riverboat casino history

How Riverboat Gambling Became Riverboat Gaming

Kevin has been involved in the gambling industry since the ‘80s. From winning tournaments to casino management, he’s ultimately done it all. Throughout the years, he’s written for various iGaming publications on topics such as the legal landscape of online casinos and strategies behind winning. His favorite game is blackjack.

Cash-strapped states across the South and Midwest in the late eighties and early nineties were desperate for a new source of cash revenue that didn’t raise taxes. Gambling seemed like an easy way out, but it was going to be a hard sell to dubious voters.

But what if they used the allure of the old riverboat gambling myths and the promise of using the riverboat casinos to keep the gambling scourge at arm’s length from impacted communities? Could they sell this new, sanitized riverboat gaming to their constituents?

The Evolution of Gaming on America’s Rivers

We will explore the history of riverboat gaming in America from the early 19th century right into the 21st. We will discuss how it morphed and was delicately managed to become a product that a broad number of people could support a few decades ago, before starting another slow decline, and we take a closer look at some of its few bright remaining stars.

• ⛴ The History of Riverboat Gambling
• ⛴ The Beginnings of Riverboat Gaming
• ⛴ A Few of the Best Riverboat Casinos Remaining
• ⛴ Conclusion

The History of Riverboat Gambling

The first steamboat to make the trip down the Ohio and then the Mississippi was aptly named New Orleans, and she made her inaugural trip in 1811. For the next 100 years, these boats would define commerce along the nation’s mighty rivers. And with commerce comes con men.

The huge sums of money that came from moving much of the fledgling nation’s goods up and down the rivers would prove to be a powerful temptation. While much of the gambling that soon developed on these long, slow trips along the river was legal, many of the men who came to play were on the wrong side of the law .

Not even two decades into the new steamboat trade and there were articles in the Eastern papers about the con men, card sharps, and confidence scams being run on every bumpkin that set foot on a boat. In 1835, the townsfolk in Vicksburg had had enough; they lynched 5 of the “professional gamblers” and burned every Faro table in town, which was stated to be in the dozens.

Much like the frontiersman who preceded them and the Wild West lawmen who would come later, these sharply dressed, supremely confident riverboat gamblers who plied their way on the steamboats of the Mississippi using only their luck and some “skills” they’d picked up along the way were the subject of many salacious headlines and stories in their day. Despite their many obvious flaws, an almost reverence was bestowed on them as archetypical American heroes.

The Beginnings Of Riverboat Gaming

The hay day of the Riverboat gambler started to fade in the 1860s during the Civil War, and then with the advent of railroads, they were soon all but forgotten. But in the early 1990s, states desperate for tax revenue and looking at the success of Las Vegas and Atlantic City decided to retest the waters of riverboat gambling.

This time, it was a way of introducing limited casino operations only along the waterways of the State’s rivers, selling it to their constituents as a diversion and pastime. Thus, the term riverboat gaming was needed . This was to be entertainment and frivolity, none of those card sharps and hustlers from the good ole days. So, a new term was coined.

Iowa led the riverboat race with the Diamond Lady in Bettendorf in April 1991. But riverboat gaming would soon come to Illinois, Mississippi, Missouri, Louisiana , and other states along the Mississippi and other large rivers like the Missouri and Ohio and even the Fox and Red Rivers.

Used mainly as a stalking horse for the eventual opening of land-based casinos in most of these states, many gamblers found the cramped quarters, the limited selection of slots and tables, and most egregious of all, the ability to only embark or disembark while the boat was at the pier, to be a let down from the Las Vegas style experience that they had been promised.

In Iowa, the first land-based casinos made an appearance in just three years. In every State, some accommodations were made , from no longer having to cruise the dangerous rivers to being allowed to move on to barges over the river to being able to move to land as long as you were adjacent to the river. This was a push generally called dock-side gaming, which meant that the actual return of elegant paddle wheelers with blackjack, roulette, and slot machines prowling the Mississippi again lasted less than a decade.

