riverboat gambling

How Riverboat Gambling Became Riverboat Gaming

Kevin has been involved in the gambling industry since the ‘80s. From winning tournaments to casino management, he’s ultimately done it all. Throughout the years, he’s written for various iGaming publications on topics such as the legal landscape of online casinos and strategies behind winning. His favorite game is blackjack.

Cash-strapped states across the South and Midwest in the late eighties and early nineties were desperate for a new source of cash revenue that didn’t raise taxes. Gambling seemed like an easy way out, but it was going to be a hard sell to dubious voters.

But what if they used the allure of the old riverboat gambling myths and the promise of using the riverboat casinos to keep the gambling scourge at arm’s length from impacted communities? Could they sell this new, sanitized riverboat gaming to their constituents?

The Evolution of Gaming on America’s Rivers

We will explore the history of riverboat gaming in America from the early 19th century right into the 21st. We will discuss how it morphed and was delicately managed to become a product that a broad number of people could support a few decades ago, before starting another slow decline, and we take a closer look at some of its few bright remaining stars.

• ⛴ The History of Riverboat Gambling
• ⛴ The Beginnings of Riverboat Gaming
• ⛴ A Few of the Best Riverboat Casinos Remaining
• ⛴ Conclusion

The History of Riverboat Gambling

The first steamboat to make the trip down the Ohio and then the Mississippi was aptly named New Orleans, and she made her inaugural trip in 1811. For the next 100 years, these boats would define commerce along the nation’s mighty rivers. And with commerce comes con men.

The huge sums of money that came from moving much of the fledgling nation’s goods up and down the rivers would prove to be a powerful temptation. While much of the gambling that soon developed on these long, slow trips along the river was legal, many of the men who came to play were on the wrong side of the law .

Not even two decades into the new steamboat trade and there were articles in the Eastern papers about the con men, card sharps, and confidence scams being run on every bumpkin that set foot on a boat. In 1835, the townsfolk in Vicksburg had had enough; they lynched 5 of the “professional gamblers” and burned every Faro table in town, which was stated to be in the dozens.

Much like the frontiersman who preceded them and the Wild West lawmen who would come later, these sharply dressed, supremely confident riverboat gamblers who plied their way on the steamboats of the Mississippi using only their luck and some “skills” they’d picked up along the way were the subject of many salacious headlines and stories in their day. Despite their many obvious flaws, an almost reverence was bestowed on them as archetypical American heroes.

The Beginnings Of Riverboat Gaming

The hay day of the Riverboat gambler started to fade in the 1860s during the Civil War, and then with the advent of railroads, they were soon all but forgotten. But in the early 1990s, states desperate for tax revenue and looking at the success of Las Vegas and Atlantic City decided to retest the waters of riverboat gambling.

This time, it was a way of introducing limited casino operations only along the waterways of the State’s rivers, selling it to their constituents as a diversion and pastime. Thus, the term riverboat gaming was needed . This was to be entertainment and frivolity, none of those card sharps and hustlers from the good ole days. So, a new term was coined.

Iowa led the riverboat race with the Diamond Lady in Bettendorf in April 1991. But riverboat gaming would soon come to Illinois, Mississippi, Missouri, Louisiana , and other states along the Mississippi and other large rivers like the Missouri and Ohio and even the Fox and Red Rivers.

Used mainly as a stalking horse for the eventual opening of land-based casinos in most of these states, many gamblers found the cramped quarters, the limited selection of slots and tables, and most egregious of all, the ability to only embark or disembark while the boat was at the pier, to be a let down from the Las Vegas style experience that they had been promised.

In Iowa, the first land-based casinos made an appearance in just three years. In every State, some accommodations were made , from no longer having to cruise the dangerous rivers to being allowed to move on to barges over the river to being able to move to land as long as you were adjacent to the river. This was a push generally called dock-side gaming, which meant that the actual return of elegant paddle wheelers with blackjack, roulette, and slot machines prowling the Mississippi again lasted less than a decade.

Dock-side gaming was far safer and allowed gamblers to come and go as they pleased , which drove casino revenues much higher. Also, the ability in some states to move either onto barges or land-based casinos adjacent to piers saw some spectacular casinos get built that could finally meet the promise of a Las Vegas experience.

A Few Of The Best Riverboat Casinos Remaining

If you are going to visit one of the grand old ladies of the river, we think that you should start with the actual riverboats that once traveled the Mississippi, and of these, the Amelia Belle is one of the most iconic .

Situated about an hour and a half outside New Orleans, deep in Cajun Country, this beautiful riverboat gambling hall has over 30,000 square feet of gaming space , 800 slots, and a dozen table games. Before she was damaged during Hurricane Katrina, she sailed up the river from the port of New Orleans several times a day in the mid-90s, but she now sits permanently in Bayou Bouef, her expedition days behind her.

Since Louisiana has kept its premise of at least gambling on a boat, even if its moored in a giant pool or cemented to the dock, longer than most other of the original riverboat casino states, it’s no wonder we can find most of the truly breathtaking and best riverboat casinos there.

Another of the must-see gambling boats sits on the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana. Chosen for its 20-minute proximity to the Texas border and only two and a half hours drive from Dallas, Shreveport was once a thriving riverboat gambling town and one of the country’s premier riverboat casino locations. But the Indian tribes in Oklahoma, which sit only an hour outside of Dallas to the North, have taken some of their business.

Still, there are several other riverboats operating in Shreveport, but what we think makes the Sam’s Town Property, one of the best riverboat casinos in Louisiana , is that they’ve turned a 30,000-square-foot gaming boat into a destination resort. They have a 500+ room hotel directly adjacent and tied into the property with four restaurants including a really nice steak house and lots of other amenities. The boat itself has over 1000 slots and more than 27 table games.

One of the best riverboat casinos outside of Louisiana is the Grand Victoria in Elgin, Illinois. Built back in 1995, she was spared the dangers of cruising the Fox River in 1999, when Illinois was one of the last states to end their riverboat gaming rules that required the boats to leave their docks. Today, this 30,000-foot boat has room for 1100 slots and almost 30 tables and even sports an onboard buffet and three other restaurants. She is one of the prettier examples of the early 1990s boats that you will see as well, and it is well worth your time to get a good vantage point and take in her lines.

