An Ode to the Chief Hotel Court

The Chief Hotel Court as it appeared in 1986.
Courtesy of UNLV Special Collections and Archives

Las Vegas is known for its treasure trove of neon signs. While some may not be as glamorous or popular as the Stardust, signs like the Chief Hotel Court cannot be ignored with its Native American motif.

In 1940, Harold J. Stocker opened the Chief Hotel Court at 1201 Fremont St. (U.S. Highway 93). He financed the building by selling a glass and sand mining operation he owned in the Moapa Valley in Nevada, according to the Nevada Division of Historic Preservation and Archeology. The motel, once known as the Chief Autel (a cross between auto and motel or hotel) Court, was named in honor of the Santa Fe Chief. 

The one-story, U-shaped motel made of stucco once advertised steamed heat to bring in winter visitors on chilly nights in Vegas. Unfortunately, the motel closed in 1989 and was demolished in the early 1990s. However, the sign was saved and later restored by the Neon Museum.

Founded in 1996, the Neon Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that collects, preserves, and exhibits iconic Vegas signs like the Chief Hotel Court. 

The Chief sign sits inside the museum's Neon Boneyard, a place where sign geeks and others can drool at other legendary signs that once graced the streets of Sin City. 

The Chief Hotel Court sits comfortably inside the Neon Museum's Neon Boneyard.
Highway Hasman photo

The Boneyard features more than 250 unrestored signs. At sunset, they are illuminated with ground lighting. People can come by for tours or schedule personal and commercial photo/video shoots.

The Neon Museum is located at 770 Las Vegas Boulevard and is open seven days a week. Hours vary depending on the time of year.