Dock-side gaming was far safer and allowed gamblers to come and go as they pleased , which drove casino revenues much higher. Also, the ability in some states to move either onto barges or land-based casinos adjacent to piers saw some spectacular casinos get built that could finally meet the promise of a Las Vegas experience.

A Few Of The Best Riverboat Casinos Remaining

If you are going to visit one of the grand old ladies of the river, we think that you should start with the actual riverboats that once traveled the Mississippi, and of these, the Amelia Belle is one of the most iconic .

Situated about an hour and a half outside New Orleans, deep in Cajun Country, this beautiful riverboat gambling hall has over 30,000 square feet of gaming space , 800 slots, and a dozen table games. Before she was damaged during Hurricane Katrina, she sailed up the river from the port of New Orleans several times a day in the mid-90s, but she now sits permanently in Bayou Bouef, her expedition days behind her.

Since Louisiana has kept its premise of at least gambling on a boat, even if its moored in a giant pool or cemented to the dock, longer than most other of the original riverboat casino states, it’s no wonder we can find most of the truly breathtaking and best riverboat casinos there.

Another of the must-see gambling boats sits on the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana. Chosen for its 20-minute proximity to the Texas border and only two and a half hours drive from Dallas, Shreveport was once a thriving riverboat gambling town and one of the country’s premier riverboat casino locations. But the Indian tribes in Oklahoma, which sit only an hour outside of Dallas to the North, have taken some of their business.

Still, there are several other riverboats operating in Shreveport, but what we think makes the Sam’s Town Property, one of the best riverboat casinos in Louisiana , is that they’ve turned a 30,000-square-foot gaming boat into a destination resort. They have a 500+ room hotel directly adjacent and tied into the property with four restaurants including a really nice steak house and lots of other amenities. The boat itself has over 1000 slots and more than 27 table games.

One of the best riverboat casinos outside of Louisiana is the Grand Victoria in Elgin, Illinois. Built back in 1995, she was spared the dangers of cruising the Fox River in 1999, when Illinois was one of the last states to end their riverboat gaming rules that required the boats to leave their docks. Today, this 30,000-foot boat has room for 1100 slots and almost 30 tables and even sports an onboard buffet and three other restaurants. She is one of the prettier examples of the early 1990s boats that you will see as well, and it is well worth your time to get a good vantage point and take in her lines.

While both the age of riverboat gamblers and its more recent short-lived renaissance of riverboat gaming are now a thing of the past, the allure of cruising the mighty Mississippi while making your living playing cards and shooting dice will probably live on into the distant future. There is something about the water flowing past and the land slipping by out the window that just seems to call for a quick hand of poker or a spin on the roulette wheel.

It’s a call back to a time when the men and women who traveled these waterways were used to risking everything in order to follow their dreams. Get out there and check out some of those boats, wander the decks, play a hand or two of blackjack, and contemplate that river streaming by while you still have a chance to see a dying American breed , the last of the riverboat casinos.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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The reemergence of riverboat casinos was no accident. During the late 1980s and early 1990s government leaders from several states came to realize what Nevada citizens have known all along: gaming is a good tax revenue business.

The passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act also opened people’s minds to the possibility of economic growth through gaming activities. Originally, riverboat gambling was the staple of large paddlewheelers and steamships cruising up and down the Mississippi River. At their height during the 1800s, such riverboats not only provided an elegant travel means, but plenty of entertainment by virtue of the shipboard gambling parlors. Fanciful ships plied the muddy waters as genteel passengers bet fortunes on games of chance.

But after years of abuse by con artists and card cheaters who were also on board (and the nation as a whole rejecting gambling a legal activity), riverboat travel declined. Also, as other modes of transportation, such as trains and automobiles, became more efficient, riverboats fell out of favor with the upper-crust crowd. By the early 1900s gambling on riverboats had completely stopped, not to begin again until almost ninety years later.

