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The History of Riverboat Gambling

There are various areas of the world that just seem synonymous with gambling. When people hear the name Las Vegas they picture gambling of a flashy, mass entertainment proportion. Macau ’ s gambling culture brings a real Asian flavour to gambling, with many inevitably comparing it to Vegas. Monte Carlo delivers gambling connotations of wealth and prestige. Obviously, it is not just physical areas where gambling has a strong presence, with the web and mobile space being  dominated by PartyCasino  and other big names in the industry.

Another, yet somewhat less spectacular, sight that can only be associated with gambling is the steam propelled riverboat of certain states in the USA. How did these iconic vessels come to be known for hosting casinos, and what is the current status of riverboat casinos today?

On Water, But Not Land

There is a network of rivers that penetrate inland from the Gulf of Mexico up through the United States,  most famously the Mississippi River . In the 19 th  Century the rivers provided a fantastic way to transport goods from town to town up and down the bodies of water. This in turn became a popular method of passenger transport, with travellers using the boat to socialise. One of the most popular forms of entertainment at the time was gambling, and therefore this pastime became highly popular aboard the vessels.

There were also, and still are today, laws that prohibited gambling on land. However, the proprietor s  of these boats took advantage of the loophole not extending these laws to establishments on water. Even today,  riverboats are still to be found on the Mississippi  and is still considered one of the best for cruises. Certain rivers acted as state lines, so it was sometimes argued that the gamblers could not be classified as being in one state or another while steaming down a river.

Railroads and War

As mentioned, the riverboats were first and foremost a means of transportation and enjoyed such success due to it being the quickest and most reliable means of travel and delivery of goods. However, when railroads started to spread across the country, they opened up new routes that got people around in a more direct manner. The trains also cut days off travel and therefore started to overtake the riverboats in popularity.

Around the same time the  American Civil War  broke out, a period where much of the fighting was done in the Southern States which defied the laws laid out by the North. This meant that riverboat entertainment almost came to a complete end.

The Riverboats of Today

Unlike the boats of old, which used to set off on long journeys to various destinations, the vessels of now mostly remain docked and very seldom actually take to the open waters. However, one will still be able to undergo the traditional experience that thousands enjoyed before casinos became what we are familiar with today.

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Legends of America

Traveling through american history, destinations & legends since 2003., george devol – old west card sharp.

George Devol

“I don’t know just how thick my old skull is, but I do know that it is pretty thick, or it would have been cracked many years ago, for I have been struck some terrible blows on my head with iron dray-pins, pokers, clubs, stone-coal, and bowlders, which would have split any man’s skull wide open unless it was pretty thick. Doctors have often told me that my skull was nearly an inch in thickness over my forehead.”

– George Devol, Forty Years a Gambler on the Mississippi

George H. Devol was the greatest riverboat gambler in the history of the Mississippi River. He was also a con artist, a fighter, and a master at manipulating men and their money.

Born on August 1, 1829, in Marietta, Ohio, George Devol was the youngest of six children. His father was a ship carpenter and was often away from home. Though Devol had good opportunities for early education, he didn’t like school and spent most of his time playing hooky. The unmanageable boy was also prone to fighting, coming home almost daily with scratches and bruises from his numerous scuffles. When a teacher attempted to discipline him with a hardy whipping, he would turn on them, hitting them with stones that he carried in his pocket. While his father was away building boats much of the time, his mother would be forced to call in a neighbor or passerby to help with his punishment.

Devol ran away at the age of ten, serving as a cabin boy on a riverboat steamer called the Wacousta .  Evidently, Devol did a good job in this capacity as he soon took a better-paying job on a boat called Walnut Hills .

Another boat came soon after – the Cicero , where Devol learned to play “Seven-Up” and the art of bluffing. Seeing the high lifestyle of the professional gamblers on the boat, Devol was determined to follow in their footsteps, and by the time he was in his teens, he could deal seconds, palm cards, and recover the cut.

Fighting would continue to be a natural part of his life, and he soon developed skills with a gun, never hesitating to pull it.

By the time the Mexican War broke out, he was on a boat called the Tiago . Soon, Devol thought it a good idea to go to war and got a job as a barkeeper on the Corvette , bound for the Rio Grande and Mexico.

While aboard the Corvette, he met a man who taught him how to “stock a deck.” Upon reaching the Rio Grande and joining the forces, he quickly utilized his newly learned skills to swindle the other soldiers. But he grew bored with soldiering, and with his pockets filled with his ill-earned gains, he returned to New Orleans, although not for long.

At the tender age of 17, Devol’s pockets were filled with almost three thousand dollars as he headed back home to Ohio, laden with gifts for his family.

While back in Ohio, he mastered the games of Faro and Rondo.  Devol continued to hone his skills and made hundreds of thousands of dollars in the years before the Civil War .  Working the steamboats of the South, he joined in with other card sharps, including Canada Bill Jones , Bill Rollins, Big Alexander, and many others over the years.

Playing Faro

One trick that Devol liked to play was betting against ministers, who inevitably lost their meager wages to the professional gambler. However, Devol would always return their money, along with this advice: “Go and sin no more.” But to the many soldiers, paymasters, farmers, thieves, and businessmen, he was not so kind.

When the war was over, the railroads began to head west, with settlements sprouting up all along the way.  Many of these burgeoning towns, often filled with railroad workers, miners, and cowboys provided all manner of vices, including prostitution , numerous saloons , and the ever-present gambling halls. Supplying perfect opportunities for Devol’s operation, he followed the railroad expansion between Kansas City and Cheyenne in the early 1870s.

According to his account, Devol was working the Gold Room Saloon in Cheyenne when he encountered Wild Bill Hickok .  Devol tells the story that when Hickok placed a $50 bet, he lost.  He then placed another $50 bet, winning the hand that time; however, the dealer handed him back only $25.  When Wild Bill protested, the dealer stated that the house limit was $25. “But you took 50 when I lost,” said Hickok, to which the dealer responded, “Fifty goes when you lose.” The quick-tempered Hickok wasn’t about to accept those terms “sitting down” and quickly whacked the dealer on the head with his walking stick, turned over the table, and stuffed his pockets with the till.

On another occasion, when Devol was working the railroad route, he beat a railroad director out of $1,200.  This one-time winning game resulted in Devol’s profession being quickly curbed when the outraged official prohibited gambling on trains.  Further, the Pinkerton agency was hired to be on the lookout for the most notorious professional gamblers, including Devol.

In 1892, Devol published his autobiography, Forty Years a Gambler on the Mississippi , telling of his life and probably exaggerating much of it. Shortly after he published his book, the great days of railroad and riverboat gambling were over. At his new wife’s insistence, he retired from gambling for good in 1896 and spent the last years of his life selling his book.

It is estimated that Devol won over two million dollars in his forty years of gambling.  However, when he died in Hot Springs , Arkansas , in 1903, he was nearly penniless.

Reno, Nevada Gambling, 1910

©  Kathy Weiser-Alexander / Legends of America , updated November 2021.

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The Legacy and Historical Influence of Riverboat Casinos in the United States

Welcome aboard as we set sail into the captivating world of riverboat casinos in the United States . On this page, we’ll walk you through their legal status and historical implications, explore the where, what, and why of these floating gaming venues, and finally, take a close look at the modern condition of riverboat gambling.

As we explore the ins and outs of this unique chapter in American gaming history, we’ll also take a glance at if riverboat casinos have left a mark on the WV online gambling scene and gambling in the US in general.

• Legal Status of Riverboat Gambling
• Boat Casinos Regulation in Various States
• History of Riverboat Gambling
• Popular Riverboat Casinos

The Legal Status of Riverboat Gambling

Historically, casino boats were allowed in many states, mostly those with access to the Mississippi River. Today, only six states still allow this form of gambling:

Mississippi

Gambling boats are essentially floating casinos operating on designated waterways . They offer a wide variety of gambling activities just like land-based casinos, including slots , table games , and poker .

Each state with legal riverboat gambling has its own regulatory body responsible for licensing and ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. These regulations typically address aspects such as gambling activities allowed, revenue sharing with the state, security measures, responsible gambling practices, and environmental considerations.

While sharing similarities with land-based casinos, riverboat casinos face additional regulations due to their unique setting, such as:

• Licensing requirements . Land-based casinos typically have more stringent licensing requirements than riverboat casinos. For instance, land-based casinos may be required to undergo a more rigorous background check and financial audit process compared to riverboat casinos;
• Location restrictions . There are usually fewer restrictions on riverboat casino locations than on those of the brick-and-mortar venues. For instance, land-based casinos might not be allowed to operate in certain areas, such as residential neighborhoods or near schools. Riverboat casinos, in turn, are more flexible when it comes to location, as they can be moored on rivers that flow through various areas;
• Taxation . The taxation of land-based casinos and riverboat casinos can vary depending on the state. In some cases, land-based casinos may be subject to higher tax rates than riverboat casinos;
• Building codes . Land-based casinos are typically required to meet more stringent building codes than riverboat casinos. This is because land-based casinos are permanent structures, while riverboat casinos are considered temporary structures;
• Inspection and enforcement . Land-based casinos usually undergo more frequent inspections and stricter enforcement of regulations compared to riverboat casinos.

Generally, the regulation of land-based casinos tends to be more strict and comprehensive than the regulation of any casino on the Mississippi River . The reason is likely that land-based casinos are considered to have a greater impact on the surrounding community , both in terms of economic benefits and social costs.

State-by-State Riverboat Gambling Regulations

As of 2024, it’s legal to run and visit a riverboat casino in six states. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

Here, riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River , the Illinois River , and the Des Plaines River . The casinos must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and be accessible to the public by land or water . Riverboat casinos in Illinois are regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board .

In Indiana, boat casinos can operate on the Ohio River , the Indiana Harbor , and the Patoka Lake Reservoir . They must be located at least 600 feet from the shore . Riverboat casinos in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission .

In this state, it’s legal for riverboat casinos to operate on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River . They must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and are regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission .

A riverboat casino in Louisiana is allowed to operate on the Mississippi River , the Red River , and the Gulf of Mexico as long as they are located at least 300 feet from the shore . The casinos here are regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board .

Obviously, a riverboat casino in Mississippi can be located on the Mississippi River at least 300 feet from the shore . Boat casinos in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Gaming Commission .

Last but not least, Missouri riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River at least 300 feet from the shore . Riverboat casinos in Missouri are regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission .

Brief History of Riverboat Casinos

Explore the history of riverboat casinos in the United States, tracing their origins, development, and impact on both the gambling industry and American culture.

19th Century: The Origins of Riverboat Gambling

The roots of riverboat gambling can be traced back to the 19th century when steamboats were the primary mode of transportation along the Mississippi River. As passengers went on long journeys, gambling became a popular pastime to pass the time. While gambling activities were generally illegal on land at that time, boats provided a loophole, as they were considered to be outside of state jurisdiction.

Early 20th Century: Decline and Revival

The invention of railroads in the early 20th century led to a logical decline in riverboat travel, and respectively, riverboat gambling. However, the 1970s saw a reappearance of interest in riverboat casinos, primarily because of the push to revitalize urban areas.

1990s: Expansion and Legalization

The 1990s marked a period of significant growth for riverboat casinos. Several states legalized riverboat gambling, and the industry expanded rapidly. By the late 1990s, there were over 150 riverboat casinos operating in the United States.

2005: Hurricane Katrina and Its Devastating Blow

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The storm severely impacted the boat casino industry in Mississippi and Louisiana, with several casinos suffering significant damage or complete destruction.

Late 2010s: Post-Katrina Recovery and Adaptation

The consequences of Hurricane Katrina brought significant changes to the riverboat casino industry. While some casinos managed to rebuild and reopen, others had to close permanently. The industry also faced increased competition from brick-and-mortar casinos, which were gaining popularity at that time.

Today: A Mature Industry

Today, a casino boat remains a popular form of entertainment in the United States. However, the industry has matured and consolidated, with the number of riverboat casinos decreasing in recent years. Despite these changes, riverboat casinos continue to be an important economic driver in many regions.

Popular Riverboat Casinos in the US

Now that we know all the theory about riverboat gambling, let’s get to practice and take a look at the most popular water casinos in the United States.

The Grand Victoria Casino – Elgin, Illinois

Located along the beautiful Fox River, The Grand Victoria Casino is a home (or rather a boat) of true gaming elegance. Known as the largest riverboat casino in Illinois, it boasts an impressive 65,000 square feet of gaming space including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a steakhouse, a buffet, and a concert venue.

Ameristar Casino Vicksburg – Vicksburg, Mississippi

The Ameristar Casino Vicksburg is one of the oldest and most crowded riverboat casinos in Mississippi with over 50,000 square feet of gaming space . The wide choice of slots, table games, and poker tables is complemented by all kinds of entertainments, from the flavors of a diverse buffet to comedy clubs and nightclubs.

