There's A Vintage Bowling Alley From The 1910s In New Hampshire Called Room 111 At Victory Lanes
By Michelle|Published December 13, 2019
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Editor’s Note: Room 111 at Victory Lanes is permanently closed.
There are some things that are so quintessentially New England, we can’t help but loving them. Candlepin bowling is one of them! Located throughout the region, this fun activity is great for kids and helps make those long, cold winters a whole lot more fun. But what’s better than candlepin bowling? Candlepin bowling at a place that also comes with history!
Head to tiny Woodsville and ask someone what to do for fun and you’ll probably be pointed in the direction of Room 111 at Victory Lanes.
While newly re-opened, it actually dates back to the early 1900s when Andrew Bagonzi and Charles Maccini opened the first candlepin bowling alleys in town.
Candlepin bowling, beloved New England pastime, is a lot like regular bowling. But instead of a big ball, players use a ball that weighs about 2.5 pounds.
The size and shape of the pins are also different and the downed pins are not cleared after every turn. This means that bowlers can use downed pins to help them knock the others down.
Prior to its life as a candlepin bowling alley, it was the home of a dance hall and movie theater. It was a favorite among local loggers and railroaders.
At the time bowling may have been the focus, but today you’ll also find a great bar attached to the historic building. It even has great nightly specials.
Room 111 at Victory Lanes is open Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., Thursday 3 p.m. to midnight, Friday 3 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. They’re closed on Monday and Tuesday. You can learn more about them on Facebook or give them a call on 603-243-0393.