ABOUT THIS BLOG
I am a historian by profession. Since 1990 I’ve written a monthly bowling history article for Bowlers Journal International. This is my own, personal blog, with no direct connection to BJI.
The blog will act as sort of a bowling encyclopedia and scrapbook for all the obscure stuff that has limited interest, but needs to be collected somewhere. The focus will be on the years before 1980. Famous bowlers, old bowling alleys, advertising, stories, statistics–whatever else comes along.
Have fun!
–J.R. Schmidt, Ph.D. (Doctor Jake)
Dr. Jake's Bowling History Blog 
October 29, 2009 at 12:58 pm |
hi jake,
i am working on a coffee table book of my chicago paintings. i’d like to include an old timey, picturesque bowling alley (which is still in business).
any ideas? is pilsen still around?
love your column.
cheers, mort
October 29, 2009 at 4:25 pm |
Mort–
The obvious answer is Southport Lanes, the place with the pinboys. But it’s been so publicized that it has become a cliche.
For interiors, I’d definitely go with Lincoln Square Recreation, at 4874 N. Lincoln Ave. Second-floor place, eight wood alleys, and they even have a balcony. Timber Lanes (1851 W. Irving Park Rd.) is good, too–but they may have plastic lanes.
Exteriors–Manor Bowl (3124 N. Central Ave.) or Park Manor Lanes (100 E. 75th St.)–I think they are both in business. Fireside Bowl (2648 W. Fullerton Ave.) has sort of an art-deco exterior. They operated as a dance hall for awhile, and converted back into a bowling alley a few years ago, when Marigold closed.
If you want to go into the suburbs, I think that Skokie Lanes (on a side street near Lincoln and Oakton) is in operation. I suspect that Cicero and Berwyn still have a few old places.
Let me know which place you finally settle on.
Best,
Jake
May 22, 2020 at 8:36 pm
Manor Bowl is long gone….building still stands…was a restaurant/bar last time I saw it
May 22, 2020 at 9:24 pm
I’m still sad whenever I drive by—both for Manor, and for Stratford on the next block.
–JRS
June 2, 2020 at 4:26 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake,
I am looking for a photo for Queen Recreation Inc which was at 6236 South Ashland in Chicago — in the 1950s. I don’t see that listed here, and I was wondering if you could share a photo or point me to where I might possibly find one.
Thank you so much!
Senti
November 23, 2009 at 12:09 am |
Hello Jake,
I have some questions about an old bowling alley in Chicago. Is there an email address that I can contact you at?
Hope to hear from you soon,
Isaac
November 23, 2009 at 2:40 pm |
Isaac–
Please put any questions about bowling alleys in the box marked “Comments,” as you did with your original question. That’s the great thing about a blog–if I don’t have an answer, maybe somebody else will see the question and be able to give you the info.
–JRS
April 9, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
HI Dr. Jake,
I am loving your blog!!! Its nice to see someone documenting the sport of Bowling.
We have a biography blog of our own @
http://www.williammunn.blogspot.com
mostly talks of my bowling Grandfather & about bowling on the east coast of the US in the 30’s & 40’s
Hope you can stop on over & give us a look see.
So glad I stoped on over – keep bloggin!
April 10, 2010 at 2:56 pm |
Hi Munn Family–
You have a great blog. To anyone unfamiliar with the name Whitey Munn, he was honored as a second team All-American for the 1939-40 season–which means he was one of the ten best bowlers in the country. Keep up the great work. I look forward to seeing more.
–JRS
May 4, 2010 at 3:05 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake,
This is going to seem like a pretty unusual request but I was hoping to find out more info on Tony Sparando. He is my Biological Grandfather, however my father was conceived through an affair between Tony and a young woman who worked at one of his Bowling lanes.
May 6, 2010 at 4:35 pm |
Anthony–
I did not know Tony Sparando personally, so I can’t help you much. The USBC Bowling Museum in Arlington (Texas) has DVDs of his matches on the old “Championship Bowling” TV series, and they also have a file on him. You might want to get in touch with Chuck Pezzano. He’s the dean of bowling writers–he’s been covering our sport for over a half-century, particularly in the NYC area.
–JRS
July 11, 2010 at 4:13 pm |
Hello Jake,
I happened to come upon a story about Angelina Jolie where she talks about her mother the actress Marcheline Bertrand, who was born in Riverdale and grew up spending lots of time in the bowling alley her parents owned. Having been a long time resident of Chicago and an avid bowler myself my first thought was, was it Bertrand Lanes in Waukegan? That however does not seem to be the case and I was wondering if anyone knows the name of the bowling alley her parents owned and if it is still there.
July 12, 2010 at 7:20 am |
I read that story, too, and had the same thought. I checked with Jim Dressel of BJI. Jim reminded me that the guy who owned the PBA stop in Waukegan was Roy Bertrand, and that Roy bought Billy Carter’s old gas station sometime in the early 1980s. Since Angelina’s Grandpa Bertrand died in 1974, it couldn’t be the same person. Of course, Grandpa Bertrand could be a brother of Roy Bertrand, or some other relative. Anybody out there know for sure?
–JRS
August 2, 2010 at 4:45 pm |
Jake –
My mom’s been bugging me for a while to try to find out the name of a bowling alley she used to frequent that had dances and a pretty famous DJ (Jim Lounsberry) back in the late 50’s/early 60’s. It was located near the 4700 block of West Madison in Chicago. Any help you or others can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks so much!
August 2, 2010 at 8:34 pm |
Jennifer–
The place was called the Keyman’s Club. The bowling was in the basement, and it was located on the south side of the street. I believe it closed in the late 1960s. Sorry, I don’t have a picture!
–JRS
November 8, 2014 at 1:30 pm |
I believe there was a bowling alley on Morse Avenue (Chicago) at or about 1400 W.
What, if anything, do you know about it?
November 8, 2014 at 5:56 pm
Hank–
The Morse Avenue Recreation Center was located at 1308 West Morse Avenue in 1956. Phone number was SHeldrake 3-9504. That’s all the information I have.
–JRS
November 9, 2014 at 11:53 am
That building has been gone for almost 29 years now. (per the CCA’s office)
August 20, 2010 at 9:07 am |
Hi Jake,
I was wondering if you had any information on a Carmen Costantino, Sr. who is my father. He was a professional bowler and I came across an old picture of him from 1962-63 Petersen Classic. He has participated in many ABC Bowling Tournaments. He was a professional back in the 1960’s and 1970’s.
Thank you so much!
August 20, 2010 at 2:34 pm |
I’ve checked my files, and I don’t have anything on Carmen Costantino. Sorry I couldn’t help!
–JRS
August 23, 2010 at 3:00 pm |
Dr. Jake,
I came across your blog while surfing on the internet. It is truly enjoyable and well worth the time to explore it. I have a similar ‘album’ on FACEBOOK about all the old bowling centers that have closed in the Dayton, Ohio area.
Thanks,
Doug Cooper
August 23, 2010 at 6:59 pm |
Though I was in Dayton for the 1975 ABC, the only commercial center I bowled at was Varsity Lanes, where the National Industrial Tournament was always held. I understand that place is long gone.
–JRS
September 12, 2010 at 9:51 am
Thanks for your reply, Dr. Jake. I drilled balls for AMF in the 1975 ABC (and for H & L in Reno in 1977), so I might have run into you during your stay in Dayton. I bowled in the old Varsity Classic League (1967-1971). It broke my heart when it was demolished several years ago. By the way, do you remember a Chicago pro named Therm Davis (1960’s)?
September 13, 2010 at 5:53 pm
I remember Therm Davis very well, though I didn’t know him personally. I believe he tried the PBA for awhile.
January 17, 2016 at 9:13 am
I was at the ABC that year and the only thing I remember was a bar called Mac’s – the lady behind the bar was Mac and she had a .45 Cal. pistol hanging over the cash register with a sign “yes, it is loaded”.
September 21, 2010 at 4:15 pm |
Jake: I just saw Ron davis over the weekend. We are trying to get a bio together for Therm Davis (his dad) for the Illinois HOF.
Therm Davis passed away in 2007.
Skip Justice
September 21, 2010 at 4:33 pm |
Dr. Jake: Back in the mid-to-late 1960’s after first getting my driver’s license, I used to drive downtown (Dayton) to the Varsity on weekends during its annual holiday sweeper (back then a ‘sweeper’ was 4 games across 8 lanes – or 5 across 10, etc – with total pins determining the winner). My biggest hope was that the bowlers from Detroit’s great teams, e.g., Stroh’s, Goebel Beer, John F. Ivory, etc., would be in town. But one day, Chicago’s Therman Gibson was crossing in the tournament and although I knew little about him at the time, I was really taken at how good he was. Later he made at least one TV finals on ABC-TV’s Pro Bowlers Tour. He was fun to watch. I’m sorry to hear that he passed away in 2007.
Doug Cooper
March 5, 2020 at 3:46 am |
Therm Gibson died in 1969, not 2007.
October 4, 2010 at 10:19 pm |
Dr. Jake, I have long heard that my grandfather George F. Sauer was National Bowling Champion. I had no Proof other than a medal with the date of ’07 on it. I found your Blog and sure enough there he is with a score of 657! I know very little about him or the event . Do you know where it took place? Thanks so much Kathy Gogolak
October 5, 2010 at 11:01 am |
Glad to help! The 1907 NBA Tournament was held at Young’s Iron Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The total entry was 120 teams, which was a sizeable number for the time. My April 2010 article in “Bowlers Journal International” gives the history of the NBA Tournament, although I don’t mention George Sauer by name.
–JRS
October 27, 2010 at 7:29 am |
Hey Dr. Jake,
Do you have any info on “North Center Bowl” – it was on Linclon Ave upstairs from a TV store 1 block north of Irving on Lincoln Ave – a small 12 lane place – they shot the Forrest Whitaker scene of “Color Of Money” there back in 1985 ????
Thanks,
Patrick
October 29, 2010 at 1:30 pm |
I remember bowling in the place, and I might have an exterior shot somewhere. Keep watching!
–JRS
August 13, 2012 at 1:44 am |
Patrick,
It closed around 1998-99 according to some people who were there on another website. The closing time seems about right to me. The store below, the name of it was Alan’s. They sold appliances and electronics.
October 28, 2010 at 4:25 pm |
I bowled there as a kid in the late 40s and early 50s. Sorry I don’t have a lot to help you. I believe it was located above and to the North of the North Center Theater which was, along with the appliance store the two main “things” on the block. I pretty sure it was not above the theater as the noise would have been to much for the viewers. One thing I DO remember is that there was a back entrance going upstairs from Damen Ave. The other place I bowled during that time was Lincoln Lanes, also a small house on the second floor on the Northwest corner of Rosco and Lincoln, which no one seems to remember as being there.
November 11, 2010 at 4:44 pm |
Send your e-mail address for Lubanski Bowling Feature and Photo.
RJR
November 11, 2010 at 6:37 pm |
email address listed below
November 19, 2010 at 3:12 pm |
This is an amazing resource for bowlers with an interest in the game’s history. I just came across it today. Personally, I’m really into the game and I like to learn about how the sport has developed in the US over the last century. It’s great to see some of this information in a blog, and not just in history books that are often hard to track down.
I’m actually working on a bowling website myself, in which I intend to give short write ups of the most interesting alleys and have bowlers add their opinions.
http://bowlingalleysusa.com
When possible, I like to include interesting back stories of the alleys as well. If you had a chance, it would be great if you wanted to let me know what you think.
I’m going to go back and check out more of your posts. I’ve added your blog to the blogroll section of my site.
November 19, 2010 at 3:48 pm |
Thanks for the kind comments. Since there’s a limited market for bowling books, I’m glad the web is here for all of us. I’ll be looking for your website.
–JRS
November 20, 2010 at 2:01 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake:
I am looking for any and all information beyond what can be found on Wikipedia concerning the old National Bowling League formed, and folded, in the early 60s. Can you help?
Great blog!
Thanks.
George Lewis
November 21, 2010 at 12:25 am |
Printed below is a bibliography of some NBL articles:
NBL.
Bine, Al. “The NBL Will Fail!” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:47-48.
Bordman, Sid. “NBL’s Second ‘Debut.'” Bowlers Journal, Aug 1961:21-25.
Bunetta, Bill, att Dick Denny. “The NBL Is No Gamble.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:37-38.
Cruchon, Steve. “A Dream Became a Nightmare.” Bowling Digest, Dec 1984:38-41.
__________. “The Dream That Went Awry.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1964:34-41.
__________. “In the Wake of Disaster.” Bowlers Journal, Dec 1964:16-23.
__________. “Magnificent Fiasco.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1973:84-93.
__________. “The Short, Unhappy Life of the NBL.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1964:16-24.
Denny, Dick. “Opening Night in Detroit.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1961:44-51.
Hengen, Bill. “NBL Moves Ahead.” Bowling, Nov 1960:25.
Luby, Mort Jr. “A Good Meeting.” Bowlers Journal, Apr 1961:23-26.
__________. “Point of No Return.” Bowlers Journal. Nov 1960:33-40.
__________. “Silver Anniversary of a Disaster.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1986:16-18.
McDonough, Pat. “In Grand Central Station, Yet.” Bowlers Journal, Sep 1960:49.
Pezzano, Chuck. “Bowling League Stirs Memories of ’61 Flop.” The Sporting News, Feb 28, 1976:30.
__________. “A Short-Lived National League.” The Sporting News, Jun 17, 1972:54,
__________. “What Happened to the NBL?” Bowling, Sep 1962:46,80.
Pluckhahn, Bruce. “Right Idea, Wrong Time.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1993:225-226.
Snyder, Don. “A Cautious Cheer.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:59-64.
__________. “Breaking the Big Secret.” Bowling, Jan 1983:6,40.
__________. “Day of Reckoning.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:23-35.
__________. “No Longer a Pipe Dream.” Bowlers Journal, Jan 1960:31-32.
__________. “Pow-Wow in Chicago.” Bowlers Journal, Apr 1960:33-34.
__________. “The Brains Behind the New National Bowling League.” Bowlers Journal, Mar 1960:27-31.
__________. “The Men Behind the NBL.” Bowlers Journal, Jun 1960:5-12.
Wade, Harless. “Problems Facing the NBL.” Official Bowling Review, May 1961:40-43.
__________. “The NBL Will Succeed!” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:49-50.
Wessling, Frank. “They’re Ready to Roll in the Pro Circuit.” Bowling, Oct 1961:30-31.
“Dapper Debut in Dallas.” Bowling, Jul 1961:26,38.
“Fresno: A Five Minute Decision.” Bowlers Journal, Feb 1961:23-28.
“How the Press Views the NBL.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:9-14.
“NBL Suspends Play.” Bowling, Aug 1962:22.
“Team Roundups.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:39-46.
“The Magnificent Fiasco.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1983:136-137.
“The NBL Can Succeed, So Give It a Chance.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:4-5.
“The NBL Signs Its First Bowler.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1960:22.
NBL DRAFT.
Wade, Harless. “Player Draft Next for NBL.” Bowling, Jun 1960:23,41.
Williams, Bob. “The NBL Draft.” Bowlers Journal, Aug 1960:5-9,12.
“Step Toward Reality.” Bowling, Aug 1960:26,42.
NBL SCORING.
Evans, Dick. “NBL Style Scoring.” Bowlers Journal, Apr 1961:19-20.
Snyder, Don. “A-Okay For NBL Scoring.” Bowlers Journal, Jul 1961:17-20.
“How NBL Scoring Works.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1961:28.
NBL WORLD SERIES (1962).
Cruchon, Steve. “National Bowling League Playoff.” Bowling, Sep 1972:4,41.
Denny, Dick. “The NBL Limps Home, Scarred But Proud.” Bowlers Journal, Jun 1962:64-67.
“The Pros Call It a Season.” Bowling, Jun 1962:16.
–JRS
November 28, 2010 at 2:22 pm |
My grandfather was William G. (Bill) Schultz, and was a partner in ownership of Rolaway Recreation in Chicago. He was also president of the BPAA of greater Chicago in the early 1950’s.
Do you know where I could find any info on the alley, either pictures or articles? The alley was in business from 1941-1965.
Thanks very much for your help—
November 28, 2010 at 10:28 pm |
Rolaway was an AMF house at 4840 North Pulaski Road. I bowled there a few times as a teenager. Sorry, but I don’t have any pictures. If anyone else out there does, please send them in!
–JRS
March 15, 2011 at 2:33 am |
Howard… You were just a kid when I first started working at Rolaway…. 1958- 63… high school into college… ‘bossed’ around by your Dad and Uncle Leo. Your grandfather was the executive that disappeared into the office until he left for the day.I really loved those guys. George, Junior and I shared the tool room in the basement behind the machines. At the time… I think you wanted to be doctor… and my name was different.
I don’t have any photos. The original building had 24 alleys and the adjacent building was modified to add an additional 8 alleys. The counter was L-shaped and on the right side as you walked in – the bar room (fully enclosed) was on the right. The entrance path faced alley 13-14. There was a snack bar/grill with a u-shaped counter located next to the desk across from alley17-18. Shoe rental across from alley 19 followed by locker rooms w/plumbing. I think the “executive office” was across from alley 23-24… and there was also a small office behind the counter. The snack bar was eventually replaced with vending machines (bummer). There was a parking lot across the street.
Perhaps this description will satisfy your needs.
July 18, 2014 at 1:42 am |
I was one of the Rolaway Teenpinners Traveling League Team in the 60’s We bowled every Sunday at various houses on the North Side. (Gateway, Timber Lanes, etc) and actually won the league one year. I think I still have the trophy we got for that 50+ years later. I bowled as a Rolaway teammate for a couple of years and wondered what ever became of the rest of the guys. Alan Schultz was one of our staunchest supporters as well as Leo Katz. Our captain the year that we won the Trveling League was Ron Weber and some of the other guys were Mike Litt, Fred Meyerowitz and a number of others taht circulated in and out of the competition as Alan saw fit. As we all got through high school (and too old for AJBC competition) and led our lives, many of us just went our separate ways. I am now retired in Arizona.
I originally learned to bowl there when I was about 13 (that was in the days when it cost $0.35/line to bowl) and worked in the Snack Bar from the time I started as the “potato peeler” and the guy that hand cut the French Fries when I was in my early teens.That went on for a number of years as I worked my way up through the ‘ranks’ as soda jerk (really?) then promoted to the grill as I gained the trust and friendship of Mickey and Marv who managed the snack bar.
January 21, 2015 at 1:49 pm
Tom,
I came across an article in the Trib archives about a stabbing murder of Steven Johnson (an employee of Rolaway) in 1958, in Rolaway itself. Do you recall that? My Dad (Alan Schultz) never said anything about it to me.
July 16, 2023 at 2:00 pm
Wow! Memories…I started bowling at Rolaway as a little kid, lived nearby and rode my bike there. I bowled there in the 50’s with a Ron Weber and Mike Litt.
I think it was there that Carmen Salvino would sometimes show up, and I remember Al Markle.
I later moved and Gabby Hartnetts became my home lanes.
Thanks for the memories.
Hank Newman
July 17, 2023 at 1:07 am
Hi Hank – Believe it or not I DO remember your name from the Rolaway era! You were right that we (The Rolaway Teenpinners) did bowl with Ron Weber (he was our anchorman) and Mike Litt, along with Fred Meyerowitz and a host of rotating team members. Somehow we did win the Traveling League one year and had a trophy presentation at the end-of-year banquet hosted by BPAA of Greater Chicago at the Pick-Congress Hotel downtown. . . As I remember, we weren’t ever visited by Carmen Salvino, as his home lanes were Diversey-River Bowl. I went to high school at Lane Tech and occasionally would go down to Diversey-River after school let out to hope to see Carmen in action. . . Al Markle was definitely one of the top guys at Rolaway, but I think he left to continue his aspirations of a career in Medicine. . . Do you remember Dennis Goby? He was always fishing around Rolaway to bowl almost anyone in sight “for lines’. He had a strange bowling style but had a great psychology to make you think he couldn’t be beat. (He wasn’t always right, but there was a lesson there for me) Remember bowling with “The Red Pin”? . . I first got to ‘hang around’ Rolaway when I got hired to work at the Snack Bar. My first job . . and I peeled potatoes for hours that later got cut into French Fries! LOL My first promotion there was to become the guy that did the cutting.
I am now retired, living outside of Phoenix in the East Valley. Thanks for bringing back some treasured memories!
November 2, 2023 at 9:24 pm
I lived one block away from Rolaway and hung out there a lot. I bowled at least three times a week mostly pot games.
This was between 1948 to 1952.
I stopped bowling for about eight years, but started again in 1960 at Rolaway Sunday morning Bnai Brith.
After that year I bowled with the Bnai Brith Classic League for close to twenty years. For about 10 years it was at Orchard Twin Bowl( I had the only 300 game ever bowled there).
I also bowled in the North End League for about the same length of time.
Al Markle was and is a close friend of mine. His current average is over 220. I’ll call him tomorrow to look at this site. I know he’ll write a note.
It was a blast reading these comments.
I bowled at most of the bowling alleys mentioned..
Thanks
Jerry Lubell
November 3, 2023 at 6:56 am
I’ve been in touch with Al through emails for a few years, and I wrote my April 2021 BJI article about him. The USBC really should showcase him, to show that even bowlers in their 80s can still perform at a high level.
–JRS
July 23, 2017 at 5:43 am |
Hello,
In doing some family history work I found on my Great Grandfather’s WWII draft card that he worked at Rolaway, apparently in the 40’s. It is also mentioned on a note my Great Aunt made years ago when she also was doing family history work that he worked to pay back his sponsor- which would be the person who paid his passage when he immigrated. The note is unclear if it is Rolaway or when he lived in NY (which I think it was probably NY). Anyhow, my Grandma his daughter in law is 97 and still remembers this bowling alley as she was an avid bowler for years and years. My Great Grandfather was Rudolph Perz, and my Gram is Dorothy Schmidt. Both were from the ‘original’ Six Corners in Chicago. I’ve found more articles on the Trib’s archives, one about when Rolaway opened and it has pictures! Thanks for this blog, and JR Schmidt your research has helped me in many ways as I find it online. I’m trying to compile Chicago history/family history but live in Pittsburgh so much is done online.
Beth Reuschel
July 23, 2017 at 8:00 am
When I launched this blog in 2009, I never dreamed of the ways people would use it. I’m happy that you’ve all found it helpful.
–JRS
December 8, 2010 at 11:04 am |
I came up with a few more bowling alleys but no pictures yet. KING BOWL(81ST & King Dr.) NEELANDS GLOBE BOWL, MARINA CITY, & ARGO BOWL.