While both the age of riverboat gamblers and its more recent short-lived renaissance of riverboat gaming are now a thing of the past, the allure of cruising the mighty Mississippi while making your living playing cards and shooting dice will probably live on into the distant future. There is something about the water flowing past and the land slipping by out the window that just seems to call for a quick hand of poker or a spin on the roulette wheel.

It’s a call back to a time when the men and women who traveled these waterways were used to risking everything in order to follow their dreams. Get out there and check out some of those boats, wander the decks, play a hand or two of blackjack, and contemplate that river streaming by while you still have a chance to see a dying American breed , the last of the riverboat casinos.

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Indiana Riverboat Casinos

Riverboat Casinos in Indiana offer players a one of a kind unique gambling experience.

Indiana, like many other states, has recently expanded its gambling laws.  The Hoosier State has a rich history of gambling, with Indiana horse racing dating back to the 1800s. In Indiana, sports betting is legal, and residents can download mobile sports betting apps to wager on their favorite teams and sports on the go. For example, BetRivers Indiana is one of the online gambling sites currently available in the Hoosier State. As well as betting on sport, Indiana residents can now participate in casino gambling, but only at sweeps casinos.

In terms of casino gaming, there is also legislation that Sen. Jon Ford has introduced to bring new Indiana casino laws to fruition. The Indiana legislature accepted the proposals. Ford predicts that online casinos could bring in between $45-60 million  worth of tax revenue every year. For now, players can only access sweepstakes casinos in Indiana , with sites like Chumba Casino , Pulsz , BetRivers.net , and games like LuckyLand paving the way. These sites will still offer your favorite casino game, but you will be playing for virtual currency instead of real money.

The legalization of iGaming would build on the revenue generated by current land-based casinos in Indiana . Indiana gambling law authorizes ten land-based or riverboat casinos on the Ohio River or Lake Michigan, one physical casino in French Lick, and racinos at the two horse tracks in the state.

The Indiana Gaming Commission oversees all gambling activity in the state. Whether you are playing at Caesars Indiana, Indiana Grand, or a table game at an online casino, you are gambling in a safe environment. This is the case for a land based casino and an online site.

This page covers everything you need to know about Riverboat casinos in Indiana. Whether you love slot machines, classic table games, or you fancy yourself as a pro at poker, these riverboat casino locations provide all of that and more.

Indiana’s Riverboat Casinos Background

Legal gambling in Indiana began in 1988 when voters approved a state lottery. The first. Consequently, the first lottery tickets went on sale in October the following year. The momentum for casinos in Indiana grew, and the Indiana Riverboat Gaming Act passed in 1993. This opened up the possibility for the construction of ten riverboat casinos, the first of which opened in 1995.

Recently, the largest riverboat casino in the world set sail for a new home. The  Caesars Southern Indiana,  formerly known as the Horseshoe Southern Indiana riverboat casino, moved locations to Alabama. The casino called the riverboat its home for over 20 years; however, in 2015, Indiana passed a law permitting riverboat casinos to move from the water to land-based properties.

Players in Indiana can now access games of chance at a mixture of tribal, land-based, and riverboat casinos in addition to playing slots at horse tracks. You don’t need to travel to Las Vegas to enjoy live dealers or the latest slot machine. You can experience all of that in Central and Northwest Indiana. You are eligible to play the lottery at track events if you are 18; however, the legal gambling age in Indiana to visit a casino is 21 .

Ohio River Casinos

If you are looking for a Cincinnati riverboat casino, unfortunately, riverboat gambling is illegal in the Buckeye State. However, neighboring Indiana is has a thriving casino resort scene. Some of the most prominent riverboat casinos on the Ohio River are a short drive from Cincinnati.

Belterra Casino Indiana

The Belterra is the leading gambling boat in Indiana, boasting two floors of the newest and most entertaining slot machines and table games. With the addition of side bets, whether you are gambling in Indianapolis, Louisville, or Cincinnati, players tend to choose Belterra more often than not.

Some of the games include  Three Card Poker  and  Caribbean Stud . In addition to the numerous games and entertainment, the Belterra Hotel and Resort offers spa treatments, golf, and indoor shopping. If you want a break from the buzz of the casino floor, the full-service spa provides numerous treatments to recharge your batteries.

When you visit Belterra, you will discover retail sports betting courtesy of the FanDuel sportsbook among the 42,000 square feet of gaming space.

Hollywood Casino Barge

The Hollywood Casino was formerly known as Argosy Casino. This riverboat gambling facility and hotel is located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. It boasts 270,000 square feet of fun and entertainment, including  150,000 square feet of gaming space. There are 88  table games to choose from, in addition to 41 poker tables. The casino has one of the best poker rooms in Indiana .

If slots are more your thing, there are over 3,000 titles for you to play at your pleasure. Make sure you check the casino schedule to see what is in store regarding entertainment. The Hollywood casino lives up to its name, bringing in several entertainment acts every night. The onsite hotel provides luxury accommodation and includes restaurants such as the Final Cut Steakhouse.

Sports betting fans can also place bets via the retail sportsbook located in the casino, provided by the Barstool Sportsbook .

Grand Victoria Casino & Resort

The Rising Star Casino Resort is known for its excellent links golf course. This beautifully designed course features panoramic views of the Ohio River Valley . If you want some gambling action, the live casino floor has over 1,000 slot machines comprising fun themed reels. Additionally, the resort has over 200 hotel rooms, including suites, complete with an indoor pool.

If you want to relax after a day of gambling, the Grand Theatre offers superb entertainment, with favorites such as David Cassidy and Huey Lewis and the News having performed there.

Caesars sportsbook is available for players in the casino looking to wager on their favorite sports and team.

Lake Michigan Casinos

The Ameristar Casino Hotel is one of the most convenient land-based properties in Indiana. It is 25 miles from Chicago and close to Interstate highways. Additionally, if you are a Chicago resident, you can take advantage of a free shuttle bus service that runs from the city center. If you are a fan of Baccarat, you are in luck, as the Ameristar has a room dedicated to the game.

