Not all of Kentucky’s past is warm and fuzzy. In fact, quite a bit of its history is filled with stories of scandal and crime. One particular small town in Northern Kentucky may be known as a quiet and entertaining historic city now, but back in the day it was once known as the original “Sin City.” Las Vegas had nothing on Newport, Kentucky, as this town was well known as a vibrant, Mob mecca.

Before Las Vegas, there was Newport, Kentucky! If you didn't already know, Newport was a mecca in the 20s, 30s, and beyond for gangsters and all of the illicit behavior that came along with them.
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What is now a popular entertainment town that is relatively safe was once lined with casinos, brothels, and night clubs. Gangsters had control of the city, as it was perfectly tucked away and not as big of a target for law enforcement as other larger, nearby cities.
There are countless stories of criminal behavior that took place in Newport during the gangster era of "Sin City."
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After Prohibition, the town became filled with hidden speakeasies and dark restaurants, ideal for illegal happenings. One of the most powerful crime organizations in the country, The Cleveland Four, took hold of the city and worked to maintain control in the worst ways possible.

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Many buildings, houses, and businesses that remain in Newport today were a vital part of this gangster past.
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Thompson House, the home of the infamous creator of the "Tommy Gun," was one of the grandest houses in Newport - and still is. Other popular restaurants and bars that continue to serve customers today, once fed criminals and hid their behind-the-scenes activities.
Newport slowly began to clean up its act over the decades and today is far from its Sin City roots.
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But that doesn't mean you can't relive the history and stories that made up this sordid era. You can take a Newport Gangster Tour and learn even more about the happenings that took place in this small Kentucky town and it may just open your eyes to how far it has truly come.

Newport is still about entertainment today, but thankfully it’s more of a mecca for families seeking innocent fun rather than mobsters looking to get into trouble. Did you know about Newport’s intriguing history? Let us know what you think in the comments!

And if you’d like to learn more about this historic town, check out the Newport Gangster Tour given by American Legacy Tours here.

And for more on all Newport offers today, check out our previous article here.

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