Horseshoe Casino – Bossier City, Louisiana

The Horseshoe Casino is one of the largest riverboat casinos in Louisiana and one of the most popular. It features over 100,000 square feet of gaming space , including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, so players can choose between a steakhouse, a buffet, a concert venue, and others.

Sam’s Town Casino – Shreveport, Louisiana

Sam’s Town Casino is a popular destination for all kinds of gaming enthusiasts in and out of state. With a gaming space of over 34,000 square feet , this casino offers an intimate yet exhilarating experience. Beyond the slots, table games, and poker room, Sam’s Town welcomes gamers to savor a culinary journey with a steakhouse, a buffet, and a unique entertainment experience at the in-house bowling alley.

What is the Diamond Lady casino boat?

The Diamond Lady Riverboat Casino was a paddlewheel riverboat casino that operated on the Mississippi River in Bettendorf, Iowa, from 1991 to 2008. In 2021, the Diamond Lady sank during a severe winter storm. It was later raised and brought to shore, where it remains today. The future of the Diamond Lady is uncertain, but it is possible that it will be restored and reopened as a casino or museum.

Why do casinos have to be on water in the US?

Casinos in the US don’t necessarily have to be on the water, but there are some casinos that are. This practice originated when gambling laws were more restrictive on land, and the association of riverboat gambling with waterborne transportation became a legal requirement in some states.

Why are casinos on the water so popular?

Riverboat casinos are popular for their unique charm and historical allure. The on-water setting offers players a distinctive and memorable gaming experience, contributing to the popularity of these establishments. Additionally, the regulations associated with riverboat gambling create a controlled and regulated environment that appeals to both operators and players.

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History of Riverboat Gambling on the Mississippi

The South has always been at least somewhat friendly to gambling due to the rise of the riverboat in the early 1900s. Games of chance were kept on the water so that anti-gambling laws wouldn’t apply. Games like poker and roulette took place on grand riverboats, even if the ship never left the dock.

This tradition was greatly reduced when the railroad became the main way to transport both goods and people, but some riverboats remain in the South today. In Mississippi and Louisiana, especially, retired steamboats are now used for river cruising and for gambling in places like Vicksburg.

Online casinos are one of the latest innovations in the casino industry. Since the rise of technological advancements, they are solid competitors to U.S.-based land-based casinos. Many gambling restrictions still remain in the South and across the ocean. For example, every casino in the UK gets licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.

The regulations of the U.S. online casino market have led to developers existing who only get associated with U.S. casinos and are not available at UK-based gaming sites. Some famous developers for the U.S. market are RealTime Gaming, Relax Gaming, Rival Gaming, Elk Studios and Betsoft.

But for those players who want the old-time experience of dressing up and boarding a grand steamboat, the South has plenty for them. Just look along the Mississippi River from Missouri to Louisiana. According to Visit Mississippi , the first steamboat to travel the Mississippi River was the New Orleans, whose October 1811 maiden voyage began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The New Orleans stopped in Natchez in December 1811 before continuing to its final port in New Orleans.

Wealthy Southerners could afford to travel by steamboat, and some were ornately decorated in the Victorian style. The riverboat casinos that remain today continue that grand tradition, with music playing onboard, restaurants available to players and even live entertainment offered regularly.

So, if you want to step back in time and experience the old South by river—without all the outlaws and pirates —consider a riverboat cruise or evening of gaming.

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A History of Riverboats in Mississippi

The mighty Mississippi river stretches from Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The second-longest river in the United States, the Mississippi is integral to the history of America — particularly in the state of Mississippi. Riverboats facilitated travel, commerce, and cultural exchange within Mississippi and beyond. Learn more about the impact of Mississippi riverboats in this post from Visit Mississippi .

Riverboats: The Early Days

While people have navigated the waters of the Mississippi River for centuries, steamboat technology was not viable until the early 1800s. The first steamboat to travel the Mississippi was the New Orleans, whose October 1811 maiden voyage began in Pittsburgh, PA, and ended in New Orleans after traveling along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

The New Orleans stopped in Natchez in December 1811 before continuing to its final port in New Orleans. First established by French colonists and later ruled by the Spanish, Natchez was an important center of trade and cultural exchange.

The Golden Age of the Steamboat

By the 1830s, steamboats existed all along the Mississippi River and its major tributaries. The growth of Mississippi’s riverfront communities, such as Bolivar, Commerce, and Greenville, can largely be attributed to the riverboat trade. Riverboats also brought new settlers to the state, helping to speed up agricultural development in the fertile Mississippi Delta.

Propelled by steam-driven paddle wheels, steamboats could navigate the river more quickly and effectively than barges or flatboats. They carried goods such as cotton, timber, and livestock up and down the river, expanding trade throughout the growing U.S. However, steamboats could be dangerous — the boilers used to create steam could build up too much pressure and explode. Steamboats were also susceptible to hitting obstacles such as rocks or logs, which could cause them to sink. This created a growing industry for a smaller type of riverboat called a “snagboat.” Snagboats patrolled the Mississippi River looking for tree stumps, debris, or other hazards and removing them before they damaged larger steamboats.

Wealthy Mississippians could enjoy leisure travel on a showboat — a riverboat used for theater and musical performances. Showboats were ornately decorated and would announce their arrival at a port by playing music that could be heard for miles.

Riverboats During the Civil War

During the years after Mississippi’s secession from the Union, many steamboats were used to support the Confederate Army. Riverboats carried troops, provisions, and supplies along the Mississippi during the Civil War. Demand for ships was so high that both the Union and Confederate governments chartered steamboats. Riverboats also played a role in the defense of Vicksburg, an important Confederate stronghold that connected the South to the Western states.

Gaming on the River

Riverboat gambling became popular in the early 1900s due to legislation surrounding gaming. By keeping poker, roulette, and other games of chance restricted to a riverboat, business owners could evade the anti-gambling laws that were in effect on land in states along the Mississippi River. Riverboat gaming in Mississippi was legalized in 1993, but unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed many riverboat casinos. In response, Mississippi lawmakers allowed casinos to move 800 feet inland.

However, you can still find a few riverboat casinos throughout the U.S. In Mississippi, visitors can try their luck at the Ameristar Casino Hotel in Vicksburg , a riverboat-style casino and hotel located right on the water.

Mississippi Riverboats in the Present Day

According to National Geographic, by 1900, the growth of railroads across the U.S. significantly reduced the demand for transporting goods and people via steamboat. Many riverboats were retired, but a few showboats remained as a testament to this period in history.

The popularity of riverboats continues to thrive in the Magnolia State. Today, tourists can enjoy the relaxing and immersive experience of river cruising. These luxury expeditions offer a unique way to travel the Mississippi, where guests can admire the breathtaking scenery along the waterway. First-class accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of things to do can be expected on a luxury tour on the Mississippi. Companies such as American Cruise Line and Viking River Cruises offer a variety of cruises that vary in duration and cities visited, like Vicksburg and Natchez.

Plan Your Trip With Help From Visit Mississippi

If you’re planning a trip to one of our historic riverfront cities like Natchez, Vicksburg, or Greenville — or anywhere else in the Hospitality State — Visit Mississippi is here for assistance.

Plan your next trip to Mississippi using our complimentary trip planner tool that helps you map out all your must-see attractions, restaurants, and lodging options. Whether you’re here for a week or just passing through, you’ll find a wealth of information about Mississippi history and culture on the Visit Mississippi website. For more information, contact us today.

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This Week In Illinois History: Riverboat Gambling Comes To Illinois (Feb. 7, 1991)

Illinoisans have bet on horseracing since 1927, purchased Lottery tickets since 1974 and gambled for non-profit charities since 1986.

But on Feb. 7, 1990, Gov. James Thompson signed the Riverboat Gambling Act , laying odds on economic development and tourism.

With a blackjack table as a desk, the signing ceremony took place at the Peoria Boatworks. A steamboat blasted its whistle while a calliope played “ Happy Days are Here Again .”

The newly created Illinois Gaming Board granted 10 licenses, giving preferential treatment to economically depressed areas outside the Chicago area. Riverboat casinos could operate only on water and gambling was permitted only after the boats left the dock.

The first license went to Alton, which launched Illinois’ first riverboat casino, the Alton Belle, on Sept. 10, 1991. The three-deck, 600-passenger boat held 296 slot machines and 22 gambling tables.

In the first year, riverboat gambling brought in $8 million in tax revenue. The next year, it raked in $54 million, surpassing horseracing revenue.

On May 21, 1999, Gov. George Ryan signed a new Riverboat Gambling Act, which allowed gambling to continue on riverboats while they remained dockside. The new law, however, allowed an easy work-around. Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, for example, dug a shallow pit on dry land, filled it with water, and built a casino over it.

Riverboat gambling tax revenue peaked at $699 million in 2005.

In June 2019, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation allowing Illinois’ 10 riverboat casinos to move operations to dry land, effectively tapping out this brief and quirky footnote to our state history.

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Gambling in the Old West

As towns sprouted in the 19th-century American West — outside Army forts, at river crossings along wagon trails, in mining districts and at railheads — some of the first structures built were recreational facilities. Recreation for the almost totally male population inevitably meant the triple-W vices of the frontier: whiskey-drinking, whoring and wagering.

Saloons, brothels and gambling halls would appear almost overnight. In the early camps, the structure might be only a lantern-lit, dirt-floored tent, the bar simply a board stretched between two whiskey barrels, the prostitution facility just a cot in a wagon bed for the use of a single female strumpet, and the gambling outfit only a rickety table, a few chairs and a greasy, dog-eared deck of cards. As the towns grew and prospered, these primitive facilities were replaced by one-story wooden buildings with false fronts to make them appear even larger. And if the community developed into a city, saloons were housed in imposing brick buildings with ornate bars, huge back-bar mirrors and brilliant chandeliers. Some brothels became elegantly furnished parlor houses with attractive ‘boarders’ managed by madams whose names were famous throughout the West. The best-known sporting men of the West presided over and patronized gambling houses that were often the most impressive and elaborately accoutered structures of the cities.

The popularity of gambling in the West can be attributed mostly to the fact that all who left the relative safety and comfort of the East to seek fame and fortune on the frontier were, in a sense, natural-born gamblers. In the early West, gambling was considered a profession, as legitimate a calling as the clergy, the law or medicine.

During the 25-year period prior to the Civil War, gambling flourished in the towns along the Mississippi from New Orleans to St. Louis and was a staple attraction on virtually every riverboat. This golden age of gambling produced some of the most memorable practitioners of the art — legendary professionals like Charles Cora, J.J. Bryant, Jimmy Fitzgerald, John Powell, Charles Starr and Napoleon Bonaparte ‘Poley’ White.

One of the popular gambling games of the 19th century was a bluffing game that evolved into American poker. Another, vingt-et-un (twenty-one), introduced into the United States through the predominately French community of New Orleans, we now call blackjack. Still another was Mexican monte. But undoubtedly the most popular gambling game in the West was faro, which drew its name from the Egyptian pharaohs depicted on the back of the cards.

The foremost faro player on the Mississippi was Italian immigrant Charles Cora. After winning $85,000 and breaking several faro banks in New Orleans, Vicksburg and Natchez during one six-month period, he was banned from many resorts. J.J. Bryant, perhaps the best-known professional gambler on the lower Mississippi, lost thousands to Cora.

Jimmy Fitzgerald and Charles Starr were early standard-setters of the sartorial splendor that became a hallmark of the 600 to 800 professional gamblers plying their trade on the river. Their expensive black suits and boots were offset by snow-white ruffled shirts and dazzling brocaded vests. Ostentatious jewelry advertised the gambler’s prosperity. Huge rings adorned his fingers. A stickpin with a large stone, called a ‘headlight,’ sparkled on his chest. In a pocket of his ‘flowerbed’ vest was an enormous pocket watch adorned with precious jewels and attached to a heavy golden chain that draped across the gambler’s chest.

The discovery of gold in California and the resulting rush of 1849 attracted many of the paddle-wheel and Mississippi River town gamblers to San Francisco, the new El Dorado of the West. By the early 1850s Portsmouth Square, the center of the City by the Bay, was ringed by large gambling houses where the doors never closed and enormous sums changed hands over the tables.

There was the Parker House, originally built by its owner, Robert A. Parker, as a hotel, but quickly converted to a casino as the gambling craze swept San Francisco. A large room downstairs contained three tables for faro, two for monte, one for roulette and a seventh for any other game desired. Professional gamblers paid $10,000 a month for the privilege of conducting their games in this room. A smaller room behind the bar went for $3,500 a month. Jack Gamble, an appropriately named sporting man, leased the entire second floor for $60,000 and outfitted all the rooms for games of chance. It was estimated that at the peak of the California Gold Rush upward of half a million dollars was stacked on the tables of the Parker House on any given day.

