Moulin Rouge Hotel History Book

Opening on May 24th, 1995, the Moulin Rouge became the first inter-racial hotel in Las Vegas. A small group of investors saw an opportunity as blacks became a more affluent part of the American scene. The idea, considered risky at the time, was to create a business policy of welcoming, indeed soliciting, a colored clientele.

Known for its spectacular French motif, the Moulin Rouge was located close to the Negro ghetto of westside Las Vegas. Black entertainers often had to find accommodations outside of where they were performing. They also couldn’t gamble or mingle in the hotels where they played.

Taylor’s book shows the Moulin Rouge opened with what seemed to be an instant success. There were reports of other hotels that were abandoned after midnight because everyone headed to the Moulin Rouge for their 2:30 AM show. Onstage, you could see Benny Carter, The Platters, and the Tropi Can-Can Floorshow. In the audience, you may have seen Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Jack Benny, or Nat King Cole on any given night.

What was the reason for the hotel’s demise after less than six months? Did its location kill the Moulin Rouge? Could it have been thievery by insiders that brought it down?

Even after it closed, the Moulin Rouge was still making history. In 1960, leaders met there to sign an agreement abolishing segregation. Since then, many plans have been drawn up hoping reopen the Moulin Rouge.

Included in the book are articles about the current owners trying to restore life to this once great hotel. Whether the mystery intrigues you, or the social significance is important to you, MOULIN ROUGE HOTEL HISTORY by Richard B. Taylor should be in your collection.