Harrah's Donates Corporate Archive to UNLV Gaming Center

The collection, now known as the "Harrah's Archive," and the research center are part of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas's special collections library.

Satre made the presentation Thursday to UNLV President Carol Harter.

Among the items Harrah's donated were original architectural renderings and blueprints for many of its hotel-casinos, a comprehensive collection of company newsletters, decades-old business cards, entertainers' photos and company documents.

"It is a very proud moment today to place the history of our company and its founder, Bill Harrah, (with the special collections library)," Satre told a group of about 75 people at a library reception. "I hope all of the gaming companies are able to do what we've done today."

Satre said the collection that spans much of the life of Harrah in many ways mirrors the incredible growth of Nevada and its resort industry.

"This is a wonderful collection for UNLV to receive," said Peter Michel, director of special collections. "It is eclectic in nature. We have celebrity and entertainment memorabilia, financial reports, publicity and advertising files, corporate communications, newspaper clippings, film, videotape, and a variety of promotional items carrying the company logo.

"These items represent 65 years of gaming history and will serve to enhance UNLV's position as an international center for the study of gaming and the gaming industry."