News Summary
The Moulin Rouge Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the first racially integrated hotel and casino in the U.S., is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Despite operating for only six months, it played a crucial role in the desegregation of Las Vegas and the civil rights movement. While the establishment has faced numerous challenges over the years, including fires and a decline in condition, new plans are underway for a multi-story casino that aims to honor its legacy and support the local community.
Las Vegas – The Moulin Rouge Hotel and Casino, recognized as the first racially integrated hotel and casino in Las Vegas and the United States, is marking its 70th anniversary since its historic opening on May 24, 1955. The establishment, located in the 900 block of West Bonanza Road on the Historic Westside of Las Vegas, initially captured attention with its extravagant design and spectacular showroom featuring performances from legendary African American entertainers like Sammy Davis Jr., Dinah Washington, and Louis Armstrong.
Despite its remarkable beginnings, the Moulin Rouge operated for less than six months before closing its doors in October 1955. Its short-lived existence, however, was pivotal in the desegregation of Las Vegas and significantly contributed to the broader civil rights movement. In recognition of its historical importance, the property was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
Over the years, the Moulin Rouge changed hands multiple times but faced challenges, including devastating fires that unfortunately led to its eventual deterioration. In 2017, the property was declared unsalvageable due to the damage sustained from these fires. Although the hotel-casino is no longer operational, the famous neon sign from the Moulin Rouge remains on display at The Neon Boneyard, serving as a symbol of the landmark’s legacy. Currently, the original marquee sign frame stands in a vacant lot, marking the spot where the once-thriving establishment proudly stood.
Recently, the Nevada Gaming Control Board recommended approval for a temporary one-day slot machine-only license, aimed at preserving gaming on the site. Century Gaming Technologies has requested a license to operate 16 slot machines starting May 29, with gaming hours from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. This request is notable as it marks the eighth temporary license approved for the Moulin Rouge since June 2004. The Nevada Gaming Commission will consider this request on May 17, while the Las Vegas City Council has included it in its consent agenda for May 16.
In a move to revitalize the Historic Westside, a developer is planning to build a new multi-story casino on the site of the Moulin Rouge. The proposed casino complex aims to be a seven-story facility that will include a 10,500-square-foot gaming floor, food hall, retail space, spa, nightclub, and rooftop pool. The development is expected to create nearly 1,000 jobs and commit to allocating 10% of its net profits to community initiatives.
However, the proposed project has raised concerns among local residents, with worries about potential displacement and increased taxes as a result of the development. As developers prepare to present the casino project to the City Council in June, the aim is to create a new landmark for the African American community that will honor the legacy of the original Moulin Rouge.
The upcoming developments surrounding the Moulin Rouge highlight the ongoing evolution of Las Vegas’s Historic Westside, commemorating the past while envisioning a vibrant future.
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Additional Resources
- KTNV: Historic Moulin Rouge Hotel Marks 70 Years
- Google Search: Moulin Rouge Las Vegas 70th Anniversary
- News3LV: Moulin Rouge First Integrated Hotel Casino
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Moulin Rouge Las Vegas
- 963 KKLV: $500M Casino Project Harlem Nights
- Google News: Moulin Rouge Las Vegas History
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