Ameristar is part of the Pinnacle Entertainment group. Consequently, the casino has a private club for high rollers with free food and drink.

Another Lake Michigan casino,  the Majestic Star Casino , features numerous quirky slots, including video poker penny slots and table games. Additionally, there is a dedicated poker room that sponsors daily tournaments and promotions. There is no hotel connected to the Majestic Star; however, there is a connected shuttle bus service.

The Horseshoe Hammond similarly does not have a dedicated casino hotel but does have a free shuttle bus service. This land-based property has stunning lake view suites spanning more than 1000 square feet. The gaming floor contains slots, table games, and poker rooms.

There is something very nostalgic about stepping on to a riverboat casino. No need for the bright lights and towering buildings of Vegas, Indiana riverboat casinos provide a one of a kind gambling experience for all who visit.

List of Indiana Riverboat Casinos

Below is a list of the riverboat casinos available in Indiana:

• Beltrerra Casino Resort
• Caesars Southern Indiana
• Grand Victoria Casino Resort
• Hollywood Casino & Hotel Lawrenceburg
• Ameristar East Chicago
• Horseshoe Casino
• Bally’s Evansville (Formerly Tropicana Evansville)
• Blue Chip Casino
• Grand Victoria Casino

A Guide To The Most Iconic Riverboat Casinos In The US 

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Talk about casino destinations and you’ll most likely think of Las Vegas, Atlantic City or, if you are travelling outside the US, maybe Monaco or Macau.

Yet what are called “land based” or “bricks and mortar” casinos to differentiate them from the online versions are not necessarily on land or made of bricks and mortar.” To: “Yet what are called “land based” or “bricks and mortar” casinos to differentiate them from the online versions like 1xbet India online casino, are not necessarily on land or made of bricks and mortar.

We refer, of course, to riverboat casinos, a little slice of Americana that’s as American as Super Bowl Sunday or Thanksgiving turkey. Riverboat casinos conjure up images of the Mississippi and Mark Twain complete with white suit, top hat and cigar. There are more than 60 riverboat casinos operating in the USA and every single one of them has a story to tell. Here, we highlight a handful of the very best.

The Grand Victoria, Elgin

Our first stop is not on the Mississippi at all, but on the Fox River in Elgin, 50 miles north west of Chicago . Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, the Grand Victoria really is a slice of Las Vegas on the Illinois waterfront.  With more than 1,000 slots and video poker terminals and 36 tables, there’s a great choice of games.

If all that gambling whets your appetite, there are four dining options on board, including the highly rated Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge.

Casino Queen, Marquette  

The Casino Queen would look like a lifeboat if it was moored alongside the Grand Victoria, but that is all part of its charm. It offers a more intimate and personalized experience, and although there are only eight tables, they host an intriguing variety of games that are not commonly found in land (or water) based casinos. If you know how to gamble online in the US , you’ve probably seen fusion blackjack and 21+3 at US online casinos. The Casino Queen gives you an opportunity to play them in real casino surroundings.

When you step ashore, there is an adjacent 31-acre entertainment complex with a variety of attractions and a huge choice of dining options.

The Amelia Belle, Amelia  

At last, we arrive in Louisiana, where the Amelia Belle lies nestled in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway. This classic four-story riverboat looks like it has stepped straight out of a photograph from the turn of the 20 th century. When it is lit up at night, it takes your breath away.

At the tables, poker is the order of the day. The casino offers Mississippi stud, 3-card poker and Texas Holdem. There are also 800 slot games, while the Fanduel sportsbook has self-service betting kiosks, a wall full of television screens, and a huge video wall to show the biggest events.

Sam’s Town, Shreveport

On the opposite side of Louisiana, Sam’s Town could not be more different to the Amelia Belle. This floating leisure complex houses a hotel, health spa, sauna and live entertainment venue.

The casino offers more than 1,000 slots and 30 table games that include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Let it Ride and Craps No More.

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The Legacy and Historical Influence of Riverboat Casinos in the United States

Welcome aboard as we set sail into the captivating world of riverboat casinos in the United States . On this page, we’ll walk you through their legal status and historical implications, explore the where, what, and why of these floating gaming venues, and finally, take a close look at the modern condition of riverboat gambling.

As we explore the ins and outs of this unique chapter in American gaming history, we’ll also take a glance at if riverboat casinos have left a mark on the WV online gambling scene and gambling in the US in general.

• Legal Status of Riverboat Gambling
• Boat Casinos Regulation in Various States
• History of Riverboat Gambling
• Popular Riverboat Casinos

The Legal Status of Riverboat Gambling

Historically, casino boats were allowed in many states, mostly those with access to the Mississippi River. Today, only six states still allow this form of gambling:

Mississippi

Gambling boats are essentially floating casinos operating on designated waterways . They offer a wide variety of gambling activities just like land-based casinos, including slots , table games , and poker .

Each state with legal riverboat gambling has its own regulatory body responsible for licensing and ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. These regulations typically address aspects such as gambling activities allowed, revenue sharing with the state, security measures, responsible gambling practices, and environmental considerations.

While sharing similarities with land-based casinos, riverboat casinos face additional regulations due to their unique setting, such as:

• Licensing requirements . Land-based casinos typically have more stringent licensing requirements than riverboat casinos. For instance, land-based casinos may be required to undergo a more rigorous background check and financial audit process compared to riverboat casinos;
• Location restrictions . There are usually fewer restrictions on riverboat casino locations than on those of the brick-and-mortar venues. For instance, land-based casinos might not be allowed to operate in certain areas, such as residential neighborhoods or near schools. Riverboat casinos, in turn, are more flexible when it comes to location, as they can be moored on rivers that flow through various areas;
• Taxation . The taxation of land-based casinos and riverboat casinos can vary depending on the state. In some cases, land-based casinos may be subject to higher tax rates than riverboat casinos;
• Building codes . Land-based casinos are typically required to meet more stringent building codes than riverboat casinos. This is because land-based casinos are permanent structures, while riverboat casinos are considered temporary structures;
• Inspection and enforcement . Land-based casinos usually undergo more frequent inspections and stricter enforcement of regulations compared to riverboat casinos.