August 13, 2012 at 12:12 am |
Marina City Bowl is now 10 Pin. When built it was 34 lanes and now it only 24 lanes. I have not been in 10 Pin Bowl since it was remodeled.
February 25, 2011 at 7:09 pm |
Dr. Jake,
Thank you for the return of many happy memories that I had with my Dad who built, repaired and sanded bowling alleys from the 1950’s through the 1980’s. I grew up working with him and many of those now gone places are on this site. Now looking back, if I only went outside and took a photograph of the building it would have a place for all eternity. Again, thank you for your time in putting all this information together.
February 25, 2011 at 11:59 pm |
And I wish I had taken some pictures on the inside. But many of the places were closed during the day when I drove by with my camera.
–JRS
March 2, 2011 at 7:49 pm |
Great site
March 2, 2011 at 8:28 pm |
Thanks!
–JRS
March 31, 2011 at 5:52 pm |
Hello, Dr. Jake –
My grandmother, Hazel Bark of Cleveland, Ohio, was captain of a women’s bowling team in 1918 that did an east coast tour that year. An article from the Cleveland Plain Dealer, March 6, 1918, quotes the Bowlers’ Journal as reporting “Great crowds turned out to see the ladies bowl and their visit did the bowling game a lot of good as it gained favorable publicity and the ladies of New York learned much of the game through watching the Cleveland girls bowl.”
Any idea how I can find a copy of that from the Journal? There was also a story, according to the Plain Dealer, in the NY Tribune who referred to my grandmother and her two friends as “one of the most formidable bowling teams in the country.”
Her two older brothers owned a two-lane bowling alley in Cleveland. She ran it during the day while they worked. Not much business at first but, always entrepreneurial, she got the ladies of the neighborhood interested in bowling. Several of them – including my grandmother – got really good. They played as the “Favorite Knits” team in a number of Cleveland tournaments.
Thanks for any help you might be able to give.
April 3, 2011 at 3:17 pm |
I’ve checked Bowlers Journal for early 1918, and could not find the article. I’m referring to the Chicago-based Bowlers Journal, which is still being published as a monthly magazine.
However, there was also a New-York based Bowlers Journal being published around the same period. That BJ went out of business. Since the action happened in the East, maybe that’s the BJ you need. The Bowling Museum in Texas has many bound volumes of the New York BJ, tho I’m not sure how long a run they have.
–JRS
April 3, 2011 at 10:55 am |
Hi Dr. Jake,
I wonder if you recall the name of an old bowling alley that was destroyed in a large fire (back in the 60’s or late 50’s, I think). It was located on Clark Street (east side of the street) and just north of Belmont Ave. The lanes were upstairs, as I recall. They used to have the Red Head pins too… bowl a strike when the red pin was #1 and you would win a free game.
Thanks,
Rick Koskela / Scottsdale, AZ
April 3, 2011 at 3:02 pm |
That was the (second) Lakeview Recreation, at 3239 North Clark Street. I have a 1958 phone book that says it had “50 bowling lanes, 2 dance halls.”
–JRS
April 10, 2011 at 5:58 pm
Thanks very much for the info on Lakeview. FYI… I found out an interesting tidbit from a friend of my mother’s. She said that in the 50’s, she recalled an incident involving the dance halls on the floor above the bowling lanes. Apparently (on St.Patrick’s Day one year) a large group of Irish folks had a big party and the floor collapsed during some energetic dancing. Quite a few folks were hurt when they fell through the ceiling of the bowling lanes below.
May 1, 2011 at 4:30 pm |
Hey J.R.
Found this regarding the bowling alley on Clark near Belmont
http://books.google.com/books?id=ByMWgTo5bfIC&pg=PA58&lpg=PA58&dq=%223239+North+Clark+Street%22+Bowling&source=bl&ots=Tu2xOm-6p4&sig=TArZo7eogBG6nAXiGPPNPvmH16s&hl=en&ei=ZNC9Tc-hOpGWtweLwZHgBQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%223239%20North%20Clark%20Street%22%20Bowling&f=false
December 1, 2012 at 11:58 pm |
I was there that day. Fire started in a room behind our lane. Ran to a friends house across the street and watched the fire from his living room window. Walked home in bowling shoes as I left my shoes in the building. I was 12 years old.
December 12, 2012 at 4:47 pm
I was there that day also, bowling with my dad, brother, and cousin. I ran home to call WLS with the news tip because they were giving $89 for the story of the week. Sad to say that there was a tip about a bigger fire and I didn’t win.
June 4, 2011 at 9:27 pm |
Hey Dr. Jake,
Wondering if you know the name of the bowling alley that was on the north side of Madison just west of Central Ave. It was on the second floor.
Thanks
June 5, 2011 at 1:17 pm |
That was Cinderella Recreation, later known as Ego’s Pent-a-Bowl. It’s featured in the 1937 picture from one of my Unknown Chicago posts at the address below– http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/unknown-chicago/2011/05/unknown-chicago-street-quiz-19–answers.html#slideshow
June 10, 2011 at 5:46 pm |
Hi Doctor Jake
My Great Uncle Leo Krisch built and owned Irving Park Recreation, 5710 Irving Park Road and my Grandfather Carl Schnapp owned Southport Lanes, my Uncle Leo Bitz ran it for him in his later years… Leo Krisch was a member of a five man team that won the ABC’s and was also on the Brunswick advisory staff for both Bowling and Pool, I remember him fondly, he left a lasting impression on my life. Thanks for your work on this site.
Bill Snell
June 11, 2011 at 1:40 pm |
I grew up near Irving Park Lanes, and actually set pins there once. I didn’t work there, but I kept pestering the lady in charge. She finally let me try it for a game or two. The lady’s name was Alice–I don’t recall her last name. BTW, caddying was much easier!
–JRS
June 25, 2011 at 5:40 pm
J.R
You are right I set pins at Ray Schalks Evergreen Towers for a couple of seasons and caddied at Ridge CC for ten years on the far south side in the early 50’s. We did have semi-auto pinsetters and not the manuel. I believe I got .14 cents a line.
At least we had jobs.
Bob
December 2, 2012 at 3:48 am |
Bill Snell: I have a Sun Times article & photo of your Uncle Leo Bitz
(I thought i remember seeing it spelled Beitz) and I also have a rare videotape of your uncle & Southport Lanes from a WBBM TV show in the late 70’s. Would you like a copy? Let me know your email.
June 11, 2011 at 6:55 pm |
I hear ya Jake
Alice and Eddy worked with my great aunt and uncle for many years… They where a great couple, I used to help Eddy clean the place early mornings on the weekends and oil the lanes sometimes after school… Thanks for reminding me…
Be well
Bill
July 15, 2011 at 3:32 am |
I was hoping to find a photo or hear any stories of G&L Bowling Alley/Lanes on the south side of Chicago Avenue at Pulaski or one block east of Pulaski. Not sure of all years on business, but during the ‘1960’s for sure.
July 15, 2011 at 8:32 am |
Sorry, I didn’t take a picture of G&L. It was out of business by the time I got a good camera in 1973. But I did bowl there a couple of times when I was in the Catholic High School Bowling League during the 1960s. I bowled for Loyola, and G&L was the home house for St. Philip’s High. Before that, they had bowled out of Cascade. There’s a fast-food place on the corner there now.
–JRS
July 15, 2011 at 3:08 pm |
Siena High School (Central & Washington) bowled at G&L ’66’-68.
July 15, 2011 at 3:16 pm |
Thanks! If anyone has any old Chicago bowling alley pictures that they’d like to share, please email them my way.
–JRS
August 2, 2011 at 3:47 pm |
I found your blog through the Bowlers Journal sent by my brother Don. Do you remember Ed Geffert who maintained the machines at Empire. I worked for him for a while at several houses. Would love to contact him if he is still around. Best to you and the family. Mike Adriansen
September 19, 2011 at 1:32 pm |
Hello. I just completed my father’s (Thomas “Tom” Harnisch) hall of fame applications for Greater Buffalo and NYS USBC associations. I compiled his statistics and came up w/something different than what you have on your website. I have documentation of everything. Here is my tally:
• One (1) PBA Tournament Victory
– 1964 Betrand PBA Open
• One (1) National Doubles Tournament Victory
– 1965 23rd Annual National Match-Game Doubles Championship
• In other PBA (Individual) Tournaments:
– Another five (5) Top 5 finishes (for six (6) in all)
4th Place in 1964 $60,000 PBA 5th Annual National Championship
4th Place in 1964 $52,000 PBA 8th Annual World Invitational Bowling Tournament
4th Place in 1964 BPAA All-Star Tournament
4th Place in 1966 USBC (ABC) Masters Championship
4th Place in 1966 PBA Firestone Tournament of Champions
– Another eight (8) Top 10 finishes (for fourteen (14) in all)
7th Place in 1964 $21,000 Dallas Home Furniture PBA Open
5th Place in 1963 Canadian PBA Open
6th Place in 1963 Chicago Coca-Cola PBA Open
9th Place in 1963 Alton PBA Open
9th Place in 1963 Hialeah PBA Open
11th Place in 1964 Las Vegas PBA Open
8th Place in 1965 Fair Lanes PBA Open
7th Place in 1966 St. Paul PBA Open
– Another nine (9) Top 20 finishes (for twenty-three (23) in all)
11th Place in 1965 PBA 9th Annual World Invitational Bowling Tournament
19th Place in 1964 Birmingham Coca-Cola PBA Open
11th Place in 1965 Louisville PBA Open
11th Place in 1966 Reading PBA Open
11th Place in 1966 Camden PBA Open
16th Place in 1966 Labor Day Classic
14th Place in 1967 Brut PBA Open
16th Place in 1967 Green Bay PBA Open
16th Place in 1969 Cougar PBA Open
September 19, 2011 at 4:58 pm |
Brenda–
Thanks for your note. I do have your Dad listed as winning the Match-Game Doubles in 1965 (under STATS). Good luck with the Hall of Fame applications.
–JRS
September 21, 2011 at 12:58 pm |
Jake,
Today as I looked again at the old photo section of your blog, I looked at the header for the first time. In the past I thought it was a generic shot of the old ABC tournament scoreboard. Imagine my surprise when I noticed the names on the scoresheets. Great fun to see the names of the old Empire crowd. Do you remember what year you used as the header, or where the event was held? Also, I couldn’t make out your name anywhere. Are any of the guys who are still alive, still bowling? I last saw Dave Ohm about 8 years ago, and he had given it up because he couldn’t afford the time.I remember him saying his daughter carried a very strong average through H.S. and College. Mike Adriansen
December 7, 2011 at 1:29 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake-
I found a picture of my grand father, Ace Mitchell, on your blog. I was wondering if you have any more pictures of him? I also have a couple of pictures you might be interested in, such as our original storefront in downtown Akron, OH.
Thanks!
February 17, 2012 at 1:07 am |
Jake,
I would like to help you.
My father is Sylvester Sobanski, who is considered the founder of the All Stars, along with Howard C. Seehausen. Dad’s sister complied a scrapbook of Dads career, and I believe I could blow your mind. Please contact me.
February 18, 2012 at 1:26 pm |
Dr. Jake,
Love the blog and have linked it to the PCL Link Dump at: http://easydreamer.blogspot.com/
Been a long time bowling fan since my youth and love the collection you’ve put together here!
Keep up the good work,
March 9, 2012 at 3:33 pm |
I found this site here earlier today… AWESOME INFORMATION!!! I’m from Massachusetts and one thing that I did see while scrolling thru the “Old Chicago Bowling Alleys” was that one house put CANDLEPINS in on the 4th floor!!! As you know, candlepins is regional and has rarely strayed past New England! Would you have any more information on candlepin bowling in the Chicago area? I’ve been able to verify single closed houses in San Francisco, California area, South Dakota, and Rochester, New York area. Might have a lead on a possible closed split house in Florida too. Anything that you might know would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Bill Whyte
March 9, 2012 at 4:48 pm |
Bill–
I assume you were looking at the “comments” under the Congress Arcade/Mill Bowl post. I’m sorry, but I don’t have any further information about the candepins there. I believe they put them in about 1963, and got rid of them a few years later. The candlepins were gone by 1975, the date of the picture.
–JRS
March 10, 2012 at 5:32 pm |
Great blog, Dr. Jake. Hank Lauman was my grandfather, and it’s great to see these old photos here. My dad’s whole family were excellent bowlers, and it’s really neat to see someone devote the time to collect and post this material. I just read somewhere that Don Carter died in January. He was at my dad’s funeral in Miami back in the 70s. So many memories of times gone by.
March 24, 2012 at 2:55 pm |
I would like some info on Hi-Spot Lanes which was on Grand Ave.Any info would be great. I grew up there just about, my parents owned the snack bar.What memories.I wish the picture of it was a little better.Enjoy your blog.
March 26, 2012 at 3:22 am |
So glad I found this blog. My parents owned the snack bar at Hi Spot Lanes on Grand Ave. Would love any more info on this alley, when it closed etc. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Loved the pic, brings back memory’s!
March 26, 2012 at 7:25 am |
The picture is from the 1970s. I don’t know exactly when Hi Spot went out of business, but I used to pass the shuttered building on my way to work as late as 2007.
–JRS
May 3, 2012 at 5:24 pm |
I am trying to remember an alley that a couple of White Sox fans brought me to after a game in 1981. What I remember clearly it was across from a pinball factory. Any idea?
May 3, 2012 at 5:26 pm |
Sorry, no idea. Maybe someone who reads this will know.
–JRS
May 3, 2012 at 5:30 pm |
Thanks – When I was living in Chicago in the 80’s I was in a league at Howard Bowl – I understand that is long gone.
Boston is home and both candlepins and ten pins are dying. 😦
August 12, 2012 at 11:21 pm |
I bowled there a lot in the 80’s as well Kevin. We most likely have crossed paths there at one time. Tuesday Night Men’s and Saturday Night Mix Leagues were the best!
August 13, 2012 at 12:04 am
and then we would go to the Gold Coin afterwards 🙂
May 12, 2012 at 6:30 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake,
My name is Jerry Lippe. Harry Lippe is my father. I am asking for your help in finding some old television broadcasts of bowling matches in which my father participated. I believe these televised matches were contested in the Chicago area on local television. I also believe that they took place in the late 1950’s. I would very much like to get any of these broadcasts converted to DVD for an invaluable keep sake. Any help you can offer would be greatly apprciated. Thank you for your considerations.
Sincerely,
Jerry Lippe
P.S. Also is there any way I can get a copy of the photograph of my father that you have on your website?
May 12, 2012 at 10:26 pm |
Jerry–
The photo of your Dad was scanned from an old bowling magazine, and can easily be copied from my post. I believe he’s on one or two of the old team pictures, such as Meister Brau. When the Bowling Museum was in St. Louis, they let the public rent old “Championship Bowling” DVDs, and I did rent the Lippe vs. Bomar match from 1954 at Faetz-Niesen. The Bowling Museum is now at USBC Headquarters in Texas. I don’t know if they still rent the DVDs, but they might make an exception for the son of a hall-of-famer. Good luck!
–JRS
August 6, 2014 at 2:30 am |
Jerry – I bowled with your father at Forest Lanes in Lyons in the 70’s. It was the league from St. Mary’s in Riverside. Not many there knew (or realized) his bowling background, but having seen him on Championship Bowling so many times when I was a kid, I recognized his approach/style immediately. He was a nice guy, but really didn’t care to talk much about “the old days’. He was just “one of us” . . out to have a good time and enjoy bowling.
June 13, 2012 at 7:40 pm |
Hello, I am interested in any information on
Austin Bowl on Division Street in Chicago, or
Lorraine Bowl on Cicero Avenue in Chicago.
I have an 8mm color movie of the Austin Bowl
fire circa 1963 if that is any interest to you.
Loren Argall
Huntley, Illinois
June 27, 2012 at 1:34 pm |
I bowled in the singles tournament at Loraine Bowl in the1960’s.
Skip Justice sj810@comcast.net
June 21, 2012 at 10:08 am |
In response to your article in the June 2012, I vaguely recall a Jerry Howard working for a bowling distributor called Western Columbia located in a L.A. suburb in the mid-70’s. On a less serious note, if you’re looking for Bobby Jacks, make sure to check the jail rolls in Louisianas!!
June 27, 2012 at 1:31 pm |
Jake: Ralph Slaber Sr passed away at the age of 85 on June 25, 2012. He won an abc eagle in the team event in 1962. Les Zikes was on the team. Did you get my list of the 202 bowling center that i have bowled in over the years?
Skip Justice
June 27, 2012 at 1:40 pm |
Skip– Thanks for telling me about Ralph Sr. He was one of the nicer guys I got to know thru bowling. I’ll pass the word on. And I did get your list–it’s longer than mine. Best,Jake
June 27, 2012 at 1:42 pm |
I remember Lorraine Bowl (it is long gone), bowling on two floors but the check in desk
was on the second floor. I don’t know how
they monitored the first floor. They had AMF
pin setters. I liked Brunswick, so I remember
this well.
July 2, 2012 at 5:24 pm |
Since I found the blog I find myself checking it out on a daily basis.
Your time and effort is appreciated by anyone who loves the sport of bowling
Thanks
August 8, 2012 at 1:33 am |
hello would like to know what was the official owners name of A & L bowling Centers in Chicago during the 1960s Are the owners still alive? need info by Aug. 8
August 8, 2012 at 7:41 am |
Brenda–
I don’t know. Maybe someone who reads this blog does.
–JRS
September 11, 2012 at 5:01 pm |
Jake: Thanks for the list of Bowling Centers in the 1960 yellow pages. I will update my list.
thanks,
Skip Justice
September 17, 2012 at 4:37 am |
Hi, I’m looking for information on a bowler named Vincent “bear tracks” Rice from Marquette, Michigan. He and his partner (I don’t know the name” had the world record score for a doubles tournament which took place sometime in the 30’s or 40’s. For years when you looked up bowling stats in almanacs their achievement was listed as the world record. 25 years ago when we would take our kids to a bookstore we would always check out the almanacs to show them their great grandfathers record. Now we can’t find it listed anywhere. Could you help us; I’m sure you have many old sports almanacs at your disposal. Thanks
September 26, 2012 at 1:21 pm |
Diane–
I’m sorry, but I can’t find anything on Vincent “Bear Tracks” Rice. But perhaps someone who reads this will be able to help you–it’s happened before.
–JRS
October 17, 2012 at 10:32 am |
I was wondering if anyone had a photo of the Bowlodrome Bowling Alley located at the corner of Broadview & West 25th St. In Cleveland Ohio. It opened in the mid 50’s and was one of the first with automatic pin setter. Later it was destroyed in a fire in the late 60’s. A newpaper photo of the fire would be good also. Also looking for any photos of Broadview Recreation a smaller bowling alley and pool hall located close by above the Broadview Theatre. I bowled at both in the late 50’s, early 60’s. Thanks for any help. Bob
October 17, 2012 at 12:11 pm |
Bob–
Sorry, I don’t have pictures of either place.
–JRS
October 30, 2012 at 4:36 pm |
Hi, I have some great pictures of the Milo -Wiesner Bowling alley located at 35th and Halsted when the building was just opened. I have pictures of the inside and outside of buidling. Let me know if you would like copies of these pictures (they were found in the walls of a building being torn down). Also I was wondering if I could use your TWO photos of Nap’s bowling alley (W.26th street) for a publication. Please let me know – thanks!
September 9, 2014 at 10:47 pm |
John, just found this website tonight and read that you have some photos of Milo-Wiesner Bowling Alley. I would love to see these photos. My Grandfather was the proprietor of Bowling Lanes and then became the proprietor of Milo-Wiesner until it closed. Did have some photos a while ago, but lost most of them in a flood. I would love to share them with my brothers and my family. My father worked there for many years and later became the proprietor of Palisade Lanes on 115th & Halsted.
September 9, 2014 at 11:03 pm
Lori–
Sorry to disappoint you, but I don’t have any pictures of Bowling Lanes or Milo Wiesner Recreation. I did run pictures of Milo Wiesner (the man) and of Palisade.
–JRS
November 14, 2012 at 9:42 am |
Back in the 60’s, at a house on the southeast side of Chicago (71st and Jeffery), there was an alley named Bryn Mawr Bowl. My family was trying to remember the name of a terrific bowler there with a great average and several 300 games to his credit. His first name was Johnny, and he was tall, slim, and red haired. Can you fill in his last name and any relevant stats? Thank You!
November 14, 2012 at 9:47 am |
I don’t know–but maybe somebody out there does. BTW, there’s a picture of Bryn Mawr Bowl in the category “OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.”
–JRS
December 10, 2012 at 11:31 am |
Hi Jake,
I’m working on a coffee table book about the history of my Chicago neighborhood, Avondale. Could we get permission to use your photo of Rainbo Lanes (https://bowlinghistory.wordpress.com/2011/01/19/raibo-lanes-chicago-bowling-alley/)? If so, would it be possible to re-scan the original at a higher, book-friendly resolution? In exchange we could offer a citation as well as a 1950s photo of the interior of Rainbo Lanes.
Regards,
Rob
December 10, 2012 at 6:33 pm |
Hi Jake,
I am looking for some info on Northwest Bowl that used to be on Milwaukee Ave. Any info you can give me on there would be greatly appreciated…..im looking for general info on the center, history etc. as well as any pictures if you have any.
June 8, 2013 at 3:57 pm |
Hi Dan,
I’m researching Northwest Bowl for a forthcoming book about the Avondale neighborhood, and came across two pictures which were taken about a decade ago before the sign was taken down. The building still stands today.
http://picturingchicago.com/index.php?option=com_g2bridge&view=gallery&Itemid=62&g2_itemId=151705
http://picturingchicago.com/index.php?option=com_g2bridge&view=gallery&Itemid=62&g2_itemId=151707
Also, I’ve been able to determine that it was built in the 1920s and was operating at least until the 1980s. In the 1920s, the directory listed the site as “Gorny, John jr. Billiards and Bowling.”
Let me know if you came up with anything in your research!
December 31, 2014 at 7:02 pm
Hello rtree,
Did you ever publish the book about Avondale? I am the current lessee of the building that used to be the Northwest Bowl. I would be interested in learning what you know about the history of the building.
Luke
March 16, 2015 at 7:51 am
Hi Luke,
Yes we did publish the book! It’s available here:
http://www.arcadiapublishing.com/9781467111188/Avondale-and-Chicagos-Polish-Village
The book (mostly a picture/caption format) featured photos of Bel-Bowl on Belmont and Northwest Bowl. I had some photos of Rainbo Bowl (Pulaski @ Diversey), but the publisher rejected them due to low resolution.
Unfortunately I didn’t uncover much more than I described above about Northwest Bowl. I know it was built some time between 1921 and 1928, and also found some Chicago Tribune display ads dating between 1950 and 1961.
