The original condo project

OK, it wasn't a condo project, but today I had the opportunity to visit what I suppose could loosely be called the first residential subdivision in Las Vegas -- an archeological site in the Springs Preserve. It dates from AD 670-870 and is believed to contain seven pit houses that accommodated something like, say, 30 people gathered around the old springs area. The picture below is of me and Pat Mulroy, the water czar of Southern Nevada. The landscape in the background, which looks like a dusy flat area with seven slightly raised areas, is the site.

Some excavation has already taken place and pottery and arrowheads have been found. The whole site will eventually be uncovered and the treasures of a long ago community will be discovered. There is no truth to the rumor that a "Vote Harry Reid" pin was found at the oldest levels of the "subdivision".

Just kidding, Harry.

The Springs Preserve at Valley View and U.S. 95 is a spectacular place. This was my first full visit and I have to say it is phenomenal. Truly a community asset. You can visit for $5 a kid and $10 an adult. It is well, well worth the ticket. One day I hope we can find a place to display the wealth of Native American artifacts found in Southern Nevada over the years. I am told that it is a worthy collection that is now tucked away in boxes and warehouses. We ought to find a way to display them and put them into historical context. It is a shame to leave them hidden.

How about it, Harry. Might be a great "stimulus" project.

Sherm Frederick and Pat Mulroy