995

Aerial view, lake top left, trees and campsites center, buildings at bottom, multiple roads throughout.

Boulder Beach Campground

Boulder Beach Campground, new section showing layout.

Photographer: Schaak
Date: 1960

LAKE 6000

Aerial view of campsites with trailers and cars throughout.

Temple Bar Development

Temple Bar development, Aerial View.

Photographer: Schaak
Date: 1960

LAKE 6014

Aerial view, lake is at bottom of frame, paved launch ramp at center divides areas of parked cars and buildings.

Aerial View of Temple Bar

Aerial view of cabin sites and campground at Temple Bar, September.

Photographer: Schaack with companions Richey, Keefe and Westcott
Date: 1958

LAKE 6056

Aerial view of horizontally paved road running through the desert landscape with dirt roads stemming in all directions, camping area in upper left.

Temple Bar District

Temple Bar District.

Photographer: Whitmoyer
Date: 1963

LAKE 6783

Speed boat traveling through a large body of water surrounded by towering rock formations and mountains.

Ruins of Callville Fort

Callville - waters rising - Ruins of Callville Fort shown - Established by Anson Call in 1865.

Photographer: Gerald Crowe
Date: 1932

LAKE 8784

Two parallel rectangular-shaped brick ruins on top of desert landscape with a body of water below.

Black Canyon

Looking down Black Canyon from Boulder Dam.

Photographer: Henry G. Peabody
Date: April 13, 1937

LAKE 10042

Looking down deep canyon with water at bottom, water is spraying into canyon from concrete structure at lower left.

Boulder Beach Landing

Boulder Beach landing and anchorage.

Photographer: N. Dodge with companion G. Baldwin
Date: October 1946

LAKE 10606

Serpentine shaped shoreline at left, lake with many moored boats to right, mountains and clouds in distance.

Las Vegas Wash Boat Landing

Boat landing and anchorage at Las Vegas Wash.

Photographer: Natt N. Dodge and companion Gordon Baldwin
Date: October 1946

LAKE 10609

Shoreline with tire imprints and a body of water to the right with boats scattered across, surrounded by mountains.

Planting at Boulder Beach Campground

Planting at Boulder Beach Campground.

Photographer: George Grant
Date: June 8, 1945

LAKE 12106