We were talking about your building just yesterday at the first A Day In Avondale planning meeting… and hope your space can be part of this street festival.
January 7, 2013 at 11:30 pm |
Dear Dr. Jake: I live on the southeast side of the city in the Hegewisch neighborhood. As a kid I bowled at Penguin Lanes and then through my teen years and as an adult I bowled at Hegewisch Lanes. I bowled a 300 game at Hegewisch Lanes on the last pair – 15&16. Thanks for the great picture of the exteriors of both Penguin Lanes and Hegewisch Lanes! Do you, or anyone who reads your blog, have any pictures of the interior of Hegewisch Lanes? My E-mail address is mikeredsfan@sbcglobal.net if you (or they) would like to send them to me.
Also, have you ever heard of a down-in-the-basement bowling alley on 79th and Cheltenham Place? It was called Cheltenham Lanes and I bowled my very first game there when I was 4 years old! That’s when I fell in love with the game of bowling and I have grown to have a great passion and love for the sport. Even today I strive to respect the game everytime I roll a ball.
Your blog is great! One more thing – any information on Town & Country Bowl in Northlake and Super Bowl and Riviera Lanes in Melrose Park?
Thanks!
Sincerely, Mike Jones, Hegewisch, IL
January 8, 2013 at 7:22 am |
Mike–
Cheltenham Lanes was is business at least as early as 1938. The proprietor was Jerry Skovie, who later owned Pla-Mor at 79th and Jeffery, and who operated a well-known singles sweeper for years. Although I bowled there at least once, I don’t have any pictures of Cheltenham. Nor do I have anything on Super Bowl or Riviera Lanes, other than a matchbook. But perhaps some reader can share with both of us.
Last year I did an article about Hegewisch on my Chicago History blog. You can access it at
http://www.wbez.org/blogs/john-r-schmidt/2012-04/hegewisch-past-and-present-97835
I’ll be on the “Morning Shift” program on WBEZ (91.5 FM) this morning at about 9:45 talking Chicago history, including some bowling.
–JRS
January 8, 2013 at 9:52 am |
Thank you Mr. Schmidt for your comments and follow-up. Hegewisch is a great place to live – next time you visit our area I’ll host you for dinner and show you all my bowling memorabilia!
How about some information on some of the great bowling establishments in nearby northwest Indiana that are gone now. Townehouse Lanes in Whiting, IN, Stardust Bowl in Hammond, IN, Bowl-Era Lanes in Hammond, IN, and Pin Bowl Lanes in Hessville, IN to name a few. At one time bowling was a big deal in the Calumet region and that’s how I got most of my experience and knowledge of the game. I traveled all over the northwest Indiana area bowling in leagues and tournaments.
Mr. Schmidt, were you aware of these two “classic” leagues – the Burr Oak 5-Point Major and the Northwest Indiana Classic League? The 5-Point bowled at Burr Oak Bowl in Blue Island and the NWICL bowled at Plaza Lanes in Highland, IN. Both of these leagues featured the best bowlers in the region and I had the great privilege of bowling alongside names such as Don McCune, Gordy Baer, Bob Wronski, Jim Stefanich, Dave Norton, Steve Jaros, and many more outstanding bowlers and Hall of Famers. This experience further hieghtened my love of bowling and I learned volumes of information from these great competitors and sportsmen.
I just want to let you know I have old standing sheets from both of these leagues in my archives. If you would be interested in seeing them or using them on your website I will be happy to share them with you. Please let me know.
Ah, one more thing. Any information on the former Scottsdale Lanes in Burbank and the former Oak Lawn Bowl in Oak Lawn? Both of these houses were good places to bowl and my travels took me there many times.
Thanks again for your reply! Your blog is fantastic!
Mike Jones, Hegewisch, IL
January 8, 2013 at 11:05 am |
Dear Mr. Schmidt: Just heard you on the radio show! Great job! I love hearing about the old days of bowling. I am a veteran of 19 USBC Tournaments myself. You’ll be hitting the 50 mark in a few years! Congratulations!
I am very proud to say that in 1995 at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno, NV I bowled a 300 game in the team event of the the then American Bowling Congress National Tournament! That was the greatest moment of my life on the lanes.
I just wanted to mention that if you happen to be looking for a bowler to join your group for national tournament this year or in the future please consider me – I’m not connected with a group right now and I would welcome the chance to bowl nationals once again. I love national tournament! My telephone number is 773-646-3462 if you want to reach me and you obviously have my E-mail address.
Thanks! Again, great job on the radio and great job on the blog!
Mike Jones, Hegewisch, IL
January 8, 2013 at 11:56 am |
Bob Wronski, Dave Kappel deserve to be in the Illinois Hall of Fame. Maybe this year.
January 8, 2013 at 12:04 pm |
Skip – you are right! How could I fail to mention Dave Kappel and Dennis Campbell? Also Al Bruder. As I remember the guys’ names I bowled with in the classic leagues I’ll list them.
January 8, 2013 at 12:12 pm |
Mike: I see Dennis Campbell at the Hall of Fame Dinner Every year.
Other great names Alfie Cohn, Rich Supanich, Mike Steinbach, Therm Davis, Bob Mills, Fred Hansen, Jerry Edwards.
January 8, 2013 at 12:17 pm |
Once again Skip you’re right on the money. Let’s not forget about Bill Slateritz and Tony Babs and Rick Sajek and Jim Kontos. I have an old standings sheet from the Burr Oak 5-Point Classic League. Reading the list of bowlers’ names is like reading a bolwing All-Star roster!
January 9, 2013 at 12:10 am |
Hi Dr. Jake,
I grew up in Chicago and lived in Albany Park my first 20 yrs. On of my favorite places to bowl was The ALBA Bowling alley, Alba Bowling Lanes, 4814 N. Kedzie Ave., I bowled all over Chicago including Marina City when they opened. Do you have any pictures of the Alba Bowling alley or have any recollections or it.
January 9, 2013 at 7:15 am |
Arnie–
I don’t remember Alba Bowling Lanes. The only thing I remember on the 4800-north block of Kedzie is the original Bagel Restaurant.
–JRS
January 9, 2013 at 1:28 pm |
I worked at Alba Bowl while attending Roosevelt High School. The owners were Herman & Abe Drucker. I recall 2 counter ladies – Dorothy and Eunice. The resident AMF mechanic (who trained me) was Arthur O. Vetter… who was in his 70s Across the east-west alley upon which it bordered was the original Bagel Restaurant which had about 8-10 counter stools and 2 small narrow tables opposite the counter. Across the street on the east side of Kedzie was the Hollywood Skating Ring. I also worked at Rolaway on Pulaski (building gone), Drake Bowl on Montrose (building gone), Leland Bowling & Billiards on Kedzie (building gone), Lawrence-Western Lanes (building gone).
February 15, 2013 at 10:59 pm |
Hi Everyone,
I am trying VERY HARD to find out if there was a bowling alley in Rogers Park at Howard & Clark or anywhere in Evanston sometime around 1935-1940’s? I am working on a school project/missing piece to a family puzzle. Thanks in advance to everyone.
February 16, 2013 at 8:52 am |
The original Howard Recreation had bowling alleys, and was listed at 7629 N Paulina St in 1938. Later, starting in the 1950s, there was Howard Bowl, 1777 W Howard St. There’s a 1975 picture of this one under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.
–JRS
March 7, 2013 at 10:45 am |
Hello Dr. Jake – we love your blog over here at the International Art of Bowling. Is there an email where we could contact you about possibly using (of course we would credit your blog) some of your images?
March 7, 2013 at 2:39 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake, thanks for putting all this great information together. I’m looking for any and all information on Gerry Anderson of Moline, IL. Married into the family and have heard countless stories about how great he really was. I’ve found 1 picture on your site from an All-Star in the 40’s just curious if you have any other resources for information or any other places to look. Thanks.
March 13, 2013 at 1:55 pm |
Dr. Jake,
I want to thank you for having the standings to the BPAA All-Star prior to the name change to the US Open. I have been attempting to find these scores for a project I am doing on my blog determining who is the greatest All-Star/US Open bowler in history. There are a few things I wanted to know about before moving ahead. If you have the time, send me a reply to my email and I’ll be happy to share what I am looking for. Many thanks!
March 30, 2013 at 4:22 pm |
Dr. Jake –
I’m an author and screenwriter from Chicago living and working in Los Angeles and I’m currently finishing my first novel. I’ve always found historical accuracy to be neglected in Hollywood depictions of Chitown, thus I’m compelled to always do my city justice. In my story, a climax takes place in a south side bowling alley in 1952. I knew it would have to be one that was bustling and also amenable to black Chicagoans of that era playing and working in its confines. As you can imagine, getting that right would be a task.
Then Google brought me to your blog and I find a treasure trove of well organized historical data on all things bowling in Chicago. I can’t thank you enough. Bowling was a part of my upbringing in Chicago and I still get out and roll at least monthly. Not only did your work take me waaaaaay back, but it’s value to my writing is tremendous.
With gratitude,
Danny Gardner
April 1, 2013 at 3:02 pm |
Danny–
Thanks for the kind words–I’m glad my work could help you. I assume the bowling alley you picked was Ritz Bowl at 4320 S. Indiana Ave, in the same neighborhood as the original Checkerboard Lounge. I have a yellow-page listing from about 1958 that says Ritz is air-conditioned and open 24 hours; I don’t know if it was there in 1952.
BTW, for more on Chicago History in general, check out my WBEZ blog:http://www.wbez.org/tags/chicago-history
Best,
JRS
April 13, 2013 at 6:33 am |
Does anyone know when clark wilson rec 4533 n clark st, Chicago closed?
Thanks,
Ralph
April 14, 2013 at 12:17 am |
hello Jake – just went through your massive history of Chicago bowling – fantastic. Dan Marazzo on12/10/12 asked about Northwest Bowl on Milwaukee – one of the guys I bowl with said he and another friend went up there about 5 months ago and said everything is there but would need a ton of work and money to bring it back – only problem in that neighborhood is no parking. will come back often now that I know where you are at – I printed out a number of pictures of old timers I bowled against or with back in the early 60’s – will pass them on to interested – now old time bowlers-thanks for all of your work putting this together
June 8, 2013 at 4:03 pm |
Hi Ron,
I’m co-authoring a book about Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood for Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series. The book includes a short section on bowling alleys, and I’d love to see your photos of Northwest Bowl if you’re willing to share them. The only other photos I’ve come across so far are the two I posted below Dan’s comment.
Rob
April 14, 2013 at 12:22 am |
you asked for a confirmation – would like to do it but your site won’t accept my effort – I am using IE10 – could that create a problem
April 21, 2013 at 4:49 pm |
Hi : I’m trying to find Any photo’s of ? or Anything? for “G&L ” Bowling Alley, that was on the West side of Chicago, was located at Chicago Ave. & Pulaski , Please get back to me,
Thank You
April 21, 2013 at 6:36 pm |
Riki–
I’m sorry. I bowled at G&L a few times in high school, but never took any pictures. Maybe someone else will read this, and send some.
–JRS
May 14, 2013 at 11:46 am |
Hello,
I left this in another spot here as I am new to this:
I am looking for information and photos of The North End Bowling Club 244 W Willow in Chicago. The building has been The Menomonee Club for Boys and Girls since 1950 but it is still the original 2 lane bowling alley structure built in 1891.
Any photos would be appreciated.
NB
May 14, 2013 at 1:42 pm |
Neal–
I don’t have any pictures of the North End Bowling Club. Perhaps someone else who reads this will.
–JRS
May 14, 2013 at 2:10 pm |
Thank you,
Perhaps someone can help.
NB
June 28, 2013 at 2:24 pm |
Neal, did you try posting something about this in the Forgotten Chicago Form?
October 1, 2013 at 9:33 am |
Dr. Jake – I had to let you know that I was in Chicago on Sunday, Sept 22nd for a Cubbies game at Wrigley Field (dont ask who won!) and then afterwards met up with a friend of a friend at the Southport Lanes and Billiards at 3325 N Southport Ave. Don’t know if you are familiar with this place but they have 4 alleys of bowling WITH PINBOYS! To make it even better for this New Englander, we bowled candlepins! On request, they will set up the candlepins instead of the tenpins. This place is unbelievable as I felt like I was back in a timewarp to the 20’s and 30’s. Old bar… old billiards room… old bowling lanes… and a very comfortable neighborhood. Hope you are aware of this establisment and if not, hope you’re able to find the time to check it out! – Bill Whyte
October 3, 2013 at 8:07 am |
Bill– I know Southport Lanes very well. I bowled there many times in the 1970s, when any bowling alley with pinboys was considered an old dump, and not retro-chic. As for candlepins, Congress Arcade tried them for a few years on their top floor–they even had automatic candlepin setters they’d purchased from a defunct establishment in Massachusetts. I liked candlepins, but most Chicagoans obviously didn’t, so that particular experiment died.
October 3, 2013 at 11:45 am |
Dr. Jake – I have a quick question. I am our local bowling historian (Dayton, Ohio). I am a huge fan of Tom Zavakos. I found an article where he won a local tournament (even though he was living in Richmond, Ind at the time). By winning this tournament he represented our area in the Chicago Tribune National Finals. They were to be bowled in late November 1947. My question to you, have you ever heard of this tournament and is there any chance that you may have seen any results for this year?
I really enjoy your blog!!
October 20, 2013 at 1:24 pm |
Dan–
Sorry for the tardy reply. I don’t have any specific information for you. The All-Star Tournament had a certain number of bowlers who were automatically seeded into the field in Chicago; others had to qualify at regional sites. When Dick Hoover won the All-Star in 1950-51 he was living in Akron. But before he got into the field, he had to bowl his qualifier in Cleveland. (In the TV commentary, Fred Wolf identifies Hoover as representing Cleveland.) This is probably what happened to Zavakos–even though he was living somewhere else, he had to qualify at a regional site like Dayton.
–JRS
November 7, 2013 at 4:26 pm |
Hi Mr. Schmidt – you have a photo of Schueneman’s Billiards & Bowling – it’s in Logan Square in Chicago. We’re doing a photo exhibit of our neighborhood and would love a copy – can we discuss over email?
December 18, 2013 at 3:46 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake,
We established a long overdue Hall of Fame last year in Fremont, Ohio and had Jeff and Kathy Lizzi as our guest speakers. We inducted 14 members last year in an effort to catch up.
Do you do any guest speaking? We’d love to hear about the past times of bowling etc.
December 31, 2013 at 11:01 am |
Happy New Year J.R.
After seeing that you posted Irving Parks Lanes closed, that there are only around 13 bowling alleys left in Chicago. Not the suburbs, just Chicago. Is this true? I can think of only two bowling alleys north of Irving Park in Chicago, Habetler and Lincoln Square. Timber Lanes is on Irving Park but the south side of the street! LOL. What happen to bowling in this city? This sport has just about died in this town.
I hope you and your family have a Happy New Year along with everyone else out there!
December 31, 2013 at 11:25 am |
Ralph– Edison Park Bowl on the far NW Side is still open. (Some years ago, my wife and I celebrated our 25th anniversary there with a bowling party, followed up with catering from Superdawg.) Also in the city–but south of Irving Park–there’s Waveland, Diversey-River, Mont Clare, Fireside, Southport, UIC, Lawn, Skyway, Bluebird (Laredo), New Halsted (Cedar Park). You also have the various 10-Pin lounges at Marina City and elsewhere, which you may or may not count. Those are the only bowling alleys within the city limits that I can think of at the moment. So what happened to all the houses in the city? What’s happened in Chicago is what’s happened in other cities. My own thought is that the industry hasn’t effectively promoted competitive bowling for decades, so there are fewer young bowlers coming up who want to join leagues. And the few bowlers who do want to improve don’t have to spend money on practicing, when they can simply buy an arsenal of different balls. More money for the manufacturers and pro shops, but less open-play money for the proprietors.
–JRS
December 31, 2013 at 10:29 pm |
My uncle bowled in what they called the “Classic League” (?) in Chicago. I believe he used to bowl at the alleys that were on Broadway near Foster Avenue (it eventually became a Treasure Island food store). He also bowled in an alley that was on Devon ave, west of Western ave. This would have been in the 50’s 60’s time frame. His name was Hank Baskin. Maybe also known as Bill Churchill. Wondering if there was any info out there that may have referred to him in regards to bowling. I was told he was a very good bowler.
December 31, 2013 at 10:33 pm |
The bowling alley you’re talking about on Broadway had the most unoriginal name in Chicago–Bowling Lanes. The place on Devon was called Bud Schaibly Bowl during the 1970s.
–JRS
September 9, 2014 at 11:12 pm
J.R. I have a photo of Bowling Lanes. My Grandfather, Ralph Olsen, was the proprietor. I would be happy to send this photo to you for you blog on old Bowling Alleys. Just let me know.
January 6, 2014 at 7:29 pm |
Does anyone have info on d d Jacobson? Her full name was Doris dale Jacobson and she came from Barnsdall, ok. Her parents, Doris and Ed dale we’re close friends of my moms parents. They played bridge together. My mom,, Madeline route Beardsley, went to school with her, my mom was three years older. I never knew d d was a bowler till we visited mrs. Dale in Barnsdall before she died and I saw her picture on a shelf. Mrs. Dale had never said she was a bowler. I have bowled since 1962. And had heard of her but did not know my mom knew her. Does anyone know if she had children and where they live? I would like to get in touch with them. My mom died in 1998. Carol Ann Beardsley Martin p o box 264 Christine Tx 78012 . Thanks for the info.
January 6, 2014 at 7:30 pm |
Leave me an e mail.
January 18, 2014 at 11:50 am |
I used to bowl at an alley on west North Ave in Chicago in the mid sixties somewhere on the 2500 to 2700 block, north side of street. I believe it was called North Bowl. I see it on your list. Can you confirm?
January 18, 2014 at 12:16 pm |
North Bowl was a second-floor place at 2606 West North Avenue, and was one of the houses I bowled in with the teenage traveling league in 1964-65. What I remember about North Bowl is that the owner kept a large dog right on the premises.
–JRS
February 7, 2014 at 4:54 pm
Northwest Traveling League bowled there
on Sat nites. Also @ Karlov &Timber. Can’t remember the other 5 houses
February 7, 2014 at 5:11 pm
Frank– I have a 1963 copy of the Chicago Bowler that notes league action at Monte Cristo Bowl , Cragin Bowl, Northwest Bowl, and North Bowl. There might have been other houses in the league then, but they’re not mentioned.
January 18, 2014 at 4:36 pm |
I’ve got a question for you. My great aunt, Sylvia Fanta, was a good bowler (2nd in the All-Star in 1955 and bowled on the Falstaff team during that era), and my understanding is that she and my great uncle Laddie owned a bar with 4 lanes somewhere in Chicago at that time.
Would you have any idea of the name and address of that house?
January 18, 2014 at 5:40 pm |
Does anyone have any information about this?
–JRS
January 20, 2014 at 1:49 pm |
There is a picture of her on the bowling team posted here.
January 21, 2014 at 6:55 pm
Yes, I had seen the team picture, that’s why I posted the question. Thanks. I dug out a little more info from my mother about this, so I need to correct one item and add an address.
The place I’m wondering about (they actually bought a different place further north later on) had only 3 lanes and was located near 26th and Tripp. Sounds like a drugstore may have been on the corner, with the bar and lanes next door. With only 3 lanes it was strictly a neighborhood place, and therefore obscure. This would have been during the 1940’s and probably into the 1950’s. Their serious bowling was done at Windy City.
January 22, 2014 at 2:58 pm
Mike,
There was a bowling alley about six blocks east on 26th Street called Chicago Recreation, 3937 West 26th Street. It fits the description you gave (one door off the corner with a store front next to it on the corner) except that the building front looks bigger than a three lane house with a bar unless it was divided up back then or had pool tables in it. Sorry, I am not a south side person Mike. If I find anything I will post it and let you know.
January 20, 2014 at 10:17 am |
not sure if this is the answer but… Southpart Lanes in Chicago is a bar with 4 lanes and a billiards parlor… located on 3325 North Southport… still has pinboys… also will set up candlepins on request… definitely worth checking out…
January 20, 2014 at 5:08 pm |
I came across this while looking for a name of a small bowling alley at Clark Street and Bryn Mar for Mike, (above). It was at 5556 North Clark Street. The name was Hellgeth’s Tavern & Bowling Alley. The name Russ Robertson is associated with this place. I found this in The Saint Gregory Story. They were one of the contributors to the church in 1954.
I also found that this place was named Faetz Bowling Alley at one time according to the Edgewater Historical Society.
“The building at the southwest corner of Bryn Mawr and Clark (now the Salvation Army resale store) was Faetz Bowling Alley. Faetz later sold to Hellgeth and opened the Faetz Niesen Bowling Lanes on Ridge west of Clark, which was the site of the first televised bowling competition.”
This article was from 1994. The building is still there but it has been divided up into smaller business along Bryn Mar Ave. around 1988.
I don’t know how many lanes were there. I always thought it was four lanes or six. Mike, does these names and places mean anything to you?
I at least now know the name of this bowling alley. I have been wondering about this for some time.
January 20, 2014 at 5:48 pm |
Ralph–
In 1917 Bowlers Journal carried ads for Faetz’s Alleys at 5556 North Clark Street; the ad says “six new alleys.” When the ABC Tournament came to Chicago in 1938, the BPA-GC ad identifies Faetz as the proprietor of Bryn Mawr Recreation, presumably the same place. Faetz moved to Ridge Avenue in 1939, taking over an abandoned dry-cleaning plant. The alleys he installed there came from the 1939 ABC Tournament.
–JRS
January 22, 2014 at 1:32 pm
Thank you J.R.
January 20, 2014 at 9:37 pm |
Hi J.R.- I just recently became aware of your blog. I applaud you and thank you. I started reading posts at the beginning (Oct 2009) and came across a post from Jerry Lippe (May 2012) requesting information about his father, Harry. I bowled the ABC tournament with him in Dayton (1975) and Oklahoma City (1976), and have our team photos. How would I go about getting copies to him/you?
January 26, 2014 at 3:11 pm |
i’m desperate to find a picture inside or out of a 16 lane house on Irving Park Road in Norridge down the street from Rolling Stone record store. Can’t remember the name. May have been Norridge lanes?
January 26, 2014 at 3:23 pm |
Bob–
It has to be Norridge Lanes. And I never bothered to take a picture, even though I bowled there a few times–I guess I thought the place would always be around. Can anyone else help?
–JRS
January 27, 2014 at 1:34 pm |
Check with the Norridge Historical Society. Maybe they would have pictures.