Flanking the Parker House on either side were two other famous resorts, Samuel Dennison’s Exchange and the El Dorado Gambling Saloon, owned by partners James McCabe and Thomas J.A. Chambers. Other houses on Portsmouth Square were the Verandah, the Aguila de Oro, the Bella Union, the Empire, the Arcade, the Varsouvienne, the Mazourka, the Ward House, the St. Charles, the Alhambra, La Souciedad, the Fontine House and the Rendezvous. As indicated by the several French names, some of these establishments were owned and operated by gambling syndicates from France, a country long known for its love of gaming.

As mining camps sprang up and grew in the hills surrounding San Francisco, the gamblers followed. Soon elaborate temples devoted to the goddess Chance were running day and night in Sacramento, Columbia, Nevada City and other Sierra boom towns.Among the former Mississippi riverboat gamblers who gained prominence on the California scene were Cora and Bryant. In San Francisco Cora continued to enjoy remarkable success at the faro tables, but luck completely deserted him after he resolved a difficulty with U.S. Marshal William H. Richardson on November 18, 1855, by shooting him to death on a San Francisco street. Shootings and stabbings were common occurrences in the city, and had this murder been committed a few months earlier Cora might have escaped punishment on the ancient claim of self-defense. But violence had reached such proportions in the city that residents were calling for reorganization of the Vigilance Committee that had been so effective against the criminal element in 1851. In that year vigilantes had executed or banished from the city many miscreants, and now, five years later, they felt another no-nonsense cleansing was called for. They tried Cora, found him guilty and on May 22, 1856, hanged him from the roof of their headquarters building.

Bryant’s California fortunes were better. After his arrival, he had purchased the Ward House, refurbished and renamed it the Bryant House, and soon became one of the most prosperous and influential men in San Francisco. In 1850, when the first election for sheriff was held in the city, he ran for the office. Although he spent $50,000 on his campaign and bet another $10,000 that he would win, he was defeated by the popular Jack Hays, a celebrated former Texas Ranger. Bryant sold his gambling house and moved on to the outlying camps, where he was financially successful. By the time he left California in 1854, he had reportedly sent $110,000 in winnings to his wife while maintaining a lavish lifestyle for himself. He resumed his gambling operations in the South and continued to prosper, but at the end of the Civil War he found himself destitute, as his wealth was in worthless Confederate currency. He was reduced to ‘roping suckers’ into a sharper’s crooked game. One of the suckers took offense and in 1868 shot him dead.

With the 1860s came the great mining excitement of the fabled Comstock Lode in Nevada. Most of the gambling activity in the Comstock was centered in Virginia City and nearby satellite communities. As in San Francisco, gambling houses dominated the main streets of the new towns. At the height of the boom an agent of the U.S. Geological Survey, studying recreational opportunities in Virginia City, found that the town of 18,000 had a gambling house for every 150 inhabitants. The best known of the many resorts in Virginia City was the Gentry and Crittenden Gambling Saloon, which featured a no-limit faro table presided over by the famous dealer Hamilton Baker. Other houses of note were Tom Peasley’s Sazarac, named after a new cocktail introduced by Julia Bulette, the queen of the town’s red-light district; the Delta Saloon, owned and operated by Jim Orndorff and Jack Magee; and Tom Buckner’s Sawdust Corner. Other prominent gamblers of Virginia City in its heyday were James ‘Kettle Belly’ Brown, Matt Redding, Jesse Bright, Gus Botto, Billy Dormer, Tom Diamond, Miles Goodman, Joe Dixon, Ramon Montenegro, Grant Isrial and Joe Stewart.

Gold Hill and Carson City were also outstanding towns for the sporting element during the Comstock bonanza years. The undisputed top man in the game at Gold Hill was William DeWitt Clinton Gibson, who was later elected to the Nevada Senate. The Headquarters, the Magnolia and the Occidental were all first-class gambling halls in Carson, and the leading sporting men were Vic Mueller, Tump Winston, Henry Decker, Gus Lewis, Mark Gaige and Adolph Shane. Dick Brown ran two establishments — the Silver State Saloon on the divide between Virginia City and Gold Hill, and the Bank Exchange in Carson City.

One of the most important events of the late 1860s was the completion of the transcon-tinental railroad. As the Union Pacific snaked across the Great Plains to meet the Central Pacific in its historic linkup at Promon-tory, Utah Territory, on May 10, 1869, it produced a number of end-of-track towns that collectively became known as ‘Hell on Wheels.’ They were gathering points for some of the lowest dregs of the sporting world, including hundreds of tinhorn, thieving gamblers. When the railroad pushed on, most of these towns disappeared. The sporting crowd simply loaded their tents, shacks, whiskey barrels, cots, gambling equipment and other paraphernalia on flatcars and moved to the next location at the end of the line. But a few points remained as permanent communities, and today the cities of North Platte, Neb.; Julesburg, Colo.; and Cheyenne, Wyo., can trace their origins to Hell on Wheels. Most of the honky-tonk crowd who preyed on the railroad construction workers during this period were forgettable small-timers, but a few went on to prominence among the gambling men of the West. Most, like John Bull, ‘Canada Bill’ Jones, Doc Baggs and Ben Marks, claimed to follow the respected profession of gambling, but were in fact confidence operators who fleeced their victims with three-card monte, thimblerig and other crooked gambling games. When the steel rails at last spanned the country, many of these sure-thing gamblers continued to work their swindles on railroad passengers, using the rail center of Omaha as headquarters.

They joined a large contingentof other crooked gamblers who formed the lowest echelon of the profession. Gambling, with its basic get-rich-quick appeal, had always attracted a criminal element. Perhaps the most famous member of this gallery of rogues was Jefferson Randolph ‘Soapy’ Smith, who worked his crooked scheme in Colorado for many years. It was Soapy who coined the expression’sure-thing game,’ once proudly proclaiming: ‘I am no ordinary gambler. The ordinary gambler hazards his own money in an attempt to win another’s. When I stake money, it is a sure thing that I win.’

Smith got his start and his nickname from a scam he developed in Leadville, in the Colorado Rockies. He had first worked the thimblerig game, a variation on the three-card monte swindle, which simply seemed to challenge a potential victim’s quickness of eye. Manipulating three walnut shells and a pea on a board, he would induce the sucker to bet on which shell concealed the pea, when in fact it was under none of them, for he had palmed it. When that racket grew old, he devised a new scheme based on the same principle that the hand is quicker than the eye. From a pile of paper-covered soap bars he would extract a few, remove the paper and apparently wrap $20 and $50 bills around the bars before replacing the covering. He would then allow members of his audience to select any bar they wished at $5 apiece. Of course, none of them contained any bills, because he had deftly palmed them in the wrapping process.

The decade of the 1870s saw the advent of the great trail drives of Texas Longhorns to the Kansas railheads and the birth of the notorious cow towns of Abilene, Newton, Wichita, Ellsworth and Dodge City. All became great gambling centers during their early days, and some of the most celebrated names in Western history are associated with this period. James Butler ‘Wild Bill’ Hickok, Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson are remembered today as fearless lawmen of the cattle towns, but all were professional gamblers who spent many more hours at the faro or poker tables than they ever did patrolling the streets. Joining them were other professional gamblers whose names are remembered today for their gunfighting notoriety: Doc Holliday, Ben Thompson and Luke Short.

It was no accident that many of the top-flight gunfighters of the Western frontier were members of the sporting fraternity. Tough, steel-nerved young men who had acquired gunfighting reputations either in personal difficulties or as boomtown lawmen found themselves in demand as dealers in gambling resorts. There were two reasons for this. First, gunfighters of renown attracted patronage, as miners and cowboys were quick to seize the opportunity to match wits and gambling skills with frontier celebrities across a green felt table. Second, since the open display of large piles of cash was a constant attraction for criminals of all sorts, ranging from sneak thieves to holdup men, the mere presence at the tables of famous personalities known to be adept at the art of the draw and shoot discouraged any attempt to steal.

The 1870s also saw more ore strikes and additional mining districts. New boomtowns quickly emerged, most notably Deadwood in Dakota Territory, Leadville in Colorado, and Tombstone in southern Arizona Territory. All three became gambling meccas, and their names have been associated with some of the most famous Westerners of the 19th century. Wild Bill Hickok was shot to death as he sat in a poker game in a Deadwood saloon, and the hand he held — aces and eights, the ‘Dead Man’s Hand’ — became an enduring legend of the West.

Leadville, 10,000 feet high in the mountains, blossomed almost overnight into the largest city in Colorado, and at one point its boosters attempted to wrest the state capital away from Denver. At its peak, gambling opportunities were afforded in more than 150 resorts ranging from small saloons to elaborate theaters and concert halls. Some of the better known were Tom Kemp’s Dance and Gambling Hall, which in 1879 featured vaudeville song-and-dance star Eddie Foy; the Texas House, where proprietors Bailey Youngston and ‘Con’ Featherly provided a dozen faro tables around the clock; and ‘Pop’ Wyman’s Great Saloon, in which a large sign over the bar read: ‘Don’t Shoot the Pianist — He’s Doing His Darndest.’

Most of the leading Western gamblers, including Ben Thompson, Bat Masterson, Luke Short and Doc Holliday, spent a good deal of time — and money — in Leadville. There is a story that after dropping more than $3,000 at faro one night there, the volatile Thompson in a fury turned over the table, jerked out his six-shooter and shot out all the lights, sending panic-stricken patrons scurrying for the exits. Holliday, suffering one of those streaks of bad luck and near poverty that plagued all gambling men, shot another sporting man named Billy Allen in Leadville in a dispute over a mere $5 debt (see ‘Spitting Lead in Leadville: Holliday’s Last Stand,’ in the December 2003 Wild West).

Tombstone blossomed into a major city in the Arizona desert almost overnight and attracted many prominent professional gamblers, including Masterson, Holliday, Earp and Short. The leading drinking emporium in the boomtown was the Oriental Saloon. Its owner, Mike Joyce, leased the gambling concession to a triumvirate of Western sporting men — Dick Clark, a veteran of the Colorado mining camps; Lou Rickabaugh, a San Francisco sporting man; and Bill Harris, former owner of the famous Long Branch Saloon in Dodge City. When gambling became so popular in the Oriental that it adversely affected business at the other resorts in town, a group of competitors hired Johnny Tyler, a gambler of some gunfighting notoriety, to lead a gang of toughs into the Oriental every night, start a ruckus and intimidate patrons. The Oriental owners retaliated by offering Wyatt Earp, who had acquired a gunfighting reputation of his own, a quarter interest in the business if he would handle Tyler and his cohorts. To help him in this task, Earp employed Doc Holliday and sent for Luke Short and Bat Masterson to come to Tombstone and deal in the Oriental. This squad of gunfighting luminaries was too much for Tyler, who soon left town, and the Oriental returned to its air of decorum and its profitability.

Soon Bat Masterson and Luke Short also departed Tombstone — but not before Short had killed Charlie Storms, another well-traveled professional gambler of note, in a famous gunfight. Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday stayed on to gain immortality for their participation in the most celebrated Western showdown of all, the so-called Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Holliday also joined Wyatt in his vendetta ride to avenge the murder of his brother Morgan and the crippling of his brother Virgil. They left Arizona as fugitives wanted for murder, but they returned to their gambling profession and were never tried.

As great cities grew in the West during the 1880s, gambling emporiums grew with them. San Francisco, where gambling had flourished since the first days of the California Gold Rush, now harbored the Barbary Coast, a sin center of worldwide notoriety. Denver, Kansas City, Omaha, Tucson, Hot Springs, Ark., and the Texas cities of Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth and Dallas were recognized as wide-open for gambling of all sorts — from cheating three-card monte scams to high-stakes poker and faro games in elaborate casinos. It was during this period that the Gamblers’ Circuit developed, with professional followers of the goddess Chance traveling around the country, sometimes following the seasons but more often following the latest report of a mining strike or a cattleman’s convention.

In the late 1890s, gold was discovered in the Klondike region of Canada’s Yukon, and the last great rush to a new mining district was on. Of course, along with the prospectors and mining men who flocked to the Klondike were members of the sporting crowd, the same types who had been early arrivals at every boomtown in the West since the Forty-Niners first arrived in California. They opened saloons, brothels and gambling houses and did a flourishing business separating the miners from their gold dust.

Some of the most colorful professional gamblers of the American West made it to the north country. Wyatt Earp was there. He and his partner, Charlie Hoxie, ran the Dexter Saloon in Nome, which they advertised as ‘The Only Second-Class Saloon in Alaska.’ When he sold his interest to Hoxie and returned to California, Earp is said to have accumulated $85,000.

George Lewis ‘Tex’ Rickard, the former city marshal of Henrietta, Texas, joined the rush and ran gambling games, first at Circle City in Alaska and later at Dawson in Yukon Territory. He made and lost a fortune, owned and lost two gambling houses, and made another fortune. It was in the Klondike that he first began promoting prizefights, an enterprise that would lead him into worldwide celebrity as the promoter of the multimillion-dollar-gate bouts of the 1920s featuring heavyweight Jack Dempsey.

