City Honored Artisan Javier Martell
Mayor Shelley Berkley recognized the local bootmaker for his historic craftsmanship this September.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hispanic
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The City of Las Vegas has officially recognized artisan Javier Martell for his dedication to traditional bootmaking. Mayor Shelley Berkley honored the local craftsman during this year's Hispanic Heritage Month.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the preservation of 19th-century trade skills within the local economy. Martell's shop, Old Country Boots, represents a continued connection to long-standing craft traditions in the valley.
The City of Las Vegas issued this recognition as part of its official observance of Hispanic Heritage Month. The total number of local artisans formally honored by the city during this month-long period remains unknown.
The players
Javier Martell
The proprietor of Old Country Boots who creates leather goods using 19th-century techniques.
Shelley Berkley
The Mayor of the City of Las Vegas who issued the recognition.
The details
Javier Martell, who owns Old Country Boots, received the honor for his work using specialized leather-crafting techniques that trace back to the 1800s. The City of Las Vegas acknowledged his role in maintaining these historical methods in his custom work. The recognition serves to spotlight contributions made by members of the local Hispanic community to the valley's cultural and commercial landscape.
Timeline
September 2026: Mayor Shelley Berkley recognized Javier Martell during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Beyond the Strip
This recognition follows the city's established precedent of highlighting cultural contributions by local business owners during the annual Hispanic Heritage Month. The act marks a continuation of municipal support for niche craft trades that define the valley's diverse small-business sector.
Residents interested in traditional leatherwork can visit the artisan's shop in the valley to see his custom designs. The city continues to promote the work of local business owners throughout the year.
The takeaway
This recognition underscores the importance of maintaining historical trade skills in a city largely focused on modern resort development. Look to the City of Las Vegas portal for future announcements regarding local small-business commemorations.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural figures in our Hispanic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTNV.
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