January 26, 2014 at 3:29 pm |
No pictures of Norridge Lanes. But i do have a copy of the Norridge Singles prize list from 1974, Great names on this list.
Skip
February 12, 2014 at 12:30 am |
Hi J.R.
I just got done reading you article on the 5-7-10 split. I too have left it a few times, but that was probably 40 or more years ago. You mentioned having left it at the Bowlium in 1964. I bowled in leagues at the Bowlium from 1954 (Bantam) until the early 1970’s. I was even lucky enough to keep score when the Pro Tour came to the Bowlium in either 1962 or 1963. I got to meet many of the great bowlers of the era — Dick Weber, Carmen Salvino, Buddy Bomar, to name a few. I have a lot of great memories of the Bowlium. Thanks for bringing them back.
February 12, 2014 at 8:52 am |
Larry–
You’re welcome. There are also a few exterior shots of The Bowlium in the archive. Check on “OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS” and scroll.
–JRS
February 21, 2014 at 4:32 pm |
what is the name of bowling alley on stony island ave. on the second floor,which burned down in the sixties ?
February 21, 2014 at 5:18 pm |
Leigh–
Crest Recreation was at 6722 South Stony Island Avenue, but I don’t know if this is the place you mean.
–JRS
March 1, 2014 at 7:08 pm |
Dr Jake I’m researching bowling in the Greater Seattle area, and I’ve been reading scrapbooks compiled by the former women’s association. These date back to the 1920s. i’ve seen multiple references in the newspaper stories and headlines that use “drives” as a synonym for lanes or alleys. I’ve even seen drives used on King County (Greater Seattle) tax records. Do you know any of the history of this? Everone I’ve asked has no idea. I’ve posted on a couple of other bowling blogs and gotten no responses at all. Drives?
March 1, 2014 at 8:45 pm |
Scott–
I’ve seen the term “drive” used in the The Bowler’s Journal (New York) as early as 1899. This word seems to have been used interchangeably with “alley,” though the latter term was always more popular. During the 1940s, when proprietors wanted to give the game some class, they began substituting “lane.” So we have drive, or alley, or lane. All three words originally referred to the same thing–minor urban thoroughfares. Evidently, that’s what early bowlers thought their 60’x42″ playing surface looked like.
–JRS
March 2, 2014 at 5:58 pm |
Dr Jake Thanks, I very much appreciate your reply. Scott
May 22, 2014 at 2:36 pm |
I have some old team pictures that I would like to know about their history and the names of the bowlers.
May 22, 2014 at 3:51 pm |
Jay–
Email me one as an attachment, and I’ll see what I can do.
–JRS
May 25, 2014 at 3:42 pm |
Hello…..looking for the name of a bowling alley on Third Avenue in the 80th-90th street area of Manhattan in NYC pre 1970. It was closed around that time. Thank you for any assistance. Be well. Joe
May 28, 2014 at 5:31 pm |
Hello, I am hoping to find some old pics of a particular bowler (my uncle) who was active from 1960’s thru 1990s.. The bowler’s name is Fred Hansen. My uncle was a big guy, and I remember wondering why newspaper cutouts would refer to him as rotund.. Anyways, quite a few of his photos were destroyed in a basement flood at my parent’s house, and I thought to turn to the internet and see if anyone has any pics of him in an old scrapbook! I would really love to have copies- even scanned images would be appreciated! Thank you so much for any assistance you might be able to offer!
May 28, 2014 at 6:44 pm |
Mandie–
I bowled against Freddie in the North End, but I don’t know if I have any pictures of him. Perhaps someone else does.
–JRS
May 29, 2014 at 10:27 am |
Thanks so much for the response! I figure that a site like this is exactly where I need to ask! 🙂
July 7, 2014 at 6:27 am |
In 1967 or 1968 I remember as a kid walking several times past a burnt down bowling alley. The lot was almost leveled but you could still see lanes and even some burnt pins. It smelled strongly of waterlogged charcoalI think it was on the NE corner of Devon and Bell Ave. I haven’t located any info about it.
July 8, 2014 at 5:41 am |
I never bowled there, but I believe this place was called Let’s Go Bowl.
–JRS
July 8, 2014 at 1:35 pm |
I read this in a New York paper. Didn’t the PBA tour play here back in the 1980’s?
Bowlmor Lanes, city’s oldest bowling alley, closes after 76-year run in Union Square. The beloved bowling center, opened during bowling’s golden age, closed Monday night. Now it will reportedly become luxury condos.
July 11, 2014 at 12:23 pm |
What happened to Johnny King? Wy did his career just fade away in the 60’s? Does anyone have a brief bio or know where he’s buried?
July 11, 2014 at 2:53 pm |
Ethan–
I wrote an article on Johnny King in the May 2011 issue of Bowlers Journal. At the time, I didn’t know what had happened to him, and neither did anyone else I contacted. I later found out that he had died in Boca Raton (Florida) on 12 March 1998. The info came from the Social Security Death Index, where he’s listed under his formal name–Howard P. King.
–JRS
July 11, 2014 at 3:17 pm |
Who won the most bowling matches between Johnny King and Eddie Lubanski?
July 18, 2014 at 1:50 am |
Anybody remeber Ravenswood Lanes on the north side of Lawrence Avenue near Damen on the second floor? It was one of the stops for the North End Traveling and had pinboys well well into the 1960’s! Many Saturday nights were spent there with a couple of friends. We used to get “a pair” and roll 10-15 games each using tournament style rotation. what about tipping the pinboys?? Did anyone else ever “put a fiver” rolled up in the thumbhole of their ball after our competition to show out spotter whow much we appreciated his hard work?
July 23, 2014 at 5:18 pm |
Hi J.R.
I just purchase about 30 different Chicago Bowling Alley matchbook covers – 1940’s/1950’s (also about 10 Chicago Suburban ones). If you’re interested, I could scan them and send them to you.
July 24, 2014 at 11:35 am |
Hi,
Not sure if this will get to you or not.
I am the executive Director of The Menomonee Club for Boys and Girls in Old Town.
Our Clubhouse at 244 W Willow was originally The North End Bowling Club built in 1891 as a 2 lane Bowling alley operating until 1950. The photo I attached is from The Chicago History Museum form 1950.
The building looks exactly the same outside now and today we ripped up the old carpet to install laminate floor and you can see some vestige of the original lanes. Photo attached.
We have no interior photos and do not know of any.
After some research I think perhaps it is the oldest or close to the oldest free standing built originally for bowling structure in the USA?
Neal Bader
Executive Director
The Menomonee Club
312-664-4631 ext 106
July 26, 2014 at 10:35 pm |
Hi J.R. Do you or anyone have any information on Lincoln Lanes? I believe that is the correct name, but could be wrong. It was where I first learnd to bowl in the late 1940’s. They were located on the second floor on the Northwest corner of Roscoe and Lincoln in Chicago of course.
August 1, 2014 at 1:16 pm |
Ron–
Sorry, but the only thing I have on Lincoln Lanes is a 1958 phone book listing–3410 N. Lincoln Ave, WEllington 5-5530. There’s been a vacant lot on that corner from some time now.
–JRS
August 1, 2014 at 6:56 pm |
Do you maybe mean Lincoln Square Lanes? That was also on Lincoln but as I recall, closer to Western Ave. It also was a second floor house.
August 1, 2014 at 7:14 pm |
Tom–
Lincoln Square is still in business at 4874 N. Lincoln Ave. I believe that it was recently renovated by new owners.
–JRS
August 1, 2014 at 7:20 pm
Thanks for the quick reply. I moved out of the Chicago area 4 years ago (to Arizona) and have been away from “the north side” for over 40 years having moved to the ‘burbs after high school. (Lane Tech class of ’59), but I remember it being there. Back in the late 50’s I used to bowl at Lawrence-Western Bowl. Is it still there?
August 1, 2014 at 8:46 pm
Lawrence-Western is long gone. There’s a picture of it–along with many other defunct houses–in the OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS category.
–JRS
August 5, 2014 at 2:06 pm |
Tom, I am not confusing Lincoln Square Lanes with Lincoln Lanes as I bowled at both of them and also at L/W. I believe we are the same age as I graduated from Amundsen in ’59 and it is possible we were bowling at LS or LW at the same time, I believe the manager’s name at LW was Bill something and I seem to recall a kid with the last name of Renolyds who had red hair who thought he was a very good bowler. There have been many old Bowling Alleys mentioned on this site, but Lincoln Lanes seems to be lost to history.
August 5, 2014 at 2:16 pm |
Lincoln Lanes 3410 n Lincoln.
August 6, 2014 at 2:39 am |
Hi Ron. I just threw out Lincoln Square as it happened to be one that I was familiar with though I never bowled there. I remember Bill the manager at L/W well. He was good to us as he liked kids and seeing them bowl. As to L/W . . that was Bob Reynolds. It was always nice to let think he was good . . but even better to beat his team. If you bowled in that league, do you remember Jimmy Lindskog? He was a skinny blonde left hander that must have had some great potential when he got a bit older. It does seem we are about the same age. This is one of the times I wish I was still in the midwest so we could talk. Thanks for reminding me of some of those long buried in my mind good times
August 6, 2014 at 10:54 pm
You might be interested in this. The TV show Restaurant Impossible remade an 85 year old bowling alley/restaurant in Patterson, New Jersey on tonight’s episode. It was called Paul’s Bar Bowling.
Loren Argall Huntley, Illinois
Sent from my iPhone.
>
August 6, 2014 at 7:21 am |
Tom, I don’t remember Jimmy and I agree Bill was a great guy to us kids. Did my league bowling at Bowling Lanes (Foster and Broadway). LOL, I’m not in the Midwest either as we moved to SW Floradia in the “90s and still bowl in three leagues here. What did you do for a living and where exactly did you live? I lived near Lincoln and Addison till we moved in ’54 to the Lincoln-California area and that’s when I started to bowl at L/W and L/SQ.
August 6, 2014 at 7:23 am |
Skip, All anyone seems to know about Lincoln Lanes is the address.
August 12, 2014 at 10:02 am |
Regarding championship bowling, who won the most Johnny King or Eddie Lubanski?
August 12, 2014 at 10:51 am |
Ethan–
I have no idea about those results on the syndicated “Championship Bowling” show. Of course, on the two series out of Faetz-Niesen–the local Chicago “Championship Bowling” and the syndicated “Bowling Stars”–King beat just about anyone.
–JRS
October 20, 2014 at 11:50 pm
Steve Nagy was a good bowler. Saw him beat his bowling ball with his belt one night. Ned Day, Carmen Salvino,
August 18, 2014 at 11:13 am |
Hello Dr. Jake,
I wanted to let you know I used a picture of yours in one of my Etsy listings. I did give you credit at the end of the description.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/200319216/vintage-50s-hilton-single-needle-sleeve?
thanks,
Sarah
August 18, 2014 at 11:51 am |
No problem!
–JRS
September 6, 2014 at 11:37 am |
I had one of these red Hilton shirts way back. Except mine sponsor was Marie’s Riptide Lounge which closed last year in August.
September 1, 2014 at 5:43 pm |
Does the “Historical Dictionary of Bowling” including PBA scoring averages of bowlers by season?
September 4, 2014 at 4:10 pm |
Those stats are in the annual PBA guide.
–JRS
September 5, 2014 at 8:39 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake: I’m not sure if you’ve ever run across this website (Holiday Bowl History Project) or not, but either way, I think it’s well worth your reader’s time (yours as well if you’ve never seen it) to take a look. Holiday Bowl was just west of USC and the Los Angeles Coliseum. http://www.holidaybowlcrenshaw.com/
September 21, 2014 at 7:16 pm |
I was in several ABC Tournaments throughout the years. in particular, im interested in the OK City 1976 tourn. I was as high as 6th in the singles with not long to go. I lost the prize lists and patches I bought there and want to find out where I finished in the singles. I remember 15th nut not sure.
any help is apprecoated.
Ray
September 21, 2014 at 9:32 pm |
Ray Yocum 15th in all – events 1963
October 14, 2014 at 6:39 pm |
Dear Mr. Schmidt: Can you please tell me if you know – which bowling center within the city limits of Chicago was the first to have a complete installation of automatic pinsetters?
Thank you! Love your blog!
October 14, 2014 at 7:13 pm |
That’s a good question. I’ve heard that the first Chicago automatics were installed at Rolaway Recreation (4840 N Pulaski Rd), but I can’t vouch for that. I’ll have to do further research.
–JRS
October 14, 2014 at 7:28 pm |
Thank you Mr. Schmidt! I appreciate the response. Through your blog I have become very interested in the history of bowling in the Chicago area.
October 20, 2014 at 5:24 am |
Dear Dr. Schmidt: First off, I want to say that I absolutely love this blog to no end. It’s a great historical resource for those of us who loved the great sport of bowling, and it’s cultural impact across the USA.
I was wondering if there was an establishment called “Tower Lanes” in the Chicago area? I know they were an AMF establishment, and may have been on Tower Road in the 1960s. Any information that you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
October 20, 2014 at 7:08 am |
R–
Thanks for the writing. I don’t have a record of a Tower Lanes. Perhaps you’re thinking of Evergreen Towers Bowl, which operated at 2535 West 95th Street in Evergreen Park from the 1940s until the late 1990s or so. I posted an artist’s rendering of the exterior under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.
–JRS
October 21, 2014 at 11:31 am |
R-
Could it have been “Timber Lanes” on Irving Park Road that you were thinking of? They were an eight lane, AMF house.
October 22, 2014 at 10:54 pm
No. I have a photograph of the roadway sign in front of the establishment, and the sign clearly says “Tower Lanes.” It’s circa 1958-1959, and was shot at night.
October 20, 2014 at 7:45 pm |
Jake…am interested in finding more on grand central bowl on glendale.cal..orany videos from that c enter also they had some big time pot games which i kept score for as a teenager and lastly they had 10 game marathon tournaments in which my dad was a finalist and they filmed it and shown on t.v i was hoping you can get some footage from it thank you..
October 20, 2014 at 9:24 pm |
Michael–
I don’t have anything on Grand Central bowl, but maybe someone who reads this will.
–JRS
October 20, 2014 at 9:55 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake and Michael Olmos:
Here is some information on the development of Grand Central. It was located near the boundary between Burbank and Glendale. If I recall correctly, there were 64 lanes, 32 to each side. The exterior stood in as the site for Jack Rabbit Slim’s restaurant in Pulp Fiction.
Bowling central in Glendale
By Katherine Yamada | August 23, 2011
Glendale’s Grand Central Airport closed down in the 1950s, and eventually the property was developed as a business park called the Grand Central Industrial Center. One of the new buildings was Grand Central Bowl, a $1-million project at the corner of Sonora Avenue and Flower Street. The bowling alley, designed by William Rudolph of Pasadena, was developed in mid-1959 by Sports Arenas Inc., according to the Los Angeles Times, May 31, 1959. It included a restaurant and cocktail lounge, coffee shop and children’s playroom.
I learned how to bowl, and later worked at, Pickwick Bowl in Burbank which was not too far away. I don’t recall any filming of tournaments at Grand Central, but given it’s location and size, I would not be surprised if there were some footage someplace.
Good luck Michael. From my end, I’ll see what I can track down.
October 21, 2014 at 10:25 am |
Thanks! I have lots of knowledgeable readers out there.
–JRS
October 20, 2014 at 11:42 pm |
A few memories here. Saw Don Carter and his Budweiser team at Gateway early 60s.
Bowled in NW Traveling League in the ‘ 60s.
Sportsmans, Evergreen , Karlov, Monte Cristo lanes. Forgot a few.
Started as pinsetter 1950, 10 years old at Axel Anderson ‘s 4 lane establishment (Cortland and Kedzie).
Game was great back then. Can ‘t say that about today’s rollers.
Thanks.
JS
Germantown TN
October 21, 2014 at 10:27 am |
John–
I think Northwest Bowl (on Milwaukee Avenue) was also in the NW Traveling League. While I never bowled in that league, I did win enough money in a tournament there one year to buy my fiancée an engagement ring.
–JRS
October 21, 2014 at 12:38 pm |
love this site,having grown up on south side and from bowling family..use to cut my friday afternoon classes and jus pick a road and bowl a few games at 3-or 4 centers with a good friend of mine..i have a list a mile long of places we bowled at…my grandfather worked and bowled at beverly bowl and also worked at bomars pro shop…i remember some of the big places like miami bowl…gage park…holiday bowl…..and some small centers like cicero bowl…berwyn rec….palace bowl….grand prix lanes…national bowling lanes..euclid bowl..el mar…i have quite a list that i will share in future…..what a great time in chicago bowling history
October 21, 2014 at 1:01 pm |
Boom Boom–
Thanks for writing. If you haven’t already done so, check out the pictures under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.
–JRS
October 21, 2014 at 1:09 pm
remember some of the centers on north avenue like town &country and riviera and the Super Bowl
October 21, 2014 at 1:55 pm |
NW Traveling on Sat nites- also Maple Lanes and North Bowl
October 21, 2014 at 3:24 pm |
greater chicago traveling league also on sat nites…north center bowl..manor bowl..argo bowl..palace manor…lawn lanes..remember bob mills and dutch hoffman were big guns in a league that bowled in some pretty tough houses
October 22, 2014 at 2:03 am |
NW Traveling League also bowled at Ravenswood Lanes, East of Damen on Lawrence, N side of the street 2nd Floor.
November 4, 2014 at 11:32 am |
Who had a better bowling record against each other: Ed Lubanski or Johnny King?
November 5, 2014 at 3:47 pm |
Ethan–
All around, Lubanski was definitely the better bowler. I don’t know if there’s any record of how they did head-to-head.
–JRS
November 5, 2014 at 2:27 pm |
Mr. Schmidt (Dr Jake)
Tim Brayman here again. Yesterday my wife and I were at an antique mall in the Toledo area. I found an awesome magazine called simply “Bowling Magazine” (covering ABC bowling from 1962) and was dated June 1962. It covered both the NBL (season’s final match) and the 1962 ABC Classics (an article discussing the ’62 results and even mentioning my dad’s performance in ’61) as well as final results of the tournament. My question: Would you have any idea where (or whom) would have past issues of this magazine? I would love to purchase a copy from 1961 and cannot find any information on this magazine.
November 5, 2014 at 3:45 pm |
Tim–
Bowling Magazine was published by ABC. I know that USBC cleared out most of their old files when they moved out of Milwaukee, but perhaps they still have some spare issues. I’d contact the USBC public relations person at Bowling Headquarters in Texas.
–JRS
November 5, 2014 at 2:46 pm |
Jake: I don’t have the Magazine. But i do have a copy of the 1961 Abc prize list. Bob Brayman won the classic all-events with 1963. It
lists the top 75 bowlers in each division. I would be glad to send a copy if it would help. Let Me know. Skip Justice.
November 5, 2014 at 3:42 pm |
Thanks, Skip. I’m sure Tim Brayman will see this, and let you know.
–JRS
November 5, 2014 at 3:53 pm
Thanks Jake.
December 11, 2014 at 4:31 pm |
Hi – My name is Brian Ehrle(ehrle@msn.com) and my father is Henry Ehrle(Hank). I’ve been reviewing with interest your records and recognize many of the bowlers. I grew up in Detroit. My dad had his own bowling show on the radio during the 30’s. He was the Sec-Treas of the Detroit Times All-Star Classic from the 30’s thru the early 50’s. He actually kept the Classic going during the War and my mother typed up all the scores every week including carbons for years. Dad held the franchise for the Coca Cola team all during his tenure. My dad turned in bowling stories to the papers and in those days the Detroit papers were full of bowling news. Dad would take one of us 3 boys to ABC Tournaments and I got to go with the team to Los Angeles in 1947. Phil Bauman, former Strohs bowler was our 6th man and drove with us. Coke rolled onto 9th place in the ABC.
Some of the team’s members were Steve Crucheon, Al Pasket, and Henry Gavie. I stopped bowling when we moved to Evergreen, CO west of Denver 40 years ago but they finally opened an alley recently
January 7, 2015 at 3:36 pm |
On this day,
1/7/1964 – Dick Weber rolls highest bowling game in air (Boeing 707) A promotion had him bowling the highest (altitude) game ever in “Operation AstroBowl,” which took place on a Boeing 707. This was a joint campaign for American Airlines’ Cargo Service. The aircraft used was an all-cargo Boeing 707 with a single AMF lane installed in the main cargo hold.
January 28, 2015 at 10:25 pm |
Hello. I stumbled upon your blog and WOW am I fascinated by it. I grew up in St.Louis one of the best bowling cities ever. I used to love watching my dad bowl in his weekly A-B league. Afterword we would get ice cream. We would never miss the Saturday telecast of the PBA tour on ABC. I never knew that Stein Bros bowl had the first carpeted concourse. I used to walk there after school and bowl. Such great history. Keep up the good work and hopefully someday I’ll come up to Chicago and check out an old alley.
January 28, 2015 at 11:31 pm |
Pat–
Thanks for your note. I’m glad you like the blog. The idea of a carpeted concourse was to make sure bowlers wouldn’t track water onto the approaches. Even if he hadn’t been a great bowler, that idea alone would have been enough to get Otto Stein into the Hall of Fame. Stein Brothers was also the place where Ray Bluth got his start, as a teenage pinboy.
–JRS
February 11, 2015 at 5:12 pm |
Hi there! I received a pin (inherited) from my Uncle. It is a brass or gold tone metal about 1 7/16″ of an inch. It is a pin or badge that reads:
ABC
39th Annual
Tournament
Cleveland Ohio
1939
I want to gift this to my son who is an avid bowler. Can you tell me anything about this?
Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Sincerely yours,
Christine
February 11, 2015 at 5:26 pm |
Christine–
What you have sounds like a souvenir that bowlers in the tournament could purchase. I don’t think it has much value, because very few people collect bowling memorabilia. Still, it could be a nifty gift for a dedicated bowler.
–JRS
March 13, 2015 at 5:01 pm |
Christine, I saw one of these pins on E-Bay for sale. The bid price was $3.99 and no takers on it. Here is a picture of it if anyone wants to see what it looked like!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ABC-39th-Annual-Bowling-Tournament-Cleveland-Ohio-1939-Brass-pin-/271752144397?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f45b0a60d&nma=true&si=cHiY7nOPrCjhXunaeYJ6gF5igvE%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
February 26, 2015 at 10:59 am |
Good Morning. Tell me alittle more about your site and blog. How many followers do you have?
My father past away 2 yrs agi from Alzheimers. The one thing he never lost the passion of bowling. Deemed professional and a competitive bowler after the War. He also started young. Bowled in High School for South Shore in 1942. I have many articles, clippings and Photos if early Leagues. He bowled in many tounaments and taught us all how to bowl even his great grandchildren.
