Heck yes bingo was gambling. Although I don't know why they would be using casino chips for bingo. Definately some other action going on.

Personally, I don't collect fraternal chips even though many were technically "illegal". I'm not sure how it worked. I assumed fraternal clubs provided the equipment and space but didn't take a cut of the action (the illegal part). Maybe I'm wrong. I've never been a member of a fraternal club. You know the old saying, "I never want to be a member of a club that would have me as a member!"