There is a Las Vegas with gambling history that precedes Las Vegas, Nevada (est. 1905).
It is Las Vegas, New Mexico (est. 1835); and it's history is linked to Las Vegas, Nevada. And, even Las Vegas, NM is separated into east Las Vegas and west Las Vegas. Las Vegas, NM is a small city now, but it used to be a real upscale town with gambling houses, and a main stop along the Santa Fe Trail; and subsequently the railway.
When Octavius Decatur Gass took over the old Mormon Fort (est. 1855), he had to name it Las Vegas Rancho (1865), to distinguish it from Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Las Vegas, NM was established by 29 settlers who got a land grant from the government of Mexico.
Las Vegas, NM was the site of the 1st Cowboy Reunion, that was held there annually from 1915-1931.
The Cowboys were considered as the first organized crime syndicate in the west.
Las Vegas, NM was the playground, and temporary home for the infamous Wyatt Earp and family, and harbored disreputables, desperados, and other outlaws, including:
Billy the Kid
Jesse James
Mysterious Dave
Hoodoo Brown
Durango Kid
Rattlesnake Sam
Cock-eyed Frank
Web-Fingered Billy
Hook Nose Jim
Stuttering Tom
Handsome Harry the Dancehall Hustler
Big Nose Kate
and yes, Dentist "Doc" Holliday
Las Vegas, NM's Plaza Hotel was the site of Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders' 1st and all subsequent reunions in 1899.
Teddy Roosevelt announced his candidacy for US President at the Las Vegas, NM Plaza Hotel,
Las Vegas, NM Plaza Hotel was leased as a saloon with billiards/gambling/entertainment, by outlaws Bob Ford and Dick Liddil of the James-Young Gang.
Las Vegas, NM is the home to famous La Castaneda Hotel, the 1st Harvey House.
Las Vegas, NM is the original home of the Maloof family, owners of casino hotels in Las Vegas, NV.
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