Introduction
Atlantic City, a resort city located in New Jersey, is known for its boardwalk, beaches, and of course, its casinos. Since the 1970s, the city has been renowned for its gambling industry, attracting millions of visitors every year. Did you know that the first casino in Atlantic City opened its doors nearly 43 years ago? In this article, we’ll explore the remarkable roots of Atlantic City’s first casino, how it became a game changer, and its lasting legacy on the city and the gaming industry.
The Rich History of Atlantic City’s First Casino
Atlantic City’s development as a gambling destination can be traced back to the 1800s when the first boardwalk was constructed. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that gambling was officially legalized in the city, paving the way for a slew of new developments, including the opening of the first casino. Resorts Casino Hotel was the first to open its doors on May 26, 1978, ushering in a new era of gaming in Atlantic City.
The opening of the first casino was a significant moment not just for the city but for the country as well. It marked the first time that gambling was legalized outside of Nevada and set the stage for the development of the gaming industry across the US.
Interestingly, the first casino almost didn’t happen. Despite being approved by state officials, many investors were skeptical about its success, and it took several years to secure the funding necessary to build it. However, once the doors opened, it became an instant success, and even surpassed revenue expectations for its first year.
The Foundation That Built Atlantic City
Several factors contributed to the establishment of Atlantic City as a gambling destination. One of the most significant was its proximity to large urban centers like New York and Philadelphia, which made it accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, the legalization of gambling was seen as a way to revitalize the city’s struggling economy.
The creation of the first casino was a collaborative effort between several key players and organizations. The New Jersey State Legislature passed the Casino Control Act in 1977, which established a regulatory framework for casinos in the state. Resorts International Holdings, a company headed by Naftali Lavie, was responsible for investing in the development of the casino.
The establishment of the first casino paved the way for future developments in the industry. The regulatory framework established by the Casino Control Act ensured that the industry would be properly monitored, and that casinos would operate with transparency and fairness.
An Insider’s Guide to the Remarkable Roots of Atlantic City’s First Casino and the Impact on Today’s Gaming Industry
To get an insider’s perspective on the significance of the first casino, we consulted with industry experts and insiders. According to David G. Schwartz, a gambling historian and director of UNLV’s Center for Gaming Research, “Resorts was a game changer in that it showed that casino gaming could be profitable outside of Las Vegas. As such, it paved the way for the proliferation of gaming across the country.”
In addition to its impact on the gaming industry in the US, the first casino also influenced the development of gambling destinations around the world. According to Schwartz, “Atlantic City set the stage for the development of casino gaming in Asia. Many of the companies that are dominant in Macau today got their start in Atlantic City.”
The first casino’s legacy is visible in contemporary casinos as well. Resorts Casino Hotel still operates today and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. Its success inspired other casinos to open their doors in Atlantic City, creating a competitive and thriving industry that attracts millions of visitors every year.
From Modest Beginnings to a Gaming Empire
From its establishment, Resorts Casino Hotel quickly became one of the most popular destinations in Atlantic City. Although its initial success was due in part to its novelty factor, it soon became clear that the casino was here to stay.
Over the years, the casino has undergone several transformations. It was purchased by Merv Griffin Enterprises in 1988 and changed hands several times before being acquired by current owner Morris Bailey in 2010. Under Bailey’s ownership, the casino has undergone significant renovations and expansions, cementing its place as one of the premier destinations in Atlantic City.
The Legacy of America’s First Gambling Destination
The first casino had a lasting impact on Atlantic City’s culture and identity. It helped to reinvigorate the city’s economy, create jobs, and attract visitors from around the world. Additionally, it helped to change the perception of gambling in the US, showing that it could be a legitimate form of entertainment.
The first casino’s influence can also be seen in the development of other casinos and gambling destinations. As more and more states have legalized gambling, the industry has continued to expand and evolve.
Finally, the first casino’s legacy can be seen in the contributions that it made to the city and the industry. It created jobs, stimulated economic growth, and helped to establish Atlantic City as a premier destination for gaming and entertainment.
Exploring the Rise of Atlantic City’s First Casino
According to data from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, Resorts Casino Hotel generated $117.4 million in revenue in its first year of operation. Over the years, the casino has continued to be a major source of revenue and employment for the city. As of 2021, the casino employs over 2,000 people and generates over $200 million in annual revenue.
Despite its success, Resorts has faced its fair share of challenges over the years. The city has experienced several economic downturns, and the advent of online gambling has created new competition for traditional casinos. However, the first casino’s legacy continues to inspire new developments and innovations in the industry.
The Game Changer: The Fascinating Origin Story of Atlantic City’s First Casino that Paved the Way for More to Come
Looking back on the history of Atlantic City’s first casino, it’s clear that it was a game changer. It helped to transform the city into a premier destination for gaming and entertainment, and paved the way for the development of the gambling industry across the US and beyond.
The first casino’s legacy is still visible in contemporary casinos, in the continued expansion of the industry, and in the contribution that it made to the city and the country as a whole. As the industry continues to evolve and change, the story of Atlantic City’s first casino will remain an important part of its history.
Conclusion
The story of Atlantic City’s first casino is a fascinating one, filled with twists and turns, challenges and opportunities. From its modest beginnings to its status as a gaming empire, the first casino left an indelible mark on the city and the industry. As we look to the future of gaming and entertainment, it’s important to remember the amazing story of the first casino, and the brave individuals who made it all possible.