Generally, the regulation of land-based casinos tends to be more strict and comprehensive than the regulation of any casino on the Mississippi River . The reason is likely that land-based casinos are considered to have a greater impact on the surrounding community , both in terms of economic benefits and social costs.

State-by-State Riverboat Gambling Regulations

As of 2024, it’s legal to run and visit a riverboat casino in six states. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

Here, riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River , the Illinois River , and the Des Plaines River . The casinos must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and be accessible to the public by land or water . Riverboat casinos in Illinois are regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board .

In Indiana, boat casinos can operate on the Ohio River , the Indiana Harbor , and the Patoka Lake Reservoir . They must be located at least 600 feet from the shore . Riverboat casinos in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission .

In this state, it’s legal for riverboat casinos to operate on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River . They must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and are regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission .

A riverboat casino in Louisiana is allowed to operate on the Mississippi River , the Red River , and the Gulf of Mexico as long as they are located at least 300 feet from the shore . The casinos here are regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board .

Obviously, a riverboat casino in Mississippi can be located on the Mississippi River at least 300 feet from the shore . Boat casinos in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Gaming Commission .

Last but not least, Missouri riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River at least 300 feet from the shore . Riverboat casinos in Missouri are regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission .

Brief History of Riverboat Casinos

Explore the history of riverboat casinos in the United States, tracing their origins, development, and impact on both the gambling industry and American culture.

19th Century: The Origins of Riverboat Gambling

The roots of riverboat gambling can be traced back to the 19th century when steamboats were the primary mode of transportation along the Mississippi River. As passengers went on long journeys, gambling became a popular pastime to pass the time. While gambling activities were generally illegal on land at that time, boats provided a loophole, as they were considered to be outside of state jurisdiction.

Early 20th Century: Decline and Revival

The invention of railroads in the early 20th century led to a logical decline in riverboat travel, and respectively, riverboat gambling. However, the 1970s saw a reappearance of interest in riverboat casinos, primarily because of the push to revitalize urban areas.

1990s: Expansion and Legalization

The 1990s marked a period of significant growth for riverboat casinos. Several states legalized riverboat gambling, and the industry expanded rapidly. By the late 1990s, there were over 150 riverboat casinos operating in the United States.

2005: Hurricane Katrina and Its Devastating Blow

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The storm severely impacted the boat casino industry in Mississippi and Louisiana, with several casinos suffering significant damage or complete destruction.

Late 2010s: Post-Katrina Recovery and Adaptation

The consequences of Hurricane Katrina brought significant changes to the riverboat casino industry. While some casinos managed to rebuild and reopen, others had to close permanently. The industry also faced increased competition from brick-and-mortar casinos, which were gaining popularity at that time.

Today: A Mature Industry

Today, a casino boat remains a popular form of entertainment in the United States. However, the industry has matured and consolidated, with the number of riverboat casinos decreasing in recent years. Despite these changes, riverboat casinos continue to be an important economic driver in many regions.

Popular Riverboat Casinos in the US

Now that we know all the theory about riverboat gambling, let’s get to practice and take a look at the most popular water casinos in the United States.

The Grand Victoria Casino – Elgin, Illinois

Located along the beautiful Fox River, The Grand Victoria Casino is a home (or rather a boat) of true gaming elegance. Known as the largest riverboat casino in Illinois, it boasts an impressive 65,000 square feet of gaming space including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a steakhouse, a buffet, and a concert venue.

Ameristar Casino Vicksburg – Vicksburg, Mississippi

The Ameristar Casino Vicksburg is one of the oldest and most crowded riverboat casinos in Mississippi with over 50,000 square feet of gaming space . The wide choice of slots, table games, and poker tables is complemented by all kinds of entertainments, from the flavors of a diverse buffet to comedy clubs and nightclubs.

Horseshoe Casino – Bossier City, Louisiana

The Horseshoe Casino is one of the largest riverboat casinos in Louisiana and one of the most popular. It features over 100,000 square feet of gaming space , including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, so players can choose between a steakhouse, a buffet, a concert venue, and others.

Sam’s Town Casino – Shreveport, Louisiana

Sam’s Town Casino is a popular destination for all kinds of gaming enthusiasts in and out of state. With a gaming space of over 34,000 square feet , this casino offers an intimate yet exhilarating experience. Beyond the slots, table games, and poker room, Sam’s Town welcomes gamers to savor a culinary journey with a steakhouse, a buffet, and a unique entertainment experience at the in-house bowling alley.

What is the Diamond Lady casino boat?

The Diamond Lady Riverboat Casino was a paddlewheel riverboat casino that operated on the Mississippi River in Bettendorf, Iowa, from 1991 to 2008. In 2021, the Diamond Lady sank during a severe winter storm. It was later raised and brought to shore, where it remains today. The future of the Diamond Lady is uncertain, but it is possible that it will be restored and reopened as a casino or museum.

Why do casinos have to be on water in the US?

Casinos in the US don’t necessarily have to be on the water, but there are some casinos that are. This practice originated when gambling laws were more restrictive on land, and the association of riverboat gambling with waterborne transportation became a legal requirement in some states.

Why are casinos on the water so popular?

Riverboat casinos are popular for their unique charm and historical allure. The on-water setting offers players a distinctive and memorable gaming experience, contributing to the popularity of these establishments. Additionally, the regulations associated with riverboat gambling create a controlled and regulated environment that appeals to both operators and players.

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History of Riverboat Gambling on the Mississippi

The South has always been at least somewhat friendly to gambling due to the rise of the riverboat in the early 1900s. Games of chance were kept on the water so that anti-gambling laws wouldn’t apply. Games like poker and roulette took place on grand riverboats, even if the ship never left the dock.

This tradition was greatly reduced when the railroad became the main way to transport both goods and people, but some riverboats remain in the South today. In Mississippi and Louisiana, especially, retired steamboats are now used for river cruising and for gambling in places like Vicksburg.

Online casinos are one of the latest innovations in the casino industry. Since the rise of technological advancements, they are solid competitors to U.S.-based land-based casinos. Many gambling restrictions still remain in the South and across the ocean. For example, every casino in the UK gets licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.