The memorable gamblers of the Klondike gold rush included ‘Square Sam’ Bonnifield, Rickard’s mentor, and Louis ‘Goldie’ Golden, who once won $72,000 and Bonnifield’s gambling establishment from Square Sam in a poker game. Goldie lost it all back later when Square Sam, supplied with fresh funds by admirers, cleaned him out. Gambler Harry Woolrich was about to board a steamer to leave the north with $60,000 in winnings when he flipped a half dollar on a faro layout and made what he said was ‘one last bet.’ Twenty-four hours later, he had lost the $60,000 and his steamer ticket. William F. ‘Swiftwater Bill’ Gates won $30,000 in a poker game in Nome but achieved national newspaper coverage for his many amorous adventures.

The crooked gamblers seemed to congregate in the north country at the port town of Skagway, where, under the leadership of Soapy Smith, they relieved new arrivals and departing miners of anything of value. In 1898 Smith was grand marshal of a Fourth of July parade in Skagway; four days later Frank Reid, a member of a citizens’ committee, shot him dead in a gunfight in which Reid also received a fatal wound.

There were still a few wide-open gambling towns after the turn of the century, most notably the boom mining camps of Nevada, particularly Goldfield, Rawhide and Tonopah. Wyatt Earp and Tex Rickard were there, as well as such colorful gambling notables as George Wingfield, Riley Grannan and ‘Diamondfield Jack’ Davis.

Wingfield started out earning $25 a day as a dealer in the Tonopah Club, gambled successfully against other houses, invested his winnings in the mines, was worth more than $2 million by age 27 and became a power in Nevada politics. Grannan broke the faro bank in one saloon and bet his $52,000 winnings on one turn of a card against title to the house. He lost. When he contracted pneumonia and died in Rawhide, Herman W. Knickerbocker, a defrocked Methodist minister, delivered a moving eulogy to the famous gambler. Diamondfield Jack got his start as a bodyguard for Wingfield. Goldfield legend has it that when he expected trouble, he became a walking arsenal, wearing three overcoats with a pistol in every pocket, a bowie knife at his belt and a sawed-off shotgun slung across his back. Other fables attached to the man. He was said to have acquired his name from a field of diamonds he owned. The rumor that he had escaped death sentences on five occasions was greatly exaggerated; he had only been condemned to hang once, for a dual murder in Idaho, and had avoided the hangman’s noose when another man confessed to the crime.

The great age of Western gambling ended with the closing of the frontier and the rise of antisaloon and woman suffrage reform movements that swept across the nation in the first decades of the 20th century. These led inevitably to constitutional amendments prohibiting the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages and establishing the enfranchisement of women. State after state passed legislation outlawing casino gambling. Nevada alone bucked the tide. Casino gambling returned in the latter half of the 20th century on Indian reservations and in Las Vegas, a city devoted to gambling. Its great popularity led to legalization in many areas of the country, and now anyone wishing to wager money will have little difficulty in finding a place to do it. But the colorful professional gamblers of the Western frontier are long gone and generally forgotten.

This article was written by R.K. DeArment and originally appeared in the April 2005 issue of Wild West .

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Riverboat Gambling In The US – The Best Riverboat Casinos

We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she’s our gambling tech expert . Jane’s also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

If you were to close your eyes and imagine a riverboat casino, your mind will probably conjure up an image that would look like something straight out of a Mark Twain novel. Riverboats are represented in pop culture as paddlewheel steamboats that float around languidly, while the cacophony of laughter and excited hoots make their way through the air.

However, riverboat casinos are far more advanced than once thought out to be, offering a unique experience to tourists and seasoned gamblers. In this guide, we’ll take a trip down the river and explore the origins, history and current state of the best riverboat casinos in the USA. All aboard!

Riverboat Gambling In The US – The Rise of the Riverboat Casinos

If only it was easy to point out a go-to destination for the best riverboat casinos. Riverboat gambling goes back a long way through American history. To see a complete picture of riverboat gambling today, we need to first ride down the cruise ship of history to discover the origins of riverboat gambling . Meanwhile, if you are located in any state with legal online gambling, you can play at any of the best online casinos in the US . Read on till the end of this guide to take your pick on the best riverboat casino locations.

• 📖 History of riverboat gambling
• ⛵ Riverboat gambling economies
• 🧐 Fun Facts
• 💰 Riverboat Casinos Today

History of Riverboat Gambling in the USA

When riverboat gaming first took the USA by storm, paddlewheel riverboats had long been used on the Mississippi River as a means of passenger and freight transportation. With the advent of the railways, riverboats saw their utility decline and started to be viewed as entertainment and leisure vessels by the public.

Boat cruises were popular for their live music and dancing, but also as a way to escape the crowded cities across the US. As these boats became entertainment hubs, gambling gained popularity on board . Initially, gambling was limited to card and table games, but slot machines were eventually added to most riverboats. Nowadays, players in states with legal online gambling can enjoy the best real money online casinos . For example, if they are within the state of New Jersey, they can enjoy the best online casinos in NJ without leaving the comfort of their own homes.

As the Mississippi River served as the border of several states, it created the perfect legal gray area. In 1903, several states simultaneously softened their stance on gambling due to the economic potential that it offered. Thus began the golden era of riverboat gambling . The first casinos were required to be located on ships that would have to sail away from the dock. In some parts, gambling was only allowed once the ship was sailing.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Era

The administration under Lyndon. B Johnson placed significant restrictions on what riverboat casinos could legally do. In 1951, the Transportation of Gambling Devices Act was passed, which made the transportation of gambling devices across state borders illegal. This placed limitations on how riverboats could operate.

Riverboat casinos were first approved by state lawmakers in the late 20th century by those states which prohibited gambling on land. In the 1980s, lawmakers had the vision to revive the golden era of riverboat gambling. Several states simultaneously introduced laws that permitted gambling on water vessels, creating the framework under which they still operate today. Iowa was the first state to fully legalize riverboat gambling . Apart from Iowa, Riverboat gambling is legal in Mississippi, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, and Missouri too.

Riverboat Casino Economies

In 2010, there were 10 operational riverboat casinos. This number might pale in comparison to the number of land casinos in the United States, but riverboat gambling saw a massive boom during the 2010s. In 2018, there were 63 riverboat casinos in operation across the legal states. This spike in growth suggests that riverboat casinos have a distinct appeal, separate from that of land-based casinos.

Riverboats make massive contributions to local economies, as all winnings are taxed by the state. Before you start playing, make sure to acquaint yourself with the gambling commission of the state in which you are planning on playing. In Iowa, if you win over $1,200, you’ll be paying an eye-watering 15% as tax to the state and 5% to the local community, whereas in Iowa, the tax rate stands at a little over 5%.

Proponents of riverboat casinos frequently argue that these floating casinos increase employment rates in the communities where the boats are docked. To support the requirements of large floating casinos, communities are engaged in the development of restaurants, shopping, accommodation, recreation, and other hospitality facilities to capitalize on the spending power of visiting tourists .

Since state legislatures were never willing to give up on the revenues generated by casinos. In a unique ruling in 1998, courts had stated that boats had to be “solely over and in contact with the surface” of rivers, thereby eliminating the need for actual floating vessels. Over time, the rules were amended to allow the construction of casinos on stilts , with the caveat that they had to be located in navigable water.

Fun Facts About Riverboat Casinos

Before we get into the list of top riverboat gambling destinations, we would like to share a few fun historical facts and trivia that you might find interesting. These facts might even make good conversation starters should you get down to maritime gaming.

When riverboat gambling was legalized for the first time in the late 1980s, different states put forward varying cosmetic requirements . In an inconvenience to casino owners, all Louisiana riverboat casinos were required to be constructed exactly like the 19th-century paddlewheel steamboats, for reasons unknown. To run a legal riverboat casino in Indiana, vessels had to have a minimum length of 150 feet and a minimum carrying capacity of 500 passengers.

There have also been violent incidents associated with riverboat gambling. As riverboat casinos operated on the water, it was often thought that they were somehow exempt from the laws of the land. Historians have discovered several instances of individuals punishing cheaters and thieves by taking the law into their own hands. in 1835, five gamblers were lynched in Vicksburg Mississippi when they were caught cheating.

Some of the biggest reforms to riverboat gambling were brought on – unfortunately – by Hurricane Katrina. Before 2005, most riverboat casinos only allowed gambling when the vessel was sailing. However, this was not realistic all year round, as boats could not leave their docks in unpredictable weather . After Katrina, most state laws dictate that riverboat casinos need to be docked for safety.

Riverboat Casinos Today

The Mississippi River region is still the hotbed of all riverboat gambling in the United States. Today, there are over 20 riverboat casinos that gamblers can choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the best riverboat casinos today. In order to make this list, the casinos that we evaluated have had to meet stringent requirements of variety, novelty, hospitality, and service.

The Amelia Belle, Louisiana

One of the best riverboat casinos in Louisiana that we recommend are owned by Boyd Gaming, the casino giant from Paradise Nevada. The Amelia Belle is located in Amelia Louisiana , between Houma and Morgan City, built on the edge of the water in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway.

The Amelia Belle could easily be considered one of the beautiful casinos in this guide. Spread out over four stories, it sports a turn-of-the-century look and appears stunning when illuminated at night. The Amelia Belle has over 800 slot machines and 15 table games .

The Amelia Belle recently added dining options to feed the hunger of visiting gamblers. If you are visiting, drop by the Bayou Cafe on the first floor to grab a quick bite. The Amelia Belle is open 24×7 on the weekends and you can expect games like Blackjack, Texas Hold ‘Em, Three Card Poker, and Electronic Roulette.

Grand Victoria Casino, Illinois

The El Dorado Resorts-owned Grand Victoria Casino is located on the Fox River in Elgin, Illinois. The Grand Victoria stands out from the other top riverboat casinos in this guide as it has an abundance of restaurants on board . Before we look into their gastronomical offerings, let’s examine gambling aboard the Grand Victoria.

The Grand Victoria offers a gambling experience unmatched by others in the area. With a casino floor that covers 29850 square feet , you could spend hours at the Grand Victoria without going through everything that’s on offer. The casino even has a High Limit Room for big bettors.

Within the casino, you’ll find 1000 of the most popular slot machines and video poker games. You can also try your hand at 29 Vegas-style table games, a poker room, a lounge, and seasonal entertainment venues . There are also several well-established hotels near Grand Victoria, in case you want to make your excursion a multi-day affair.

While most riverboat casinos were slow to catch up to fine dining experiences, the Grand Victoria is ahead of the curve. You can indulge yourself at four restaurants on board named Buckinghams Steakhouse and Lounge, Indulge Show Kitchen Buffer, Crave Deli and Prime Burger house.

Casino Queen Marquette

Casino Queen Marquette is a smaller riverboat casino owned by CQ Holdings. Thanks to its small size and limited capacity, Queen Marquette offers a more exclusive and personalized experience in comparison to other top riverboat casinos. Located next to a 31-acre site, the casino has a marina, an enclosed dining pavilion on the first floor, and an entertainment center on the second floor.

Since it is a small and quaint casino, you will only find 8 live tables at Queen Marquette. This is balanced out with the provision of 566 slot machines and video poker games . Some of the games you can look forward to playing at Queen Marquette are Mississippi Stud, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em, Blackjack and Fusion Roulette.

Ameristar Casino MIssissippi

The Ameristar Casino is located on the banks of the famed Mississippi River. It is conveniently located on the Mississippi-Louisiana border just off Interstate 20. The casino is part of a much larger complex featuring a hotel, three restaurants, a blues bar, a cabaret, and a full-service RV Park.

The Ameristar Casino has 70,000 square feet of the casino floor. You can enjoy games at 27 tables or 1571 gaming machines. There are also 10 live-action poker tables. The casino has been designed to retain the atmosphere of a 19th-century gambling boat .

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve had your eyes glued to the screen till the end of this guide, you know exactly where to go to find an authentic riverboat gambling experience in the USA>. Apart from the casino boats mentioned in this guide, there are several others that are worth looking into. However, we can guarantee that you will have a fabulous experience playing at the casinos that we have covered in this guide.

Is riverboat gambling legal in the USA?

How many riverboat casinos are operational in the usa, which is the best riverboat gambling facility in america, what games are available at the best riverboat casinos, what additional facilities are available at riverboat casinos.

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A Guide To The Most Iconic Riverboat Casinos In The US 

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Talk about casino destinations and you’ll most likely think of Las Vegas, Atlantic City or, if you are travelling outside the US, maybe Monaco or Macau.

Yet what are called “land based” or “bricks and mortar” casinos to differentiate them from the online versions are not necessarily on land or made of bricks and mortar.