With gambling back on board, riverboat activity has attempted to churn up the financial waters of communities all across the country. Today, there are dozens of riverboats with casino operations in states throughout the U.S. Each employs several hundred people. It is estimated that this segment of the gaming industry alone generates more than a billion dollars in revenues.

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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

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History Of Riverboat casinos - When Did They First Start?

The history of riverboat casinos was not something that was to evolve with any kind of speed. At that time it seemed that different state politicians had different ideas as to whether gaming should be made legal in their state. It has to be said when it comes to such things as gaming the Mid-West was not amongst the most forward thinking in approving such legislation for casinos in any form, never mind making it available to all their residents.

Given time the state stance would eventually soften and in 1991 after a long wait, the first legalized riverboat casino began operations in Iowa, albeit with restricted bets of no more than $5, and maximum losses of no more than $200. The mold had been broken, there was no going back.

Other states would look on and follow Iowa's progress and base their decisions now on new fresh current data, as they looked towards capitalizing upon this great little fund raiser to add to the state's budget.

It would not be long before Illinois and Mississippi subscribed to the history of riverboat casinos, by jumping aboard this nice little money spinner. They would enhance their operations with a more user friendly approach and legislate for their casinos to stay open 24 hours a day as in Vegas, also betting boundaries would be eliminated with no limits placed on betting.

Missouri was the last state to jump on board in 1994 and currently with regards to the history of riverboat casinos, they are only legal in Iowa, Illinois, Mississippi, Louisiana, Indiana, and Missouri.

The grand riverboats that are operational these days, for the most part are moored up alongside the river's dock. In Mississippi, they are permanently docked with large gangplanks connecting from the shore to the casino.

With each state regulating their riverboats slightly differently, there may be some variables, when it comes to the amount of passengers allowed aboard, opening hours and time allowed to gamble, but generally the games available will be what you expect, and should include the likes of Poker, Video Poker, Blackjack, Craps and Roulette.

Mississippi’s first dockside casinos opened 29 years ago this week

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) - It was 29 years ago this week that Mississippi’s first dockside casino opened .

The Isle of Capri opened its doors on Aug. 1, 1992, ushering in a new era for the Gulf Coast and the state. Thousands of people stood outside two riverboats on a sweltering day, waiting to go inside.

Days later, the President Casino and the Biloxi Belle opened their riverboat-style gambling halls.

Mississippi Senator Tommy Gollott, a Democrat from the 50th Senate District in Harrison County, spearheaded the legislation for dockside gambling to help the slumping state economy.

As a result, on June 29, 1990, the Mississippi Legislature passed the Mississippi Gaming Control Act . This act stated that casino gambling was allowed only in counties along the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast, as long as the voters in those eligible areas approved it.

On Dec. 5, 1990, Hancock County became the first Mississippi county to approve dockside gambling. Harrison County quickly followed. Two years after the Gaming Control Act passed, the Isle of Capri became the first dockside casino on the Gulf Coast.

Mississippi’s new gambling law allowed those riverboats to dock at Point Cadet and never move.

A lot has changed in Mississippi’s gaming industry since the Isle of Capri’s debut. Riverboats were replaced by floating resorts. Casinos soon added hotels and other lavish amenities.

In 2005, after Hurricane Katrina basically wiped out the Coast’s casino industry, lawmakers allowed the games to move 800 feet inland, where they remain today.

The original promise to legalize dockside gambling focused on job creation. As of 2018 , the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association reported more than 20,000 direct jobs at casinos throughout the state. More than half of those are in South Mississippi.

In 2020 , Mississippi casinos grossed nearly $1.8 billion in revenue, according to the Mississippi Gaming Commission. Of that, nearly $1.1 billion was from coastal casinos.

