Silverbird Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Triblend Tee

Venue History

In December 1976, Major Riddle aimed to take over the Thunderbird Hotel and Casino, planning to rename it the Silverbird. Riddle intended to renovate the resort and initially planned to close the casino during remodeling but decided to keep it open instead. The casino was to be expanded from 18,000 square feet to 53,000 square feet, with a sportsbook added. A new high-rise hotel building, along with an enlarged coffee shop and keno lounge, were also planned. Riddle targeted local residents and tourists seeking affordable food and “loose” slots, believing the local market had been neglected over time. The name change from Thunderbird to Silverbird took effect on January 1, 1977, with plans to update the roadside sign. Riddle changed the name as he felt “Thunderbird” was associated with poor food and tight slots. The renovation and expansion occurred throughout 1977, adding a new 500-seat buffet and renovating other areas. Fifty-five hotel rooms were demolished for the casino expansion, reducing the hotel to 385 rooms. Riddle passed away in 1980, and his casinos, including the Silverbird, were placed into his estate and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. A failed reorganization led to an auction on December 2, 1981, with no one meeting the $3.8 million minimum bid. The Silverbird was closed on December 3, 1981, by a federal bankruptcy judge, affecting 850 employees. The site now hosts the Fontainebleau Las Vegas resort and casino.