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Unveiling Misconceptions: The Functioning Fact behind The Sands' Showgirl Tram in Las Vegas

Strippers at the Sands actively created a commotion, not only as the opening act for renowned headliners such as the Rat Pack, but they also made their mark during regular daytime performances.

Sands Showgirl Tram Debunked Myths: Exploring the Iconic Vegas Transportation System
Sands Showgirl Tram Debunked Myths: Exploring the Iconic Vegas Transportation System

Unveiling Misconceptions: The Functioning Fact behind The Sands' Showgirl Tram in Las Vegas

In the 1950s, a photograph of a Sands Hotel tram, driven by a showgirl, captured the essence of Las Vegas' vibrant atmosphere. The image, taken by Harry Herbert Sidman, was donated to the UNLV Library's Special Collections Department in 1996, when the Sands Hotel closed its doors.

However, a recent claim by D&G Vegas Adventures that the photo depicts a nostalgic ride on a tram driven by showgirls near the pool in the 1950s has been found to be false. In truth, the photo was staged by the Las Vegas News Bureau, and the passengers, although appearing tired due to their long day of travel, were real passengers, not actors.

The photo's subject, the showgirl, was pretending to drive the tram for the sake of the publicity shot. This was heavily promoted by Jack Entratter, the Sands' General Manager, who also approved the photograph's taking.

Facebook user Larry Bittner commented on the image, noting the contrast between the almost naked showgirls and the older ladies in wool coats, suggesting a stark change in fashion over the decades. Despite the misleading label of the photo, it was not taken near the pool, as previously claimed.

Greg Elvis Miller, a historian, agreed with Bittner, stating that such practices would be expensive now. The misinformation spread by D&G Vegas Adventures has been a subject of discussion, as it has caused some confusion among history enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

The Sands Hotel was renowned for its innovative entertainment lineup, and Entratter heavily promoted the addition of showgirls to the roster in 1955. This photograph serves as a testament to that era, offering a glimpse into the past and the unique charm of Las Vegas in the 1950s.

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