Native American Gaming Pioneer Fred Dakota, Who Started Casino In UP Garage, Dies At Age 84

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According to a published obituary, a prominent Michigan tribal leader, often referred to as the “Grandfather of Indian Gaming,” passed away on Monday.

At the age of 84, Fred Dakota, a prominent figure in the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and former tribal president, has passed away. Renowned for his significant contribution to the community, Dakota gained national recognition in the early 1980s when he successfully established a casino in a humble rural Upper Peninsula garage.

The establishment and aftermath of Dakota’s The Pines casino in Zeba have played a crucial role in fostering an industry that has greatly benefited Native Americans over the years.

‘The Pines’ helped lead to multi-billion dollar industry

The Native American tribal casinos recorded a gross revenue of $27.8 billion in 2020, as reported by the National Indian Gaming Commission. However, this figure experienced a decline compared to previous years due to the impact of the pandemic. Presently, Michigan is home to 23 tribal casinos, all managed by the state’s 12 federally recognized tribes.

The origins of everything can be traced back to Dakota and The Pines, when they secured a $10,000 loan from the bank.

Dakota reportedly obtained a gaming license from KBIC leadership and proceeded to inaugurate The Pines on New Year’s Eve during the early 1980s. The establishment was opened in his brother-in-law’s two-car garage.

In February 1984, Dakota and the casino in the Upper Peninsula attracted a significant number of patrons, leading to the presence of homemade blackjack tables. The New York Times decided to visit this location and profile it.

After approximately 18 months of court battles and disputes, the casino that preceded the Ojibwa Casino in Baraga finally closed its doors. Subsequently, the tribe expanded its operations by establishing an additional casino in Marquette.

The utilization of specific language in court rulings regarding The Pines prompted Michigan tribes to establish their own gambling establishments. This development occurred as a result of a series of decisions that originated from the allowance for state nonprofits to organize lawful gambling events as means of fundraising.

Prior to the enactment of the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in 1988, tribes located in Northern Michigan commenced the establishment of casinos. The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) subsequently laid out the jurisdictional framework for these endeavors.

Funeral services for Dakota at 3 p.m. Friday; tribal offices, casinos closed

For several years, Dakota held the position of KBIC tribal chairman, and more recently, served on the tribal council.

In a statement, KBIC tribal chairman Warren Swartz Jr. expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to stand alongside one of the most esteemed leaders in Indian Country. He acknowledged that Fred’s leadership abilities had a profound impact not only on KBIC but also on numerous tribal communities. Personally and professionally, Swartz Jr. felt grateful for Fred’s contributions and will deeply miss his visits and exceptional leadership qualities.

Dakota’s funeral service will take place at Reid Funeral Service and Chapel in L’Anse on Friday at 3 p.m. The family will be present to receive well-wishers from noon onwards. Following the service, Dakota, a Marine veteran, will be laid to rest in Pinery Cemetery. The internment will be accompanied by traditional native drumming and attended by Baraga County area veterans.

In honor of him, the KBIC tribal offices will remain closed on Friday, and both Ojibwa Casinos will observe a closure from 1-5 p.m. on the same day.

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