We refer, of course, to riverboat casinos, a little slice of Americana that’s as American as Super Bowl Sunday or Thanksgiving turkey. Riverboat casinos conjure up images of the Mississippi and Mark Twain complete with white suit, top hat and cigar. There are more than 60 riverboat casinos operating in the USA and every single one of them has a story to tell. Here, we highlight a handful of the very best.

The Grand Victoria, Elgin

Our first stop is not on the Mississippi at all, but on the Fox River in Elgin, 50 miles north west of Chicago . Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, the Grand Victoria really is a slice of Las Vegas on the Illinois waterfront.  With more than 1,000 slots and video poker terminals and 36 tables, there’s a great choice of games.

If all that gambling whets your appetite, there are four dining options on board, including the highly rated Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge.

Casino Queen, Marquette  

The Casino Queen would look like a lifeboat if it was moored alongside the Grand Victoria, but that is all part of its charm. It offers a more intimate and personalized experience, and although there are only eight tables, they host an intriguing variety of games that are not commonly found in land (or water) based casinos. If you know how to gamble online in the US , you’ve probably seen fusion blackjack and 21+3 at US online casinos. The Casino Queen gives you an opportunity to play them in real casino surroundings.

When you step ashore, there is an adjacent 31-acre entertainment complex with a variety of attractions and a huge choice of dining options.

The Amelia Belle, Amelia  

At last, we arrive in Louisiana, where the Amelia Belle lies nestled in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway. This classic four-story riverboat looks like it has stepped straight out of a photograph from the turn of the 20 th century. When it is lit up at night, it takes your breath away.

At the tables, poker is the order of the day. The casino offers Mississippi stud, 3-card poker and Texas Holdem. There are also 800 slot games, while the Fanduel sportsbook has self-service betting kiosks, a wall full of television screens, and a huge video wall to show the biggest events.

Sam’s Town, Shreveport

On the opposite side of Louisiana, Sam’s Town could not be more different to the Amelia Belle. This floating leisure complex houses a hotel, health spa, sauna and live entertainment venue.

The casino offers more than 1,000 slots and 30 table games that include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Let it Ride and Craps No More.

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Louisiana’s Riverboat Casinos: A History of Sports Betting

The Origins of Riverboat Casinos in Louisiana

Riverboat casinos have a long and storied history in Louisiana, dating back to the early 19th century. At the time, gambling was a popular pastime among locals and visitors alike, and the state’s numerous waterways provided an ideal setting for this burgeoning industry. As riverboat gambling gained popularity, it also became a significant part of the region’s culture and economy, with many towns and cities relying on the revenue generated by these floating casinos.

The Emergence of Sports Betting on the Water

Over time, sports betting became a natural extension of the gambling activities offered on Louisiana’s riverboat casinos. As the popularity of professional sports grew in the United States, so too did the demand for sports betting. Riverboat casinos quickly recognized the potential for profit and began offering sports betting as an additional service to their patrons. This new form of gambling not only attracted a wider range of clientele but also helped to cement the riverboat casinos’ status as a staple of Louisiana’s entertainment landscape.

The Evolution of Louisiana’s Riverboat Casinos

The early days of riverboat gambling.

In the early days of riverboat gambling, Louisiana’s floating casinos were informal and unregulated. These early riverboats offered a variety of games and gambling opportunities, including card games, dice, and betting on horse races. The lack of regulation made these riverboat casinos a prime target for criminals and opportunists, leading to a notorious reputation for illicit activities and corruption.

Legalization and Regulation in the 1990s

The 1990s marked a turning point for riverboat casinos in Louisiana. In response to the growing public demand for a safer and more regulated gambling environment, the state government passed legislation to legalize and regulate riverboat casinos . This move allowed for the establishment of licensed riverboat casinos that operated under strict rules and regulations, ensuring a safer and more legitimate gaming experience for patrons. As a result, the once-shady reputation of riverboat casinos began to fade, and they became a respected and vital part of Louisiana’s economy and tourism industry.

The Impact on Louisiana’s Economy and Tourism

The impact on louisiana’s economy.

The new laws attracted investors and operators from across the country, leading to the rapid growth of the riverboat casino industry. The increased tax revenue and job creation provided by these casinos helped to stimulate the local economy, creating a positive ripple effect across various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and construction.

The Impact on Louisiana’s Tourism Industry

Riverboat casinos also played a crucial role in revitalizing Louisiana’s tourism industry. The unique appeal of these floating casinos attracted visitors from around the world, who were eager to experience a taste of Louisiana’s rich history and culture while trying their luck at gambling. As riverboat casinos became more popular, the state saw an increase in the number of tourists visiting its major cities and attractions. This influx of visitors helped to support local businesses and provided a much-needed boost to Louisiana’s overall economy.

The Growth of Sports Betting on Riverboat Casinos

The rise of sportsbook facilities.

As sports betting gained popularity, riverboat casinos in Louisiana began to incorporate dedicated sportsbook facilities into their offerings. These specialized areas allowed patrons to place bets on a wide range of professional sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. DraftKings Sportsbook , one of the leading online sportsbooks in the industry, has also made its presence felt in Louisiana, further diversifying the betting options available for sports enthusiasts.

The addition of sportsbooks on riverboat casinos helped to attract a new demographic of sports enthusiasts, who were eager to combine their love of sports with the excitement of wagering on their favorite teams and events. The growth of sportsbook facilities also led to increased competition among riverboat casinos, as operators sought to offer more diverse betting options and attract a larger clientele, including partnerships with reputable sportsbooks like BetMGM .

Advancements in Sports Betting Offerings

As the demand for sports betting continued to grow, riverboat casinos in Louisiana responded by expanding their sportsbook offerings. This included introducing more sophisticated betting options, such as live in-game wagering, prop bets, and futures bets, allowing patrons to engage with a wider range of betting opportunities. 

Caesars Louisiana sportsbook , another major player in the online sports betting market, has contributed to these advancements by offering its innovative betting platform to Louisiana bettors. These advancements helped to keep the sports betting industry on riverboat casinos fresh and innovative, ensuring that patrons remained engaged and excited about the gaming experience.

Popular Sports Bets and Major Events

Popular sports bets in louisiana.

Louisiana’s riverboat casinos cater to a wide range of sports betting enthusiasts, offering bets on popular sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. College sports, particularly football ( NCAAF ) and basketball ( NCAAB ), also draw a significant amount of betting action due to the passionate fan bases of Louisiana’s many college teams. Additionally, golf, auto racing, and golf betting have found their place in the sportsbooks, catering to the interests of more diverse groups of bettors.

Major Betting Events on Riverboat Casinos

Throughout the year, Louisiana’s riverboat casinos host a variety of major betting events that attract both local and out-of-state visitors. These events typically coincide with major sports tournaments and championships, such as the Super Bowl, March Madness, the World Series, and the NBA Finals. 

Additionally, annual events like the Kentucky Derby and the Masters’ Golf Tournament draw large crowds of bettors eager to wager on these high-profile competitions. These major events not only generate significant revenue for the riverboat casinos but also contribute to the festive atmosphere that characterizes Louisiana’s gaming scene.

Betting Technology and Mobile Integration

As sports betting gained popularity, riverboat casinos in Louisiana began to incorporate dedicated sportsbook facilities into their offerings. These specialized areas allowed patrons to place bets on a wide range of professional sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. Louisiana sports betting has since become a significant part of the gaming industry.

The addition of sportsbooks on riverboat casinos helped to attract a new demographic of sports enthusiasts, who were eager to combine their love of sports with the excitement of wagering on their favorite teams and events. The growth of sportsbook facilities also led to increased competition among riverboat casinos, as operators sought to offer more diverse betting options and attract a larger clientele, including integrating online sportsbooks in Louisiana .

The demand for sports betting continues to grow and riverboat casinos in Louisiana responded by expanding their sportsbook offerings. This included introducing more sophisticated betting options, such as live in-game wagering, prop bets, and futures bets, allowing patrons to engage with a wider range of betting opportunities. 

These advancements helped to keep the sports betting industry on riverboat casinos fresh and innovative, ensuring that patrons remained engaged and excited about the gaming experience. In addition, the introduction of online sportsbooks in Louisiana and various banking options has made it more convenient for bettors to fund their accounts and participate in sports betting activities.

Notable Riverboat Casinos in Louisiana

The belle of baton rouge, overview of the belle of baton rouge.

The Belle of Baton Rouge is a well-known riverboat casino located on the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Established in the early 1990s, it has since become a prominent fixture in the state’s gaming scene. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, including table games, slot machines, and a sportsbook, catering to a diverse range of patrons and gambling preferences.

Sports Betting at The Belle of Baton Rouge

The sportsbook at The Belle of Baton Rouge provides a range of sports betting opportunities for visitors. It features betting windows and digital kiosks, which allow patrons to place bets on various sports events, including professional and college sports. The sportsbook also offers multiple types of bets, such as moneyline, point spread, and over/under bets, to accommodate different betting strategies and preferences .

Harrah’s New Orleans Riverboat Casino

Overview of harrah’s new orleans riverboat casino.

Harrah’s New Orleans Riverboat Casino, located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, is another prominent casino in Louisiana’s riverboat gaming industry. Operating under the well-known Harrah’s brand, this casino offers an extensive selection of gaming options, such as table games, slot machines, and poker rooms. In addition, Harrah’s New Orleans features a sportsbook that caters to sports betting enthusiasts.

Sports Betting at Harrah’s New Orleans Riverboat Casino

The sportsbook at Harrah’s New Orleans Riverboat Casino offers patrons a comprehensive sports betting experience. It covers various sports events, including major professional leagues and college sports. The sportsbook provides multiple betting options, including live in-game wagering and futures bets, and is equipped with up-to-date technology, such as digital betting terminals and real-time odds displays , to enhance the overall betting experience.

The Treasure Chest Casino

Overview of the treasure chest casino.

The Treasure Chest Casino, situated on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain in Kenner, Louisiana, is another noteworthy riverboat casino in the state. This casino offers a variety of gaming options, including table games, slot machines, and video poker. While not as large as some of the other riverboat casinos in Louisiana, the Treasure Chest Casino is known for its friendly atmosphere and attentive staff.

Sports Betting at The Treasure Chest Casino

Although the Treasure Chest Casino does not have a dedicated sportsbook, it does offer limited sports betting options through video poker terminals and select table games. Patrons can place bets on various sports events, including professional and college sports, as well as some major sports tournaments and championships. While the sports betting options may not be as extensive as those offered at larger riverboat casinos, the Treasure Chest Casino still provides an enjoyable and engaging gaming experience for its patrons .

L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles

Overview of l’auberge casino resort lake charles.

L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles is a prominent riverboat casino located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This resort-style casino offers not only a wide range of gaming options, including table games, slot machines, and a poker room but also features numerous amenities such as hotel accommodations, dining options, and live entertainment. The L’Auberge Casino Resort has become a popular destination for both gaming enthusiasts and leisure travelers.

Sports Betting at L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles

The sportsbook at L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles offers a comprehensive sports betting experience for its patrons. It covers a wide range of sports events, including major professional leagues, college sports, and niche sports such as golf and tennis. T he sportsbook provides various betting options, such as straight bets, point spreads, and prop bets, to accommodate different betting strategies and preferences. Additionally, L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles has embraced technology in its sportsbook, offering digital betting terminals and real-time odds displays to enhance patrons’ betting experiences.

V. Challenges and Controversies

A. responsible gambling and addiction.

Responsible gambling is a crucial aspect of the gaming industry, particularly in Louisiana’s riverboat casinos. As the popularity of sports betting and other gambling activities has grown, so too has the need for measures to prevent problem gambling and gambling addiction. Riverboat casinos in Louisiana have implemented various responsible gambling initiatives to encourage responsible gaming behavior among their patrons. These include:

• Self-exclusion programs
• Limits on betting amounts, and 
• Educational resources.

Gambling addiction is a serious concern in Louisiana, as it can have severe consequences for individuals and their families. T o address this issue, Louisiana has established resources and support networks, such as the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling and the Louisiana Problem Gamblers Helpline, to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Riverboat casinos in Louisiana also play a role in addressing this issue by cooperating with these organizations and promoting responsible gambling practices on their premises.

B. Ethical Concerns and Legal Issues

Sports betting in Louisiana, as in other states, has raised ethical concerns regarding its potential impact on the integrity of sports competitions. The possibility of match-fixing, point-shaving, and other forms of corruption has led to increased scrutiny and calls for more stringent regulations to ensure fair play. Louisiana’s riverboat casinos, along with sports leagues and regulatory bodies, have a shared responsibility to monitor and address any potential issues related to the integrity of sports competitions.

Meanwhile, Legal issues surrounding sports betting in Louisiana have also been a topic of discussion, particularly as the industry has grown and evolved. Issues such as the regulation of mobile sports betting platforms, taxation, and licensing requirements have prompted ongoing debates among lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and the general public. As Louisiana’s sports betting landscape continues to change , it is essential for the state to adapt its legal framework to address these issues effectively and ensure a fair and transparent gaming environment for all parties involved.