Currently, there are 36 casinos throughout the Magnolia State in 13 cities, including 12 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

WLOX remembers Hurricane Katrina on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Every August 29th, we remember where we were before, during, and after Hurricane Katrina. For many of us, it was right here at WLOX and with many of you who survived the deadly and devestating storm. Let us never forget those we lost, the power of Mother Nature, and the spirit of the Mississippi Gulf Coast to build back even stronger than before! ❤️ Posted by WLOX-TV on Thursday, August 29, 2019

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Riverboat casino that sank in Mississippi River resurfaces amid historic drought

The Diamond Lady, a once majestic riverboat, rests with smaller boats in mud at Riverside Park Marina in Martin Luther King Jr. Riverside Park along the Mississippi River on October 19, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Record-low water levels in the Mississippi River have unearthed a flurry of rare finds . The latest? The nation’s first riverboat casino that sunk during a storm last year.  

The Diamond Lady, America’s first riverboat casino, set sail in 1991 and operated for a few years before a bigger riverboat replaced it. Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White reportedly christened the paddlewheel boat before its maiden voyage took off from Bettendorf, Iowa 31 years ago.

It had been stored on the Mississippi River in Memphis, Tennessee , since 2008, but the Diamond Lady sank in 2021 during a winter freeze, according to WPSD. It wasn’t seen again until the Mississippi River receded to its lowest levels in 10 years.

River levels are so low, saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico is moving in, FOX Weather reports.

Drought drives Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting agricultural exports

Drought has driven the Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting the agricultural exports. The crisis has increased shipping prices, and that cost may fall on consumers and creating problems for barges.

According to the Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center, water levels are at or below the low-water threshold along a nearly 400-mile stretch of the river from near where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi River south to near Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Other finds from a drought-stricken Mississippi River

Rare Civil War relics found lying in rocks along Mississippi River (Photo credit: Riley Bryant)

Also in Memphis, history lover and relics collector Riley Bryant made a fascinating discovery along the banks of the drought-stricken Mississippi River.

Bryant said the artifacts — a Civil War-era Union army cartridge box plate and bullets — were just sitting there among the rocks under the I-55 bridge waiting to be picked up.

Just weeks before Bryant made his discovery, a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, resident was walking along the Mississippi River there and found a shipwreck that’s more than 100 years old, FOX Weather reports.

According to Louisiana state archeologist Chris McGimsey, it belongs to a ferryboat called the Brookhill, which started sailing in the late 1880s or early 1890s. It was originally 250 to 300 feet long.

FOX Weather contributed to this report. 

Louisiana’s riverboat casinos want to lower their target job numbers

T he head of Louisiana’s gambling regulatory body expects the state’s riverboat casino operators to request adjustments in the employee numbers included in their state licenses. Some of the hiring goals date back to when venues were originally approved three decades ago and were not adjusted for riverboats that have relocated.

Wade Duty, executive director of the Louisiana Casino Association, said the job goals also don’t reflect the post-pandemic labor market in which customer-facing service workers have become harder to attract and retain. In addition, casinos have moved toward outsourcing housekeeping and restaurant staff, and those employees can’t be counted toward the target number in their licenses

Duty told Gaming Control Board chairman Ronnie Johns at Monday’s board meeting that casino operators plan to seek approval to amend their employment counts. The number is called a “voluntary condition” because the state cannot legally require the riverboats to meet job targets — it’s been ruled unconstitutional in other states with casinos — but regulators do consider employment, among other factors, when approving and renewing gaming licenses.

“Are we going to revoke a license? No, not based on the current goals that are just unrealistic,” Johns said in an interview Wednesday with the Illuminator. “And we’re going to put new goals into place. We’re going to monitor them very, very closely, but you’ve got to realize that they’re voluntary goals. And as long as I’m chairman, we will push them to attempt to meet those goals.”

Three of Louisiana’s 14 riverboat casinos in operation have the number of workers called for in their licenses, based on midyear numbers provided Monday at the Gaming Control Board meeting. The state’s 15th riverboat license holder, DiamondJacks in Bossier City, has been closed since 2020 and changed ownership earlier this year. It’s currently undergoing an extensive renovation, as are multiple riverboats in Louisiana now that state law allows them to move their gaming operations on land.

