You've probably seen on on TV- from the local access Clark County channel to History Channel's Pawn Stars to talking with the late Huell Howser on Road Trip, Mark Hall-Patton is one of the most recognizable faces of local history.
With his Amish-like beard, ever-present Atwood hat and relaxed manner, Mark has become a favorite of producers when they want someone to talk about Las Vegas Valley history. He oversees the Clark County Museum system, including the Clark County Museum out on Boulder Highway - the home of Heritage Street, the Searchlight Museum and the Cannon Aviation Museum at McCarran Airport.
He also is the history advisor on the very popular Pawn Stars cable show. Despite his busy schedule and the fact he was planning an out-of-town trip, we were able to persuade him to answer a few questions.
CLV Blog: How did you become interested in Las Vegas history?
MHP: I came to the Vegas area in December 1993 to help create and manage a museum at McCarran International Airport. Now known as the Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum, I had to do a great deal of research to know the history I was presenting.
As a local historian anywhere I reside, I began researching Las Vegas and Clark County history. I found our history interesting, but with many holes which led me to more research. In 2008 I was asked by the County to take over the entire Clark County museum system (3 museums, including the Clark County Museum, Searchlight History Museum, and the Cannon Aviation Museum).
Read more of the interview at ClassicLasVegasBlog.com