I found your site because I was searching information on a league picture, early 1950 or late 1940, that both my father and Grand father was in. The Cheltenham Jr. majir League. I also have many of his patches.
March 13, 2015 at 7:10 pm |
Just found this in the Trib:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/elmwood-park/news/ct-elm-bowl-closing-tl-0319-20150313-story.html
March 13, 2015 at 7:15 pm |
I heard about this. Watch for Sunday’s post.
–JRS
March 20, 2015 at 11:20 am |
Regarding old Championship Bowling shows—they are now on DVD & are available to buy at $10 apiece. Not all matches are available though. Contact the Bowling Hall of Fame in Dallas & ask for Jessica Bell. My friend & I have ordered all that they have & the shipment is on its way here to Brooklyn. Most of what’s available are the later matches but they do have some earlier ones (no, not the Ace Calder match). Good luck if you want to check this out.
March 24, 2015 at 10:48 am |
Thanks, Frank. I’ve run across many bootleg “Championship Bowling” videos over the years–both VHS and DVD–so I’m glad that the Museum is finally selling copies from their own stash. The picture quality has got to be better.
–JRS
March 24, 2015 at 3:51 pm |
There’s a guy who calls himself “irishpogi” who has put up around 20 matches on YouTube & he also lives in the NYC area. Once we get what we’ve ordered, we’re going to see if he wants to borrow them for posting also. The HOF has supposedly upgraded the picture quality but we will see.
April 5, 2015 at 10:26 pm |
We’ve received the discs & they are quite good quality. There are some glitches (one match starts & ends before the bowlers come on camera, they sent us an Audsley-Ladewig match from Top Star Bowling for some unknown reason & a couple of other things). And they put 2 matches on some discs & one match on the rest but all in all, they look very good. We’re hoping they’ll come up with more stuff that we can purchase in the near future. And BTW, there’s now another guy calling himself “The Metro Bowler” who has posted 5 matches on YouTube as well but he’s posted more Top Star Bowling & I never saw that show in NYC. Comparing the two, Championship Bowling was a higher quality production even if the former did have the great Jack Buck at the mike. Fred Wolf was no slouch either.
April 6, 2015 at 2:58 am |
Sellers on eBay who have Brunswick Gold Crowns listed almost all say the ball contains 9 karat gold. (Where did they get 9 karats?) I know this isn’t true, but if I send a seller a message about it, they refuse to listen to me. Would you please state for the record, maybe even in Bowlers Journal if possible, that the Gold Crown has zero gold content? -Thanks!!
April 6, 2015 at 8:33 pm |
Larry–
You’re better off getting Brunswick to make a statement. That would have more clout.
–JRS
April 15, 2015 at 1:20 pm |
I just saw a new channel here in Chicago called Decades, free air channel 2.2 that shows that Celebrity Bowling (1971-78) is one of the feature programs of this network. I have no clue if or when it will air. I saw this channel also on Comcast 338.
April 15, 2015 at 1:34 pm |
Thanks–I’ll look for it.
–JRS
April 16, 2015 at 3:22 pm |
I was wondering when Brunswick made the Mineralite bowling ball? I have a two holed ball and I was wondering if you could tell the age of the ball based on the serial number on it?
April 16, 2015 at 5:18 pm |
Brunswick manufactured the Mineralite ball from about 1914 thru the mid-1950s, when the Black Beauty replaced it You’ll have to contact the company about the serial numbers.
–JRS
April 16, 2015 at 5:25 pm |
I wasn’t sure if that was possible to contact them or not.
April 16, 2015 at 5:47 pm |
It’s worth a try. They’re the only ones who’d have that information.
–JRS
April 16, 2015 at 6:40 pm |
That’s true. I wasn’t sure how cooperative they would be but I will give it a try. Thanks
April 16, 2015 at 7:15 pm |
Do you know when bowlers switched from a two holed ball to using three holes in the bowling ball?
April 17, 2015 at 8:34 am |
Hi Jake,
I am putting together a bowling museum on display at my friends bowling alley. I have some questions about old bowling balls and pins that maybe you could help me with later. But first I would like to know if it would be ok to download some of your pictures in your blog to use on my display? Do I have your permission to copy them? Thank you
April 17, 2015 at 11:26 am |
Ken–
You may certainly use any of the old bowling alley pictures that I took. All the rest of the pictures on my site should be public domain, so I don’t think there will be a problem using them on your display.
Best,
JRS
April 17, 2015 at 11:37 am |
Thank you
April 26, 2015 at 7:56 pm |
I recently purchased a small booklet where a bowler would record his scores in. I think it’s dated 1935. And one of the entries is for a Hoinke tournament. It shows an 874 series . I contacted the seller and she said she got it in an estate sale in Chicago. I was wondering if I sent you pictures of it, could you help me to find out more about this?
April 26, 2015 at 10:48 pm |
I’ll try. Send pictures to docjake300@hotmail.com
–JRS
May 7, 2015 at 1:17 pm |
I have a Pfeiffer bowling shirt from my grandpa, Eddie LaPointe. Curious if you have any photos of him. Thanks
May 7, 2015 at 4:51 pm |
Sorry–I don’t have any pictures of him.
–JRS
May 12, 2015 at 11:47 am |
Hello J.R.
This is Jim from Fireside Bowl. I own Fireside, my family has been here for 50 years. How come no picture of Fireside Bowl? If you want to talk about the bowling alley or my thoughts on bowling let me know. Between my mechanic and myself, we are about the only ones left who remember a lot of the old bowling alleys. Let me know, thanks, Jim
May 12, 2015 at 12:03 pm |
Jim–
Check out the current (May 2015) issue of Bowlers Journal. I wrote a feature article detailing 27 current bowling stops in Chicagoland. On page 36, there’s a paragraph about Fireside, as well as a recent picture. I did fill in once for the WBEZ team a couple of years ago, and my low scores that night were my own fault–because I love Fireside and all the other traditional houses. As for this website, I first ran thru all the pictures I took of defunct Chicago bowling alleys, and only recently have been posting pictures of places that are still in business. I have a nice 1976 shot of the Fireside exterior, which I’ll be posting sometime in the future.
–JRS
May 13, 2015 at 2:06 pm
Cool anytime you want to talk about old bowling alleys or have questions I might be able to answer don’t hesitate. My mechanic Art Preuss bowled in the north end traveling league for years and worked at just about all the AMF 82-30 houses in Chicago. Great site you have created. Thanks, Jim
June 3, 2015 at 9:05 pm |
Dr. Jake I found a couple of photos and a caption from the May 8, 1964, edition of The Seattle P-I that showed the pro-shop manager at Rainier Lanes in Seattle fitting a drilling a ball for a customer. The last line of the caption said, “Old timers can remember when custom-fitted balls had to be sent back East to be drilled.” Could that last sentence be true? If so, any estimates as to when this was? Thanks.
June 4, 2015 at 5:05 pm |
Scott–
I’ve never heard the story about Seattle ball-drillers sending the balls East for drilling. However, I’ll offer some speculation–
Finger holes date from the early 1900s, and the drilling then wasn’t too precise. (The 1902 Sears catalogue sells bowling balls, and says something like, “If finger holes are desired, mention how many you desire and how big they should be.”) During the 1930s, specialized drilling patterns–with specified pitches and offsets–were developed. Some of these were the Bates Grip, the Ned Day Grip, and the Sarge Easter grip. They were supposed to be more comfortable to use, and better for putting more lift and turn into your delivery. While most drillers could probably drill a conventional grip in those days, those drillers might have needed to send the balls out for the exotic drillings. I know that purchasers had to pay a premium price for the Ned Day grip, so maybe that type of drilling was beyond the talent of Seattle ball-drillers, and part of the mark-up represented shipping charges.
Too bad Joe Norris is gone. He’d probably have the right answer–or could make up a story that sounded right!
–JRS
June 4, 2015 at 5:20 pm |
Thanks, Dr. Jake.
June 8, 2015 at 6:34 pm |
I am a former Toledoian and would like to know if you recall a bar in Toledo which had 4 Bowling lanes.
June 9, 2015 at 10:48 am |
I from Chicago, so I don’t remember such a place. But perhaps someone who reads your comment will.
–JRS
July 5, 2015 at 2:22 pm
Chicago had a 4-lane bar called Alley Recreation. It was on the east side of Kedzie just south of Irving Park. I set pins there while in high school. The equipment was TOTALLY manually operated. Tips came in the thumb holes.
July 5, 2015 at 1:07 pm |
I see that they closed Hoffman Lanes in Elk Grove village this last week. They were boarding it up on Thursday.
July 11, 2015 at 1:49 am |
Hi Dr. Jake. I think my story is about Monte Cristo Bowl, located on the 2nd floor of a now Wholesale business on Montrose Ave. After the passing of my father in 2004, we decided to visit Chicago and toured around town looking up my fathers old haunts. Stopping by the address given by him, we entered the store and inquired as to the possibility of a bowling alley having been upstairs; the employees confirmed that it had still been in operation up until about 2001, 2003 or there abouts. I told them my story and asked if we might go upstairs to see the old bowl. The 2nd floor was being used to store their overstock, the pin setter machines had been removed but the lanes were still intact. (I had to have my wife take a picture of me in a bowling pose for old time sake.) According to my father, he became an owner when he came home from WWII around 1946. As the war was coming to a close, my father heard that the Russian soldiers were going to finally have a big payday, so he went around buying up watches from the other GI’s to sell to the Russians and sent home about $10,000, what a markup. He told his mother that she could use some of the money if necessary, but his oldest brother saw an opportunity and bought the lanes. When my father returned home from the war, he had an instant job upon his arrival, he setting pins, fixing the machines, etc., while my mother worked behind the counter. I was born in early 1947 and they would leave me in a playpen while they worked, the regular bowlers would keep me entertained. They sold the business around 49, 50, when we moved out to California.
July 12, 2015 at 5:24 pm |
Jim–
Thanks for the story. If you haven’t already done so, check out the picture of Monte Cristo–and notice that there are comments from some later owners!
–JRS
July 20, 2015 at 10:57 pm |
Still open
August 1, 2015 at 10:26 pm |
Thank you for this vital blog that connects us to the rich history of bowling and the great men and women who made it one of the most popular and prestigious sports in the past.
It is sad that today that glory has been lost…
Thank you again.
My favorites were Ned Day and Billy Hardwick.
August 18, 2015 at 3:57 pm |
Where is Johnny King buried and did he have any family?
August 18, 2015 at 6:50 pm |
He had a son named Howard King Jr. from his first marriage—that’s all I know.
–JRS
August 30, 2015 at 12:43 pm |
J.R., Did you ever hear of the Rose Bowl on about 115th & Michigan in Roseland, Chicago. You used to enter on Michigan, then go down a couple of flights of stairs below street level to get to the alleys. Pretty interesting place. I believe its been gone for some time. Thanks. Love you column. Jim Dulleck
August 30, 2015 at 1:19 pm |
Jim–
There’s an exterior picture of Rose Bowl archived under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS. It ran on June 4, 2009, so you can click on June 2009 under the ARCHIVE listing on this site’s home page. I also ran a pair of “Then-and-Now” pictures of Michigan Avenue near 112th on my Chicago History website. Here’s the link– https://chicagohistorytoday.wordpress.com/2015/03/09/chicago-then-and-now-south-north-west-side/
–JRS
September 25, 2015 at 1:08 pm |
How do I send you a photo of The North End Bowling Club at 244 W Willow?
September 28, 2015 at 1:20 am |
What happen to WordPress? They seem to shut down. Thanks JR
Ralph
Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2015 18:08:26 +0000 To: rjmachon@hotmail.com
October 29, 2015 at 2:45 pm |
Do you have any information regarding the old ABC Tournament medals given out to the participants. I have been collecting these for some time and have some from 1904 through 1947. I am trying to determine if these were given out to all of the participants and what years they started and what years they stopped. Since the first tournament was in Chicago I thought maybe you would have some insight. I have tried checking on line with very little information.
October 30, 2015 at 3:05 pm |
I never heard of ABC giving out medals to tournament participants. It’s my understanding that the top prize winners got medals (instead of trophies) in the early days, so that they could wear the medals pinned to their slacks when they bowled. But I could be wrong.
–JRS
October 30, 2015 at 3:36 pm |
Dr. Jake – a while back, I turned to you and your blog for research for my novel, A Negro and an Ofay. I am happy to report presales begin next week and initial reviews are rather positive. I’ll be thanking you and your splendid resource in the acknowledgements section. Just let me know where I can forward a copy. Thanks for all you do.
– Danny Gardner
Website: dannygardner.me
Goodreads: https://goo.gl/bwLJe3
November 1, 2015 at 12:41 pm |
Danny–
I’m glad to have helped. Please send a copy to—J.R. Schmidt/408 S. Delphia Ave./Park Ridge, IL 60068.
Best of luck with the sales! The title alone is intriguing, and I look forward to reading it.
Best,
JRS
November 5, 2015 at 10:08 am |
Hello Dr. Jake,
Do you by chance have any more photos of Congress Arcade/ Mill Street Bowl? My grandparents met at that alley in the 1950’s and I’m trying to find some photos. I ask because my grandfather recently passed and I want to try and find some photos for my grandmother to remember it by. Please let me know. Thank you.
November 7, 2015 at 10:30 am |
I don’t have any other photos of Congress Arcade/Mill Bowl—but I wish I did!
–JRS
December 4, 2015 at 3:44 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake
My early and late teenage years were spent at a bowling alley (1957-1964) in the Los Angeles area-South Gate. It was South Gate Bowl. Closed for many years now. My parents were friends of the owner and his family. His name was Norm Peterson. the Peterson family sold South Gate Bowl around 1958-1960. They moved to Reno, Nevada and bought a bowling alley. I now live in the Reno area and would love to know what bowling alley they bought? His Son Jim Peterson (he would be around 73 now) may still be in the area. I was wondering if there is any way to trace and learn about them and the bowling alley they bought in Reno?
December 4, 2015 at 7:19 pm |
I’d contact the National Bowling Stadium, and see if they can put you in touch with a person who knows about old Reno bowling alleys. Or maybe somebody will read this and can answer your question—that’s happened before!
–JRS
December 5, 2015 at 12:29 pm
Thank you
December 15, 2015 at 12:27 am |
Hello Dr. Jake –
My doubles partner and myself were fortunate to win the Bowler’s Journal doubles championship in Cincinatti Ohio in 1968. My magazines were destroyed in a flood in my basement many years ago and other than the championship trophy I have no other record.
Do you have any ideas where a copy may still be available. I know it is stretch to believe any exist but I was just hoping.
Further, I really enjoy reading about the old bowling centers. They bring back great memories of having bowled in many while a member of the North End traveling league.
December 15, 2015 at 8:44 am |
George–
You probably want the May or June issue of 1968. There are bound copies of the magazine at the Bowlers Journal office in Chicago and the Bowling Museum in Texas, but I don’t know who’d have a copy of a specific issue to sell—unless it comes up on ebay.
–JRS
January 3, 2016 at 7:23 pm |
Dr. Jake
I enjoy your blog, you one of the few that care and research and preserve the history of the sport. What are your favorite books on the subject of bowling?
January 5, 2016 at 9:32 am |
Grasso & Hartman, Historical Dictionary of Bowling, is expensive, but the best reference book. Also important is Weiskopf, The Perfect Game, an oversize, coffee-table book with a history of bowling to the late 1970s. Salvino & Klein, Fast Lanes, is Carmen’s autobiography, and a fun read. So is Eddie Lubanski’s story, told in Lubanski, Allen, & Reddy, King of the Pins! A great recent bowler biography is Manzione, Pin Action, the life and times of hustler-turned-PBA star Ernie Schlegel. Changes in the game have made most instruction books outdated, but I’ll recommend Day’s How to Bowl and How to Bowl Better simply for their historical importance and charm. Doug Schmidt’s They Came to Bowl covers Milwaukee bowling in fascinating detail. Finally, be sure to check out Fifty Greatest Players in PBA History. With plenty of pictures, the meat of the book is fifty articles on fifty great pros by various authors (including eight articles by me).
–JRS
January 22, 2016 at 10:02 am |
Dear Jake, thank you for your precise work!
I am wondering if you have any information about the introduction of modern bowling alleys in France?
I am writing an architecture thesis on the Paris YMCA, UCJG rue de Trévise. I describe each rooms, and there happens to be a bowling alley down in the basement. So far I found out that two “bowling alleys” were introduced in Paris by the Paris YMCA (UCJG) when they built their own building (on the model of the american ones) in 1893. Do you happen to know who furnished it? Also, what do you know about bowling and YMCA?
I read about a certain Charles Ridell who would have installed the two first alleys in Paris in 1907 (Bowlers Journal july 29th) but I can’t seem to confirm the source.
Would the Paris YMCA be the first one then?
Thank you for your time,
January 22, 2016 at 12:45 pm |
Christelle–
I don’t know much about bowling in France—though I did roll a game at the La Defense alleys outside Paris in 1979.
I’d guess that the Paris YMCA alleys really were the first, since Brunswick made a point of sending its Mineralite bowling ball there on the 1914 world tour. Brunswick was the chief builder of bowling alleys in those days, so you should probably check the company’s archives about whether they built alleys in Paris, or whether this Charles Ridell worked for them.
My bowling bibliography has only a small listing for France, and it doesn’t go back very far. Pluckhahn’s 1994 article is mostly about the traditional outdoor French games, but I recall that he did say a bit about tenpin bowling.
Here’s the listing–
FRANCE.
Luby, Mort Jr. “An American in Paris.” Bowlers Journal, Nov 1982:68-71.
__________. “Operating With a Gallic Flair.” Bowlers Journal, Jul 1968:14-17.
__________. “A Touch of Class.” Bowlers Journal, Sep 1980:86-87.
Pezzano, Chuck. “Grappling With Growing Pains.” Bowlers Journal, Oct 1971:23-24.
Pluckhahn, Bruce. “Bowling’s #1 Pin Pal.” Bowlers Journal, Sep 1991:126-129.
__________. “In France, It’s Viva la Difference!” Bowling Digest. Aug 1994:36-38.
__________. “Zest For Everything.” Bowlers Journal, Sep 1990:126-131.
Serbo, Art. “It’s Not Au Revoir.” Bowlers Journal, Sep 1989:130-134.
Best of luck!
–JRS
January 23, 2016 at 8:49 pm |
Dr. Jake, I’m Walt McIntosh and I’m finishing a 450 page glossary of bowling, Striking Words. My question is in reference to Cincinnati, then 8 – 10 split. Do you know how the city and the split became associated? Regards, Walt McIntosh, domesticengineer@comcast.net
January 23, 2016 at 9:14 pm |
Walt–
I can’t recall the source, but the explanation I remember is that the 8 and the 10 pins standing on the alley reminded people of the Roebling Suspension Bridge, as seen from the Ohio River.
–JRS
January 24, 2016 at 1:52 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake, My partner and I are shooting a documentary and we’re looking for an senior bowler (pro or active in leagues) with a good story who is ideally still alive and still bowling. We’re in pursuit of subjects with a vivid memory of bowling’s Golden Age. If you have any suggestions, please let us know. Thank you!
Dayna & Reggie
March 14, 2016 at 12:04 pm |
Dayna, my fatherinlaw, Ken Charrette, was a well-known bowler in Detroit during the 50’s through the 90’s. He retired from the Michigan Majors Pro Bowling Association (which he founded) and is in the Michigan Hall of Fame. He is still active, helping to run tourneys still but is in his 80’s so doesn’t bowl much anymore. However, he is VERY passionate about bowling and loves to talk about the good ol days when pins used to weigh almost 4 pounds! I love listening to his stories. Email me if you are interested. Tramfan90@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Stacy charrette
February 18, 2016 at 6:16 pm |
Dr. Jake I recently had the pleasure of visiting the bowling alleys located in The Salvation Army facilities in Seattle. A side benefit was taking pictures of bowling balls that I hadn’t seen in years. I started looking for information on the balls, but I couldn’t find anything specific, such as when they were introduced to the market. One of the balls was a Brunswick Starfire, which I remember very fondly because I used one for a long time. The balls included an AMF 3 Dot, Brunswick Automatic Scorer, a Manhattan Rubber with the big “MR” logo that preceded the oval logo, a Black Beauty, a Brunswick Fireball, a Bob Strampe Pro Line that appeared to be from Ebonite and a Grand Slam. Any suggestions on where I should look? I know the Manhattan is very old, because I had oval-logo Manhattans a long time ago. Thanks.
February 19, 2016 at 4:53 pm |
Who won the most matches in TV Championship Bowling:
Johnny King vs Eddie Lubanski?
February 19, 2016 at 6:20 pm |
I compiled statistics on the first season (1954) of the syndicated “Championship Bowling” show in researching a BJI article. I’ve posted them on this website—neither King nor Lubanski appeared on that show. As far as I know, nobody has compiled statistics for the program’s later seasons. Lubanski was on more often, so he had more opportunities to win matches than King did. However, if you’re talking about the local Chicago version of “Championship Bowling,” King would probably have the better record on that show.
–JRS
March 7, 2016 at 7:19 am |
I found a picture of myself at the Rochester ABC in 1966. How can I send it to you?
March 7, 2016 at 7:56 am |
My mailing address is— J.R. Schmidt/408 S. Delphia Ave./Park Ridge, IL 60068
–JRS
March 7, 2016 at 8:22 am
I have it on my computer – can I e-mail it or post it to facebook for you?
March 7, 2016 at 8:23 am |
Sure—email it to docjake300@hotmail.com
–JRS
March 14, 2016 at 11:47 am |
Dr Jake, do you have any information about my father-in-law, Ken Charrette, who was a big name in the bowling circles of Detroit in the 1950’s and 60’s. He also founded the Michigan Majors and is in the Michigan Bowling Hall of Fame. Any info would be appreciated!
Thanks,
Stacy
March 25, 2016 at 3:30 pm |
Hello Dr. Jake,
I own a historic estate property in upstate New York in one of the building there is a one lane bowling alley. Having done some research online I believe it to be the nation’s 2nd oldest surviving indoor bowling alley, with Roseland Cottage in Woodstock Conn. being the oldest. I would love to speak with about the property and the bowling alley.
Hamilton
June 4, 2016 at 6:49 am |
Sir,
I’m seeking photos, articles, advertisements from an old bowling alley from the 1960s in West Chicago. The Star Center also had a restaurant there I recall. My father worked there in the pro shop and also in the restaurant in some capacity. I was only 4 or 5 and remember driving with mom to pick up dad from work. Their changing room was in an attic-like area above the bowling alley as I remember how loud it was and all the exposed framing and insulation. I don’t remember how the place burned to the ground so I’d like to know some history on that subject also. The old Star Center sign stood like a monument for many years on the lot just east of the RR tracks on Route 38.