Riverboats employ nearly 9,000 people in Louisiana. Again, that number doesn’t include employees of outside contractors. New hires at casino sportsbooks also don’t count toward employment goals if they are set up as a separate entity from the riverboat casino.

The casino worker shortage has been particularly acute in the Lake Charles area, Duty said, although two locations there — L’Auberge Casino Resort and Golden Nugget — exceeded their job targets. Casinos struggle to compete with job opportunities available in the oil and gas sector, where $20 to $25 per hour starting wages are being offered to new hires with no experience, he said.

Beyond the trend toward at-home work, Johns noted another post-pandemic pattern that has cut into employment at casinos. None of the riverboats that offered dining buffets before COVID-19 have returned to them. Instead, they’re offering space to restaurants that hire their own workers.

For example, Drago’s, a Metairie-based seafood chain, will open locations at L’Auberge in Lake Charles and Margaritaville Casino Resort in Bossier City.

“So the jobs are still there, the taxes are still being paid, but they legally cannot use those numbers in their goals,” Johns said.

A chart displaying Louisiana riverboat employment goals and actual employee counts as of June 30, 2023

The three locations that reached the hiring goals in their licenses — Golden Nugget, Margaritaville and L’Auberge Lake Charles — reported a combined total of 4,333 employees as of June 30, or nearly half the employees at all Louisiana riverboats.

Other riverboats are close to or anticipate meeting their target numbers once they complete hotel expansions and renovations. Hollywood Casino in Baton Rouge will relaunch Thursday as the land-based Queen Baton Rouge.

Its competitor, the Belle of Baton Rouge, was two-thirds shy of its 450-employee goal and is in the midst of a major renovation that includes reopening its hotel and moving its slot machines and table games on land. The upgrades, which will feature new restaurants, are expected to add 200 jobs.

Another reason Johns said he is amenable to considering changes for riverboat casino employment goals is that gambling revenue in Louisiana, when including the lottery, now exceeds $1 billion annually — outpacing the oil and gas industry. Casinos are also not allowed to receive tax breaks or other incentives offered to private businesses, he added.

However, Johns said he has concerns over whether Louisiana casino revenue will remain at the current level, especially if Texas ever decides to authorize casino betting.

“It may not be five years from now, it may not be seven years from now,” Johns said. “But eventually, I honestly believe Texas will legalize gaming, and it’s gonna have an impact on the state of Louisiana market.”

— The  Louisiana Illuminator  is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization driven by its mission to cast light on how decisions are made in Baton Rouge and how they affect the lives of everyday Louisianians, particularly those who are poor or otherwise marginalized. 

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Louisiana’s riverboat casinos want to lower their target job numbers

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Woman says atlantic city casino refuses to pay 7-figure jackpot | investigation.

ATLANTIC CITY, New Jersey (WPVI) -- A South Jersey woman's win on a slot machine in Atlantic City is being called into question.

She turned to our investigative team for answers after she says the casino refused to pay the jackpot.

Bally's Casino and the gaming company, International Game Technology, are disputing the alleged seven-figure windfall and told her the win was a technical glitch.

"I was hoping for $1,000, saying, 'Please God let me win,'" recalled Roney Beal, of Shamong Twp.

Beal told us she loves playing the slots. At the end of February, she went to Bally's and dumped hundreds of dollars into a Wheel of Fortune machine.

"And it went off, says, 'you're a winner' and gold coins popped out," she said. "This very nice guy says, 'Oh my God, you hit, you hit!' He said, 'Lady you're a millionaire.' And I'm like, 'Oh my God!' "

The jackpot was more than $1.2 million. Beal said she also hit the multiplier.

With everyone around her celebrating, she hit the service button on the slot. Security then swarmed in.

