Atomic Testing - Las Vegas, NV
Posted by: 
bluesnote
N 36° 10.250 W 115° 08.617
11S E 666959 N 4004493
This is one of many historical markers along Fremont Street.
Waymark Code: WMDNKP
Location: Nevada, United States
Date Posted: 02/05/2012
Views: 10
The plaque reads "After World War II, and during the early stages of the 'Cold War' with the Soviet Union, the United States began above ground atomic testing in the South Pacific. The decision to move testing to Nevada was made primarily for the national security reasons. The area had a small population and was already owned by the federal government. The first test at the Nevada Test Site was conducted on January 27, 1951. The test site was a boon for the Las Vegas economy, providing thousands of jobs and international publicity. Many locals and tourist traveled to Mount Charleston to better view the blasts. The mushroom cloud became a symbol of the times. Atomic hairdos, atomic cocktails, and Miss Atomic Bomb contests became part of the Las Vegas culture. Testing moved underground in 1963 after a treaty was signed by the U.S., Great Britain and Soviet Union. Controversy arose over the issue of the 'Downwinders,' who were exposed to radiation in the fallout patterns. Health problems for those exposed to radiation, include soldiers who participated in the test, are a tragic by product of the era. The last underground test was on September 23, 1993. A portion of the site, Yucca Mountain, is currently being developed for storage of nuclear waste."
Group that erected the marker: Nevada Power
Address of where the marker is located. Approximate if necessary:
310 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV United States
URL of a web site with more information about the history mentioned on the sign: Not listed
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