The regulations of the U.S. online casino market have led to developers existing who only get associated with U.S. casinos and are not available at UK-based gaming sites. Some famous developers for the U.S. market are RealTime Gaming, Relax Gaming, Rival Gaming, Elk Studios and Betsoft.

But for those players who want the old-time experience of dressing up and boarding a grand steamboat, the South has plenty for them. Just look along the Mississippi River from Missouri to Louisiana. According to Visit Mississippi , the first steamboat to travel the Mississippi River was the New Orleans, whose October 1811 maiden voyage began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The New Orleans stopped in Natchez in December 1811 before continuing to its final port in New Orleans.

Wealthy Southerners could afford to travel by steamboat, and some were ornately decorated in the Victorian style. The riverboat casinos that remain today continue that grand tradition, with music playing onboard, restaurants available to players and even live entertainment offered regularly.

So, if you want to step back in time and experience the old South by river—without all the outlaws and pirates —consider a riverboat cruise or evening of gaming.

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This Week In Illinois History: Riverboat Gambling Comes To Illinois (Feb. 7, 1991)

Illinoisans have bet on horseracing since 1927, purchased Lottery tickets since 1974 and gambled for non-profit charities since 1986.

But on Feb. 7, 1990, Gov. James Thompson signed the Riverboat Gambling Act , laying odds on economic development and tourism.

With a blackjack table as a desk, the signing ceremony took place at the Peoria Boatworks. A steamboat blasted its whistle while a calliope played “ Happy Days are Here Again .”

The newly created Illinois Gaming Board granted 10 licenses, giving preferential treatment to economically depressed areas outside the Chicago area. Riverboat casinos could operate only on water and gambling was permitted only after the boats left the dock.

The first license went to Alton, which launched Illinois’ first riverboat casino, the Alton Belle, on Sept. 10, 1991. The three-deck, 600-passenger boat held 296 slot machines and 22 gambling tables.

In the first year, riverboat gambling brought in $8 million in tax revenue. The next year, it raked in $54 million, surpassing horseracing revenue.

On May 21, 1999, Gov. George Ryan signed a new Riverboat Gambling Act, which allowed gambling to continue on riverboats while they remained dockside. The new law, however, allowed an easy work-around. Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, for example, dug a shallow pit on dry land, filled it with water, and built a casino over it.

Riverboat gambling tax revenue peaked at $699 million in 2005.

In June 2019, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation allowing Illinois’ 10 riverboat casinos to move operations to dry land, effectively tapping out this brief and quirky footnote to our state history.

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Missouri amendment 5, osage river gambling boat license initiative (2024).

Missouri Amendment 5 , the Osage River Gambling Boat License Initiative , is on the ballot in Missouri as an initiated constitutional amendment on November 5, 2024 . [1]

• 1.1 What would Amendment 5 do?
• 1.2 What are the rules regarding casinos in Missouri?
• 1.3 Did Missouri voters previously decide on ballot measures regarding casinos?
• 2.1 Ballot title
• 2.2 Ballot summary
• 2.3 Constitutional changes
• 3.1 Supporters
• 3.2 Arguments
• 4.1 Opponents
• 4.2 Arguments
• 5 Campaign finance
• 6.1 Status of gambling in Missouri
• 6.2 Casinos in Missouri
• 6.3 Previous gambling ballot measures in Missouri
• 7.1 Process in Missouri
• 7.2 Stages of this ballot initiative
• 8.1 Poll times
• 8.2 Registration
• 8.3 Automatic registration
• 8.4 Online registration
• 8.5 Same-day registration
• 8.6 Residency requirements
• 8.7 Verification of citizenship
• 8.8 Verifying your registration
• 8.9 Voter ID requirements
• 10 External links
• 11 Footnotes

What would Amendment 5 do?

The amendment would permit the Missouri Gaming Commission, the state agency responsible for regulating gambling, to issue an additional license for a gambling boat to operate on the Osage River, specifically between the Missouri River and the Bagnell Dam, near the Lake of the Ozarks. The location will include an artificial space that contains water and must be within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Under the measure, all state revenues derived from issuing gambling licenses will go to early-childhood literary programs for elementary public schools. [1]

What are the rules regarding casinos in Missouri?

Currently, there are 13 licensed riverboat casinos in Missouri. In Missouri, casinos must be located on or near a body of water. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversees the licensing and regulation of these casinos. In 2008, Missouri voters approved Proposition A by 56.17%-43.83%, which limited the number of casinos in Missouri to those already built or under construction. [2]

Did Missouri voters previously decide on ballot measures regarding casinos?

Missouri voters previously decided six ballot measures regarding riverboat casinos. Out of these six measures, four were approved and two were defeated. Voters first approved on Proposition A in 1992, which authorized riverboat gambling excursions on the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. However, the law resulting from this proposition was struck down by the State Supreme Court. In April 1994, voters rejected Amendment 3, which would have permitted lotteries, gift enterprises and games of chance to be played on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers on excursion gambling boats, but approved Proposition 6 in November 1994. Voters approved Amendment 9 in 1998, which expanded the floating gambling faculties to be on or adjacent to the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, but rejected Amendment 1 in 2004, which would have expanded casinos to the White River. In 2008 voters approved Proposition A, which increased the state tax casinos pay to 21% and eliminating Missouri's $500 buy-in limit, as well as limited the number of casinos in Missouri to those already built or under construction.

Text of measure

Ballot title.

The official ballot title is as follows: [3]

Ballot summary

The official ballot summary is as follows: [3]

Constitutional changes

The ballot measure would amending Article III, Section 39(e) of the Missouri Constitution . The following underlined text would be added and struck-through text would be deleted: [1]

Note : Use your mouse to scroll over the below text to see the full text.

Osage River Gaming and Convention is the campaign supporting the initiative.

Corporations

• Bally's Corporation
• John Hancock: "Unlike many places in the state, the Lake of the Ozarks is familiar to everybody. I think everybody will appreciate that a year-round entertainment area is going to be just a tremendous enhancement to that whole experience that is the Lake of the Ozarks."

