Unveiling the History of Block 16: Las Vegas’ Former Red-Light District
Las Vegas, a city renowned for its glittering casinos, world-class entertainment, and vibrant nightlife, has a lesser-known but equally intriguing history. Among its most fascinating stories is the tale of Block 16, the city’s former red-light district. This area not only shaped early Las Vegas but also laid the foundation for its future as a hub of vice and indulgence. Let’s dive into the captivating history of Block 16 and explore its enduring legacy.
The Origins of Block 16
Block 16 was established in the early 1900s, during the birth of Las Vegas as a railroad town. The Union Pacific Railway Company held an auction, selling off blocks of land in the downtown area. Blocks 16 and 17 sold for the most, $3600, as they were zoned for alcohol sales. The area quickly became known for its saloons, gambling dens, and brothels, open 24/7, and a bustling hub for workers from the railway, nearby mines, and ranches.
The name, Block 16, comes from the original townsite map of Las Vegas, where the area was designated as the sixteenth block. Early city planners laid out the town into a grid system, with each block numbered for clarity and organization. Today, the location is on First Street between Ogden Avenue and Stewart Avenue, (now an empty parking lot across from the California Hotel)
During its early days, the red-light district actually spanned both Block 16 and Block 17. However, society pressed for segregation and Black (and some Asian) workers moved to Block 17, while Block 16 was home to mostly white and hispanic workers.
Life on Block 16
At its peak, Block 16 was home to numerous establishments offering liquor, gambling, and prostitution. Saloons such as the Arizona Club were famous across the country, attracting visitors for the drinking, gambling and vices such as prostitution.
The women who worked in the brothels of Block 16 played a significant role in the community, contributing to the local economy and even supporting philanthropic efforts like contributing to miner's widows funds.
In it's heyday, the 1920s and 30s, around 300 women worked on the block, and between 20-40 lived there full time. Raids became common, with locals calling the block skid row.
The End of an Era
Block 16’s heyday began to wane in the 1940s as Las Vegas transformed into a modern tourist destination. The rise of glamorous casinos on Fremont Street, such as the El Cortez and the Golden Nugget, shifted the city’s focus away from its gritty roots. In 1941, the city council officially outlawed prostitution within city limits, signaling the end of Block 16 as a red-light district.
The closure of Block 16 marked the beginning of a new era for Las Vegas. The area was gradually redeveloped, and by the 1950s, it had been completely absorbed into the expanding downtown. Today, the original Block 16 has been paved over and turned into a parking lot, but its influence is still felt in the city’s culture of entertainment and indulgence, for just a few streets over, on Fremont, you'll still catch a feel of the vibrant, lively atmosphere that Vegas has always been known for.
Block 16’s Legacy in Modern Las Vegas
While Block 16 is long gone, its legacy endures in various ways. The 24/7 experience, and sin city indulgence that shaped the development of the city can still be felt in the casinos and nightclubs that define modern Las Vegas. Additionally, the city’s willingness to embrace its past has made it a popular destination.
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in preserving and celebrating the history of early Las Vegas, including Block 16. Historical markers and guided tours offer visitors a glimpse into this forgotten chapter of the city’s history.
For those looking to dive deeper into the history of Block 16 and the Red Light District, Las Vegas Guided Tours provides an engaging Historic Red Light Tour. Whether you prefer an in-person experience with an expert guide or a self-guided audio app, these tours bring the vibrant and storied past of Block 16 to life, offering an immersive way to explore this unique aspect of Las Vegas history.
Final Thoughts
Block 16 was more than just a red-light district; it was a vital part of Las Vegas’ identity during its formative years. For those interested in the history of Sin City, exploring the tale of downtown Fremont offers valuable insights into how Las Vegas became the unique and unforgettable destination it is today.
History buffs, curious travelers, and locals looking to the city’s past, Las Vegas is filled with unique stories that make it the enigma it is today and a beacon of entertainment for over a century.