For many Reno Nevada was and is a stop on the way to somewhere. For the covered wagons, a respite between crossing the deserts and climbing the mountains. Provisions and a bridge over the Truckee river. In time the rail came and Reno became a stop on the line. Soon it offered the “cure”, a place to cleanse oneself of an unwanted marriage, ready for the next. And for many it is a place to rest off the interstate, place a bet, have some hope and maybe forget whatever is chasing you before it finds you.
The Reno Motel
The Reno Riviera Motel
On journeys signs help us to find our way. Offer the passerby a place to stay, gamble and eat. The sign itself helps us find the way, but also tell us about where we are. Reno signs say things about Reno. Some have suggested that Reno has hidden behind its signs, putting the glitz and promotion in out in front of a sometimes awkward, shy town. Some like it that that way.
The El Ray
As Reno recovered from the recession of 2009-12, possibly entering a new phase, it became willing to show itself more as a final destination rather than a stopover. Many are deciding to stay and live in Reno, rather than passing through. New developments and more permanent housing mean that some of the old signs designed for more temporary housing are less needed.
Blue Moon Pizza
In November 2017 the Star Dust Motor Lodge was demolished, followed within months by the El Ray, Star of Reno and the Reno Motel. Along with them went their signs, some of which were icons for past eras. Signs of change.
The Reno Motel
The Castaway Inn