Not many places in the country can claim to be the oldest of anything. In fact, as math would have it – there can be just one of any given “oldest thing.” With those odds, New Hampshirites should be pretty proud that the oldest candlepin bowling alley is located in a small, unassuming town. But, in addition to that we’re pretty excited that this place is not only a great place to bowl, but it’s also a great pub in its own right. The well-known red building is owned by a local 20-something who named the spot after his freshman dorm room number when he bought the lanes after graduating.

Room 111 at Victory Lanes can be found in tiny Woodsville, New Hampshire.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
The building itself dates back at least a hundred years.
rene-germany / Flickr
As the story goes, in 1916, Mr. Andrew Bagonzi and Mr. Charles Maccini opened their doors to the town of Woodsville with the first candlepin bowling alleys in town.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
The building was moved to where it sits today around 1900 when it opened as dance hall and movie theater. It was frequented by loggers and railroaders. It moved onto bowling around 1909 when the first three lanes were installed.

Candlepin bowling is a beloved New England pastime. It's similar to regular bowling, but it uses a ball weighting just 2.5 pounds. And, the balls are not cleared after every strike.
Things haven't always been operational, but today the place is owned by Nate Swain who bought it in 2016.
tracylee / Flickr
But, bowling isn't all there is to do here.
malaline / Flickr

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If you make your way out to Woodsville, you'll be pleased to find that there's also a really great bar attached to this historic spot.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
They've got nightly specials and a typical bar menu.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
But care is taken with everything and it's easy to see that this is a labor of love for the owner and staff.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
You might find the classic grilled cheese with a side of crispy, seasoned fries for just $5 on special if you're lucky.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
And, definitely get the chocolate lava cake!
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook
The bar is fully stocked with over 20 whiskeys and local beers are a staple!
Room 111 at Victory Lanes / Facebook

Room 111 at Victory Lanes can be found at 9 Central St., Woodsville, NH. Call them at (603) 243-0393 and be sure to check them out on Facebook.

New Hampshire is also home to the oldest general store in America, as well as the oldest free public library in the world. Looking like we’ve got some pretty special history if you know what you’re looking for!

 

 

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