C. The Impact on Local Sports Teams

Despite the potential benefits of sports betting for local sports teams, there are also challenges and concerns to consider. The increased focus on sports betting could shift attention away from the core values of sportsmanship and competition, potentially leading to an overemphasis on the financial aspects of sports events. Additionally, the increased popularity of sports betting may lead to concerns about the integrity of games, as previously mentioned, which could damage the reputation of local sports teams and the sports industry as a whole.

Future Outlook for Sports Betting on Riverboat Casinos

Adapting to technological innovations.

As technology continues to evolve, Louisiana’s riverboat casinos will need to adapt to remain competitive in the sports betting industry. This may involve integrating more advanced digital betting platforms, incorporating features like virtual reality and augmented reality, and offering a more personalized betting experience for patrons. Embracing technological innovations will be critical for riverboat casinos to stay relevant and maintain their appeal in an increasingly digital world.

Expanding Betting Offerings and Market Reach

The future of sports betting on Louisiana’s riverboat casinos may also involve expanding their market reach and betting offerings. This could include diversifying the types of sports and events available for betting, as well as exploring new betting markets and opportunities. Additionally, riverboat casinos may need to consider partnerships with sports leagues , media companies, and other industry stakeholders to promote their sports betting offerings and attract a broader audience.

In conclusion, the sports betting landscape on Louisiana’s riverboat casinos has undergone significant changes since its inception, with advancements in technology, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving legal frameworks shaping the industry. As riverboat casinos continue to adapt to these changes and address the various challenges and controversies associated with sports betting, they will play a crucial role in defining the future of the sports betting industry in Louisiana.

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Encyclopedia Dubuque

www.encyclopediadubuque.org

"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.” Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN

Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.

RIVERBOAT GAMBLING

RIVERBOAT GAMBLING. In March 1989 the Excursion Gambling Boat Act was passed by the Iowa Legislature. This law allowed limited, low-stakes casino gambling on Iowa's rivers and lakes beginning April 1, 1991. Iowa became the fourth state to adopt non-Indian, commercial casino gambling preceded by Nevada (1931), New Jersey (1976), and South Dakota (1988) and the first state to introduce riverboat gambling. While the legislation was promoted as economic development, the regulatory nature of the legislation was designed to maintain the wholesome image of Iowa. There was a $5 minimum wager and a $200 loss limit per excursion. Only 30% of the boat's square footage could be devoted to the casino, sailing was mandated rather than dockside gambling, and sections of the boat had to be devoted to persons under 21 years of age and to Iowa arts and crafts. Riverboats were chosen over land-based casinos because it was thought they would provide the greatest economic stimulus for surrounding businesses.

Dubuque interests were quick to capitalize on the new legislation. In 1990 The DUBUQUE RACING ASSOCIATION was first applicant approved to operate a river gambling boat in the state of Iowa. Robert KEHL had the DUBUQUE CASINO BELLE constructed and quickly moved to the ICE HARBOR . The Dubuque Casino Belle made her maiden voyage on April 1st 1991. From April 1, 1991, to March 31, 1992, Dubuque Casino Belle Inc. sold single-price admission tickets to the riverboat that entitled a patron to:

Tickets were $39.95 for a dinner cruise and $29.95 for a lunch or brunch cruise. During 1990 season, more than 250,000 people cruised with Roberts River Rides.

In the first year of riverboat operation, the Dubuque Racing Association prepaid, in its entirety, Ice Harbor improvement financing in excess of $4 million. (1) This resulted in the DRA remaining Iowa’s only nonprofit, debt-free pari-mutuel and riverboat licensee.

In 1991, Iowa's riverboats earned $63.8 million from 2.1 million visitors. In 1992 the revenue increased to $70.5 million and 2.2 million guests.

The success of riverboat gambling led to the construction of four new lodging facilities with 350 rooms, new restaurants, shopping facilities and tourist amenities in Dubuque. The DRA also pledged a large portion of its profits from the boat to the city. For the fiscal year ending June 30, 1992 the city received about $333,000. (2) In 1992 the city and county applied money raised from gambling to the general fund rather than target it to specific projects. (3)

The success of Iowa riverboats brought quick competition from surrounding states. In January 1990 the Illinois Legislature passed the Riverboat Gambling Act, and boats began operating from Illinois on September 11, 1991. The first boats at Alton and Peoria were distant enough not to affect the Iowa market, but in 1992 Illinois boats operating with less regulation opened in Rock Island and East Dubuque.

Kehl announced on August 24, 1992 that he had sold the Dubuque Casino Belle. He cited reasons for the sale including gambling restrictions in Iowa, his health, and the attractiveness of the offer which was $5 million more than $12 million he had originally paid for the boat. (4) The sale of the Casino Belle forced hotel operators to contact groups and associations that had booked rooms about other possibilities including the DUBUQUE GREYHOUND PARK AND CASINO or gambling on the Silver Eagle docked in East Dubuque, Illinois. (5) The decision to sell the boat did not surprise gambling regulators. Chuck Patton, riverboat gambling director of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, was quoted as saying gambling operators in other states with no limits soon discovered that it took two years to build a top of the line quality boat. It was easier to buy one. (6)

The potential financial impact on Dubuque shook the DRA. The contract that existed with the Kehls was researched and in October the DRA and its attorney met to consider legal action. When the Kehls announced the sale of the Casino Belle, they still had a year left on their three year contract to supply a gambling boat in Dubuque. The DRA had sixty days to match the $17 million offer, but chose not to do so. (7) In November the DRA announced that it would hold the Kehls responsible for any financial damages it (the DRA) sustained after the boat left Dubuque. The contract had called for the Kehls to make a minimum payment of $500,000 to the DRA. The admission payment had been eliminated during the second year of the contract, but was to be reinstated in the third year unless the contract was renegotiated. The Kehls, according to the contract, were also to pay the DRA a percentage of the gaming revenue (12.5% of the first $5 million and 15% of revenue exceeding $5 million). (8) Efforts were immediately started to look for a new boat that could be brought to Dubuque.

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission chose to consider the issue of the Belle's sale at it meeting in December, 1992. The Commission was required to approve all contracts over $50,000 entered into by its licensees. The primary concern, however, was not about the sale but about the integrity of the boat's buyers. (9) The questions were resolved and on February 3, 1993 the Commission officially approved the sale.

Soon after the Casino Belle sale, the DRA began a search for an alternate boat. By February the choices were reduced to two possibilities: the Greater Dubuque Riverboat Entertainment Company headed by Joseph ZWACK and another composed primarily of Kehl's children. The DRA selected the GDREC as the new boat operator. (10) Zwack stated that his group's proposal was based on a sound business plan and that if it did not purchase its boat, it would have a lease option to purchase. (11)

On March 15, 1993 the DRA received a proposal from Bob Kehl to continue operating a riverboat in Dubuque. According to the offer, the Dubuque Casino Belle would remain in Dubuque after April 1st when it was scheduled to leave. The Belle would be replaced by the Quad City Queen once renovations were complete probably in May. The Queen would continue to operate in Dubuque until April 1, 1994 which would complete the third year of Kehl's contract with the DRA. The offer contained an option to extend the contract for a number of years. DRA officials said that it would not accept the offer because it already had a contract with GDREC. (12)

The GDREC’s boat, the Andrew Fletcher, was a paddle-wheeler berthed in New York City's East River. Refurbishing included removing the paddle-wheel from the 185-foot, three-deck, 800-passenger boat and refitting it with a diesel engine. The boat was to sail to the Gulf Coast where a propulsion engine and gambling equipment would be installed. (13) In June, 1993 a contest was held to rename the boat with 2,000 people submitting names. Joe Mulgrew, of Dubuque, was the first to submit the winning name--"Diamond Jo" won $500. It was also announced at the time that the boat would not arrive as planned by August. (14)

In April of 1993, the Belle departed the Ice Harbor, after being sold to St. Charles Riverfront Station which moved the boat south to eventually start up a Missouri gaming operation. (15)

GDREC began negotiations with the Kehls to buy or lease the Portside building and to purchase the Quad City Queen, a small riverboat casino. GDREC wanted a place to dock the Diamond Jo when it arrived in September and to use the Quad City Queen until the new boat arrived. The Diamond Jo would not be ready for cruises until the end of October. The Kehls notified GDREC that the Queen had been sold and GDREC began negotiations with the DUBUQUE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY for docking space. (16) The Kehls did not respond to an offer to lease space in The Portside. GDREC approached the historical society about leasing about half of the main floor of the society's portion of the building and some additional space underneath. Another option was to construct a building. (17)

On August 10, 1993 the GDREC gave the DRA $10,000 representing the money it owed for the first eight days the Diamond Jo did not meet its original projected start-up date of August 1. The GDREC was obligated to pay $1,250 for each day the boat was late. The money was to go to the city and county to make up for the lost revenue they would have had from the casino. (18) On August 26th the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission approved contracts with the GDREC including $1.9 million for renovations of the boat. The organization's boat had been to three different different shipyards in Louisiana before settling at Bollinger Quick Repair Shipyard Inc. The contract stipulated an October 29th arrival in Dubuque with a $3,000 per day bonus, up to ten days, if it arrived early and a similar amount for ten days if it were late. (19)

On October 8, 1993 DRA officials announced that they had voted unanimously to file a breach of contract lawsuit against the Dubuque Casino Belle, Inc. The Association noted that it had a three-year contract (April 1, 1991 to March 31, 1994) with Kehl and the Dubuque Casino Belle and that Kehl had breached the contract by not providing the DRA with a gambling boat during the 1993-94 season. The original contract stated that Kehl guaranteed the DRA at least $1 million annually if the Casino Belle ho competition from floating casinos in Jo Daviess County, Illinois or Grant County, Wisconsin. This was reduced to $83,333 for every month competition was present in those counties (20)

On October 23, 1993 GDREC announced that design changes to their boat would result in arrival delays. Officials stated their hopes that the boat could leave Louisiana the second week of November. In other matters, the GDREC announced that it would lease the Queen of Hearts excursion boat from Moline, Illinois for $10,500 per month as a boarding and ticketing facility. (21)

The announcement in late November, 1993 that the GDREC boat would not be able to leave the Louisiana boatyard in November prompted action from the DRA. The association's board directed staff to investigate the possibility of hiring an expert to report on construction progress. The action resulted in hiring Arthur Darden Inc., a naval architect and marine engineering firm. A company representative would visit the construction site once every two weeks for a day until the GDREC boat was certified. (22)

On January 28, 1994 a judge ruled against the involvement of the city and county in the suit of the DRA against the Kehls. Both governments had tried to support the claim, but the judge ruled they had not been legally damaged. (23)

After months of negotiations, GDREC officials signed a lease with Portside owners, Bob and Ruth Kehl. The two-year lease was to begin March 1, 1994. Certain issues remained unsettled. In its lawsuit against the Kehls, DRA said it should not have to abide by a clause in its operating agreement requiring it to buy Portside. (24)

Despite the poor performance and then closing of three of Iowa's riverboats, legislation to relax gambling regulation repeatedly failed. Riverboat gambling according to many had been successful in promoting tourism and was never intended to become an industry. Despite setbacks, pressure continued from riverboat owners to lift betting/loss limits and space restrictions. These people were joined by parimutuel racetrack owners who wanted slot machines and even Iowans who favored less restriction. Concerns about the effects of gambling eventually led the Iowa House to only approve the new legislation by a 51-49 vote. Before gambling laws could be eased, local approval was required in counties where riverboats and racetracks were operated.

