KOTA Territory NewsDeadwood gamblers look back on 20th anniversary of gaming
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When legalized gambling in Deadwood began two decades ago, there were five casinos and gamblers wagered $13-million in the first eight months. Today, it's a billion dollar a year industry with dozens of casinos lining Main Street.
In 1989, a Wild Bill Hickok re-enactor fired two shots in the air and changed Deadwood forever, marking the start of legalized gaming.
One man who's seen the industry evolve is Jimmy Patino. Before gambling was legalized, Patino ran an off-the-books card game and later dealt cards in the casinos.
"We had back rooms, underground, little poker rooms and card rooms," Patino said. "It was small, nothing elaborate like now."
Having been around since the start of legalized gambling, Patino never expected it to grow into an industry that's seen gamblers wager $12-billion in twenty years.
"My visions weren't that great. I really didn't think it would but I'm sure glad it did, though. It sure helped the economy and the people. We have a good thing going."
The 20th anniversary celebration continues all week in Deadwood. Monday at 11:00 AM on Main Street, a Wild Bill Hickock re-enactor will re-create the scene that started gaming 20 years ago.
The Deadwood You Bet Committee, the group that spearheaded the effort to legalize gambling, will tell their story Monday night at 6:30 at the Deadwood Masonic Temple.
Former mayors and historical preservation commissioners will do the same Tuesday night at Deadwood City Hall.
South Dakota gaming commissioners will meat on Wednesday night at 6:30, also at the Deadwood City Hall.
On Friday, starting at 6:00 PM at the Lodge at Deadwood, there will be a free social featuring a Sounds of Deadwood musical performance.
The finale is the 20th Anniversary Gala on Saturday at the Lodge of Deadwood. Tickets are $25.00 and can be purchased through Black Hills Central Reservations, www.blackhillsvacations.com, or by calling 1-800-344-8826.Comments Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. By submitting a comment, you agree to these
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