The Casino History of the Lost Vegas Royal Nevada Hotel

Exploring the depths of casino history often reveals the most compelling tales of fortune and failure. Consider the story of the Royal Nevada casino hotel, which opened on April 19, 1955, and closed just three years later, cementing its place as one of the shortest-lived establishments in Las Vegas. But what led to its demise? Let’s delve into a fascinating segment of casino history, examining the confluence of bad timing, poor decisions, and truly unfortunate luck that defined this era.

The Birth of the Royal Nevada

In 1953, millionaire Frank Fishman announced plans for the $2.5 million Royal Nevada, which would become one of three Las Vegas casinos to open on newly renamed Las Vegas Boulevard within a six-week period. Fishman’s dream was to create a casino that would attract top performers and entertainers.

The Casino’s Troubled Past

But from the start, things looked grim for the Royal Nevada. In February 1955, Fishman’s application for a gaming license was denied due to his association with organized crime figures. This decision set off a chain of events that would ultimately lead to the casino’s downfall.

The First Grand Opening

Despite the setbacks, the Royal Nevada made its grand opening on April 19, 1955, featuring a performance by opera singer Helen Traubel. The event was a success, with many high-profile performers gracing the casino’s stages.

The Casino’s Struggles

However, business proved to be significantly less stellar after the grand opening. With more luxurious and expensive casinos like the Tropicana opening in Las Vegas, the Royal Nevada found itself struggling to compete. The casino’s limited budget and reputation for going out of business made it difficult to attract top talent.

The Final Blow

In January 1958, the Nevada Gaming Board slapped the Royal Nevada with an eight-count complaint alleging