Historic Lucky Strike Prospector Statues Find New Home in Goodsprings

Historic Lucky Strike Prospector Statues Find New Home in Goodsprings

By Michael Harrison

December 3, 2024 at 03:53 PM

The iconic Lucky Strike prospector statues, standing 12 feet tall and made of fiberglass, have found a new home in Goodsprings, Nevada, 40 miles southwest of Las Vegas. The town is widely recognized from its appearance in the video game "Fallout: New Vegas."

Pioneer statue against blue sky

Pioneer statue against blue sky

These historic statues, designed by renowned wax artist Katherine Stubergh ("America's Madame Tussaud") and manufactured by YESCO in 1954, have survived multiple relocations and challenges over seven decades. Originally, they were part of the Lucky Strike Club's rooftop sign on Fremont Street, where they would jiggle their illuminated gold pans at night.

Lucky Strike neon sign, 1955

Lucky Strike neon sign, 1955

Their journey included stops at:

  • Lucky Strike Club (1954-1963)
  • Fort Lucinda Casino (1964-1968)
  • Gold Strike Casino (1968-1998)
  • Gold Strike Jean/Terrible's Casino (1998-2024)

Fort Lucinda statue

Fort Lucinda statue

The statues survived a demolition, three casino closures, and a fire before being donated to the Goodsprings Historical Society by Tolles Development Company. Currently, one statue welcomes visitors at the Pioneer Saloon, owned by Stephen Staats, while the second remains in temporary storage for future display.

Gold Strike casino's miner statue

Gold Strike casino's miner statue

The relocation to Goodsprings is particularly fitting, as the town was originally established as a mining community, making these prospector statues a meaningful addition to its historical landscape.

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