VictoryLand Casino is a land-based gaming destination in Shorter, Alabama offering a mix of historical significance, evolving game formats, and a resilient player experience. Known for its volatile legal journey and shifting offerings—from electronic bingo to historical horse racing machines—it continues to serve as a major entertainment hub in its region.
A Snapshot: What VictoryLand Offers
VictoryLand hosts Quincy’s 777 casino, which features around 7,000 gaming machines. It also includes a simulcast wagering area for greyhound and thoroughbred races, though live dog racing ended in 2011. Though once boasting a 300-room hotel (Oasis Hotel) and upscale dining, those amenities have remained closed since 2010.
A Tumultuous Legal Journey
Rise & Controversy
VictoryLand opened in the 1980s, growing under owner Milton McGregor’s vision to bring jobs and entertainment to Macon County. It became known for its electronic bingo machines, positioned as legal due to a local constitutional amendment in 2003.
But controversy struck between 2010 and 2012. Raids, legal battles, and an arrest of McGregor and state senators marked a tense period. McGregor was accused of bribery and fraud but was acquitted in 2012. The casino reopened with electronic bingo machines in December 2012 but faced further legal hurdles.
Court Rulings & Legal Shifts
In 2015, a court ruled against a forfeiture attempt by Alabama’s Attorney General, noting uneven enforcement of the law across facilities. VictoryLand resumed operations in September 2016 with hundreds of electronic bingo machines.
Fast forward to 2022–2023: Alabama’s Supreme Court deemed electronic bingo machines illegal. VictoryLand responded by removing those machines and replacing them with legal historical horse racing (HHR) machines. President Lewis Benefield confirmed the update and highlighted increased business and rehiring.
Game Formats: From Electronic Bingo to HHR
Electronic Bingo
Previously a staple at VictoryLand, electronic bingo machines faced legal scrutiny for functioning like slots. Though initially defended with local legal backing, others viewed them as contravening Alabama law.
Historical Horse Racing (HHR) Machines
Following rulings, VictoryLand transitioned to HHR—machines offering wagers on past horse races. These are legally recognized under pari‑mutuel wagering and align with Alabama regulations. Benefield notes that revenue trends are positive post-transition.
Amenities & Facilities
- Gaming Floor: Quincy’s 777 showcases thousands of machines—including HHR units—offering a variety of betting experience.
- Wagering & Simulcasts: Customers can place bets on live and simulcast racing, even though greyhound racing no longer occurs on site.
- Hotel & Dining: The Oasis Hotel, once a 300-room facility with upscale outlets, has remained inactive since August 2010.
- Safety Measures: In 2020, reopening efforts included enhanced cleaning, distancing between machines, and health protocols during the pandemic.
Community & Economic Impact
VictoryLand has long been one of Macon County’s major employers. McGregor emphasized his goal to provide jobs and revenue to charities and agencies. However, legal disputes slowed employment at times. When the casino switched to HHR machines, Benefield noted improved business and reported hiring around 250 new staff, with plans to hire more.
Quote from Leadership
“We followed the law months ago and moved to the HHR machines,” said VictoryLand president Lewis Benefield. “Those machines are legal, pari‑mutuel wagering according to opinions from the AG’s office, and we pay all the applicable taxes on the pari‑mutuel wagering. Our business has picked up over the last few months.”
Summary
VictoryLand Casino stands out as a resilient entertainment venue shaped by evolving legal definitions and gaming innovations. From its turbulent early 2010s to modern HHR adaptations, it’s managed to preserve operations and community relevance.
Key Takeaways
- Offers thousands of HHR gaming machines at Quincy’s 777.
- Shifted from electronic bingo to legal HHR following court rulings.
- No operational hotel or fine dining since 2010.
- Acts as a significant employer in its region, with recovery visible post-HHR rollout.
- Maintains racing simulcasts, despite ending live dog racing.
FAQs
What games does VictoryLand currently offer?
VictoryLand now operates historical horse racing (HHR) machines—legal pari‑mutuel devices—and simulcast wagering on horse and dog races. The electronic bingo machines are no longer used.
Why did VictoryLand stop using electronic bingo?
Electronic bingo machines were ruled illegal by Alabama courts. In response, VictoryLand replaced them with HHR machines in compliance with state law.
Is the VictoryLand hotel open?
No. The Oasis Hotel, which included restaurants and lodging, has been closed since 2010 and remains inactive.
Did VictoryLand face legal challenges?
Yes. It faced raids, forfeiture attempts, and regulatory scrutiny over its electronic bingo offerings. McGregor was acquitted of related charges in 2012, and after years of litigation, the casino transitioned to HHR formats.
Does VictoryLand still offer racing?
VictoryLand no longer hosts live greyhound racing but continues simulcasts and wagering on both greyhound and thoroughbred events.
Has VictoryLand recovered economically?
Yes. After switching to HHR machines, VictoryLand reported increased business activity and hired about 250 employees, signaling economic recovery.
From enduring legal storms to adapting with HHR innovation, VictoryLand remains a notable fixture in Alabama’s gaming scene—a testament to adaptability and local influence.
