Importance of Riverboat Gambling

Riverboat gambling was first prevalent in the United States of America in the 1800s.

Gambling occurred mainly on the Mississippi River paddle boats and steamships that traveled up and down the river carrying cargo and transporting passengers.

In the 1800s, the most popular game played in the riverboat was poker, and another game played was three-card monte.

A number of cheaters operated in pairs; while one partner played at the table, the other confederate would be watching the game giving signals that ranged from blowing smoke to scratching various parts of the body.

Riverboat gamblers built reputations as both gamblers and cheaters. The games were tolerated on the riverboats because during a poker game, large quantities of alcohol were consumed, and this was revenue for the boat's captain.

Eventually, when the standard of players changed, dishonest players were thrown overboard or were left stranded on a sand bar.

During the 19th century, another popular riverboat gambling game was three-card monte. Most of the time, this game was played with an accomplice or shill.

The objective of this game was to move around three cards, two queens and an ace. A bettor would then try to locate the ace. Invariably, the winning card was palmed, making it impossible for the bettor to win.

One of the contributing factors to the decline of riverboat gambling was the start of the Civil War.

At the end of the 1800s, other modes of transportation became more efficient, which caused a decline in the use of riverboats.

Riverboat gambling was dormant until 1990.

In Louisiana, the riverboats must be paddlewheel in design. They must duplicate the historic steamboats of the past. In other states, there are modern ships which are as comfortable and luxurious as cruise liners.

Fast-moving catamarans are also utilized. All of these boats have been designed and built to accommodate a variety of casino games.

Today, there are fifty-six riverboats sailing in five states within the United States. At one time during the past three years, there were sixty boats sailing.

Although the number of ships may have decreased since the industry's inception, the revenue generated has increased tremendously.

In 1994, it was estimated that the industry generated about $3.2 billion.

It is essential to limit the number of riverboat casinos within a specific area.

When effectively planned and regulated, riverboat casinos can benefit and improve the local communities by increasing the number of jobs, and increase the standard of living of the residents. Most important, it will help increase the tax base of the communities.