Casino History in America -- Slots Roulette Poker 5/11

Summary

The transcript explores the vibrant gambling culture in 19th-century San Francisco, focusing on key figures such as Eleanor Dumont, the first female card dealer, whose presence at the Bella Union Casino transformed the gaming landscape. Despite the allure of lavish casinos, gambling faced fierce opposition from moralists like James King, who led a campaign against it, resulting in violence and social unrest. The narrative highlights Dumont's unique marketing strategies, including her infamous mustache, and the complex dynamics between gambling enthusiasts and their detractors, culminating in a violent clash that reflects the era's societal tensions.

Takeaways

• 🎲 Gambling activities thrived in California during the mid-19th century, particularly in areas like Chinatown and the Barbary Coast.
• 🌟 Eleanor Dumont was a pioneering figure as the first female card dealer in California, creating a significant impact on the gambling scene.
• 💼 Dumont's success led to the rise of female dealers in various casinos, changing the dynamics of the gambling industry.
• 👨‍🎤 To attract customers, Dumont adopted an unusual persona by growing a mustache, which became a publicity sensation.
• 📜 Dumont's will specified that her mustache was not to be shaved off after her death, reflecting her commitment to her unique identity.
• 🚫 Despite the popularity of gambling, it remained technically illegal in California, leading to ongoing conflicts with moralists.
• 📰 James King, an editor and anti-gambling activist, launched a fierce campaign against gambling, causing societal divisions.
• ⚖️ The trial of Charles Cora, a gambler accused of murder, became a focal point in King’s anti-gambling rhetoric.
• 🔫 King's campaign ultimately led to his assassination, highlighting the violent tensions surrounding the gambling debate.
• ⛓️ Following King's murder, his supporters executed vigilante justice by lynching Cora and his rival, showcasing the extremes of moral opposition.

Q & A

What was the role of Eleanor Dumont in the California gambling scene?

Eleanor Dumont was the first female card dealer in California, operating out of the Bella Union Casino. Her presence created a sensation, leading to the hiring of more female dealers across casinos.

How did Dumont attract customers to her gambling hall?

Dumont attracted customers by growing a mustache, which became a unique publicity stunt. She embraced this oddity, and it drew patrons eager to see her unusual appearance.

What was the public perception of losing to a female dealer during this period?

It was considered a pleasure for men to lose to a lady dealer, and even when cheated, men often reacted with amusement rather than anger, which contributed to the popularity of female dealers.

Who was James King, and what was his stance on gambling in San Francisco?

James King was the editor of the San Francisco Daily Evening Bulletin, who led a campaign against gambling. He was concerned about the city's image and printed the names of notorious gamblers, creating public opposition to gambling.

What event escalated the conflict between gamblers and moralists in San Francisco?

The murder charge against Charles Cora, a pharaoh dealer, escalated the conflict. King's anti-gambling campaign intensified after Cora's trial resulted in a hung jury, leading to tensions that ultimately resulted in violence.

What were the consequences of James King's anti-gambling campaign?

King's campaign backfired when he was murdered by rival newsman James Casey, which led to King's supporters executing vigilante justice against Casey and Charles Cora, highlighting the extreme divisions in the city over gambling.

How did the gambling industry fare in San Francisco despite the opposition?

Despite the opposition and legal challenges, the gambling halls in San Francisco continued to prosper until the end of the century, indicating the resilience of the gambling culture in the face of moral opposition.

What was the significance of the Bella Union Casino?

The Bella Union Casino was significant as it was where Eleanor Dumont operated and gained fame, representing the early acceptance of female dealers in a predominantly male industry.

How did public attitudes toward gambling evolve in San Francisco during this period?

Public attitudes were divided; while many enjoyed gambling and its associated culture, a vocal minority led by figures like King sought to curtail it, creating a complex social dynamic regarding gambling.

What did King's phrase 'remember Vicksburg' imply?

King's phrase 'remember Vicksburg' referenced past instances of vigilante justice, warning gamblers of potential repercussions for their activities, showcasing the intense conflict between moralists and gamblers.