I’m 55 now and as I think of this time as a child at age 4, it’s the age my memory starts. I remember nothing before that time. My sister is a year younger than I and would like to share with her and archived information and photos you may have.
Hope to hear from you and Thankyou for your interest in this history forgotten.
Daniel Sharp
June 4, 2016 at 10:27 am |
Daniel–
From the West Chicago location on Roosevelt (Route 38) just east of the railroad tracks, this sounds like one of the houses in my senior traveling league. Perhaps it’s the successor to the place that burned down. The current house has about 38 lanes and is called Bowling Green Sports Center. The original house might have had another name when it opened—Stardust Bowl in nearby Addison was originally known as Pioneer Bowl. You can phone Bowling Green at 630-231-2400. If nobody there knows about the Star Center, try contacting the Suburban Windy City USBC Association.
Good luck!
–JRS
June 22, 2016 at 8:23 am |
6/22 – On this day in bowling:
1959 – Eddie Lubanski rolled 24 consecutive strikes in a bowling tournament in Miami, FL.
June 22, 2016 at 5:11 pm |
I wrote about Lubanski’s Double-300 in the June 2009 issue of BJI, the 50th anniversary. Ed told me that when he called his wife to tell her the news, the first thing she said was, “How much money did you make?”
–JRS
June 28, 2016 at 9:33 pm |
I’ve recently acquired a set of salt and pepper shakers from the 1969 tournament in Madison, WI. Could you give me a little history on these? Were they purchased? Just a token of memorabilia? Or what? They are so cool.
June 30, 2016 at 10:05 am |
A man named Ray Schafran ran a souvenir stand at each ABC Tournament from 1940 until his death in 1986, so the shakers were probably his merchandise. Schafran’s son Ray Jr. took over the operation after his dad died, but I don’t know if the family still has a concession at the tournament. Check with USBC Public Relations.
–JRS
July 5, 2016 at 7:39 am |
Hello Dr. Jake,
I own a historic estate property in upstate New York in one of the buildings there is a one lane bowling alley. Having done some research I believe it to be the oldest bowling alley in the nation. Would love some thoughts on getting funding for it’s restoration.
/Users/Hamilton/Desktop/Screen Shot 2016-06-30 at 11.50.40 AM.png
Feel free to view additional photos at
https://www.facebook.com/clausenny/
Best,
Hamilton
September 27, 2016 at 3:12 pm |
Are there any Videos or DVDs of early TV Bowling matches with Johnny King? If so, how can I purchase them?
September 27, 2016 at 6:07 pm |
When it was located in St. Louis, the Bowling Museum rented “Championship Bowling” videos with Johnny King. Try contacting the museum’s new location in Texas.
–JRS
October 13, 2016 at 1:01 pm |
Are you interested in images of the demolition of Cloverlanes yesterday in Livonia, MI. It originally opened in 1962.
October 13, 2016 at 1:30 pm |
No, but thanks. I’d rather remember them as they were.
–JRS
October 14, 2016 at 1:08 pm |
First let me tell you how much I enjoy the receiving the postings on your Bowling History blog. I was a bit surprised to see Al Markle in a recent post of the Hamm’s Beer team out of Chicago. When I was active in the BPA-GC Teenpinners Traveling League in the 50’s, I used to bowl with Al occasionally at Rolaway Bowl on Pulaski near Lawrence. I knew he was good but never THAT good.
Anyway . . the purpose of this note is to ask if you would have any interest in .jpg’s of either the “ABC League Champion” patch from 1955-1956 or the patch I recently ran across from the BPA-GC sponsored “I Beat The Champion” from 1975-1976. They were either my late father’s or mine. Just the sort of stuff you never quite forget about.
December 10, 2016 at 9:55 pm |
Love your bowling blog…I bowled my first game at Logan Bowling lanes in 1952…then spent most of my bowling years at Fireside Bowl when Hank Sophie owned the place. (Met my first wife in the lounge area at Fireside.)
I now bowl at Classic Bowl in Morton Grove, IL…
Thanks again for your wonderful info. Brings back my youth and my love for all the all time bowlers such as Don Carter, Buzz Fazio, Billy Hardwick, Carmen Salvino, and so so many more.
My pals and I would attend “Championship Bowling” at Faetz Niesen Bowl….then right after the match, we would use the same lanes 5 & 6 to bowl thinking we were so cool…
December 15, 2016 at 9:27 am |
That’s what is great about bowling—you can bowl on the same lanes the legends bowled on. I never got a chance to bat at Yankee Stadium, or to shoot hoops at Boston Garden, or to play golf at Augusta. But like you, I got to bowl on “Fabulous 5 & 6” at Faetz-Niesen.
–JRS
December 23, 2016 at 11:34 am |
Enjoy reading and viewing pictures on this site. I am looking for an old bowling alley that was located near the intersection of Belmont and Central in Chicago. Any information you may have would be appreciated.
December 23, 2016 at 12:02 pm |
Manor Bowl was just south of Belmont on Central, and Stratford Bowl was on the next block after that. Each had about 18 alleys. I believe Stratford closed around 2000, and Manor about 2011, but I’m not sure. There are pictures of both places listed under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.
–JRS
December 27, 2016 at 3:36 pm |
Thank you! I appreciate your reply.
December 29, 2016 at 2:49 am |
Somehow I stumbled across this site . . . started bowling when I was 8 (in the Cub Scouts) . . . set pins . . . gave up a trip to Europe with my parents (when I was in high school) because I was in two Summer leagues . . . not a day goes by when I don’t think about bowling. I’m really glad that Jake is “on duty.”
Cheers!
December 29, 2016 at 7:38 am |
Thanks!
–JRS
February 25, 2017 at 11:44 am |
I set pins in the late 30s and 40s at Riverdale Lanes on North Main Street downtown Dayton for Gregory and Nick Manos! Sometimes at Royal Lanes! Think they were on third floor on Fifth St.
March 30, 2017 at 10:22 am |
I am wondering if you, or anyone for that matter, has any information on a bowling alley that was at one point in Lake Forest, Illinois. I lived there from 1961 to 1973 but I’m not sure the establishment made it past the mid-1960s. It was definitely gone by the late 1960’s. The couple of times I recall being in it would have been when I was 7 or 8 years old so I don’t have anything but very vague memories. However any information at all will be greatly appreciated.
March 31, 2017 at 10:38 am |
The only info I have is that Lake Forest Lanes was located at Deerpath and Western, and that it had 12 lanes. I’d love to see a picture, too.
–JRS
March 31, 2017 at 11:13 am
You are correct I do believe. If I remember properly the entrance was on Western Avenue and it was located between Deerpath Avenue and Illinois Road. The structure itself was small so 12 lanes seems about right. I’ve tried for a long time to find a picture of it or a street shot that might show it with no luck. I’m not going to give up though.
December 1, 2022 at 12:56 pm |
The Bertrand family owned Lake Forest Lanes until the 1960s or 1970s. I do believe it was demolished shortly after they sold it. The family no longer owns their other bowling establishments (Bertrand Bowl and Sunset Bowl), but they are active in lake county bowling. Reach out to Tom Bertrand on facebook..he has tons of lake county bowling historical info and loves to share.
April 7, 2017 at 10:19 am |
Hi. Great Blog. I recently found a sterling silver belt buckle dated 1956 that says Major League Champions. Very detailed with a bowler on the front. Very detailed. Any ideas on what the Major League of bowling was?
April 7, 2017 at 10:55 am |
Many bowling centers called their top league a Major League, so the belt buckle was probably awarded as a championship trophy from one such league. There was never any nation-wide bowling league known as the Major League. The only real national bowling league was called just that—the National Bowling League, in 1961-62.
–JRS
April 22, 2017 at 12:00 pm |
Dear Doctor Jake, Thank you for creating this blog! I am the granddaughter of Joe Sinke (My mom is Joanne who is the daughter of Joe Sinke.) In the 70s my grandfather showed me how to bowl and bought me my first bowling ball which I is still have. My grandfather was not only a amazing bowler, he was a wonderful, loving grandfather. My entire family thanks you!
April 22, 2017 at 12:54 pm |
Hi Catherine–
During the late ‘sixties I bowled in the same league as your grandfather, the Habetler Friday Night Scratch League. I always enjoyed talking with him about all he’d seen in the bowling world. I was happy he lived to see himself elected to the Hall of Fame—he should have been voted in much sooner.
–JRS
May 5, 2017 at 9:56 pm |
Doctor, I recall reading an article in a Bowlers Journal in the last couple years, written by you I believe, about two unlikely Doubles champions at the ABC. I believe they won sometime in the 40s or early 50s. They bowled together for years, but hadn’t put together the resumes to indicate championship potential. But they had a magic run with lots of strikes and claimed the title. Loved the story. Can you remind me who the duo was? Do you recall what issue of the BJ it appeared in? Thank you for your time, knowledge, and fascinating stories from the past.
May 5, 2017 at 10:08 pm |
Jamie–
The bowlers were Henry Kmidowski and John Gworek. They both averaged in the 170s, yet managed to win the Doubles championship at the 1946 ABC Tournament. The story first appeared in the July 2014 BJI, and is reprinted in my book The Bowling Chronicles.
–JRS
May 5, 2017 at 10:12 pm
Thank you so much for the fast response. I just ordered a copy of the book. I very much look forward to getting it.
May 11, 2017 at 5:17 pm |
Greetings. Do you have anything on a bowling alley at 4149 W. Roosevelt, in the North Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago? This would be in the late 1940s or early 1950s. This address is now a vacant lot. Thanks!
May 11, 2017 at 5:51 pm |
That’s would probably be Kordecki’s Recreation. My 1957 listing gives an address of 4147 West Roosevelt Road. It had eight (8) lanes.
–JRS
May 12, 2017 at 12:18 pm
Thanks!!
May 15, 2017 at 9:54 am |
Hi,
I was wondering if you knew where I could find a print or even a high res download of the 1905 ABC Tournament, Exposition Building–Milwaukee, Wisconsin or the 1909 NBA Tournament, Madison Square Garden–New York, New York that are on your blog. I would really love a copy. Thank you!
May 19, 2017 at 6:03 am |
Jess–
Pictures of both tournaments are available online. I have a 33×25 print of the 1909 NBA framed in my rec room. I received it as a gift about 10 years ago, but the store that sold it is out of business now, and there’s nothing on the print indicating the company that made it. However, that NBA print was originally issued by Brunswick in 1909 as a promotion. Though Brunswick has gotten out of the bowling business, you should probably contact them, to see if they can help you.
–JRS
May 19, 2017 at 2:43 pm |
Brunswick is out of the bowling business?
When did this happen? I’ve been out of touch, obviously.
May 21, 2017 at 8:27 am |
Brunswick sold off its bowling establishments in 2014, though the “Brunswick Zone” designation continues. In 2015 the bowling equipment division was sold. Since vinyl records are enjoying a comeback, perhaps the company is planning to re-enter that business. (Oh wait—Brunswick’s 1920s records were shellac. Never mind!)
–JRS
May 21, 2017 at 12:22 pm
So, is Brunswick-type stuff still being made and manufactured? I’ve been out of bowling for some time now but still think about it every day.
BTW, I always thought that the “Brunswick Zone” label was a clear case of corporate ego interfering with good marketing. If someone driving by a “Brunswick Zone” doesn’t know that it is a bowling alley, there is no signage that indicates that.
It’s particularly blurring in Central New Jersey in the city of New Brunswick area. Half of the business in the environs are “Brunswick this” and “Brunswick that” . . . i.e. Brunswick Bagels, Brunswick Car Wash, et al. At least they could add the word “BOWLING” to the signage at what used to be known as Carolier Lanes.
Kind of stupid, eh?
Cheers!
May 21, 2017 at 12:32 pm
I grew up in Edison Lanes and bowled many times at Carolier. My mom ran Edison Lanes for almost thirty years and it was all Brunswick. Sad to see it go away. I think when Japan put in tons of lanes back I think in the 80-90’s and then the business crashed over there it really hurt them and AMF also. I just started bowling again after a 20 year layoff. Had a 258 game a week ago so maybe there is still hope.
May 21, 2017 at 12:48 pm |
As I mentioned, I think about bowling every single day of my life. I remember all of the houses that are no more when I drive by . . .
I often think I’ll “unretire” for a third time but, being a realist and almost 70, I just know I’ll never get back up to the level I had achieved (and was still improving) when I got “bowled out” some 20 years ago.
So, I think I’ll just “live in my memories” and stay happy . . . rather than self-inflict frustration on myself. Plus, it would be a “double bad” as today’s conditions are “cake” compared to back then.
With what’s out there now (synthetics and all), I should shoot 800 every night! But . . . never will. Ugh!
Cheers!
May 21, 2017 at 1:08 pm |
Lane conditions today reward a shot with more speed and a sharper entry into the pocket. This gives an advantage to bowlers who are physically strong, so in a sense, bowling is now a more athletic activity than it was in the past. At the same time, older or weaker bowlers have to purchase more aggressive equipment to remain competitive. Why has bowling evolved this way? Follow the money!
–JRS
May 21, 2017 at 1:24 pm
What money?
Bowling alleys have been closing up all over for years. Here at the North Jersey shore, there are only a handful of houses left when there used to be dozens. The City of Long Branch had three . . . now they have none.
Sorry, making it easier didn’t make it better and prosper. Bowling will never die out but it’s slid way down on the list of things for people to do.
And, yes . . . the landscape has changed dramatically. Instead of sticking their thumbs in to a bowling ball, people are flailing them on their hand-held personal devices.
Good grief!
Cheers!
Charlie
May 21, 2017 at 1:39 pm
I’m so old I remember when the local lanes (Naper Bowl) still had a few 2-finger bowling balls, though I don’t remember anyone ever using them. .
May 21, 2017 at 1:44 pm
Where was Naper Bowl?
Only real old guys used the two-finger balls.
Trivia question for ya (don’t look it up): By ABC/USBC rules, what is the _maximum_ number of holes allowed in a bowling ball?
Go . . .
May 21, 2017 at 2:09 pm
Charlie–
I didn’t say making it easier makes it better, and I know that bowling alleys have been going out of business for years. But . . . what sector of the bowling business has been raking in cash selling high-end equipment? That’s the money to follow. Too bad it’s a short-sighted approach.
–JRS
May 21, 2017 at 8:49 pm
With the price of equipment going up and the number of bowlers and houses going down . . . that doesn’t sound like a good business model to me.
When the lanes were all wood, they would be waxed every week (or so) and oiled (with a “flit” gun) daily. There was no “shot” laid down. The oil was primarily to protect the lanes from wear. Most good bowlers back then “went up the second arrow/diamond” with those hard rubber balls and accuracy was the key to higher scores.
The whole thing got nuts when the “plastic fantastics” came along. I was good friends with Darold Dobs before and during his tenure as top guy at the ABC and he told me that, by the time he got there, it was too late . . . the horse was already out of the barn . . . and there was no turning back . . . no way to fix the mess.
300’s became as common as sunrise and the sport had lost its integrity.
That’s about the time I “retired” for the second time.
My first ball was a Brunswick “Featherweight” (I think that was the name . . . black ball with yellow speckles, 8 pounds) when I was in the Cub Scouts. Then, when Brunswick first played around with black lanes and white balls (for TV), I got one of the first white prototypes which had no name, just a serial number. It was a 12-pound ladies ball (I was still a lad . . . and an old girlfriend of mine . . . who I gave it to . . . still has it!) and my first 16-pounder was a Brunswick Pro Model, their first production white ball.
The Pro Model was really expensive at $34.95 (while Black Beauties were $24.95) but I had a white ball!!!! (I still have the picture from my High School Yearbook of me on the Varsity bowling team and three of us were holding white balls . . . two of them were mine and one other guy . . . Patsy Geroni . . . had gone and got his own drilled up.)
I still miss bowling but stay away mostly because I just know I could never get back to the level I once was at.
Cheers!
Charlie
May 22, 2017 at 2:58 pm
When I bowled at the Bowlium in Chicago in the 1960’s I averaged between 185-190. I never learned to “spot” bowl — I was always (and still am) a “feel” bowler. Once I start my approach I have know idea what I’m looking at. Occassionally, I have to make my adjustment at the release point because it just doesn’t “feel” right. I’m still very active at age 70+ bowling in two leagues a week. My current average is between 205-210. Before the house that I bowl in put in their synthetic lanes in 2014 my average was 200-205. I did have to buy a new hybrid reactive ball (Wrecker) replacing my 4 year old urethane ball. Improvements in equipment (balls, shoes, gloves, etc), the new synthetic lanes and oil treatments, among other things all contribute to the higher scores. I don’t look at the changes as a bad thing just as rule changes, stronger athletes, better equipment, etc. in most sports have led to changes that the purist sport fan doesn’t necessarily like but has stayed with their favorite sport. Bowling isn’t as popular primarily because of all the other activity that wasn’t available 30+ years ago — home video, the increase interest among young people in soccer, iphones, etc plus not many people want to be tied down to bowling each week for 30+ weeks. We had 9 guys on our 5-man roster last year and 4 times during the season we only have 4 bowlers. I hope I’m able to bowl competitively for the next 15 years.
May 22, 2017 at 4:21 pm
Hi Larry . . . you almost “convinced” me to unretire (again) but I think I’ll just keep my memories and probably will never bowl again.
Keep ’em rollin’!
Cheers!
Charlie
May 21, 2017 at 7:18 pm |
I think most of the houses went out of business due to insurance rates. The fire hazard was so great when “oil” was used. The synthetics are not helping a lot and if you don’t know the right way to apply them the shot becomes a nightmare. And the ABC had to add an ingredient in the “conditioner” so they could read the pattern and it was changing the shot ever time a ball went down the lane. The price of recreational bowling has skyrocketed over the last thirty years and most houses now only rent lanes by the hour. The equipment has made the game easier but you pay the price for technology. My first new ball, a Brunswick Black Beauty, was $19,95 drilled, and the pro shop owner had to go to the hardware store to buy smaller drills for my finger holes. I saved my allowance for 20 weeks to buy it.
May 21, 2017 at 8:59 pm
I think my reply to you Brian went to someone else. This site seems to jump around a bit.
I really miss what bowling was . . . but am not attracted to what bowling now is.
I still miss setting pins in a 6-laner (in the back of a German bar in Fair Haven, NJ) . . . 10 cents per game plus tips.
Betcha most bowlers today have no idea why the pins still have a hole in the bottom . . . do you?
Cheers!
Charlie
May 22, 2017 at 5:31 am
I set pins (wooden, no plastic coating) in an 8 lane house in Metuchen, N.J. were my mom worked part time (then moved to Edison Lanes, 66 and then 112 lanes). I had to set the headpin first because I was too small to push down the tredle to get the nails up too set the rest of the deck. And they were not light. No extra weight holes inside the pins. Picking up the heavy balls onto the gravity ball return wasn’t easy either. The pin boys earned their ten cents a line. Bowling will never be what it was because of technology. But what games are? Plastics and synthetic products have made almost everything faster, longer, are easier, except maybe chess. I do it now for exercise and to meet new people and I have lived long enough now that I can finally say “back in my day”. It was sad that something out of the control of the bowling business drove them out, insurance and land values both went crazy.
June 10, 2017 at 3:24 pm |
Any further information about Johnny King?
June 11, 2017 at 9:48 am |
Johnny King died in Florida on March 12, 1998. My article about him is reprinted in The Bowling Chronicles. And as a bit of trivia, his actual first name was “Howard.”
–JRS
June 15, 2017 at 5:54 pm |
During the 4th year of Championship Bowling in Louisville, KY, they still had the King-Of-The-Hill format. Buzz Fazio had just defeated Ed Kawolics to take over the top slot & the following week, he defeated somebody named Konji Matsuda. Did you ever hear of that guy? It sounds like he was brought over from Japan with a name like that but I’ve researched this guy & come up empty every time. And he never appeared on the show again. I’m curious whether you have any info on him. Thanks!
June 17, 2017 at 12:34 pm |
All the info I have is from Fred Wolf’s commentary on the TV show. Kenji Matsuda was born in Tokyo in 1935, of Nisei parents who were in Japan on a visit. When the show was broadcast, Kenji was living in Denver, bowling in four leagues, and carrying a 195 average. He preferred to be called “Ken,” so that was the name on the back of his shirt. Admittedly nervous, he shot 157-194-170–521 with a lot of splits. Fazio had 686. BTW, there is currently a Japanese actor named Kenji Matsuda, though I don’t know if the is related to Kenji the bowler.
–JRS
June 17, 2017 at 3:44 pm
Thanks, that’s more than I bargained for. Poor guy only beat the lowest score ever on the show by 14 pins (Morris Cramer shot 507 the following year in Coral Gables). At least he beat Marty Cassio’s 516 in Paramus during Bill Lillard’s 9-match winning streak. And the St Louis Bowling HOF apparently got his first name wrong, calling him “Konji.”
June 16, 2017 at 3:49 pm |
Any results from ABC matches between Lubanski and Johnny King?
June 29, 2017 at 11:29 am |
As a young boy in the 50s. Living in east rogers park,I remember a bowling alley on Morse ave. I have not been able to find any information on this location. Am I mistaken?
June 29, 2017 at 2:20 pm |
The 1955 Yellow Pages listing of bowling centers has Morse Avenue Recreation Center at 1308 West Morse Avenue. No mention made about number of lanes.
–JRS
August 31, 2017 at 11:11 am |
Hey J.R.,
I’m writing from the costume department of a film. We have a 1950s bowling scene and we need old school lace up rental shoes. I’m having trouble finding anyone that has a set that they would sell or rent to us. Do you happen to know anyone?
Thank you!
Brittany
September 1, 2017 at 10:34 am |
Brittany–
First off, I’d contact the National Bowling Museum in Arlington, Texas. If they don’t have them, they can probably point you in the right direction. If you’re local to the Chicago area and are in a hurry, try one of the older, family-owned bowling alleys—Habetler Bowl, Timber Lanes, Lawn Lanes, Fireside Bowl, Southport Lanes are some that readily come to mind.
Good luck!
–JRS
October 11, 2017 at 8:53 pm |
Are you aware that the Bowling Hall of Fame is running a promotion called IBMHF Frame 4 Frame? It’s on Facebook and YouTube. The video runs about 3 minutes & it’s an appeal from 2 people (Tracy S Ebarb and Jessica Bell who is listed as the Curator). They are looking for donations to save what they’re calling their “deteriorating film library” of about 1,500 films of all types including the old trick shot stuff, instructional films and Championship Bowling & other series.
To watch it, go to YouTube and type in “IBMHF Frame 4 Frame.” There is a 2nd video there also in the same vein. Do you know anything about this & if so, how long has this promotion been going on?