In May 1994 Dubuque County residents had to vote on two important local issues. Voters were to decide whether they wanted riverboat gambling without betting limits and if they wanted slot machines at Dubuque Greyhound Park. The Committee to Save Jobs in Dubuque County estimated that it would spend $90,000 on supporting the measures by the time of the election. (25) The election resulted in passage of both measures. Gambling without betting limits passed unofficially by 80% with slot machines at the track passing by 74%. (26) The 'Save Job' campaign later reported that it had spent nearly $129,000. (27)

The new law passed by the Iowa Legislature gave passengers more time to gamble but less time to cruise the river. The law reduced the number of cruises to a minimum of 100 annually with each at least two hours. The Diamond Jo would be open 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Monday through Friday with permission to remain open until 4:00 a.m. The boat would operate twenty-four hours daily on Saturday and Sunday. (28)

Refurbished for a capacity of 700 people, the "Diamond Jo" became operational May 18, 1994. Just days later, the GDREC operators were facing a threat to their license and what they called a hostile takeover bid by a Las Vegas company. Two former owners claimed they had the right to sell their shares to United Gaming Inc., of Las Vegas. A lawyer for the company claimed the two men could sue GDREC if they were not allowed to make the sale. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission asked GDREC and its manager, Joe Zwack, to appear at a June 21st meeting to show why the license for the boat should not be revoked or suspended citing twelve apparent violations of the law including failure to disclose ownership transfers and misleading the commission about completion of the boat. (29)

All of the investors of GDREC were invited to a reception hosted by United Gaming on June 1, 1994. The company proposed investing $28 million in GDREC which included acquiring 80.1% of its shares. United Games claimed to have the option of purchasing 16 shares from individual shareholders and 37 shares on which former owners Bill Alfredo and John Schegan claimed to have options. In June of 1993, Zwack had given Alfredo an option to purchase ten shares and Alfredo later transferred seven of those to Schegan. None of the agreements were submitted to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission for approval. GDREC disputed Alfredo and Schegan controlling these shares because they were not licensed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Some investors picketed the reception and carried signs like "No U-Games 4 Dubuque." (30) The charm offensive quickly turned as on June 3, 1994 United Games sued GDREC and Zwack claiming mismanagement. (31) In reaction, thirty-seven "passive" investors each paid $31 to be included in a half-page advertisement in the Telegraph Herald opposing the Las Vegas company. The advertisement asked citizens to write the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission about their support of the local operation. (32) On June 5, 1994 United Games announced it was claiming two-thirds ownership of Riverboat Management Company formed by the original three investors in the company that operated the Dubuque Diamond Jo Casino. (33)

In late June, 1994 the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission rejected a contract between the boat and Riverboat Management Company, the organization originally formed by Zwack, Alfredo and Schegan to manage the boat for the passive investors. The contract had never been brought to the commission and Riverboat Management had never been licensed. The commission then approved a plan to have the Dubuque Racing Association manage the Dubuque Diamond Jo Casino and rejected options contracts unless or until Alfredo and Schegan were found suitable for licensing. Zwack, who wanted to return to his private law practice, was replaced by the racing association management team. (34)

On June 28th it was announced that Schegan was suitable for licensing for the limited purpose of transferring five units of stock to a licensed entity within 90 days. The commission unanimously ruled that Alfredo had not demonstrated suitablity for licensure or for control of option interests. The commission, however, stated that it did not have the power to determine any legal rights that Alfredo might have or whether the options were in compliance with the riverboat company's operating agreement. If a court ruled that Alfredo did have control of any ownership while the Diamond Jo was licensed, the company would be in violation of Iowa law. The commission would then open a license revocation hearing. (35)

With less than a week on the job, Bruce Wentworth, the racing association' general manager announced hospitality training and alcohol awareness training for employees had been arranged along with an internal audit of strengths and weaknesses of the boat's operation. (36)

In early October 1995, GDREC replaced the original Diamond Jo with a larger 1,500-passenger, 305-foot vessel, which was placed in operation at Dubuque’s Ice Harbor.

In July 1999 Peninsula Gaming purchased the Diamond Jo Casino. Peninsula Gaming continued to operate the vessel.

1. Webber, Steve. "Kehl Writes Another Chapter," Telegraph Herald , August 24, 1992, p. 1

2. Hanson, Lynn and Webber, Steve. "City Officials Find Belle Rumors True," Telegraph Herald , August 24, 1992, p. 10A

3. Arnold, Bill and Japsen, Bruce. "Wanted: 1 Revenue Riverboat," Telegraph Herald , August 26, 1992, p. 1.

4. Bergstrom, Kathy. "DRA Offer Could Keep Boat Here," Telegraph Herald , August 24, 1992, p. 1

5. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Belle Decision Leaves Rough Wake," Telegraph Herald , August 25, 1992, p. 1

6. Webber, Steve and Bergstrom, Kathy. "Gambling Regulators Not Shocked by Kehl Announcement," Telegraph Herald , August 25, 1992, p. 4A.

7. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Belle Suit Discussed by DRA," Telegraph Herald , October 30, 1992, p. 1

8. Bergstrom, Kathy. "DRA: Belle Responsible for Damages," Telegraph Herald , November 18, 1992, p. 1

9. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Gaming Panel to Consider Casino Belle Sale," Telegraph Herald , December 12, 1992, p. 3A

10. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Kehl Family Bypassed for Casino Newcomers," Telegraph Herald, February 4, 1993, p. 1

11. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Zwack: Plan Sound," Telegraph Herald , February 5, 1993, p. 3A

12. Bergstrom, Kathy. "DRA Rejects Boat Proposal by Kehl," Telegraph Herald , March 18, 1993, p. 1

13. Webber, Steve. "Casino License Approved--With Strings," Telegraph Herald , March 19, 1993, p. 1

14. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Casino to Arrive Late," Telegraph Herald , June 7, 1993, p. 1

15. Bergstrom, Kathy. "DRA Reviews Contract," Telegraph Herald , August 25, 1992, p. 1

16. Dickel, Dean. "Zwack Group Can't Use Queen as Interim Boat," Telegraph Herald , June 28, 1993, p. 3A

17. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Riverboat Group Seeks Ticketing Facility," Telegraph Herald , September 22, 1993, p. 2

18. "Diamond Jo Pays No-Show Penalty," Telegraph Herald , August 11, 1993, p. 1

19. "Racing Panel OKs Diamond Jo Contracts," Telegraph Herald , August 27, 1993, p. 3A

20. Webber, Steve. "DRA Votes to Sue Casino Belle," Telegraph Herald , October 8, 1993, p. 1

21. "Diamond Jo Cruises Pushed to December," Telegraph Herald , October 22, 1993, p. 1

22. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Racing Group Hires Monitor for Riverboat," Telegraph Herald , December 1, 1993, p. 3A

23. Bergstrom, Kathy. "City, County Won't Appeal Belle Ruling," Telegraph Herald , February 22, 1994, p. 2A

24. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Diamond Jo Group to Lease Portside," Telegraph Herald , December 15, 1993, p. 2A

25. Bergstrom, Kathy "Casino Backers to Spend $90,000," Telegraph Herald , May 12, 1994, p. 1

26. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Yes/Yes," Telegraph Herald , May 18, 1994, p. 1

27. Bergstrom, Kathy. " 'Save Jobs' Campaign Costs $129,000," Telegraph Herald , June 7, 1994, p. 3A

28. Bergstrom, Kathy, "Less on River, More at Dock," Telegraph Herald , May 20, 1994, p. 1

29. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Diamond Jo License in Jeopardy," Telegraph Herald , May 27, 1994, p. 1

30. Bergstrom, Kathy. "United Makes Pitch for Shares," Telegraph Herald , June 1, 1994, p. 1

31. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Vegas Firm Sues Diamond Jo," Telegraph Herald , June 3, 1994, p. 1

32. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Investors Counter Boat Bid," Telegraph Herald , June 4, 1994, p. 1

33. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Vegas Firm Claims Part Ownership of Group," Telegraph Herald , June 5, 1994, p. 3A

34. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Diamond Jo Management OK'd," Telegraph Herald, June 21, 1994, p. 1

35. Bergstrom, Kathy. "Gaming Panel Approves Schegan," Telegraph Herald , June 28, 1994, p. 1

36. Bergstrom, Kathy. " 'Keep the Operation Viable,' " Telegraph Herald , June 29, 1994, p. 1

Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino, http://cicotello.com/Pictures%20and%20Information/USA/States/Iowa/Cities/D-L/Dubuque/Dubuque%20Greyhound%20Park%20&%20Casino/Dubuque%20Greyhound%20Park%20and%20Casino.htm

Iowa Tax Law Library Document 03300031

Nichols, Mark W. "History and Deregulation of Riverboat Gambling in Iowa and Illinois," Journal of Gambling Studies , online:www.business.unr.edu/faculty/.../cross%20border%20substitution.pdf

• Kendall C. Day Family Collection

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Daniel Grabher, Founder and CEO of GlobalBet, Explores the US Landscape of Regulated Sports Betting and the Rise of Sportsbetting Venture Capital

Daniel Grabher, Founder and CEO

The US sports betting scene is changing fast since the 2018 Supreme Court decision allowed more than half of the country to legalize and regulate sports betting as they see fit. Aside from technology advancing its progress and opportunities, the growing interest from venture capital firms to invest in it is a promising sign that there must be a lot to look forward to in the industry. Daniel Grabher, the founder and CEO of GlobalBet, shares his take on what's happening and what might come next. 

Growth Spurts and New Investments 

The surge of interest from venture capital firms has not only injected much-needed capital but has also brought fresh perspectives and invaluable resources into the burgeoning regulated sports betting industry in the United States. Daniel Grabher, reflecting on this trend, shares insights into how venture capital investments are driving growth and innovation in the sector. Daniel Grabher emphasizes, "Venture capital investments have become a catalyst for the expansion of the regulated sports betting industry in the US. They provide the financial resources necessary for operators to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and enhance their offerings to cater to the evolving needs of customers."

Drawing from his extensive experience, Grabher highlights the unique characteristics of the U.S. market, which is still in its infancy compared to more mature markets in Europe. He recounts a recent incident to illustrate this point: "The U.S. market is a very young market and not very mature. While it draws inspiration from technology in Europe, there is still ample room for optimization, as exemplified by the significant BetMGM hack in October 2023. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust security measures and infrastructure." Grabher further emphasizes the importance of building a safe and reliable ecosystem for both players and operators. "The U.S. market is poised to become a major consumer market in the future, but several crucial elements, such as a Central Monitoring Solution, similar to what Italy has already established, are still missing. These components are vital to ensure the integrity and security of the industry, ultimately creating a safe environment for all stakeholders involved."

Now with the US sports betting landscape valued at 7.56 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, venture capitalists will evidently direct their funds towards ventures with strong growth prospects. It's mentioned that venture capital funding in sports betting tends to flow to companies with an expected return of 10 times an investment. This suggests a focus on high-growth potential, which is characteristic of VC investment strategies. 

Daniel Grabher's Journey and Vision

While there’s a new found freedom in the US sports betting, its unmatched competition today has posed quite a challenge to small, aspiring projects. Daniel Grabher, and his story of building GlobalBet alone over 20 years ago without any venture capital support, attests to the struggle of developing self-reliance and foresight in an industry that wasn’t appealing to many back then. “VCs were not too keen on gaming at the time nor did I take VC money because there wasn't much interest in iGaming,” he recalls. “Now being regulated, the market has grown, and VCs are paying attention. The GlobalBet group has become an investor too, looking to support others with good ideas in this space. I know the challenges firsthand, and I want to help other innovators in this industry."

Investments from the Big Players 

MGM Resorts International, BlackRock, and Acies Investment are just some of the few prime examples of global companies staking big moves in the industry. The global hospitality and entertainment company bought Swedish iGaming company LeoVegas for about $607 million to grow its online gambling services in Europe and other places outside the US. Meanwhile, the two multinational investment firms joined forces to put money into Underdog Fantasy’s Series B round of fundraising. The fantasy sports company raised about $485 million valuation. This is a big boost for Underdog Fantasy and shows the kind of support reputable investment firms are providing in the iGaming sector. CEO Adam Greenblatt mentioned, "Our industry is expanding at a rapid rate as more markets legalize sports betting, and we're committed to growing the right way"​​. He also expressed satisfaction with the progress made in 2023, stating, "I am pleased with the significant progress we have made during the first half of 2023 as we continue our strong growth"​​.

The Numbers Tell the Story 

The recent numbers from different states tell an exciting story. As of October 2023, a total of 37 states, along with Washington DC, have embraced legal sports betting in some format, with 25 states allowing online sports betting via either smartphone apps or websites. In Michigan, online gambling revenue went up by 19%, hitting $152.2 million in August 2023. Pennsylvania also saw a big jump in revenue from online slots, poker, and table games, growing by 36.9% since last year. And in New Jersey, the online gambling market grew by 35% year-over-year.

Over in New Jersey, the online gambling market flourished with a 35% year-over-year growth. This thriving landscape not only reflects a growing acceptance and legalization of online gambling and sports betting across the states but also signifies the growing potential and profitability of the market, as more states are likely to follow suit in the foreseeable future. The ongoing trend suggests a bright prospect for both the industry players and the state economies, with the promise of higher revenue generation and an expanded market.

The robust growth and the promising numbers from various states have not only demonstrated the potential of the sports betting and online gambling market but have also become a beacon for venture capital investments. As investors set their sights on this thriving market, the infusion of capital is set to accelerate the pace of innovation, foster competition, and further expand the market, making the US a fertile ground for iGaming ventures. The venture capital spotlight on this sector is a testament to the industry’s potential to provide lucrative returns, thereby attracting seasoned investors and industry experts to weigh in on the future of the US regulated sports betting industry.

