The Story of the First Casino in Las Vegas: A Look at Its Builders and Legacy

Las Vegas, often referred to as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. One of the most iconic landmarks in this city is the casino, a place where fortune is sought and dreams are made. The first casino to rise in Las Vegas was a cornerstone in its development, and in this article, we delve into the fascinating story of who built the first casino in Vegas and the enduring legacy it left behind.

The Origins of the First Casino in Vegas

The first casino in Las Vegas was the Hotel Last Frontier, which opened its doors in 1937. This hotel and casino marked the beginning of the gambling industry in Las Vegas and was built by two key figures: Benny Binion and Bugsy Siegel.

Benny Binion: The Man Behind the Scenes

Benny Binion was a Texas-born gambler and businessman who became one of the most influential figures in the early days of Las Vegas. He was known for his expertise in poker and his ability to negotiate deals. Binion had a vision for Las Vegas, and he was determined to make it a gambling Mecca.

Bugsy Siegel: The Visionary Entrepreneur

Benny Binion's partner in the venture was Bugsy Siegel, a notorious gangster and businessman who had a vision for the future of Las Vegas. Siegel was born in Brooklyn, New York, and had a history of criminal activities before transitioning into the world of legitimate business. His influence on the development of Las Vegas cannot be overstated.

The Construction of the Hotel Last Frontier

The construction of the Hotel Last Frontier began in 1936. It was designed by architects Gordon Kauffman and John Kellum, who sought to create a hotel that would cater to both gamblers and tourists. The hotel featured 63 rooms, a casino, a restaurant, and a bar, and it was considered state-of-the-art at the time.

The Opening of the Hotel Last Frontier

On November 26, 1937, the Hotel Last Frontier officially opened its doors. The grand opening was a spectacle, with celebrities, politicians, and high rollers flooding into the hotel to witness the beginning of a new era in Las Vegas. The event marked the first time that a casino had opened in the city, and it was the start of a long line of iconic casinos that would follow.

The Legacy of the First Casino in Vegas

The Hotel Last Frontier was short-lived, as it closed its doors in 1942 due to financial difficulties. However, its impact on Las Vegas was profound. It was the first casino to bring the gambling culture to the city and set the stage for the future of the Las Vegas Strip.

The Rise of the Las Vegas Strip

After the closure of the Hotel Last Frontier, Las Vegas began to evolve. The Las Vegas Strip started to take shape with the opening of more casinos and hotels. Benny Binion and Bugsy Siegel, along with other entrepreneurs, continued to shape the city's growth.

1. How did Benny Binion and Bugsy Siegel meet and decide to build the Hotel Last Frontier?

Benny Binion and Bugsy Siegel met through mutual friends in the gambling world. They quickly became business partners, with Binion providing his expertise in poker and Siegel his vision for Las Vegas.

2. What was the significance of the Hotel Last Frontier in the history of Las Vegas?

The Hotel Last Frontier was the first casino to bring gambling to Las Vegas, setting the stage for the city's future as a gambling and entertainment destination.

3. How did the closure of the Hotel Last Frontier impact the development of Las Vegas?

The closure of the Hotel Last Frontier did not hinder the growth of Las Vegas. In fact, it sparked the development of other casinos and hotels that would eventually make the Las Vegas Strip famous.

4. What other notable casinos opened after the Hotel Last Frontier?

After the Hotel Last Frontier, several notable casinos opened in Las Vegas, including the Flamingo, Sahara, and Desert Inn. These hotels and casinos helped to establish the Strip as the premier destination for gamblers and tourists.

5. How did Bugsy Siegel's influence extend beyond the construction of the Hotel Last Frontier?

Bugsy Siegel's influence extended beyond the construction of the Hotel Last Frontier. He was instrumental in shaping the early development of the Las Vegas Strip, and his legacy continues to be felt in the city's entertainment and hospitality industry today.