Worcester and Candlepin Bowling

Elena Ralph

Staff Writer

Candlepin bowling was invented right here in Worcester, MA, in 1880 by Justin “Pop” White, who owned a local pool hall on Pearl Street just around the corner from what is now the Museum of Worcester. Unlike tenpin bowling, which is more widely played across the country, candlepin bowling has remained a regional sport, deeply ingrained in the culture of New England.To celebrate this uniquely local tradition, the Museum of Worcester has opened a new exhibit dedicated to the history and technicalities of candlepin bowling.

The exhibit showcases the sport’s origins, evolution, and cultural significance, featuring rare memorabilia such as vintage bowling pins, scorecards, historical photographs, and even old bowling shoes. Many of these items are on loan from private collectors and institutions such as Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Bentley University, the Boston Public Library, and even the National Baseball Hall of Fame. A special highlight of the collection comes from the Colonial Bowling Center, Worcester’s last candlepin alley, which sadly closed its doors in 2020 after decades of operation.

For generations, Colonial Bowling Center was a landmark in Worcester and a beloved gathering place for locals. Located on Millbury Street, the alley was one of the oldest continuously operating candlepin centers in Massachusetts. Known for its classic wood lanes, hand-scoring system, and vintage atmosphere, it provided a nostalgic bowling experience that was becoming increasingly rare.When Colonial closed in 2020, it marked the end of an era for Worcester, but its legacy is now honored in the new museum exhibit.

Unlike traditional tenpin bowling, candlepin uses smaller, handheld balls without finger holes, and the pins themselves are tall and narrow, resembling candles hence the name. Another distinct feature is that knocked-down pins (or “deadwood”) remain on the lane between rolls, adding a strategic element to the game. Players get three rolls per frame instead of two, but the challenge of knocking down all the pins is much greater due to their shape and the lighter ball. These differences make candlepin a precision-based sport where technique and skill often outweigh raw power.

Though Worcester lost its last candlepin alley with the closure of Colonial Bowling Center, the sport is still thriving in other parts of Massachusetts. Just 30 minutes south in Webster, MA, Mohegan Bowl continues to keep the tradition alive. Originally founded in 1958, the center was purchased in 2012 by Ed and Kelli Kinsley, who carefully renovated the facility while preserving its nostalgic charm. Their approach blended modern technology—such as electronic scoring systems and updated seating areas—while maintaining the feel of a classic small-town bowling alley.

To celebrate the opening of the new exhibit, bowling enthusiasts gathered on Friday, February 7th, at Mohegan Bowl to share stories, reminisce, and experience the fun of candlepin bowling firsthand. The event brought together longtime fans and newcomers alike, highlighting the community spirit that has kept the sport alive for generations. Players competed in friendly matches, learned about the history of the game, and even watched demonstrations of classic candlepin techniques from seasoned players.

While candlepin bowling is not as widespread as tenpin, it remains a beloved pastime for many in New England. Leagues continue to operate in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, and efforts are being made to introduce the game to younger generations through youth programs and community events.

With exhibits like the one at the Museum of Worcester and dedicated centers like Mohegan Bowl, candlepin bowling continues to hold a special place in New England’s sporting history. As long as passionate players and local businesses remain committed to the game, this regional tradition will endure for years to come.