December 5, 2017 at 9:42 am |
I’m writing a short story about a man who was a pinsetter (with semi-automated equipment, I think: the guys who cleared the pins and filled the racks by hand and sent the ball back up the chute) and I’m looking for some background details. Can you recommend any sources (either documentation or personal reminiscences or individuals) for information on what it was like to be a pinsetter? Thanks.
December 6, 2017 at 9:18 am |
I was in the era of full manual pin setting. I started at 5 years old and set pins for my dad on another lane when he bowled in the leagues at our 8 lane house. I had to take a pin and crawl onto the deck and set the headpin, then press the treadle for the spikes to set the rest of the deck. Lifting his 16 pound ball up to the rails was also not fun. I stopped setting pins about the time the semi machines came around. Our house, Metuchen Rec. (N.J.), went to full automated machines around 1954 so I never really saw the semi ones working. The pin boys made 10 cents a line and they earned it.
December 6, 2017 at 5:50 pm |
As a teenager, I set pins in two different houses one with semi’s and one with spikes (the reason for the hole in the bottom of the pin) but I suggest you contact the Bowling Hall of Fame in St. Louis. I believe they have operational lanes with all of the various pinsetting equipment that you could visit.
Cheers!
Charlie Roberts
December 6, 2017 at 6:42 pm
Charlie–
The Bowling Hall of Fame has been relocated to the USBC Campus in Arlington, Texas.
–JRS
December 6, 2017 at 7:43 pm
I guess I heard that . . . . not sure why . . . had a few hours to kill (before a flight) in St. Louis once and it never entered my mind to visit the Hall. Missed opportunity.
January 11, 2018 at 2:57 am |
Do you know who were the 33 founding members of the PBA? My dad, Carl Ti Richard is one. He is 94 and dingy well He dives to his office at the bowling center each day,
January 12, 2018 at 4:09 pm |
Does he wear a scuba?
February 6, 2018 at 5:47 pm |
Hello! I’m hoping you can help me find some information around a piece of Brunswick bowling history.
I found 12 Brunswick Score King candlepin pins while cleaning out a family estate.
I am trying to find out the age of these candlepins based on the Brunswick logo, but am having no luck.
Can you be of help to the history of these candlepins?
February 6, 2018 at 8:07 pm |
Aaron–
I’m sorry, but I can’t help you on candlepins. Try contacting Brunswick, or the International Candlepin Hall of Fame in Massachusetts (http://www.candlepinbowling.com/hall-of-fame)
Good luck!
JRS
February 15, 2018 at 2:44 pm |
Aaron-
There is a group on Facebook called “Candlepin Chat” which includes ALL sorts of people involved in the sport of candlepin bowling. Bowlers, proprietors, historians from both the US and Canada. I would HIGHLY recommend that you send out a message to this group and i am sure that they could provide the information that you would like regarding your Brunswick candlepins!
Thanks,
– Bill Whyte
February 14, 2018 at 5:40 pm |
Anything new bowling tapes on Johnny King?
April 8, 2018 at 12:51 pm |
Hi,
Can you recommend a resource for unlicensed / small licensing fees for images of men bowling in the 1950s and 1960s? Wondering where you find most of the images that you use on your blog.
Thank you
Ryan
May 20, 2018 at 8:06 am |
There were lanes I think on Fullerton. It was upstairs. I bowled in a league there with some of the top bowlers in the area
May 20, 2018 at 10:17 am |
This sounds like Maple Lanes, on Fullerton just west of Pulaski,
–JRS
August 19, 2018 at 6:34 pm |
I was wondering if you had any pictures of centers in Phoenix?
August 19, 2018 at 6:49 pm |
I posted a 1966 photo of Green Gables Lanes this past April. Click on “FAMOUS BOWLING ALLEYS” and scroll down.
–JRS
August 19, 2018 at 8:16 pm |
J.R.
Here’s a couple of pics of a bowling lane I played few games on while trekking in the Alps… how do I get them to you?
August 21, 2018 at 9:20 pm |
Liam–
That sounds interesting. If you like, just email them as a photo attachment.
–JRS
August 21, 2018 at 10:35 pm
J.R. I hope you get kick out of these, stayed the night while hiking from Dijon to Turin… Great Bavarian beer and schnitzel and had a ball bowling with the local guys…
Sent from my iPhone
>
August 23, 2018 at 2:58 pm
Liam–
No attachments came through. You might have to send them through a desktop or laptop.
I’ve been to Europe a number of times, but only bowled there once, at La Defense in Paris. I shot 207 with a house ball and then quit—to preserve my European continent average.
Best,
JRS
________________________________
August 23, 2018 at 7:00 pm
Hi, I tried a second time using my Apple computer, are you saying it didn’t go through either… how about sending me your regular email address, if you’re comfortable with that…
September 24, 2018 at 1:10 pm |
Hello, I would really love to be in contact with you in regards to bowling pictures, newspapers, magazines, etc … that I have of my mother Georgette Hartmann DeRosa, my grandmother Ruth Hartmann and my father Fred DeRosa. Too many to list really, lots of front page coverage! They were all champion bowlers in the Chicago area from the 1940s-1960s. You have had some posts about the teams they were on. My mother is in the Chicagoland USBC Hall of Fame – 1988. She passed away a week ago, and I am honoring her by putting together the very best collection of her years as a bowler. I would be thrilled to include anything you may have that I don’t, and I would love to share with you what I have so far. I have been searching the newspaper archives for any and all information that I can possibly find. My father would love to talk with you as well. He has a very clear memory of their bowling history together. If there is anyone else interested in sharing information they may have on my parents and grandmother, that would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so very much!
October 30, 2018 at 11:57 am |
Hello, I am interested in being in contact with you, how could we make that happen? Thank you!
October 18, 2018 at 5:42 pm |
I am on the hunt for a specific bowling alley where my Grandparent’s first met. This was in 1952 shortly after my Grandfather came to America. He describes it in his biography as “bowling alley on Roosevelt Road west of Austin Boulevard”, although his memory may have been wrong about exact streets. I am wondering if anyone has a place in mind? I found Strikers Bowling Alley but it isn’t a perfect match of his description, I am wondering if someone may have more info (especially if the building is no longer standing)
Thanks!
October 18, 2018 at 8:39 pm |
Suburban Lanes is the only one I know of from that era on Roosevelt west of Austin. Could it be Roosevelt EAST of Austin? That would be Governors Lanes. Both places are gone, but pictures are posted under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS.
–JRS
December 26, 2018 at 5:41 pm |
I met my future wife at Hollywood Bowl 7020 S. Wentworth in March of 1963. Does anyone have a photo of this OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEY?
April 5, 2019 at 5:17 pm |
Hi! Nice to see the old Pilsen Bowling Alley. Is it possible to buy a copy of that photo? And where can I see other old photos that you might have? I grew up there, attended St. Adalbert’s. My Uncle Snubby had something to do with that bowling alley and I believe there was a man named Whitehead… or maybe that was a nickname. I will have to ask my brother, he worked there in the late 50s, early 60s. Thanks for your help.
April 6, 2019 at 2:45 pm |
If you want a copy of any of the photos for personal use, just download them from the blog. There are also a photos of Wozniak’s, Cermak Recreation, and other houses from the neighborhood under OLD CHICAGO BOWLING ALLEYS. My other blog, Chicago History Today, has over two hundred “Then and Now” pairs of photos from around the city under CHICAGO’S CHANGING SCENE. And the proprietor you remember was Jack Whitehead.
–JRS
April 6, 2019 at 6:30 pm |
Pilsen Bowling Alley looks a lot like the old Manor Bowl on Central Ave.
April 26, 2019 at 4:14 pm |
It sure does!
–JRS
April 27, 2019 at 6:20 am
Hello To All,
I hope my question makes it to the correct area here as I am not too familiar with blogs.
Many decades ago I recall a bowling alley located in Lake Forest. It was demolished probably sometime in the 1960s. At that time I was pretty young so I’m not sure what the actual facts are.
If anyone has any knowledge about such an establishment I would love to hear them. A picture would be icing on the cake. For some reason I can find no information about it on any Lake Forest historical websites.
Thank you in advance.
April 27, 2019 at 8:10 am
Hi Readers—
Greg has been after this information for over two years. The only help I could give him was that Lake Forest Lanes was located at Deerpath and Western in Lake Forest. If anybody has any more specific information, please send it in.
And Greg—if none of our readers can help, your best bet is finding out whether the Lake Forest Public Library has any old phone books or business directories in their reference collection. If so, you might have to make a personal trip there to consult them.
—JRS
April 27, 2019 at 10:33 am
Thank you for your help with this! And I believe your idea regarding a visit is a good one. It sounds like a perfect reason for a long weekend this summer since I now reside on the other side of Lake Michigan.
Greg
April 23, 2019 at 6:25 pm |
Dr. Jake,
We are working to renovate a vintage bowling alley on the west side of Chicago and are looking to contact anyone with vintage, black bowling lane balls that may be for sale to use at our alley. I know this is a long shot, but we love your blog and wanted to reach out and see if you knew of anyone like this? Thanks!
April 26, 2019 at 4:18 pm |
OK, Readers—Jeff is restoring and re-opening the vintage Northwest Bowl, on Chicago’s Northwest Side, as Avondale Bowl. If you can help out this project with any of those old black bowling balls that your wife is using as a planter, please get in touch with him.
–JRS
April 27, 2019 at 7:46 am
Cool Jeff. Please keep us informed on the opening.
June 21, 2019 at 6:40 pm |
My mother has an old ticket to an Andy Varipapa exhibition event that was held in Tacoma, Washington, around 1947. Any interest in something like that for historical or collection purposes?
June 21, 2019 at 7:16 pm |
You should probably contact the Bowling Museum in Texas to see if they are interested.
–JRS
June 28, 2019 at 10:01 pm |
Dr. Jake,
I’d like to see if you have any photos or articles regarding my grandfather, Ed Bourdase. He was on the PBA tour through the 60’s and 70’s, and was frequently on Championship Bowling. Surprisingly, I can’t seem to find anything on him when I search the USBC site, even though he was inducted into a local chapter not too long ago. He has just recently passed away and I have been looking for things to share with my mom and uncle, who spent their childhood traveling across country during his professional days.
Thank you!
July 1, 2019 at 1:58 pm |
I did a quick Google search and found this, 3 videos of Ed.
Championship Bowling: Ed Bourdase vs Dick Downey 1964 1965
Championship Bowling: Ed Bourdase vs Johnny Guenther 1962
Championship Bowling: Tommy Tuttle vs Ed Bourdase [1965]
I hope this helps.
Ralph
July 7, 2019 at 11:24 am |
May I use the pic of the Wood Dale bowling alley for a video I am making about my childhood. It will end up on my youtube channel.
July 7, 2019 at 11:51 am |
You may certainly use the Wood Dale bowl photo. Please send me a link when the video goes up on Youtube.
–JRS
August 29, 2019 at 3:10 pm |
I am looking for anyone who knew or worked with Ted Lindstrom at any of these alleys over the years. Ted was a AMF pinsetter Mechanic for as long as I know. Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Feel free to email me at EthanBohannan@yahoo.com
Timeline
Bowl Haven 1950
1542 W. Devon Ave.
Gabby Hartnett Bowl 1951-1955
Bowling Rec 1953
(currently Bowlway Lanes)
810 villa st Elgin
Jack Gunnel lanes 1955-1958
Mt.Prospect
Bowling Lanes 1960-1963
5221 N Broadway
Lamberts Lanes 1963-1966
6314 N Broadway
cinderella Lanes 1964
5612 w madison
Timber Lanes 1966-1968
1851 Irving Park
Nisei Bowlium 1970
4361 Sheridan rd
Riviera Lanes 1967-1986 (almost 20 years)
Melrose Park
September 9, 2019 at 1:13 pm |
I’m interested in the old Make That Spare bowling show. I may be wrong, but I believe that I saw a lefthander make the 6-7-8-10 for the $5,000, but I could be wrong. It was not Jerry McCoy who defeated Schroeder on the show. I know that Carter (twice), Weber, Monroe Moore, and (I think) Jim Schroeder made the selected money/car shot. Is there any information on this show other than what is on Wikipedia and youtube? Do you recall the lefthander’s name (if it happened)? Thanks.
October 9, 2019 at 4:55 pm |
Great bowling blog Dr. Jake. I grew up about seven houses down from Monte Carlo Bowling alley in the 1950’s and 60’s. Last time I went there it was a auto parts store. Spent many hours bowling there and hanging out.
I have been looking for any photo of it either inside or the exterior. Any sources that I could use to obtain a photo like the one shown?
If so, please let me know, I would like one for my den.
Thanks again,
Larry M.
October 9, 2019 at 5:46 pm |
Are you talking about Monte Cristo on Montrose, or Monte Carlo on Lincoln?
–JRS
January 4, 2020 at 3:20 pm |
I just noticed Avondale Bowl (Milwaukee & Belmont) is re-opening soon with 8 lanes (Jan. 2020). Do you have any additional information about its history?
January 4, 2020 at 4:08 pm |
Just personal history. I won a big chunk of money there in 1970 and used it to buy an engagement ring.
–JRS
January 4, 2020 at 5:41 pm |
Always good to hear about a center re-opening. Love those small houses . . . I used to set pins (spikes) in a 6-laner behind a German bar in Fair Haven, NJ. The building is still there and the alleys are still under the flooring. Maybe someday we can bowl there again!
January 5, 2020 at 12:18 pm
In 2005 I wrote a Bowlers Journal article about six old bowling lanes discovered at St. Mary of the Angels parish in Chicago. The bowling room has been converted to a storage facility decades before, and the lanes had been forgotten. Now (in 2005) they were being offered at auction. I don’t know what happened after that—we moved on to other topics. Anybody out there know more about this?
–JRS
January 5, 2020 at 12:29 pm
I would love to go on a road trip tour of true old/small houses that are still in operation or, at least, accessible. I’m based in New Jersey so anywhere in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, and New England would be feasible. (Other areas would be considered too.) Does anyone know if there is some kind of online directory of bowling alleys (with descriptions of their facilities)? I’d really want to explore houses with the original wood lanes and approaches and especially those who still use pinboys/girls (i.e. non-automatic).
January 5, 2020 at 2:22 pm
Check out Kevin Hong’s website, The Vintage Alleys Project. Here’s the link–
http://www.vintagebowling.net/
==JRS
January 5, 2020 at 2:37 pm
Thanks for the tip! Wil do.
February 24, 2020 at 7:57 pm |
I have some photographs of the family owned center where I work going back to the late 1950’s. Would you like me to send you some?
February 25, 2020 at 8:48 am |
Please send them to me! This blog seems to have become an unofficial collection point for those kind of materials.
–JRS
February 25, 2020 at 9:31 am |
Is there an email address you give out for this kind of thing? I’m sorry, I’m not able to find it
March 11, 2020 at 4:47 pm |
Here’s an awfully strange question but you seem to have a vast knowledge. I’ve looked on websites that are databases for filming locations but I haven’t found this one yet.
looking for the bowling alley, most likely in California, where Grease 2 was filmed
If “Dr Jake” or any of his readers can help, I’d appreciate it.
Thanks.
March 11, 2020 at 5:17 pm |
I believe it was filmed at Hawthorne Bowl in Hawthorne, California.
–JRS
March 11, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Yes, IMDB.com confirms this.
>
March 12, 2020 at 8:59 am |
Augh! I looked on IMDB, i must have missed it.
Thanks everyone
May 8, 2020 at 10:10 am |
Dr. Jake
Jim from Fireside Bowl in Chicago
I have a question
Do you know the name of the bowling alley that Eddie Gaedel hung out at when he got into a fight and subsequently died from his injuries. In case you don’t remember Eddie Gaedel was the midget that batted for Bill Veeck s St Louis Browns. I’m sure you know that but just in case.
It was in the Englewood area because that is where his mother lived and he walked there from his mothers apartment. Thanks, Jim
May 8, 2020 at 12:35 pm |
Jim–
Eddie Gaedel was living at 5042 S. Wolcott Ave. when he died in 1961. I don’t know for sure what bowling alley he was at, but from his address, I’d guess it was Jay-Bee Recreation, on the NW corner of 51st and Damen.
–JRS
May 8, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Thank you very much
June 14, 2020 at 3:56 pm |
Hi Dr. Jake,
I grew up on the South Side (see my Cheltenham Bowl comment), but as an adult I hung out on the North Side. One time I visited a bowling alley somewhere on the North Side. I was hoping that you could help me figure out which alley it was. I was there only once, but it made an impression on me – I think because it seemed very old-fashioned. I say “visit” because I didn’t bowl there – I went with a friend to shoot pool. The establishment was on the second floor; a stairway led from the sidewalk entrance door straight up to the place, a la “The Color of Money”. The part of the counter at the top of the stairs was where you got your billiard balls, chalk and triangle. To the right of that counter was the room with the pool tables – large, old ones – the kind with leather net bags under the pockets. The room had some real old-style chairs; they looked ones you might have seen in an old Trailways bus sta. There was space for only a few tables ’cause there was a bunch of lockers in the room too. Now to the left, from the top of the stairs, was the food and drink area (I didn’t go in there) and, beyond that, I could see the lanes. I have a vague memory of a big window, like a picture window, in the wall of the food area so you could sit there and look at all the lanes. Does this sound familiar to you? If not, maybe one of your readers will recognize the place from my description. I hope so!
I realize this last comment is not necessarily about bowling alleys but, speaking of “The Color of Money”, can anyone tell me which establishments were used as locations for the scene where Forest Whitaker hustles Paul Newman, and for the scene on the stairs with Tom Cruise and his pool cue?
Ftr, Dr. Jake, I think your blogs and websites are great – much enjoyed and appreciated!
Alan Meyers
June 14, 2020 at 5:48 pm |
Alan–
“The Color of Money” was filmed at Chris’s Billiards, at 4637 North Milwaukee Avenue. It’s still in business. Chris’s was originally located further south on Milwaukee, next to the Portage Theatre. The bowling alley you mention sounds like North Bowl, at around 2600 West North Avenue. Or maybe Lincoln Square Rec, on Lincoln just north of Lawrence. Or it could be any number of places. As you said, maybe somebody can answer this for you.
–JRS
June 14, 2020 at 5:55 pm
Sounds to me like North Center it was above an appliance store. I believe one of the scenes was filmed at North Center too. I think they used Pioneers pool hall which was on the first floor did not use the bowling alley. There was a bar on Fullerton Near DePaul that was also used. They had a sign out front for years that said color of money was filmed here.
June 15, 2020 at 9:24 am |
Dr. Jake and Jim, thanks very much for the information. I Googled “North Center Bowl Chicago” and found the following:
I excerpted this from an original post by ragbug74 on 11-16-2005 at the azbilliards.com forum.
Originally Posted by ragbug74
“A few of my buddies and I were talking about some of the pool halls we’ve visited in Chicago that were used for scenes in TCOM. A year or so ago, we went to (what was a few years earlier) North Center Bowl and discovered a shiney new Starbucks in it’s place. Can anyone tell me how long ago the old buildings were demolished and new buildings built?
“For those who don’t know, North Center Bowl was the hall that you had to go up the long flight of stairs to enter. Once inside the doorway, the bar was immediately in front of you with the tables to the right. When Eddie gets hustled and leaves Vince and Carmen to finish the road trip to Atlantic City alone, they have a big blow-up in the stairwell. They also pull the hand railing off the wall during the scene.
“When we did visit several years ago, we had an interesting conversation with the bartender. I believe she said her anunt owned the place at the time of the filming. We were talking with her about the movie and she offered an interesting piece of trivia. The scene didn’t call for the hand rail to be pulled off the wall, it’s just something that happened “in the heat” of the scene. The production crew liked it so much, it made it into the final cut of the film. She said everyone on the cast signed the railing and they had it displayed in their home. This is one of the reasons I like to visit these types of places….you sometimes hear stories that ‘you had to be there’ to know about.”
———–
The following I excerpted from an original comment by 1 Pocket Ghost on 11-16-05, same site.
Originally Posted by 1 Pocket Ghost
“Hey rag, Northcenter closed down about 7 years ago…..Sorry, but there really are no stories about the place, because…Northcenter had a great old time/spitoons in the corner, look to it – but that’s all it had – the equipment was not good, no serious players EVER went there, and there was less than zero action.”
———–
(I don’t know about condition of the lanes. – Ghost was talking about the pool room.) So I’m thinking North Center Bowl WAS the place I shot pool at… Looks like it may have closed in 1998 or 1999?
For the record, over the years I bowled at the Playdium, in league from 1979 at Marigold Arcade and joined a City league at Marina City Bowl in 1991. The latter moved to Diversey River Bowl years ago and this March we were 1 week away from bowling for the championship when the season was suspended due to Covid-19!
June 15, 2020 at 11:04 am |
Alan–
I posted an exterior photo of North Center from 1975. Maybe that will confirm your memory.
In the “Comments” from that post, a reader confirms that scenes where Fast Eddie himself gets hustled in “The Color of Money” were filmed there. Chris’s Billiards on Milwaukee Avenue must have been used in another part of the film—in one scene, the actors walk out of the billiard hall and onto the street, and it’s Milwaukee Avenue. I should probably get the DVD of the movie as a companion of my DVD of “The Hustler.”
–JRS
June 15, 2020 at 7:22 pm |
Thanks Doc,
I left a few words of reminiscence at your Universal Bowling and Golf post.
I wonder what league bowling will be like this fall in a Covid-19 world! I can live without beer bongs, but no pizza?!
~ Alan
June 16, 2020 at 2:46 pm |
We will adjust. I got used to bowling league without smoking cigars.
–JRS
July 30, 2020 at 10:49 am |
In a study of 447,000 pba frames, taken from 2003, there was a single pin spare converted LESS successfully than the 10 pin, but more successfully than the 7 pin. That one pin spare was the 1 pin.
July 30, 2020 at 11:06 am |
Interesting, but not surprising when you think about it. After all, the bowler had already missed the headpin once, on his first ball.
–JRS
July 30, 2020 at 11:48 am |
In all my many years of bowling . . . I don’t think I’ve ever seen a 9-carry leaving only the headpin.
July 30, 2020 at 11:58 am
I see it happen at least once a season. Somebody goes by the headpin on the right and leaves the 1-2-4 standing, before a stray pin takes out the 2-4. Maybe I should move up to a league with more accurate bowlers.
–JRS
July 30, 2020 at 11:59 am
It’s a fairly common occurrence…
July 30, 2020 at 12:47 pm
On what planet?
