LAS VEGAS ( FOX5 ) — The Las Vegas of the 50’s was a very different place than the Las Vegas we know today. When Benny Binion arrived in Nevada, casinos had a much rougher look and feel about them – and so did Las Vegas. But Binion saw beneath the sawdust on the floors to recognize a diamond in the rough.

“He was the first casino operator to have carpet in his casino. He was the first person that gave complimentary drinks to the average player. It was a major, major deal. He was also the first person that would take any bet, so he was very famous for that.”

Binion's Horseshoe in Downtown Las Vegas is seen on March 21, 1962. The Horseshoe logo atop the spire is used in the Neon Museum's "Brilliant!" show. CREDIT: Las Vegas News Bureau (Las Vegas News Bureau | Las Vegas News Bureau)

T

See Full Page