Nick Abelman, a Poor Immigrant Who Became a Gambling Tycoon

Nick Abelman was a significant figure in the early development of legal gambling in Nevada, particularly in Reno. He started his career during the height of the mining boom in Goldfield, operating clubs and casinos, before moving to Tonopah and eventually to Reno at the urging of powerful businessman George Wingfield. Abelman became known for running several prominent gambling establishments, including leasing and managing the gaming area and buffet of the Riverside Hotel and Casino from 1935. His operations were characterized by offering high-class shows, excellent food, and a wide array of table games and slot machines, which contributed to the Riverside's reputation as a premier destination for both hotel guests and local patrons. His involvement helped shape the nascent gambling industry in Nevada during a pivotal period.

Nick Abelman's influence grew through strategic partnerships and his astute management of gaming establishments. After establishing himself in mining camps like Goldfield and Tonopah, he moved to Reno, where he quickly ascended in the gambling scene. He opened upscale clubs such as the Ship and Bottle Club in 1932. His most significant move was leasing the casino operations of the Riverside Hotel and Casino from George Wingfield, a deal that reportedly gave Wingfield a substantial cut of the profits. Abelman consistently provided a high-quality gaming and entertainment experience, attracting a clientele that included notable figures. He also fostered connections within the burgeoning Reno gaming community, becoming an accepted and respected, albeit sometimes controversial, figure among his peers.

Nick Abelman was involved in several notable gambling ventures throughout his career. Initially, he operated clubs and casinos in the mining towns of Goldfield and Tonopah. Upon moving to Reno, he opened the upscale Ship and Bottle Club in 1932, a key establishment of its time. However, his most significant and well-documented venture was his lease and management of the gaming operations at the Riverside Hotel and Casino, starting in 1935. There, he collaborated with partners like Steve Pavlovich and Bert Riddick to offer a comprehensive entertainment experience, including high-quality shows and a wide variety of casino games. He continued to operate this successful enterprise until he sold his interest in the Riverside in 1949.

Nick Abelman understood that success in the gambling business extended beyond simply offering games. He placed a strong emphasis on providing a complete entertainment package. At establishments like the Riverside Hotel and Casino, he ensured there were high-class shows, excellent food, and a welcoming atmosphere, in addition to the traditional table games and slot machines. This holistic approach helped him attract and retain a loyal clientele, making his establishments popular destinations. His focus was on creating an appealing experience that went beyond the gambling itself, contributing to the overall allure and profitability of his ventures.

While Nick Abelman was a prominent figure, the early era of legal gambling in Nevada was not without its complexities and controversies. The sources indicate that the casino at the Riverside, even after Abelman's time, faced closures due to various issues including "crooked gambling practices," bankruptcy, ownership transitions, and tax delinquency. While specific details about Abelman's direct involvement in these particular instances are not explicitly provided, it highlights the challenging regulatory and operational environment of the time. Operating in such a rapidly evolving and often scrutinized sector meant navigating constant pressures and maintaining a delicate balance within the business.