A community of small town values with big city amenities, Henderson is the largest full-service city in the state of Nevada. Known throughout the nation for its premier master-planned communities, outstanding parks and recreation facilities and cultural arts programs, those moving to Henderson will discover an enhanced quality of life.
History:
Henderson was "born in America's defense" 10 years prior to its incorporation during World War II with the building of the Basic Magnesium Plant. The plant supplied the U.S. War Department with magnesium for munitions and airplane parts. Mayor Jim Gibson's own father, Fred Gibson, was one of the original engineers sent to Great Britain to learn the secret of creating the "miracle metal" which would eventually help the United States and the allies win the war. However, in l947, magnesium production was no longer necessary for defense and most of the 14,000 BMI employees moved away. In 1947, the U.S. War Asset Administration offered Henderson for sale as war surplus property. With the help of local industry, the City of Henderson, Nevada, was officially incorporated in 1953. In the same year, Henderson elected Dr. Jim French as the town's first Mayor. Originally, about 13 square miles in size, the city quickly began to grow and flourish. Today, the city of Henderson has grown to more than 94.5-square-miles, making it the second largest city in Nevada. An increasing number of major shopping malls, movie theater complexes, restaurants and casino resorts offer residents a variety of choices for leisure time. "Shakespeare in the Park" celebrated its 10th anniversary in l996, a testament to the community's long-standing support for the arts and cultural programs.
Economy:
For most of Henderson's short history, the city has been a manufacturing hub. Though it began as a magnesium producer for World War II efforts, Henderson's economy today has diversified. The city is still a manufacturing center, but its diversification includes a competitive marketplace for communications technology. In the past two decades, city leaders, businesses and the community have been working together to diversify the city's economy with aggressive programs to attract new industries. The top industries growing in Henderson are education services, medical and biomedical technology and computer and electronic transfer. In addition, businesses that service senior citizens are sprouting up in the area as more seniors relocate there. A modern "boom town," Henderson's growth shows no signs of slowing. Major corporations with large offices or headquarters in Henderson include Levi Strauss and Company, Ocean Spray Cranberries, Ford Credit and Good Humor-Breyers. Henderson's growing community and highly favorable business climate continues to attract businesses to the area.
Tourism:
Just minutes from the bright lights of the famed Las Vegas Strip, and a few miles from the serenity of Mount Charleston, the City of Henderson offers an oasis in the middle of the Mojave Desert. The city of Henderson is nestled among three of the most renowned manufactured attractions in the Vegas Strip, the Hoover Dam and the tranquil beauty of Lake Mead. As a premier residential community, Henderson offers both residents and visitors an abundance of cultural events, special attractions, and outstanding recreational facilities as well as renowned resorts, restaurants and shopping. From luxurious resorts, championship golf courses, family attractions and spectacular events, Henderson is a wonderful place to explore.