Henderson 1900-1949 Did You Know

Formation of Basic Magnesium, Inc. (1942): In 1942, Henderson was put on the map with the formation of Basic Magnesium, Inc., which produced magnesium for munitions and airplane parts during World War II.

Construction of the Hoover Dam (1931-1936):  The construction of the Hoover Dam, beginning in 1931, brought thousands of workers to the region, significantly impacting the development and economy of the areas surrounding Henderson.

Henderson’s Birth from War Effort (1940s): Henderson officially came into existence during the early 1940s as a result of America’s involvement in World War II, primarily to supply magnesium.

Las Vegas Land Auction (1905):  In 1905, a significant land auction occurred in Las Vegas, marking the beginning of formal development in the region and influencing future growth near Henderson.

Establishment of Las Vegas as a Railroad Town (1905): In 1905, Las Vegas was officially established as a railroad town, which significantly contributed to the growth and development of nearby areas, including Henderson.

Boomtown Era (1940s): The 1940s saw Henderson transform into a boomtown, with a rapidly growing population due to its magnesium production, playing a crucial role in the war effort.

Post-War Transition (Post-1945): After World War II, Henderson faced uncertainty as war contracts ceased, but transitioned into an industrial base helping maintain its economy.

Auction of War Surplus Homes (Late 1940s):  In the late 1940s, Henderson sold war surplus homes in a unique auction, contributing to the city’s growth and providing housing for a burgeoning population.

First Schools in Modern Henderson (1940s): The first schools in modern Henderson were established in the 1940s, marking the beginning of the city’s educational infrastructure.

Impact of the Hoover Dam (1930s): Te construction of the Hoover Dam in the 1930s had a significant impact on Henderson and the surrounding areas, bringing in workers and boosting the local economy.

Early Agricultural Shifts (Early 1900s):  In the early 1900s, the areas around Henderson began shifting from traditional agriculture to more industrial pursuits, setting the stage for the city’s later industrial boom.

City of Henderson Establishment (1943): Henderson was officially established as a city in 1943.

Population Surge (1940s): During the 1940s, Henderson experienced a population surge, growing from a small settlement to a thriving industrial city almost overnight due to the war.

Post-War Magnesium Demand (Post-1945): After World War II, the demand for magnesium decreased, leading to a significant economic and social transition in Henderson as it sought new industries and purposes.

School for War Workers’ Children (1942):  In 1942, a school was established in Henderson to educate the children of war workers, marking the beginning of the city’s public education system.

Henderson’s First Airport (1940s):  Henderson had its first airport established in the 1940s.

Victory Village Establishment (1940s): A temporary housing area named Victory Village was established in Henderson in the 1940s to accommodate the influx of workers and their families for the magnesium plant.

Henderson’s First Library (Late 1940s): Henderson opened its first library in the late 1940s, indicating the city’s growth in cultural and educational infrastructure.

Black Mountain Golf and Country Club (1940s): The Black Mountain Golf and Country Club, one of Henderson’s oldest recreational spots, was established in the 1940s.

Ethel M Chocolates Origin (1931):  Ethel M Chocolates, a renowned Henderson-based chocolatier, traces its roots back to 1931 when Forrest Mars Sr. started making chocolates in his kitchen.

First Mayor of Henderson (1944):  In 1944, Henderson elected its first mayor, Dr. Jim French, marking the beginning of its own local government.

Henderson’s First Post Office (1942):  Henderson’s first post office was established in 1942.

Henderson Community Church Establishment (1943): The first community church in Henderson was established in 1943, providing spiritual services to the rapidly growing population.

Initial City Planning (1941): In 1941, city planning for Henderson began, focusing on creating a functional city.

Henderson During Prohibition (1920-1933): During Prohibition (1920-1933), Henderson, like much of Nevada, experienced a surge in illegal alcohol trade and speakeasies.

First Fire Department (1942):  Henderson’s first fire department was formed in 1942, staffed initially by volunteer firefighters from the plant workers?

Henderson’s First Newspaper (1942):  Henderson’s first newspaper, “The Henderson Home News,” was published in 1942, providing the community with local and national news.

Impact of the New Deal (1933-1939):  The New Deal programs in the 1930s brought infrastructure improvements and employment opportunities to the Henderson area.

Boulder City-Henderson Relationship (1931): The construction of Boulder City for the Hoover Dam workers in 1931 indirectly influenced Henderson’s early development.

Henderson’s First Hospital (1942):  Henderson’s first hospital was established in 1942.

Land Allocation for Henderson (1941):  In 1941, the U.S. government allocated land specifically for the development of Henderson.

World War II Memorial Building (1940s):  In the 1940s, a memorial building was erected in Henderson to honor local veterans who served in World War II.

Early Telephone Services (1940s): Telephone services were introduced in Henderson in the 1940s, connecting the growing community to the rest of Nevada.

The Great Depression’s Impact (1930s):  The Great Depression in the 1930s led to economic hardships in the region, setting the stage for Henderson’s later significance in industrial production.

Water Infrastructure Development (1940s):  In the 1940s, significant developments were made in Henderson’s water infrastructure to support the growing industrial and residential needs