Looking Ahead

The transition from growing numbers to a haven for venture capital sets the stage for industry experts like Daniel Grabher to provide deeper insights into the evolving US regulated sports betting scene. Grabher's experience and observations reveal the intricate dynamics at play as new investment trends emerge, painting a clear picture of what the industry stakeholders can anticipate moving forward. The continuous flow of venture capital, highlighted by the operation of trailblazing companies like BetMGM, GlobalBet and many other iGaming market leaders, along with evolving legal frameworks, are instrumental factors setting the stage for a bright future in the US iGaming industry. Through the lens of seasoned industry players and investors, the narrative extends beyond mere statistics to a realm of strategic investments and anticipated market evolution, underlining the growing maturity of the US sports betting and online gambling market.

About GlobalBet: A Global Player

GlobalBet , under the visionary leadership of Daniel Grabher , has firmly established itself as a major player in the global lottery and gaming industry. Operating across 56 jurisdictions worldwide and boasting licenses from esteemed markets, including the UK with its prestigious UKGC license, GlobalBet stands at the forefront of this dynamic sector. Their close collaboration with government entities and regulatory bodies underscores their commitment to meeting and even surpassing industry regulations, ensuring a secure and innovative gaming landscape for all stakeholders involved.

Bank card of missing student Riley Strain found near river, police say

NASHVILLE, Tenn. ( WSMV /Gray News) - A bank card belonging to missing student Riley Strain was found near a river in Nashville.

The Metro Nashville Police Department reported that Riley Strain’s bank card was found near the Cumberland River on Sunday afternoon.

The card was found on the embankment between Gay Street and the Cumberland River, and Strain’s family confirmed the card did belong to Strain.

Law enforcement had focused their search efforts on the Cumberland River, near where Strain’s phone last pinged off a cell tower.

Anna Clemdening and Brandy Baenen had joined the day’s search for Strain and told WSMV they managed to climb down to the riverbank and were sorting through tons of trash when they found Strain’s card.

“I just couldn’t sit at home and not think about Riley and his family so I had to come out,” Baenen said.

“There is so much trash down there it’s so much to sift through and there’s so many pieces of clothing, shoes, bottles, cans, everything. I don’t really know how we found it. I would love to say just dumb luck divine intervention - it was just sitting there,” Clemdening said.

Police have not said what the bank card means for their search. In the meantime, Clemdening and Baenen will continue theirs.

“Something needed to be found. We found something - I don’t know if that’s something enough,” Baenen said.

On Sunday, police also discovered a dead body floating in the Cumberland River. The Nashville Fire Department said the deceased person did not fit the description of Strain. His family also told WSMV the body was not Strain.

Strain, 22, was in Nashville for a fraternity trip where he was last seen downtown before disappearing on March 8. He’s been missing ever since. It was confirmed that Strain was escorted out of Luke’s 32 Bridge, Luke Bryan’s Broadway bar, before he reportedly went missing.

The bar claims Strain was only served one alcoholic beverage before he was kicked out of the bar.

Police said the search for him continues.

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• Who are the Volga Germans?
• Settlements along the Volga

Mapping information provided by Sandy Payne germansfromrussiasettlementlocations.org

Saratov was home to both a Lutheran parish and a Roman Catholic parish which served the ethnic Germans living in this city.

CONGREGATIONS

St. Clement Catholic Church

St. John Lutheran Church

St. Mary Lutheran Church

The Lutheran parish in Saratov was officially organized in 1793, although Pastor Ahlbaum was active in the city before then.

The Pope established the Diocese of Tiraspol, headquartered in Saratov on 3 July 1848. During its existence, there were five bishops:

Ferdinand Helanus Kahn (1850-1864) Franz Xavier Zottmann  (1872-1888) Anton Johann Zerr  (1889-1902) Eduard von der Ropp (1902-1903) Joseph Aloysius Kessler  (1904-1930)

This diocese went inactive in 1930 with the resignation of Bishop Kessler and officially vacant in 1933 when he died. It was formally "surpressed" in 2002 when the new Diocese of St. Clement in Saratov was established.

The Catholic parishners of Saratov built a wooden church which was consecrated in 1805. This building was used until 1880 when a new brick building was erected. The architect was M. N. Grudistova, and the new building was consecrated to St. Clement (St. Klemens in German) when it was completed in 1881. Today the structure serves as a movie theatre called "Pioneer."

In the post-Soviet era, the St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church was founded in 2001 in Saratov. It is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ingria (ELCI). There is a chapel in Saratov, and the pastor serving there is Olav Panchu.

There were three frontier garrisons founded to protect merchant ships traveling on the Volga River: Saratov (1584), Samara (1586), and Tsaritsyn (1589). Over the next century, the settlements were rebuilt on first one side of the Volga and then the other following a series of natural disasters.  The 1670 peasant revolt led by Stepan Razin also thwarted development of these cities.

Saratov was the first point of arrival for the German colonists and the location of the Kontora (Office of Immigrant Oversite) following the establishment of the colonies in the 1760's. From its beginning as a provincial outpost, Saratov grew to become a prosperous city and served as the center of industry for the Volga German colonists.

Catholic and Lutheran

Maps of Saratov and Saratov Province

Schnurr, Joseph.  Die Kirchen und das Religiöse Leben der Russlanddeutschen  - Evangelischer Teil (Stuttgart: Landsmannschaft der Deutschen aus Russland, 1972): 194.

Saratov  (Wikipedia)

Roman Catholic Diocese of Tiraspol (Wikipedia)

Map of Saratov Province (1823) (World Digital Library)

Historic Saratov photos and maps  (Russian site)

Description of the city of Saratov and Saratov Province  ( Encyclopædia Britannica )

Geographic card depicting key features of Saratov Province (1856)  (World Digital Library)

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35 facts about saratov.

Written by Floris Rosenthal

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Saratov is a fascinating city located in southwestern Russia, nestled on the banks of the great Volga River. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Saratov has become a popular destination for travelers from around the world. In this article, we will explore 35 fascinating facts about Saratov that will not only leave you in awe but also inspire you to add this amazing city to your travel bucket list. From its iconic landmarks and historical sites to its delicious cuisine and cultural festivals, Saratov has something to offer for every type of traveler. So, get ready to delve into the secrets of Saratov and discover why this dynamic city should be on your radar.

Key Takeaways:

• Saratov, a city on the Volga River, offers a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From its iconic bridge to vibrant festivals, Saratov has something for everyone to enjoy.
• With its mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, Saratov is a warm and welcoming city that captivates visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, Saratov has it all!

Saratov is situated on the banks of the Volga River.

The city offers breathtaking views of the majestic Volga River, which is the longest river in Europe.

It was founded in 1590.

Saratov has a deep-rooted history that dates back to the 16th century when it was established as a fortress.

The name “Saratov” means “Yellow Mountain” in Tatar.

The city’s name is derived from the Tatar word “sary tau,” which refers to the distinctive yellowish cliffs found in the area.

Saratov is the administrative center of Saratov Oblast.

As the capital of the Saratov region, the city plays a crucial role in the governance and economic development of the area.

It is often referred to as the “Gateway to Volga.”

Due to its strategic location on the Volga River, Saratov serves as a key transportation hub and a starting point for journeys along the waterway.

Saratov is home to over 800,000 inhabitants.

With a thriving population, the city boasts a diverse community with various cultural backgrounds and traditions.

The Saratov State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Russia.

Established in 1909, the university has a rich academic history and offers a wide range of courses in various disciplines.

The historic Saratov Theater is a prominent cultural landmark.

This beautiful theater, founded in 1851, hosts a variety of performances, including ballet, opera, and drama.

Saratov is known for its beautiful architecture.

The city features a mix of architectural styles, including neoclassical, art nouveau, and Soviet-era buildings.

Saratov has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.

The city experiences distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from hot and humid in the summer to freezing cold in the winter.

The Saratov Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.

This impressive bridge spans the Volga River and offers stunning panoramic views of Saratov’s skyline.

Saratov is a significant industrial center.

The city is renowned for its manufacturing industries, including machinery, food processing, and chemicals.

The Victory Park in Saratov commemorates the heroism of World War II.

This sprawling park features monuments, memorials, and a museum dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made during the war.

Saratov is recognized for its strong sports culture.

The city has produced many talented athletes who have excelled in various sports, including ice hockey, football, and athletics.

The Saratov Art Museum showcases an extensive collection of Russian and European artwork.

Art enthusiasts can admire the masterpieces of renowned artists from different eras in this cultural gem.

Saratov is renowned for its festivals and cultural events.

The city hosts a myriad of celebrations throughout the year, including the Saratov Bridge Festival and the Saratov Jazz Festival.

Saratov is a major educational center.

In addition to Saratov State University, the city is home to numerous colleges, technical schools, and research institutes.

The Saratov Aviation Plant is one of the leading aircraft manufacturing facilities in Russia.

The plant has produced various aircraft, including the famous Antonov An-148 passenger jet.

Saratov is a popular destination for river cruises.

Tourists can embark on enchanting voyages along the Volga River, exploring the scenic beauty and historical sites along the way.

Saratov is a melting pot of cultures.

The city’s diverse population brings together different ethnic groups, contributing to a rich tapestry of traditions and heritage.

Saratov is famous for its delicious local cuisine.

Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes such as pelmeni (dumplings), borscht (beet soup), and blini (thin pancakes).

The Saratov Philharmonic Society is renowned for its exceptional musical performances.

Music lovers can enjoy classical concerts, chamber music recitals, and other enchanting performances at this esteemed institution.

Saratov is blessed with abundant natural beauty.

The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, and the serene Volga River.

Saratov has a rich literary heritage.

The city has been home to many notable writers , including Konstantin Simonov and Valentin Rasputin.

Saratov has a well-developed transportation infrastructure.

It is served by an extensive network of roads, railways, and an international airport, ensuring easy access to the city.

The Saratov Museum of Local Lore offers fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region.

Visitors can explore archaeological artifacts, ethnographic exhibits, and valuable historical documents.

Saratov is known for its vibrant nightlife.

The city offers a wide range of entertainment options, including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.

Saratov is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its proximity to nature reserves and national parks, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

Saratov is a center for space research and technology.

The city houses several scientific institutes and research centers dedicated to advancing space exploration.

Saratov has a strong tradition of chess.

The city has produced many talented chess players who have achieved international recognition.

The Saratov Puppet Theater delights audiences of all ages.

Featuring captivating puppet shows and performances, this theater is a must-visit for families.

Saratov is home to several beautiful parks and gardens.

Visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty in places such as Lipki Park and the Garden of Harmony.

Saratov hosts the annual Volga Fest, a vibrant celebration of local culture and traditions.

During this festival, the city comes alive with music, dance, art exhibitions, and traditional crafts.

Saratov has a thriving film industry.

The city has produced many acclaimed filmmakers and has a rich cinematic heritage.

Saratov offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere to both residents and visitors alike.

With its mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, Saratov has something for everyone to enjoy.

These 35 facts about Saratov highlight the city’s historical significance, cultural heritage, and its role as a vibrant center of arts, education, and industry. Whether you are exploring the architectural wonders, immersing yourself in the local traditions, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, Saratov is sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

Saratov is a fascinating city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. From its picturesque waterfront to its historical landmarks, Saratov offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring its museums, enjoying its thriving food scene, or simply strolling through its charming streets, Saratov has something for everyone.

With its strategic location on the Volga River, Saratov has played a significant role in Russia’s history and continues to be an important hub for trade and transportation. Its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere make Saratov a destination worth visiting, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in a new and vibrant culture.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem in Russia . Saratov will enchant you with its beauty, captivate you with its history, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

1. What is the best time to visit Saratov? The best time to visit Saratov is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

2. How can I get to Saratov? Saratov has its own international airport, and you can also reach the city by train, bus, or car from other major cities in Russia.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Saratov? Some must-visit attractions in Saratov include the Saratov Opera and Ballet Theatre, Radishchev Art Museum, Saratov Embankment, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

4. Is Saratov a safe city for tourists? Yes, Saratov is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always recommended to practice common safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.

5. What is the local cuisine like in Saratov? Saratov is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Some local dishes to try include borsch (traditional Russian soup), pirozhki (stuffed pastries), and pelmeni (dumplings).

6. Are there any natural attractions near Saratov? Yes, there are natural attractions near Saratov, including the Lipki Park and the picturesque Sokolovskaya Mountain offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

7. Can I explore Saratov on foot? Yes, Saratov is a walkable city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, there are also public transportation options available for getting around the city.

8. Are there any festivals or events in Saratov? Saratov hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Saratov Bridge Festival, Saratov Jazz Festival, and the Saratov Street Theater Festival. Check the local event calendar for the specific dates of these events.

9. Are there any accommodation options in Saratov? Yes, there are plenty of accommodation options in Saratov, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts and cozy guesthouses.

10. Can I visit Saratov as a day trip from Moscow? While Saratov is located around 800 kilometers southeast of Moscow, it is possible to visit the city as a day trip. However, it is recommended to plan a longer stay to fully explore and appreciate all that Saratov has to offer.

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