Virginia City's Suicide Table: History & Mystery Unveiled!
Could a single piece of furniture hold the weight of such dark history? In the heart of Virginia City, Nevada, a seemingly ordinary gambling table has earned a chilling reputation the infamous Suicide Table, a relic shrouded in tales of misfortune and despair.
As travelers approach Virginia City, the signs are clear: two attractions beckon, promising a glimpse into the town's rich, often turbulent, past. Among these, the Suicide Table at the Delta Saloon stands out, a magnet for those curious about the macabre and the mysterious. Its story, however, is not one of simple legend, but of a series of events, starting in the 1860s, that have cemented its place in the town's dark folklore. It is a story of gambling, despair, and a table that seemingly carried a curse.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Suicide Table |
| Location | Delta Saloon, Virginia City, Nevada |
| Origin | Faro Bank Table, Early 1860s |
| Notable Events | Multiple alleged suicides of owners or individuals associated with the table. |
| First Incident | Black Jake, lost $70,000 in a single night and allegedly shot himself at the table. |
| Subsequent Incidents | Another owner's suicide due to a losing streak. |
| Current Location | Delta Saloon (though previously moved to Bonanza Saloon) |
| Current Status | A historical artifact, a point of interest for tourists. |
| Lore | Considered by some to bring bad luck, a symbol of gambling losses. |
| Historical Context | Reflects the high-stakes environment and harsh realities of the Old West, where financial ruin could lead to drastic measures. |
| Misconceptions | Often misrepresented, never used by Dr. Jack Kevorkian |
The Delta Saloon, a Virginia City landmark since 1865, is where the Suicide Table resides, a testament to the town's enduring appeal. The Delta Saloon itself has been a cornerstone of the community. The establishment, which first opened its doors in 1865, is one of the oldest properties in the town and a true piece of history.
The table, originally a faro bank table, arrived in Virginia City in the early 1860s. The first documented tragedy occurred in the late 1800s. The stories of Black Jake's despair, and the subsequent misfortunes of others who owned the table, created the legend that endures. These narratives are part of the saloon's identity, enticing visitors to witness a piece of Nevada's history.
According to the stories, Black Jake, the first person known to have died at the table, lost an astonishing $70,000 in a single night. Facing utter ruin, he allegedly ended his life at the table, a desperate act that would forever link the table with tragedy. Another man, whose name has faded from memory, suffered a similar fate at the same table. His ruin at the hands of gambling lead him to take his own life.
The Suicide Tables legacy is further solidified by its presence in the Delta Saloon, where it serves as a centerpiece for a historical narrative. Visitors can step into the Delta Saloon to experience an authentic setting that reflects the era it was built. Signs along Highway 341 to Virginia City have tempted visitors for years to come see the suicide table at the Delta Saloon. This colorful relic from Nevada's past has become the recipient of unkind innuendoes and half truths.
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After the suicides, the table was stored away for about 20 years. It was eventually brought back into use in the late 1890s, finding new life as a "21" table. Despite its history, the table has endured, and the Delta Saloon continues to operate, offering hot food, cold drinks, and the allure of the Old West to modern visitors.
The Delta Saloon is more than just a bar; it's a portal to the past, where the echoes of the Old West come alive. With its original design and ambiance, it's a gathering place that still serves up "good times" and keeps the story of the Suicide Table alive. The establishment is located at 18 C Street, Virginia City, NV 89440.
The tale of the Suicide Table, however, extends beyond its physical presence. Billboards and signs throughout Virginia City highlight the table, but it's more than just a marketing ploy. The table has become a symbol of the era, reflecting the harsh realities of the Old West, where fortunes were won and lost with alarming speed, and where the stakes were often life and death. But also, a place where the legends of the past can be observed from the present.
The Suicide Table also offers a lesson in history. Visitors can consider the circumstances of those who played at the table and the social pressures they faced. The story of the Suicide Table is a reminder of how the pursuit of wealth could lead to despair in the unforgiving environment of the American West.
The current ownership of the Delta Saloon is committed to preserving its history while welcoming a new era. Under new ownership since May 2024, the establishment is poised for a revitalized future while retaining its connection to the past. The team is devoted to restoring the iconic establishment to its former glory, and is dedicated to the preservation of the Suicide Table as a prominent element of its narrative.
The table has been a Virginia City landmark for decades. The table offers a unique experience to those who are interested in its history. It has served as the central focus of the Delta Saloon, and now resides within its walls. It is a piece of history, and has become a tourist spot for anyone interested in the stories and lore of the Old West.
In modern times, the Suicide Table is a popular attraction for those visiting Virginia City. Tourists come to see it and hear the stories. The Delta Saloon continues to be a popular tourist attraction in Virginia City.
While the tales surrounding the table are undoubtedly captivating, its important to approach them with a critical eye, distinguishing between historical fact and the embellishments that have inevitably woven their way into the narrative. The legend of the Suicide Table, like the Wild West itself, is a complex tapestry of reality and myth.
Up for sale is a $10 gaming token (.999 fine silver) from delta saloon in virginia city, nv. The token features the image of the infamous suicide table, adding to its collectible value. This token belongs in the collection of any casino or token enthusiast. Don't miss your chance to add this unique piece to your collection. Never removed from protective capsule and in mint condition.
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Delta Saloon Suicide Table Virginia City NV Photograph by LeeAnn
Virginia City, NV 10 Dollar Gaming Token, Delta Saloon, Suicide Table
Suicide Table Delta Saloon Virginia City Nevada vintage linen postcard
