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Article: FRENCH LICK STILL HAS CASINO DREAMS AFTER 11 YEARS
- Article from:
- Evansville Courier & Press (2007-Current)
- Article date:
- April 6, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCopyright 2003 Evansville Courier & Press. Provided by ProQuest LLC. (Hide copyright information)
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Decades ago, this town in Southern Indiana's hill country was the
playground of rich and privileged travelers who lounged in mineral
springs by day and then gambled the night away.
Gambling and prostitution flourished for nearly a half century
thanks to the influence of well-connected hotel owners, politicians
and police who turned a blind eye. In its heyday in the 1920s, the
area had as many as 17 casinos.
Today, there is no shortage of hard-luck stories in French Lick --
evidence of economic decline is everywhere -- and no absence of hope
that casino gambling can again turn things around.
Unemployment high
Downtown, empty sidewalks and storefronts line the streets. The
West Baden Springs ...