"That's when the sentences came up 'tilted,'" she said. "When the man came over to talk to me he said, 'Lady, get it in your head, you won nothing.'"

Beal said she was told the machine had a malfunction known as a "reel tilt," which she was told voids the win.

She said after a Bally's attendant came and opened the machine, he asked her to "spin it off," but she refused.

"He had it rolling real slow. He had it opened and then he is pushing it," she added.

She said the attendant then hit different buttons inside ultimately offering her a mere $350.

"They fooled with the machine before anybody else had the opportunity to take a look at this," said attorney Mike Dicroce, who represents Beal.

He said that action by a casino attendant may have tampered with evidence of the win.

He has now asked the New Jersey Gaming Enforcement, Bally's and IGT, the responsible party for the payout, to preserve the machine and casino floor videos for an independent forensic review.

"You invite somebody to your business. They pay the money, they win, you're supposed to pay. That didn't happen," he added.

And it turns out, this isn't the first case where a reel tilt has been disputed on a Wheel of Fortune slot machine.

Jacques Bezou took Harrah Casino in New Orleans and IGT to court in 2000 after his client disputed the same slot malfunction.

"IGT took the position that look even though aesthetically these symbols came up it wasn't a win because the computer says it wasn't a win," he said.

Bezou said a jury didn't agree nor did an appellate judge. After years in legal limbo, IGT was ultimately responsible for the $1.3 million jackpot.

Beal is hoping the law and some luck will help her cash in on what she believes is hers.

"Why would I ever go to a casino again in my life? Any casino? Why, if there is no hope," she said.

Bally's Casino had no comment and said it only houses the machine and referred us to IGT. Multiple attempts to reach IGT for comment have gone unanswered.

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Commencement speaker moves crowd to tears with speech that made school history

BROOMFIELD, Colo. (KUSA) – Seniors at a Colorado high school celebrated their graduation Monday night with a commencement speaker that moved the crowd to tears.

Jillian Ball made Broomfield High School history as the first person with Down syndrome to receive that honor.

As the high school seniors walked out in their caps and gowns, an arena full of proud parents eagerly waited for the moment they could spot their child in the sea of blue.

For Alexis and David Ball, the moment was one they thought about for a long time.

“My wife and I looked at each other and we were like, ‘Oh my God. It’s going to happen. It’s now,’” David Ball said.

“I definitely knew that it would be real,” Alexis Ball added. “Yeah, Jillian keeps it real all the time.”

Jillian is a confident, young woman. When she was born, her parents didn’t know what to expect.

“The NICU doctor said words that are burned in our brain. ‘Your daughter is showing several physical markers for trisomy 21,’ which is the medical term for Down syndrome,’” Alexis Ball said. “There was a lot of fear because we just didn’t know what her journey was going to be like.”

Jillian showed them they had nothing to fear.

“If we knew then what we knew now, we would not have been as scared,” Alexis Ball stated.

“She has been really embraced by her community. She’s done amazing things, and she’s going to continue to,” David Ball said.

When the school held tryouts for this year’s commencement speaker, Jillian didn’t even think twice.

“I like to show the people how great I am,” Jillian said.

In April, the school sent out an email announcing the speaker

“She’s jumping up and down. ‘I tried out to be a speaker and I was chosen. I was chosen!’” Alexis Ball remembered.

Her speech was about showing gratitude through what she calls her “thank you for.”

She said she wasn’t nervous about the moment. It was a moment Jillian was waiting for.

“Hello class of 2024. We did it. When I was growing up, I learned it was important to be thankful for the good stuff in life,” Jillian started her speech with.

Her thank yous came from the heart.

“I am thankful for you accepting me for who I am,” Jillian announced.

Jillian’s message reached the people she’s most thankful for.

“I am so proud of you. You did it, girl. You humble me. You are so amazing. I love you. I love you much,” Alexis Ball said to her daughter.

Jillian will go into a transition program where she will be able to build life skills and try out different jobs.

Copyright 2024 KUSA via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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