American Indian Tribes

• Osage Nation

Ballotpedia has not located arguments in opposition to the ballot measure. You can share arguments, along with source links for this information, with us at [email protected] .

Campaign finance

Status of gambling in Missouri

As of 2024, there are certain forms of gambling in Missouri that are legal:

• Casino gambling : As of 2024, there were 13 licensed riverboat casinos in Missouri. The casinos must be located on or near a body of water. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversaw the licensing and regulation of these casinos. [2]
• Lottery : The Missouri Lottery was created in 1985. The proceeds from the lottery support public education in the state. [5]
• Charitable gaming : Charitable games, including licensed bingo, pull-tabs, merchandise coin boards, was restricted to qualified licensed religious, charitable, fraternal, veteran, and service organizations. All bingo tax was deposited into the Proceeds for Education Fund. [6]
• Daily Fantasy Sports : Daily Fantasy Sports was legalized in Missouri in 2016. DFS operators must be licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission and adhere to regulations designed to protect consumers. Operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, and others. [7]

As of 2024, sports betting was illegal in the state. Illegal gambling, including unlicensed games, was prohibited. The Missouri Gaming Commission was responsible for enforcing gambling laws and regulations in the state. [2]

Casinos in Missouri

As of 2024, there were 13 casinos operating in Missouri. They were:

• Ameristar Casino Resort Spa: Located in St. Charles, Missouri [8]
• Ameristar Casino Hotel: Located in Kansas City, Missouri [8]
• Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa: Located in Riverside, Missouri [8]
• Bally’s Kansas City: Located in Kansas City, Missouri [8]
• Century Casino Cape Girardeau: Located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri [8]
• Century Casino Caruthersville: Located in Caruthersville, Missouri [8]
• Harrah’s North Kansas City: Located in North Kansas City, Missouri [8]
• Hollywood Casino St. Louis: Located in Maryland Heights, Missouri [8]
• Isle of Capri Casino Hotel: Located in Boonville, Missouri [8]
• Horseshoe St. Louis: Located in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri [8]
• Mark Twain Casino: Located in La Grange, Missouri [8]
• River City Casino & Hotel: Located in Lemay, Missouri [8]
• St. Jo Frontier Casino: Located in St. Joseph, Missouri [8]

Previous gambling ballot measures in Missouri

• Missouri Amendment 4, Management and Advertisement of Bingo Games Amendment (2018)
• Missouri Gambling Loss Limits, Proposition A (2008)
• Missouri Floating Gambling Facilities, Amendment 1 (August 2004)
• Missouri Bingo Operation, Amendment 2 (2000)
• Missouri Charity Raffles, Amendment 8 (1998)
• Missouri Gambling Boats, Amendment 9 (1998)
• Missouri Riverboat Gambling, Amendment 6 (1994)
• Missouri Riverboat Gambling, Amendment 3 (April 1994)
• Missouri Simulcasting of Horse Races, Amendment 3 (1992)
• Missouri Riverboat Gambling, Proposition A (1992)
• Missouri Bingo Regulations, Amendment 1 (August 1990)
• Missouri Horse Racing, Amendment 8 (August 1986)
• Missouri Horse Racing Commission, Amendment 7 (1984)
• Missouri Authorization of Bingo, Amendment 3 (1980)

Path to the ballot

Process in missouri.

In Missouri, the number of signatures required to qualify an initiated constitutional amendment for the ballot is equal to 8 percent of the votes cast for governor in the previous gubernatorial election in six of the eight state congressional districts. Signatures must be filed with the secretary of state six months prior to the election.

The requirements to get an initiated constitutional amendment certified for the 2024 ballot:

• Signatures : The smallest possible requirement was 171,592 valid signatures . The actual requirement depends on the congressional districts in which signatures were collected.
• Deadline : The deadline to submit signatures was May 5, 2024.

Once the signatures have been filed with the secretary of state, the secretary copies the petition sheets and transmits them to county election authorities for verification. The secretary of state may choose whether the signatures are to be verified by a 5 percent random sample or full verification . If the random sampling projects between 90 percent and 110 percent of required signatures, a full check of all signatures is required. If more than 110 percent, the initiative is certified, and, if less than 90 percent, the initiative fails.

Stages of this ballot initiative

• The petitions, submitted by Greta Box, were approved for circulation on November 28, 2023. [9]
• The Osage River Gaming & Convention committee said it submitted over 320,000 signatures on May 5, 2024. [10]
• On August 13, 2024, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft (R) reported that the ballot initiative did not meet signature requirements. [11]
• On August 30, 2024, a Cole County judge ruled that the initiative had enough valid signatures in six of the eight congressional districts, and should appear on the ballot. [12]

How to cast a vote

Click "Show" to learn more about current voter registration rules, identification requirements, and poll times in Missouri.

External links

• Missouri Initiative Petitions (2024)
• ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Missouri Secretary of State , "Initiative Petition," accessed December 1, 2023
• ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Missouri Gaming Commission , "Rules and Regulations," accessed August 29, 2024
• ↑ 3.0 3.1 Missouri Secretary of State , "2024 Ballot Measures," accessed August 28, 2024
• ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "quotedisclaimer" defined multiple times with different content
• ↑ MO Lottery , "About," accessed August 29, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Gaming Commission , "Charitable Gaming Division," accessed August 29, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Gaming Commission , "Fantasy Sports Contest Operators," accessed August 29, 2024
• ↑ 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 8.12 Missouri Casinos , "Casino Locations," accessed September 14, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Secretary of State , "2024 Initiative Petitions Approved for Circulation," accessed November 28, 2023
• ↑ Missouri Independent , "Backers of a new Missouri casino near the Lake of the Ozarks submit signatures seeking ballot slot," May 6, 2024
• ↑ KRCG , "Missouri voters will get to decide abortion, minimum wage, sports betting in November," August 13, 2024
• ↑ KY3 , "Judge rules ballot initiative to build casino at Lake of the Ozarks should appear on November ballot," August 30, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Secretary of State - Elections and Voting , "Frequently Asked Questions," accessed April 4, 2023
• ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 Missouri Secretary of State , "Register to Vote," accessed April 4, 2023
• ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 NCSL , "State Profiles: Elections," accessed August 27, 2024
• ↑ BillTrack50 , "MO HB1878," accessed April 4, 2023
• ↑ Missouri Secretary of State , "FAQs Voter Registration," accessed August 27, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Secretary of State , "How To Vote," accessed August 27, 2024
• ↑ Missouri Secretary of State , "Do I need an ID to vote?" accessed April 3, 2023

