When Mobsters Kidnapped DC’s Godfather of Gambling

Before gambling was legal in the District and in Maryland, if you wanted to try your luck, you had one place to go: Jimmy's Place on the Washington, DC/Maryland line. That's where Jimmy “The Gentleman Gambler” Lafontaine made millions in the 1930s and '40s running the largest casino between New York and Florida - all off of the books. But the city loved him, the police were in his pocket and business was booming - until the mob wanted in on the action and "The Gentleman Gambler" was kidnapped.
ABOUT THE SERIES
“Boundary Stones” is an animated history series from WETA which brings the rich histories of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia to life. Using historic photos and archival footage, “Boundary Stones” tells the stories of the past: pivotal events, strange-but-true tales, and the myths and legends from the DMV. From Black history to unique D.C. protests, true crime to civil rights, and more - “Boundary Stones” is your home for D.C. history.
Watch more DC History videos: • Boundary Stones - Wash...
Read more DC History at our Boundary Stones website: boundarystones...
Subscribe to WETA's newsletter for the latest releases and recommendations!
weta.org/about...
Follow WETA on social:
Twitter: / wetatvfm
Facebook: / wetatvfm
Instagram: / wetatvfm

[@WETAPBS]

For more on the Gentleman Gambler and the DC notables who frequented his casino, check out this article on our Boundary Stones website: boundarystones.weta.org/2017/10/12/washingtons-godfather-gentleman-gambler-jimmy-lafontaine

[@donlawson3330]

Gambling was legal in PG County for a good part of the 20th Century. The Wilson Line had slot machines on their liners that they'd open up once they left DC waters. Colonial Beach had a line on the pier that marked the state line. Cross it, and you were in PG County and plenty of slots ready for you to play. And there were several horse tracks as well.

[@rubyscanlon523]

Super interesting!

[@WETAPBS]

Glad you enjoyed it!