Eccentric Las Vegas Mansion with Treasures Lists for €2.1 Million

A unique piece of Las Vegas history is now on the market. The Paradise Crest Manor, a sprawling estate listed for €2.1 million ($2.5 million), is filled with artifacts and memorabilia from the city’s vibrant past. This home belonged to the late Lonnie Hammargren, a former lieutenant governor of Nevada and a respected NASA neurosurgeon, who was known for showcasing his extraordinary collection to the public.

Hammargren’s extensive assortment includes a range of iconic items, such as an Apollo space capsule and the famous sign from the Hacienda Hotel and Casino. Other notable artifacts include a stained-glass dome from the Dunes and a dragon from the Imperial Palace Hotel. Over the years, Hammargren transformed his residence into a museum-like space, where visitors could explore themed rooms packed with thousands of treasures, from Mayan relics to Las Vegas casino memorabilia.

Legacy of a Collector

The Paradise Crest Manor spans over 12,000 square feet, comprising three interconnected houses. Hammargren purchased the property in 1971 and expanded it by acquiring two adjacent lots, allowing him to house his ever-growing collection. He once estimated that he spent approximately $10 million (€8.5 million) acquiring these artifacts, although he faced significant financial challenges, reportedly accumulating debts of about $750,000 (€640,000) before his passing in 2023.

His collection gained significant media attention, appearing on television shows such as Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, Pawn Stars, and American Restoration. More recently, it was featured on America’s Ugliest Homes, where it was described as “weird, but not necessarily ugly.” The estate also attracted visits from various celebrities, including Nicolas Cage and astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

A Community Landmark

According to Angie Hatcher, a Las Vegas-based real estate agent with Simply Vegas, the property holds significant historical and emotional value for many residents. “It holds historic and emotional significance to so many people in the Las Vegas area and all of Nevada,” she said.

As Las Vegas evolved and many iconic casinos were demolished, Hammargren became a custodian of the city’s history. He salvaged numerous pieces, often stating, “If I don’t remember them, then who will?” His passion for collecting reflected a deep connection to the city’s heritage, ensuring that its vibrant past would not be forgotten.

Beyond his role as a collector, Hammargren was well-regarded in the community for his contributions to medicine and his approachable personality. His legacy lives on through the treasures that fill the Paradise Crest Manor, which now stands as a testament to the colorful and ever-changing narrative of Las Vegas.