•   •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  • Other • • • • • • • • • • • • • •  •  of ( ) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Missouri 2024 ballot measures State ballots, 2024 State Ballot Measure, November 5, 2024 Gambling, Missouri Certified, gambling, 2024 Missouri 2024 ballot measures, certified Initiated amendment certified for the 2024 ballot Pages with reference errors Ballotpedia features 513,618 encyclopedic articles written and curated by our professional staff of editors, writers, and researchers. Click here to contact our editorial staff or report an error . For media inquiries, contact us here . Please donate here to support our continued expansion. Information about voting Your 2024 Election Toolkit What's on my ballot? Where do I vote? How do I register to vote? How do I request a ballot? When do I vote? When are polls open? 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Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. The Best Mississippi River Cruises Courtesy of American Cruise Lines The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler. The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change. American Cruise Lines Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by. ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history. Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price. Music Cities Cruise Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland . Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley. 2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November. Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more. Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour. 2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024. Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota. In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul. 2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024. The Great United States Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000 This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call. This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty . Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline. This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi. 2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024. Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar. Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy . Viking River Cruises Courtesy of Viking Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool. Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense. New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places. If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market. 2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December. Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history. 2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November. America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours. Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis. 2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October. Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News. You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law. Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore. Why Trust U.S. News Travel Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report. You might also be interested in: The top river cruise lines. 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THINGS TO DO BEST TIME TO VISIT HOW TO REACH TOP RESTAURANTS EVENTS AND FESTIVALS Novosibirsk Trip Planner Corrections What Happened on Nazino Island? The Cannibal Gulag The short-lived Nazino Island Gulag was one of the most horrific episodes of Soviet history, wherein the inmates turned to cannibalism in order to survive. Over 6,700 prisoners were sent to the gulag on Nazino Island in Western Siberia with minimal resources, resulting in widespread starvation and cannibalism; 4,000 died within 13 weeks. The island, intended as a part of Stalin’s plan to spread out the Soviet population and utilize prisoner labor for collectivization, faced logistical challenges, including a severe tool shortage, which contributed to the disaster. Despite reports of the horrors on the island, officials initially turned a blind eye; when the tragedy finally came to light decades later, a memorial was erected to honor the victims, many of whom were not true criminals but unlucky citizens caught in Stalin’s harsh system. In 1933, 6,700 prisoners were sent to a gulag on Nazino Island in the middle of the Ob River in Western Siberia. They were given only a few bags of flour to sustain themselves. Without tools to cultivate the land nor any clothing and supplies to survive the harsh climate, the gulag’s population resorted to the most depraved act of cannibalism. Within 13 weeks, 4,000 people had died on the island, and armed guards shot those who tried to escape. Nazino Island was, quite possibly, the worst gulag of them all. The Origins of the Nazino Island Gulag During the early 1930s, the Soviet Union wished to spread out its population to make use of arable farmland across the vast country. Relocating prisoners was a perfect way to do this. Collectivized farms sprang up across previously uninhabited parts of the country, and prisoners were used as the labor that would achieve this. With plenty of political enemies, there was no shortage of prisoners in the Soviet Union, and labor was easily attainable. In February of 1933, the head of the OGPU secret police, Genrikh Yagoda , and Matvei Berman, the head of the Gulag system, proposed an idea to deport two million people to Siberia and the Kazakh regions to work on collective farms. They had done this before with the Kulaks, which had proven successful.  This time, however, there was a severe shortage of tools. And this would prove to be a vital ingredient to the carnage that would follow. Get the latest articles delivered to your inbox Please check your inbox to activate your subscription. In major cities such as Moscow and Leningrad, workers and other people providing important services were issued with internal passports. This system made it easy to identify unproductive, unwanted, and criminal elements of society. These undesirables were earmarked for deportation. Despite being a much-loathed feature of Tsarist Russia and done away with under the Bolsheviks , the passport system was reinstated under the rule of Stalin to devastating effect. It proved to be highly effective in streamlining productivity and reassigning the superfluous elements of society to more productive roles. The authoritarian decrees and the arrest quotas the police had to fill ensured that being deported to one of the many gulags was incredibly easy to achieve. Between March and July 1933, 85,937 people were deported from Moscow alone. Being an avid communist and supporter of the system meant nothing if you left your papers at home. It was in this dynamic that the 6,700 prisoners destined for Nazino Island began their journey. Transportation hubs were set up in the cities of Tomsk, Omsk, and Achinsk. Rail convoys were created, which departed from Moscow and Leningrad. Daily rations on board the trains consisted of just 300 grams (11 ounces) of bread. Thuggery within the carriages meant that many went without rations, while those with muscle and a questionable moral compass had plenty to eat. Those destined for Nazino Island then found themselves on barges, where for two weeks, they were crammed together for two weeks and fed only 200 grams (7 ounces) of bread per day. Twenty-seven people died en route to the island. On May 18, 1933, 322 women and 4,556 men disembarked at their destination, which was the last place most of them would ever see. The island was 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) long and 600 meters (660 yards) wide and could not feed the thousands of new residents. The only thing the prisoners had was 20 tons of flour. Fighting broke out as the flour was being unloaded and distributed, and the guards fired on the prisoners to restore order. Distribution was attempted again the next day with the same result. After leaders were designated amongst the