Believe it or not, bowling began as a rich man’s sport.
The average bowling lane at the turn of the 20th century was steeped in luxury and elegance. Bowling was a sport enjoyed by only the wealthiest Americans, those who could afford to frequent attractions like the White Elephant, one of America’s first bowling establishments that opened in 1895. Despite it being considered a sport only for the rich, bowling’s popularity grew throughout the beginning of the 20th century. In 1920, there were 450 officially sanctioned bowling alleys in America. In 1929, there were over 2,000.
Then the market crash of 1929 struck America, ushering in the age of the Great Depression. Bowling’s popularity, however, never died. In fact, it spread to the masses. Those who were struggling or out of work could find affordable relief on the bowling alley, releasing their stress and frustration through a bowlingball.
The days we’re currently living in are often compared to the Great Depression. It’s no surprise that entertainment costs are among the first items cut in a family budget when things start looking grim, when simply putting supper on the table becomes a struggle.
A ticket to the movies these days can cost as much as $8, costing a family of 5 more than $40 just to see a movie, and that doesn’t even count the popcorn. Family vacations are quickly becoming a thing of the past when it costs at least that much just to fill a gas tank. Even taking the kids to see Wrestle Mania eats up half a paycheck. What can a family do to have fun anymore?
Bowling, however, remains an affordable sport, one that the whole family can participate. A game at a bowling alley is reasonably priced, and the entire family can enjoy. The sport becomes even cheaper when you own your own shoes and bowlingball.
Just as it did in the Great Depression, bowling serves as affordable family fun, the perfect way to bond and laugh at Dad. Bring them all together with an evening at the bowling alley. Even when you throw in the hotdogs and fries, bowling remains an affordable, family friendly sport. Take the whole family to a game. Real elegance is having fun with the whole family.
