Ep 14. Secrets of Las Vegas

In season 10, episode 14 of the popular travel channel series Mysteries at the Museum, viewers are treated to an exploration of the hidden secrets of Las Vegas. Known for its glitz, glamour, and world-famous casinos, Las Vegas is a city that has built a reputation for being full of surprises. This episode takes viewers on a journey through the city's lesser-known history, uncovering some of the most fascinating tales of the desert oasis.

The episode begins with a visit to the Mob Museum, where a curator shares the story of the infamous mobster Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel. Siegel was one of the original gangsters who helped build Las Vegas into the gambling mecca it is today. However, his violent demise at the hands of his own colleagues still remains a mystery to this day.

Next, the episode delves into the tale of the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign. The sign has become a symbol of the city, but its history is far from glamorous. The story behind its creation involves an unscrupulous sign-maker, a stolen design, and a bitter legal battle that lasted decades.

Moving on from the sign, viewers are then introduced to Las Vegas' downtown arts district, where a former motel has been transformed into a unique museum. The museum is home to a collection of more than 150 vintage neon signs that once illuminated the city's famous strip. Each sign tells a story, shedding light on the city's ever-evolving culture and the impact of Las Vegas on American popular culture.

The episode then turns to the tale of the mysterious "Mud Man," a legend dating back to the mid-19th century. According to local folklore, the Mud Man was a creature that terrorized the residents of Las Vegas for years. Though no one ever found any evidence of his existence, the fear he instilled into the community has lingered for decades.

Viewers are then introduced to the story of the Maude Frazier Hall at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The building is home to a 28-foot-tall totem pole stolen by a group of students in 1968 as a prank. The prank took on a life of its own when the university tried to get the pole back; the students refused to return it, and it became a symbol of student activism.

Finally, the episode brings viewers to one of Las Vegas's most unusual attractions: the National Atomic Testing Museum. The museum's collection includes artifacts from the era of nuclear testing in the Nevada desert, as well as exhibits that detail the science and history of the atomic bomb. The museum serves as a stark reminder of Las Vegas's unique place in American history and its connection to some of the most significant events of the 20th century.

Overall, this episode of Mysteries at the Museum is a fascinating examination of Las Vegas's lesser-known history. From the city's connection to organized crime to its role in the development of the atomic bomb, there are plenty of surprises to uncover in this desert oasis. The episode is sure to pique the interest of viewers interested in Las Vegas's fascinating past and its enduring legacy as one of America's most iconic cities.