The Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus, on Sept. 28 dedicated a granite and bronze plaque in the shape of the state of Arizona to the historic El Trovatore Motel in Kingman, Ariz.
E Clampus Vitus is a fraternal organization that’s dedicated to the study and preservation of the American West. It has erected several historical plaques or monuments at several Route 66 sites in California and Arizona.
About 100 people gathered at the ceremony at the motel. Here’s what the plaque says:
El Trovatore is Italian for troubadour or traveler. Developer John F. Miller built the Nevada Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada which was renamed the Sal Sagev (Las Vegas spelled backwards) He moved to Kingman Arizona in 1935 after the Hoover Dam was completed. Purchased the motel site and started construction. From 1937-1940 a service station, auto court, and café were built. The modern settlement was a rest stop for travelers. Having heating and air conditioning it was luxurious for its time. Many celebrities have stayed here including Jeff Chandler, Charles Bronson, Jane Russell, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, and Don Knotts.
El Trovatore has undergone an extensive revitalization in the last two years, including the restoration of its iconic tower neon sign.
(Photos courtesy of El Trovatore owner Sam Frisher)