The oddest leave I actually have seen is 1-3-4-6-7-9-10 done by a teammate of mine (good bowler 200+ average) in a scratch league. Right-handed, somehow he punched through the 2 and took out the 5 and 8. Can’t remember if he converted.
July 31, 2020 at 9:51 pm
In those 447,000 PBA frames, the one pin was only pin left standing 83 times. About once every 5500 frames.
As the good doctor wrote, the bowler already missed it once. 🙂
July 31, 2020 at 4:06 pm |
Does anyone remember South Shore Bowl, perhaps at 79th and South Shore Drive? Dad used to take me there many times. It was on the Second Floor with the serious bowler lanes on the side opposite the front desk (no longer recall how many), and 12 lanes on the front desk side that were mostly used for open bowlers. On the left and right walls on the serious bowler side were red chairs bolted to the wall for lane judges to watch for fouls. Pot games with TV pros included were normal. Buddy Bowmar bowled a 300 in one by striking out in the 10th with three Brooklyns.
July 31, 2020 at 4:26 pm |
Are you thinking of Cheltenham Recreation? I posted a photo of that house in June 2017.
–JRS
October 20, 2020 at 9:09 am |
Of course, The Bomber’s name is spelled Bomar.
September 6, 2020 at 10:39 am |
I am letting you know we lost another bowling alley in Illinois. Pinsters Bowl on Sheridan Road in Zion. They had a fire there but they are not rebuilding. The lanes have been removed and the building has been sold.
https://www.facebook.com/pinstersbowling/
October 20, 2020 at 9:05 am |
The PBA has taken down all the tournament archives. Suddenly, the archives are under construction, and they are hoping to have it back soon.
I don’t see where the archives needed improving.
I want the archives back!!! 🙂
October 22, 2020 at 12:41 pm |
Nitram242 on flickr.com has some interesting photos of the half demolished former Woodview bowling alley in Elgin.
They left behind the pins, balls, and shoes.
November 11, 2020 at 11:04 am |
Hello Dr Jake, I am trying to find a list of the original 33 investors/members of the PBA, I can’t find this information anywhere, are you aware of the names of the original 33? Thank you
November 11, 2020 at 12:09 pm |
Of course I’ve heard that there were 33 charter PBA members, but I’ve never run across the actual list, either. In his autobiography, Ed Lubanski says there were about 60 bowlers present at the 1958 Masters in Syracuse, when Eddie Elias presented his plan. Lubanski names a bunch of those men, but doesn’t say which of them forked over $50—and he himself admits he was skeptical at first. Lubanski also mentions that the first 100 bowlers to join the PBA are considered “Founding Members,” and lists himself and a bunch of his Detroit contemporaries. But getting back to the original 33. Carmen Salvino was definitely one of them, and talks about it in his own autobiography. Ray Bluth was probably a charter member, too. Maybe Carmen or Ray would have the list of 33.
–JRS
November 11, 2020 at 1:29 pm
Thanks, I have reached out to the PBA and have composed this list from articles, Facebook posts, story’s and biography’s but it may or may not be accurate hopefully PBA has the list.
Joe Schmidt
Jim Schroeder
Bill Lillard Sr
Carmen Salvino
Don Carter
Dick Weber
Ray Bluth
Harry Smith
Billy Welu
Frank Esposito
Chuck Pezzano
Pat Patterson
Morris Cramer
Vinnie Yatitto
Fred Racilli
Fuzzy Shmada
George Young
Bruce Koch
Fred Riccilli
Whitey Harris
Ed Mady
Therm Gibson
Paul Krumske
Bill Bunetta
Lou Campi
Joe Donato
Buzz Fazio
Matt Lebhar
Glenn Allison
Steve Nagy
Harry Smith
Ray Bluth
Dick Hoover
A couple of others that were at the meeting but couldn’t find anything about them joining
Robert “Bobby” Bellew
Vito Quercia
Junie McMahon
Sent from my iPhone
November 11, 2020 at 1:50 pm
Thanks for the list. This is the first time I’ve ever seen it.
–JRS
November 12, 2020 at 9:22 am
Bluth, Smith, and Riccilli are each on the list twice. That cuts it down to 30. So maybe Bellew, Quercia, and McMahon belong and make it 33.
–JRS
November 12, 2020 at 11:28 am
You’re right, thank you, no response from PBA yet.
November 12, 2020 at 10:17 pm |
Dr. Jake I’m so happy to have found your blog I was fortunate enough at the age of 19 to be taken onto a team in the Seno‘s classic league at Senos Playdium in Bellwood Il. I tried to stay up to speed by reading the Chicago Bowler Weekly who knew a lot of the top names in the area after four years in the league I was able to nail down hi average by throwing a full roller. But my biggest accomplishment from day one was earning the respect from Al Bruder and other top-notch bowlers that’s still enthralls me today. The biggest name I remember before getting into the league was Louis Cioffi. I was lucky enough to follow my dad‘s footsteps as he also bowled in this league . The most competitive bowling situations that I’ve ever encountered
December 17, 2020 at 7:21 pm |
What was the name of the bowling alley above the A & P on Ashland Ave., one block north of Belmont?
December 17, 2020 at 10:52 pm |
That sounds like Kaadland Bowl, located at 3249 North Ashland Avenue.
February 14, 2021 at 2:15 am |
Dr Jake
Do you know when Goransons Bowl became Humboldt Bowl? Mr Goransons either died and it was sold or he just sold It because he owned the liquor store and bowling alley. Then it became a Jewel downstairs and Humboldt Bowl upstairs. Eventually Jewel moved out and the thrift store moved in. Any idea? My guess is mid to late 50s. Jim Fireside Bowl
February 14, 2021 at 10:07 am |
Hi Jim—The Library of Congress has a large collection of Chicago phone books available online. The 1950 yellow pages has Goransons Liquor Store under the bowling alley at the North Avenue location, with a Jewel Food Store across the street. The 1951 yellow pages doesn’t have Goransons Liquors, but now the Jewel Food Store is under the bowling alley. So that seems to answer your question. BTW–the bowling alley is listed as both Goransons and Humboldt those years; by 1955 it’s only Humboldt.
–JRS
February 14, 2021 at 1:24 pm
J.R. Schmidt, how exactly would one access those phone books please and thanks??
February 14, 2021 at 3:06 pm
Try the link below.
–JRS
https://www.loc.gov/collections/united-states-telephone-directory-collection/?c=150&fa=location:illinois%7Clocation:chicago+suburban+north&st=list%5D%20from%201958-1968%20and%20Chicago%20%5Blink:%20https://www.loc.gov/collections/united-states-telephone-directory-collection/?c=150&fa=location:illinois%7Clocation:chicago&st=list
February 15, 2021 at 11:44 am |
Hey Jake Very long time since the old Thursday night Sportsman league. What year did the building burn down.
February 15, 2021 at 12:04 pm |
Hi Dave–
I think it was around 1995. The last year I bowled there was 1990, when John Bieg owned it and called it Bieg’s Bowl. Somebody told me that Bieg later sold it to a Hispanic guy who sunk some money into the operation—replacing the old alleys, and so on. Then the fire came. The building was wrecked, so the owner tore the whole thing down and sold the land. At least, that’s what I was told.
–Jake
February 15, 2021 at 1:15 pm
Bob Sanders and his partner a Mikey Sanchez took it over. They didn’t replace the lanes they just doctored them up, it would have cost a fortune to replace. Machines were in bad shape also. They ran it for awhile but it did not work. They went out of business, I bought a few things out of there when it closed but they wanted a lot for everything. It was already closed when the fire happened.
February 15, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Thanks for clearing this up.
–JRS
February 15, 2021 at 4:34 pm
Your welcome,
I was reading one of your past blogs about Our Lady of Angels basement bowling alley. I was redoing my lanes at the time and Don from Langlo bowling and billiards and I went over there. The back of lanes 1 and 2 had been cut off to put in an office. In the middle of lanes 3-4-5 had a huge hump in it about 12 inches as the basement floor had heaved upwards. The lanes were in terrible shape. They went up for auction on eBay and If I remember someone out of Kansas bought them for $30,000 on winning bid. Buyer had to remove. Don figured it to be around $25-30,000 to in man power and equipment to remove.it had to be done 2 weeks after sale was complete.I think it was Jayhawk bowling removing it for an outfit that was doing vintage restoration mods for a place that went belly up.
The lanes were awful but the Brunswick B1 racks were all still there for rack pin setting. The backstops were there but were in need of repair. Don said each of those would be a few thousand to restuff. It was a big undertaking for very little in return. He estimate the equipment was really worth $3-5000. Due to labor intensive removal. It was like a time capsul down there. Still had board up of parishioners serving in the service during WWII and Korea. They said last time it was used was in 80s when a parishioner tried to get it going for parish parties but there was very little interest.
February 20, 2021 at 2:33 pm |
Hi Jake,
I stumbled across your blog when searching for pictures of my grandfather’s bowling alley in Philadelphia – Jimmy Dykes Colonial Recreation (https://bowlinghistory.wordpress.com/2014/10/20/jimmy-dykes-colonial-recreation-bowling-philadelphia-1948/). Your blog post includes an old black and white photo that I would like to frame and hang in my basement next to one of the pool tables that used to sit in the basement of the alley. Would you by chance have a higher resolution copy of the image to share?
Thank you in advance.
-Jake
February 22, 2021 at 5:03 pm |
What was the name of the bowling alley on Stoney Island between 68th and 69th streets? It was on the west side of the street on the second floor back in the 40s and 50s. I used to bowl there as a kid.
February 22, 2021 at 7:04 pm |
South Shore Recreation, 6838 S. Stony Island Ave.
–JRS
February 22, 2021 at 8:56 pm
Thanks you!
May 20, 2021 at 5:14 pm |
Hello, Dr. Jake! I am one of the owners of what is now known as Avondale Bowl in Chicago. We are located at 3118 N. Milwaukee Ave. I am trying to track down old pictures or information about the bowling alley that we took over which closed as Northwest Bowl in the early 90s. The space was also once called Court Lanes and then Avondale Recreation until it became Northwest Bowl in the 1950s.
Any info you might have would be great or if you can point me in the right direction of where I can find out more info. Thanks a lot and really enjoy your blog!
July 8, 2021 at 8:43 pm |
Hello Dr Jake,
I am one of Jimmy Smith Melillo’s Great grand sons and I have scrapbooks from 100 years ago all about Jimmy Smith. He had such an interesting story and I want to know how I can share all this great history with the world.
I would love to connect sometime.
July 9, 2021 at 1:05 pm |
Hi Joe–
That sounds like a marvelous treasure! You should consider donating the scrapbooks to a place that recognizes their historic value, and will take good care of them. The obvious place is the Bowling Museum, in Texas. There’s also the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library. I’m in Chicago, and our Newberry Library does collect some sports memorabilia. Let me know what you decide to do.
Keep in touch,
JRS
July 9, 2021 at 10:57 pm
Thanks for the feedback JRS. We will stay in touch Sir.
Talk soon,
August 3, 2021 at 8:47 am |
In the mid to late 1960’s there was a major fire at a bowling alley on N. Central Ave. either Stratford Lanes or Manor Bowl. I bowled at both but was either away at school or in the Service when it happened. Seems there may have been at least one injury or fatality and it may have included/been my childhood buddy. Met some childhood friends recently and my good friend’s name came up but no one had any details. Can you help by at least letting me know if and when there was a fire at either alley?
August 3, 2021 at 9:46 am |
Stratford burned down Manor stayed in existence until about 12-15 years ago. At the time Stratford had a liquor license and Manor did not. When Stratford burned down Manor got a liquor license and started to serve liquor. Both were nice bowling alleys. I believe part of the big parking garage is were Stratford was.
August 3, 2021 at 9:52 am
Stratford was our home house in the North End Traveling League in 1976-77. If there was a fire there, it must have been later than that.
–JRS
August 3, 2021 at 10:00 am
Stratford burned down sometime in 70s
October 7, 2021 at 11:23 am |
I was wondering about Kenny Barbers PBA tour record. I know he made some TV finals but that’s about it. Chuck
October 7, 2021 at 1:06 pm |
Kenny Barber never won a PBA event. But you might want to check out the comments from some readers on the link below.
–JRS
October 11, 2021 at 3:58 pm |
Dr. Jake,
I’m doing some research on WIBC before it merged with USBC. I’m looking for a copy of the final version of The Woman Bowler titled: Frames and Lanes: Special Commemorative Final Issue, Spring/Summer 2005, The International Bowling Hall of Fame does not have a copy. Have you seen anything like this?
thanks,
Janet Woolum
Author: Outstanding Women Athletes (1998).
Former Team USA member
October 12, 2021 at 3:49 pm |
I don’t think I have one, but will check my collection.
–JRS
November 27, 2021 at 4:08 am |
I bowled for the Lane Tech HS girls bowling team in the State competition in 1975. I faced BOYS from Dixon who won the Girls State Championship. Do you remember this? I am looking for some print documentation of how the boys got to participate in the girls league . I recall some saying Title IX got reversed on us, lol.
November 27, 2021 at 9:10 am |
This is a great story, but I don’t recall it. If you can give me an approximate date and the bowling center where this happened, I’ll try to find out more about it.
–JRS
December 8, 2021 at 4:31 pm |
Hi, trying to find the name of an alley I went to with my dad In perhaps 95-96. It was a run down 8 lane alley, I want to say somewhere in the general area of desplaines/ohare/northwest. Definitely wood lanes bone dry and lack of maintenance. Any thoughts? Thanks!
December 8, 2021 at 6:33 pm |
I’m thinking of Edison Park Bowl, a second-floor place with 8 lanes on the far Northwest Side of Chicago. It’s still in business.
–JRS
December 8, 2021 at 6:45 pm
Thanks for the reply! I just looked at that one, and timber on Irving. Could be either really, I guess I’ll just have to visit both and see! Only other thing I can think of is if it was an alley long closed, or perhaps it was a 12 lane.
December 8, 2021 at 8:05 pm
Des Plaines bowl was torn down as part of revitalization of downtown Des Plaines it was torn down in 2003 2004 timeframe condos are there now
December 8, 2021 at 8:30 pm
That may have been it! Sadly there’s really no info or pictures online that I can find.
December 8, 2021 at 11:09 pm
It was 8 lane very old fashioned bowling owner Wayne Grossman and his brother. Had old diner up front and old bar in it too. It was a great place.
December 8, 2021 at 8:35 pm
I think you nailed it, James. I remember the place, though I was never inside. It was on Pearson Street just north of Northwest Highway.
–JRS
December 10, 2021 at 2:04 pm
> Dr. Jake, > > I know this is not what you were looking for but since you don’t have any pictures at all, this is all I could offer. My parents lived in the condos across the street and I just didn’t get there in time to get the pictures I had hoped to get. I took these two shots, feel free to share them or do as you wish with them. I took these on July 1, 2004.
Loren Argall
> > > >>
December 10, 2021 at 2:44 pm
Loren–Thanks for the note—but I didn’t get any pictures with it.
–JRS
December 10, 2021 at 3:03 pm
Sorry about that, let me try it again.
Loren Argall
>
January 30, 2022 at 4:32 am
It was at Golf and Elmhurst Road. It was owned Harold and Marty Webber. Who also owned Thunderbird in Mount Prospect, All Star in Skokie a s then later Marty built Woodfield Lanes. All are gone now except Thunderbird became Bowlero, and now is Bowlmor.
January 30, 2022 at 1:55 pm
I’m sorry they changed the name of Thunderbird. Because of the easy conditions there, we used to call it “Thunder-block.”
–JRS
January 29, 2022 at 9:37 pm |
I learned to bowl at striking lanes in Mt Prospect
Know it’s no longer there
Looking for information on its history.
January 29, 2022 at 11:01 pm |
There was also a Berwyn Striking Lanes which might have been owned by the same family. As for Mount Prospect Striking Lanes, the only thing I have is the matchbook. Here’s the link to the December 2017 post.
–JRS
December 11, 2022 at 9:09 pm
Any chance you’re thinking about Striker Lanes on Harlem Ave and about 14th in Berwyn? That site closed maybe 10 years ago and moved into the shuttered Euclid Lanes on 16th and Euclid in Berwyn. Still open, I believe.
December 11, 2022 at 9:48 pm
I did a post on that 16th Street bowling alley some years ago. The link is below.
–JRS
March 16, 2022 at 6:16 pm |
I’m looking for info on Park View Lanes bowling alley somewhere on south side could have been in the city, Hal Schumacher owned the place. Purchased in early 1960 s and then I believe his kids. Oldest Hal??Susan Gaylon Gary Mark Ricky and Harold.
In the early to mid 1960s . The Schumacher family lived behind my family in Evergreen Park and I was good friends with Mark, Ricky and Gaylon a bit too. Mark, with dads permission took me to the bowling alley 2-3 times on Saturday morning when Mark was competing on a team in a league. Please advise if you have any info on this bowling alley or family from the 1960s. Thanks Patrick Ahern
March 16, 2022 at 9:58 pm |
The closest I can come to that name is Park Manor Lanes, at 75th and Michigan. Maybe some one else reading this remembers Park View Lanes.
–JRS
May 19, 2022 at 2:21 pm |
Dr Jake, I just heard that professional wrestler “Mr Wonderful” Paul Orndorff owned a bowling alley in Fayetteville, GA. Any idea which one and during what years? I can’t find much about it.
May 19, 2022 at 2:49 pm |
His center was Fayetteville Lanes, opened in 1987. BJ ran an article about him, but I don’t think it’s available online. Maybe you can get a reprint—
Herbst, Dan. “Wrestling Within a New Profession.” Bowlers Journal, Jul 1991:102-104.
–JRS
May 19, 2022 at 3:00 pm
Thanks, Doc
So fast!
August 28, 2022 at 11:03 am |
Dr. Jake,
I enjoy reading your blog. Here’s a link to some great interior and exterior photos of mid-1920’s Francisco’s in Omaha. It was 24 lanes split between the 3rd and 4th floor of the S.S. Kresge building. By far the largest house in Omaha at the time. Thought this could be a good addition to your blog. https://durhammuseum.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15426coll1/search/searchterm/Francisco%20bowling
January 13, 2023 at 10:32 am |
Hello Dr. Jake,
I’m curious if you could direct me to any information about the Ace Bowling Ball Comp.?
Thank you,
January 14, 2023 at 8:27 am |
I’m sorry, but I don’t have anything on that.
–JRS
June 23, 2023 at 9:40 am |
Hi I am excited to announce that in 2024 the Menomonee club will complete our historic rerenovation of our clubhouse built in 1891 as a two lane bowling alley and operated until 1950 as the north end bowling club. We are returning it to a two lane bowling alley with modern lanes . We have photos
April 25, 2023 at 10:51 am |
G&Lbowlimg in Chicago . My dad was married for a short time to the owners daughter. All I know is she was the “G” ( her last name) now it seems she was pregnant and gave the baby up so I have a brother out there . Can you tell me the last name of the family “G” in G&L
May 2, 2023 at 7:07 am |
I don’t know what the “G” stood for in G&L. One of the old-time Chicago proprietors was named Goldammer, and another was named Goranson. Perhaps someone who reads this will know the answer to your question. Good luck!
–JRS
May 2, 2023 at 11:26 am
I don’t know if he had other bowling alleys but Goranson owned what became Humboldt Bowl on North Ave.
May 2, 2023 at 12:36 pm
Actually the family was Italian as was a good % of the residents so I know the last name definitely sounds italian
August 17, 2023 at 10:26 am |
Hi! My grandfather owned Olympic Bowl in Detroit until it burned down. I’ve been searching for years for pictures of it, I was wondering if you have ever come across any, other than the facade, in your research? Thanks so much!
August 17, 2023 at 2:27 pm |
I’m sorry to disappoint you, but I don’t have any interior photos.
–JRS
August 17, 2023 at 2:30 pm
No worries at all! Thanks for getting back to me. Do you by chance have a hi-res image of the exterior I could purchase from you?
August 17, 2023 at 3:00 pm
All I have is the photo on the post. I started collecting bowling photos over 60 years ago. I don’t have a better copy, or the original source. But you are certainly welcome to copy the photo from this blog.
–JRS
August 24, 2023 at 2:02 pm |
Hello. I am looking to find an article by Dan Herbst covering Bruce March, of Lee Bowling Lanes, Lee, Mass. I believe the article was published on 1997 our 1998,possibly headlined” Bowler is now a proprietor”. Thank you for any information you may provide.
.
August 24, 2023 at 2:26 pm |
I’m sorry, but I don’t have a listing for an article like that. Try contacting the International Bowling Media Association—maybe they can put you in touch with the author.
–JRS
September 6, 2023 at 3:04 pm |
Hi Jake:
I grew up in Queens, NY during the 60’s and 70’s. Do you have any pictures of Turnpike Lanes? It was located on Union Turpike at the corner of Utopia Parkway in Fresh Meadows (Flushing) or Jamaica Estates, NY
September 11, 2023 at 7:40 pm |
Found some old Brunswick catalogs on their website. Some have old bowling stuff like pinboy machines, alley shellac and laquer and polishes etc. Neat old stuff. Seach and find links to bowling stuff. this is a catalog from 1944….
https://brunswick.pastperfectonline.com/library/09782189-E754-499E-B645-552429135794
October 17, 2023 at 5:26 pm |
Pete won his first PBA title in 1966 ! Toledo open ! He bowled 3 games to win !
February 6, 2024 at 7:25 am |
Hi Dr. Jake,
I was hoping to get in contact with you in regards to the launch of televised bowling in Chicago. Is there an email address I can reach you at?
all the best,
Robert Niesen
February 18, 2024 at 11:33 am |
Hi Bob–
My email is: docjake300@hotmail.com
–JRS
March 6, 2024 at 3:56 pm |
trying to remember the name of a bowling alley on Belmont near Pulaski in 1963. Maybe called Bel-Park Bowling Alley
March 6, 2024 at 4:51 pm |
Milford Recreation was on Pulaski at Milwaukee, just north of Belmont. Northwest Bowl was on Milwaukee just south of Belmont. Bel-Bowl was on Belmont east of Pulaski, near Kimball. Rainbo Lanes was on Diversey at Pulaski. Those are the four that I remember somewhere near Belmont-Pulaski.
–JRS
April 1, 2024 at 7:24 pm |
I’m trying to find the names of the bowlers on the 1959 Falstaff bowling team. My father worked for Falstaff .I was 8 years old and had my picture taken with Steve Nagy and another bowler whose first name was Norm..but don’t remember his last name. Can you help me out?
Thanks,
Peggy Needham
April 2, 2024 at 7:45 am |
That would be Norm Meyers, Hall-of-Famer and brother-in-law of Dick Weber.
https://wordpress.com/posts/bowlinghistory.wordpress.com?s=norm+meyers
–JRS