The Nevada State Prison Casino, a unique establishment, operated from 1932 to 1967 and was the first and only inmate-run casino in the United States. During its golden years, the prison had a good reputation, and even state officials and members of the local Kiwanis Club would come to enjoy a flutter.

The Bullpen

Known as the Bullpen, the casino offered a wide range of games such as blackjack, craps, poker, gin rummy, and even sports betting. The theory behind this was that a casino would keep the prisoners busy and out of trouble. The Bullpen even had its own form of currency, which were coins in the denominations of 5c, 10c, 25c, 50c, $1, and $5.

Regulating Gambling in Prison

It was well known that gambling took place in US prisons anyway, so it was figured that a regulated venue like the Nevada State Prison Casino would help to prevent more sinister forms of gambling taking place within the prison walls. One Assemblyman even suggested that gambling would prevent “homosexual problems”.

Despite the evidence that the Bullpen helped to improve prisoner behavior during its time in existence, there appears to be no appetite to re-introduce casinos into US prisons. The Bullpen’s relative obscurity is proof that the authorities are not exactly proud of having operated a casino within Nevada State Prison for over 30 years.

Nevada State Prison Closure and Tours

The Nevada State Prison officially closed its doors on May 18, 2012, and ceased being the state’s site of executions in 2016 when a new execution chamber was completed at Ely State Prison. Guided tours of the old facilities have become quite popular, and night-time ghost tours of the prison are occasionally offered. However, many who have gone on them have reported unexplained voices and some very eerie encounters.

Popular Gambling Games in Nevada State Prison Casino

Prisoners in Nevada State Prison Casino engaged in various gambling games. The most popular ones included poker, blackjack, and craps. These games were often played with makeshift cards and chips that were created from everyday items like toilet paper and soap.

Poker was a widely played game in prison. It was often played in groups and could involve a lot of money. Blackjack was another popular game that required players to get as close to 21 points as possible without going over. Craps involved rolling dice to determine the outcome of the game.

Other games played in Nevada State Prison Casino included sports betting and lottery games. These games were often played using a point system, where prisoners earned points for correct predictions.

Despite the risks involved, gambling was a popular pastime in the prison. It provided a way for prisoners to pass the time and could even be a source of income. However, it is important to note that gambling was illegal in prison and could result in severe punishment.

In conclusion, prisoners in Nevada State Prison Casino engaged in various gambling games, including poker, blackjack, craps, sports betting, and lottery games. These games were often played with makeshift cards and chips, and they provided a way for prisoners to pass the time. However, gambling was illegal in prison and could result in severe punishment.