Atlantic City in Motion: 10 Fascinating Archival Videos Through the Decades
Introduction: Journey Through Atlantic City’s Storied Past
Atlantic City stands today as an iconic hub of entertainment and gaming, but its evolution has spanned more than a century of dramatic change. From a simple seaside retreat to a glittering casino capital, the story of Atlantic City is best told through vivid archival videos that capture each era—decade by decade. Delve into these rare clips to witness the city’s transformation from its 19th-century beginnings to the vibrant 1990s.
Atlantic City at the Dawn of the 1900s
Early 20th century Atlantic City, as captured in this video, showcased its rise as a favored beach destination.
The city, founded in 1854, began the 20th century with youthful energy. By the 1900s, Atlantic City’s expansive beaches and newly constructed boardwalk (opened in 1870) drew crowds seeking sun, surf, and refreshing treats. The bustling promenade quickly became lined with shops and eateries, hinting at the city’s emerging allure as a vibrant summer hotspot.
Expansion and Novelty in the 1910s
Scenes from 1919 reveal the beach’s popularity and unique sights such as rickshaw transport and the rare Elephant Hotel.
The 1910s saw Atlantic City growing rapidly, with hotels multiplying and innovative sights appearing along the waterfront. The “By The Sea” Ford Educational Weekly footage from 1919 highlights busy beaches, unique transportation like three-wheeled rickshaws, and the delightful oddity of the Elephant Hotel—an architectural marvel and tourist draw of its day.
The Roaring Twenties: Glamour and Pageantry
Atlantic City’s 1920s charm is evident in lively boardwalk scenes and the birth of the Miss America Pageant.
Prosperity and excitement colored the 1920s. In 1921, Atlantic City began its long-running tradition of hosting the Miss America pageant, adding to its national fame. Although TV shows like “Boardwalk Empire” dramatize its Prohibition-era gangsters, these videos emphasize the city’s joyful diversions—crowds on inflatables, musical performances, and festive parades along the shore.
Nightlife and Nostalgia in the 1930s
The 1930s film footage captures both the lively club scene and family-friendly parades along the boardwalk.
During the 1930s, Atlantic City cemented its reputation for dynamic nightlife. Legendary venues like the 500 Club, Club Harlem, and the Clicquot Club were anchor points of evening activity. Meanwhile, daytime festivities continued to bring together tourists and locals for memorable parades on the renowned boardwalk.
Resilience and Growth in the 1940s
Archival footage from the 1940s highlights the city’s growing skyline and community life during wartime.
Despite the backdrop of World War II, Atlantic City thrived as a center for entertainment in the 1940s. The Huntley Film Archives video touts it as the “Vacation Capital of the Nation,” and showcases the rapid expansion of the city’s seafront skyline. Notably, these clips also provide glimpses into everyday life for Atlantic City residents, not just its steady flow of tourists.
Transformations and Trends of the 1950s
Home video from legendary singer Al Martino documents the city’s growing entertainment scene in the postwar years.
In the 1950s, Atlantic City shifted its focus as rival destinations like Miami and the Caribbean became accessible. Footage from singer Al Martino’s time in the city captures its pivot toward more adult-centric entertainment, moving away from purely family-oriented tourism. To stay competitive, Atlantic City courted top performers and shows, making nightlife a centerpiece of its appeal.
Struggles and Reflection in the 1960s
Scenes from the 1960s reveal deserted streets and the impact of decline, despite significant national events being hosted.
The 1960s brought challenges as Atlantic City experienced economic downturn. Hotels shuttered due to dwindling guests, and the city’s reputation was tarnished by negative press coverage—particularly during the 1964 Democratic National Convention when Lyndon B. Johnson was nominated. Footage from 1961 starkly illustrates empty boardwalks, symbolizing the end of an era.
A Turning Point: Gambling Legalization in the 1970s
The city’s transformation began in the late 1970s with the landmark legalization of casino gambling.
A dramatic shift occurred in the 1970s, sparked by a 1976 public referendum approving casino gambling. Property owners, led by the Chalfonte-Haddon Hall Hotel, raced to redevelop their establishments—Resorts International opened on May 26, 1978, as the first legal casino on the East Coast. The arrival of Caesars and Bally’s soon after signaled Atlantic City’s reinvention as a gaming mecca.
Casino Boom and Celebrity in the 1980s
Commercials and advertisements from the 1980s captured the glitz of rapidly expanding casino resorts and celebrity clientele.
Atlantic City continued to soar in the 1980s. Major resorts like Sands, Playboy, Harrah’s, Tropicana and the Golden Nugget opened their doors, drawing high-rollers and celebrities. The era also saw real estate mogul Donald Trump join the fray with the launch of his own casinos, like Trump Plaza and Trump Marina, giving the local economy a significant lift. Entertainer Frank Sinatra and casino owner Steve Wynn appeared together in iconic marketing campaigns, symbolizing new prosperity.
Modernizing the Boardwalk in the 1990s
The 1990s marked a peak with new mega-casinos, tourist influx, and growing global renown.
With the debut of casinos like Trump Taj Mahal and Trump World’s Fair, the 1990s ushered in a wave of innovation and booming business for Atlantic City. Tourism surged as visitors from around the world flocked to the lively boardwalk and its glittering casinos. The decade marked the culmination of the city’s journey from Victorian-era resort, through mid-century decline, to revitalized entertainment hub.
Conclusion: Atlantic City’s Enduring Legacy in American History
Over more than a hundred years, Atlantic City has reinvented itself again and again—growing, faltering, and thriving with each passing decade. These vintage video snapshots provide a living chronicle of the people, events, and transformations that shaped the city as we know it today. From quiet beaches to neon-lit towers, Atlantic City remains a fascinating testament to American reinvention.
