Barbara Greenspun remembers 1962: Pioneers should be remembered

Friday, Sept. 29, 2000 | 10:22 a.m.

We should always remember the pioneer citizens of our community, who persevered against the odds and built a solid foundation for Las Vegas to become the fabulous city it is today.

James Cashman Sr., fondly known as Big Jim, was one of those dynamic leaders. As chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, he was instrumental in getting the highways into Las Vegas improved. Even in those early years, he recognized the value of the tourist trade. He also understood that water was critical to growth and served on the first Board of Directors of the Las Vegas Water District.

He, along with fellow members of the Elks lodge, spearheaded the building of Cashman Field, the current home of the Las Vegas Stars baseball team. His was the innovative thinking that led to the construction of the old Helldorado Village, where so many youngsters and adults enjoyed the fun and entertainment of Helldorado Days.

Jim Cashman gave so much to our city, and although it was 38 years ago when he died, his children and their children carry on the Cashman tradition of community dedication and philanthropy.