34 Facts About Benny Binion

Early Life and Background

Benny Binion, a name synonymous with Las Vegas history, had a life full of twists and turns. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Born on November 20, 1904, in Pilot Grove, Texas, Benny Binion grew up in a family of horse traders.
2. His full name was Lester Ben Binion, but he was commonly known as Benny.
3. Benny dropped out of school in the second grade, preferring to learn from the streets.
4. By the age of 18, he had already been involved in bootlegging during Prohibition.
5. His father, a horse trader, taught him the value of a good deal and street smarts.

Rise to Notoriety

Benny's life took a dramatic turn as he moved into the world of gambling and organized crime. Here are some key moments that defined his rise.

6. In the 1930s, Benny moved to Dallas, Texas, where he started his gambling operations.
7. He earned the nickname "The Cowboy" due to his Texan roots and rugged demeanor.
8. Benny was known for his generosity, often helping those in need, which earned him a loyal following.
9. He was involved in several violent confrontations, including the murder of two rival gangsters.
10. Despite his criminal activities, Benny managed to avoid long-term imprisonment.

Las Vegas Ventures

Benny Binion's move to Las Vegas marked a new chapter in his life. His contributions to the city's gambling scene are legendary.

11. In 1946, Benny moved to Las Vegas to escape legal troubles in Texas.
12. He purchased the Eldorado Club and Apache Hotel, which he later transformed into Binion's Horseshoe.
13. Benny introduced high-stakes gambling to Las Vegas, attracting wealthy gamblers from across the country.
14. He was the first to offer free drinks to gamblers, a practice that became standard in Las Vegas casinos.
15. Benny's Horseshoe was known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service.

The World Series of Poker

One of Benny Binion's most enduring legacies is the creation of the World Series of Poker (WSOP). Here are some key facts about this iconic event.

16. In 1970, Benny hosted the first WSOP at Binion's Horseshoe.
17. The initial event featured only seven players, but it quickly grew in popularity.
18. Benny's idea was to determine the best poker player in the world through a series of games.
19. The WSOP introduced the concept of the "freezeout" tournament, where players are eliminated until one remains.
20. Today, the WSOP is the most prestigious poker tournament in the world, attracting thousands of players.

Personal Life and Family

Benny Binion's personal life was as colorful as his professional one. Let's take a closer look at his family and relationships.

21. Benny married Teddy Jane, and they had five children together.
22. His son, Jack Binion, played a significant role in the success of Binion's Horseshoe and the WSOP.
23. Benny was known for his love of horses and often participated in rodeo events.
24. Despite his criminal past, Benny was a devoted family man and philanthropist.
25. He was known for his larger-than-life personality and charm.

Legal Troubles and Later Years

Benny Binion's life was not without its share of legal troubles. Here are some notable incidents from his later years.

26. In 1953, Benny was convicted of tax evasion and served time in Leavenworth Penitentiary.
27. Despite his incarceration, he continued to run his casino operations through his family.
28. Benny was released from prison in 1957 and returned to Las Vegas.
29. He faced additional legal challenges in the 1970s but managed to avoid further imprisonment.
30. Benny remained active in the Las Vegas gambling scene until his death.

Legacy and Impact

Benny Binion left an indelible mark on Las Vegas and the world of gambling. His legacy continues to influence the industry today.

31. Benny passed away on December 25, 1989, but his influence on Las Vegas endures.
32. Binion's Horseshoe became a landmark in downtown Las Vegas, known for its rich history and unique atmosphere.
33. The WSOP continues to grow, with millions of dollars in prize money awarded each year.
34. Benny Binion is remembered as a pioneer in the gambling industry, a man who transformed Las Vegas into a gambling mecca.

Benny Binion's Legacy Lives On

Benny Binion's impact on Las Vegas and the world of gambling remains undeniable. From his humble beginnings in Texas to creating the iconic Horseshoe Casino, his life was filled with bold moves and colorful stories. Binion's innovations, like the World Series of Poker, have left a lasting mark on the industry. His larger-than-life persona and business acumen made him a legend.

Despite his controversial past, Binion's contributions to gambling culture can't be ignored. His legacy lives on through the continued popularity of poker and the enduring fame of the Horseshoe Casino. Benny Binion's story is a testament to the power of vision, risk-taking, and resilience. Whether you're a poker fan or just love a good story, Binion's life offers plenty of fascinating facts and lessons. His influence will be felt for generations to come.