Celebrating the Historic Legacy of the Moulin Rouge Hotel

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The iconic neon sign of the Moulin Rouge Hotel, a symbol of its legacy.

News Summary

Las Vegas marks the 70th anniversary of the Moulin Rouge Hotel, recognized as America’s first racially integrated casino. Despite operating for only six months, it played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement and the desegregation of casinos in the city. A recent proposal aims to revive gaming activities on the historic site, reflecting ongoing efforts to honor its legacy and promote racial equality in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Moulin Rouge Hotel, recognized as America’s first racially integrated casino. The hotel opened its doors on May 24, 1955, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s civil rights movement. It operated for just a short span of six months before closing its doors in October 1955.

Located in the Historic Westside of Las Vegas at the 900 block of West Bonanza Road, the Moulin Rouge Hotel was a groundbreaking establishment during its time. It provided a venue for celebrated Black performers like Sammy Davis Jr. and Dinah Washington, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Las Vegas, often referred to as the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Despite its early closure, the Moulin Rouge played an essential role in the desegregation of Las Vegas casinos, representing a shift towards racial integration in a city that was known for its discriminatory practices. The hotel briefly opened doors to all races, positioning itself as a beacon of change during a turbulent era in American history.

In the years following its initial closure, the property faced numerous challenges including changes in ownership and multiple devastating fires. In 2017, a series of fires rendered the site unsalvageable, according to the City of Las Vegas. Despite these setbacks, the historical importance of the Moulin Rouge has been recognized, and in 1992, it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The iconic neon sign from the Moulin Rouge remains a symbol of its legacy and is currently displayed at The Neon Boneyard, a museum dedicated to preserving the rich history of Las Vegas signage. Meanwhile, the frame of the original Moulin Rouge marquee sign can still be seen on an empty, vacant lot, serving as a reminder of the hotel’s significance.

In recent developments, the Nevada Gaming Control Board has recommended approval for a one-day, slot-machines-only gaming license for the Moulin Rouge site. Century Gaming Technologies has proposed to set up 16 slot machines at the location on May 29, allowing casino play between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. This request adds to the ongoing efforts to maintain the gaming status of this historic site; it marks the eighth temporary gaming license approved since June 2004.

While this effort to revive some of the casino’s activities suggests a hope for rebirth, the question of ownership for the historic property remains uncertain and in flux. The future of the Moulin Rouge Hotel and its significance in promoting racial equality in Las Vegas is an ongoing story that continues to resonate throughout the community.

The 70th anniversary of the Moulin Rouge Hotel serves not only as a celebration of its groundbreaking history but also as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality in America. From its inception, the hotel laid down the foundations for future generations and transformed the entertainment world, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and racial harmony.