There goes Swifty… – Wonderland’s closing marks end of an era

The end of an era came last Thursday when nearby Wonderland Greyhound Park in Revere closed its doors for good, ending 75 years of operation. At the height of Wonderland’s popularity, there were large crowds every night. Its dining room was packed with guests who wanted great food and an entertaining night of wagering on the greyhounds.

But with the opening of the Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun Casinos in Connecticut, there was additional competition for Wonderland. Then came the vote by residents to ban dog racing in Massachusetts and while there was still simulcast wagering, it was obvious that Wonderland’s future was in doubt.

Several Winthrop residents, past and present, had good, steady jobs at Wonderland. It was a sad day to see such a long-time venue suddenly close its doors.

As for the casino bill, which may have kept Wondy’s doors open, it looks like nothing will happen until the new legislative session in 2011.