prisoners, the flour was handed out. However, most of these leaders would simply hoard the flour for themselves. With no ovens on the island, the prisoners ate the flour with water from the river, and as a result, dysentery spread through the gulag. It was around this time that the plan for the Nazino Island Gulag was rejected by Stalin. But it was too late for the deportees. Yagoda and Berman had already put their plan into action. Many tried to escape via flimsy rafts but drowned in the icy waters of the Ob. Those who did manage to make it to shore were hunted by guards as if it were a sport. Those who managed to escape were presumed dead, as the wilderness around the area is extremely inhospitable. The guards were equally violent. They allowed the gangs to operate and executed prisoners for minor infractions. The violent situation on the island also hindered the doctors on the island, as they feared for their lives too. The guards made little attempt, if any, to keep them safe. Chaos Breaks Out It did not take long for violence to become rife and for order to completely break down on the island. Cultivation of the soil was impossible without tools, and as most of the deportees were city-dwellers, they knew very little about survival in the wild. The more violent members of the new society formed gangs and took control, exploiting the weaker members. Anything that could be traded for food was taken, including gold teeth. Fights broke out over food, and murder became a daily occurrence. Barely one week after being confined to the island, doctors started reporting incidents of cannibalism. News of this was sent back to Tomsk, but the response was not positive. Instead of sending help, the authorities sent another 1,000 prisoners and no extra food. This was probably due to a bureaucratic mistake rather than a willful decision to make the situation worse. Meanwhile, the guards would regularly throw bits of bread into the starving crowds and watch as fights broke out. Their cruelty extended to shooting at the prisoners on the island for sport while they sat in the safety of their boats, getting drunk. They even traded cigarettes and bread for sex from female prisoners. They did, however, take action when they heard reports of cannibalism, but they were almost powerless to prevent the atrocities. The Horror of the Cannibalism Those who died from accidents, fights, or being shot by the guards were eaten in desperation, but this body count wasn’t enough. Roving gangs hunted and murdered for food. They skewered their victims on sticks and roasted them over fires. Interviews with the local Ostyak people later revealed harrowing stories. In one account, Feofila Bylina’s parents received a visitor from the island one night. A 40-year-old woman was at their door, and the Bylin family took her in and discovered that the poor victim’s calves had been cut off. Another account tells the story of a 13-year-old Ostyak girl who went to the island to gather firewood. She witnessed a woman being tied to a tree, whereupon her breasts, calves, and other bits of her body were sliced off. The girl hurriedly alerted the guards, but the victim died before she could be helped. A communist instructor living on the banks of the Ob, Vasily Velichko, began to hear rumors of what was happening on Nazino Island and, without waiting for permission from the authorities, decided to investigate the situation. When he arrived on the island in August, a grim picture of the situation greeted him. He found half-eaten bodies hiding among the tall grasses. He followed up by conducting interviews with the Ostyak people living nearby and built up a picture of what had happened. He sent a report to Moscow. For his efforts, he was kicked out of the Communist Party and fired from his job. The report was then hidden in the archives. Action, however, was taken, and the gulag was closed. The 50 guards overseeing Nazino Island also had their Party membership rescinded, and they were all jailed for negligence and being complicit in the horror that unfolded. “I only ate livers and hearts. It was very simple. Just like shashlik. We made skewers from willow branches, cut it into pieces, stuck it on the skewers, and roasted it over the campfire. I picked those who were not quite living, but not yet quite dead. It was obvious that they were about to go — that in a day or two, they’d give up. So, it was easier for them that way. Now. Quickly. Without suffering for another two or three days.” One of the survivors  The Aftermath In the period of thirteen weeks which encompassed the tragedy, roughly 6,000 people were deported to Nazino Island. Around 1,500 to 2,000 people died from starvation, disease, exposure, murder, or accidental death. Approximately 2,000 survived past the camp’s closing, but the vast majority were ill, with many bedridden. Many did not survive their relocation to other camps. Only a few hundred people were healthy enough to work. With the Glasnost policy in 1988, the Soviet Union became more open about its past, and the human rights group Russian Memorial Society investigated the horrors of Nazino Island, bringing it to the attention of the public. A wooden cross was planted on the island in memory of the victims, and every year in June, pilgrims make their way from Tomsk to pay their respects in honor of those who died in this tragedy. In 2018, a church was also built and dedicated to the memory of the victims. The purpose of Soviet gulags was primarily to get rid of dissidents but also to provide labor. In this, Nazino Island was a complete failure on both fronts. Many deportees were not criminals but just unlucky enough to be seized by the police. One man, over one hundred years old, was a victim because he didn’t have his papers on him. Another was a student simply standing at the front door of his aunt’s apartment. Stalin’s Great Purge: Gulags, Show Trials, and Terror By Greg Beyer BA History & Linguistics, Journalism Diploma Greg specializes in African History. He holds a BA in History & Linguistics and a Journalism Diploma from the University of Cape Town. A former English teacher, he now excels in academic writing and pursues his passion for art through drawing and painting in his free time. 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If you were going ... 7 Riverboat Casinos Worth Visiting The Queen Marquette is a modest riverboat casino in Marquette, Iowa, managed by CQ Holdings. The Queen Marquette, like the majority of the riverboats on this list, is located on the Mississippi River. Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, is a charming midwestern hamlet located across the river. Despite having only eight table games, the Queen Marquette ... Riverboat Casino Legacy in the US: Early 20th Century to Today The Ameristar Casino Vicksburg is one of the oldest and most crowded riverboat casinos in Mississippi with over 50,000 square feet of gaming space. The wide choice of slots, table games, and poker tables is complemented by all kinds of entertainments, from the flavors of a diverse buffet to comedy clubs and nightclubs. Riverboat Casinos in the US Of course, modern riverboat casinos have been popular since the early 1990s. 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The property became part of Harrah's Entertainment (later Caesars Entertainment) with its 2000 acquisition of Players International. What Happened on Nazino Island? The Cannibal Gulag The short-lived Nazino Island Gulag was one of the most horrific episodes of Soviet history, wherein the inmates turned to cannibalism in order to survive. Over 6,700 prisoners were sent to the gulag on Nazino Island in Western Siberia with minimal resources, resulting in widespread starvation and cannibalism; 4,000 died within 13 weeks. Nazino tragedy Nazino tragedy. The Nazino tragedy (Russian: Назинская трагедия, romanized: Nazinskaya tragediya) was the mass murder and mass deportation of around 6,700 prisoners to Nazino Island, [1] located on the Ob River in West Siberian Krai, Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic, Soviet Union (now Tomsk Oblast, Russia), in May 1933. catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht