Reno's Historic River Inn
This webpage is constructed based on our perspectives, opinions and the experiences we have been through.
We bought a property that was Abandoned for over 40 years.
History or River Inn Names
It's fascinating to trace the history of the River Inn and the various names it has carried over the years. Here's a chronological list of names associated with the River Inn property:
- Granite Hot Springs (due to hot springs flowing from a granite rock on the property and Laughton developed the property)
- 1884- Laughton's Springs (renamed after Sumner Laughton, who purchased the property in 1878)
- 1886-1901 Central Pacific Railroad built at station and named it Lawton Station
- 1901-1920 Lawton's Hot Springs (reflecting a common misspelling of Laughton's surname)
- 1920 Hotel Club Lawton
- 1942-1943 River House
- 1944 May -1944 July Reno Rancho (a short 3 months)
- 1963- Holiday Lodge and Holiday spa (during a lease period)
- 1968- Laughton Hot Springs Resort Lawton Hot Springs
- 1970- River Inn Casino and Spa
- 1972- River Inn Mineral Spa
- 1983- River Palace (George Benny's intended name during a renovation, plans disrupted in)
- 1990's- River Inn Hot Springs (TM Chang's proposed name, part of a redevelopment plan)
- 1983 and 2020(No specific name changes mentioned)
- December 18 ,2020 River Inn (Current name as of the property's purchase by Lawrence McNutt and Dana Miller)
Each name reflects a different era in the property's history and the diverse ownership and visions that have shaped it over the decades. The River Inn continues to evolve under new ownership, carrying with it the dreams and aspirations of those who have been part of its story.
History of River Inn events
The history of events at the River Inn, under the ownership of the Yori Family, provides a fascinating glimpse into the diverse activities that took place on the property from 1936 onwards.
- Favored by Jack Dempsey and Max Baer: The River Inn gained prestige as a favorite location for notable personalities such as Jack Dempsey and Max Baer. Max Baer, a former heavyweight champion, and Jack Dempsey, the legendary world heavyweight boxing champion from 1919 to 1926, frequented the River Inn, adding to its allure.
- Jack Dempsey's Residency for Divorce (Year Not Specified): Jack Dempsey's connection to the River Inn extends beyond leisure. In order to meet residency requirements for a divorce from Hollywood actress Estelle Taylor, Dempsey chose the River Inn as his residence. This practice was common in Reno, Nevada, known for its quick divorce procedures, allowing individuals to establish residency in a short period.
- Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction (2014): Jack Dempsey, recognizing his significant contributions to boxing and his ties to Nevada, was inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014, underlining his enduring legacy
- Midget Car Racing Track (1937): In 1937, the River Inn featured a midget car racing track, showcasing the popularity of motorsports during that era. The fast-paced and thrilling races would have attracted local and visiting spectators, creating a lively atmosphere.
- Greyhound Racing Track (1938): The racing track underwent a transformation in 1938 when it was converted into a greyhound racing track. Greyhound racing was a widely enjoyed sport at the time, and the River Inn became a venue for these exciting races.
- Helen Crlenkovich Diving Exhibition (1939): The following year, in 1939, the River Inn hosted a diving exhibition by Helen Crlenkovich. This event likely brought a different form of entertainment to the property, showcasing athleticism and skill in diving.
The River Inn's history is not only a reflection of diverse entertainment events but also illustrates the cultural and social dynamics of the time, including the use of places like the River Inn for expedited divorces in Nevada.
History of Troubles
The Laughton family's legacy in the community is quite impressive, marked by numerous contributions and support. Although we're unclear about the circumstances surrounding their departure from the River Inn, it's evident that their impact was substantial. The Yori family took over in 1936, leasing the resort to various individuals over the years until its closure on December 15, 1978. The closure, ordered by a federal bankruptcy judge, displaced around 20 families living at the RV park.
Interestingly, the subsequent owner, George Benny, faced legal issues in 1983, including mail fraud and racketeering. Rumors suggest a connection to the mob and an FBI sting, possibly related to unpaid "Mob tax." In the 1990's T.M. Chang, the owner of Westlake Property, had plans to spend millions to revitalize the River Inn. Unfortunately, Chang's plans faltered by the down turn in the economy. The property changed hands one more time when Lawrence and Dana acquired it.
Upon taking ownership, the new owners faced challenges from at least five neighbors across the river, who had seen changes in the area during the River Inn's closure. Despite some initial hurdles the citations that were issued because of complaints by these five neighbors were dropped, and Lawrence and Dana took on the task of rejuvenating the property. Lawrence and Dana are still moving it forward today.
