Solvay Recreation Alleys Closes After Nearly a Century

News Summary

Solvay Recreation Alleys, the oldest bowling alley in Central New York, has closed indefinitely following the death of owner John Zollo. Established in 1940, the alley has been a cherished community hub known for its friendly atmosphere and historical significance. With plans for reopening undetermined, the Zollo family is currently selling bowling equipment. This closure marks a significant loss for local bowlers and community members who fondly remember the establishment as a place of friendship and fun.

Syracuse, N.Y. – Solvay Recreation Alleys, the oldest operating bowling alley in Central New York and one of the oldest in the United States, has closed indefinitely after nearly a century of bowling tradition. The closure was announced through a sign posted at the entrance of the establishment, located at 1737 Milton Ave., in Solvay. The alley’s abrupt end follows the death of its owner, John Zollo, who passed away on May 3 at the age of 61 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Before Zollo’s passing, the bowling alley had been closed to the public for several months. His son, Jonathan Zollo, revealed that the family has not yet determined plans for reopening but is selling bowling equipment, including shoes and balls, that were used at the center.

Established in 1940 by John Zollo’s grandfather, Solvay Recreation Alleys has long been a cherished part of the local community. The facility, built in 1928 by the Doran brothers on the site of an old auto repair garage, started with only six lanes and expanded to 14 lanes in the 1950s. The business was initially purchased by Lenny Capucilli and Danny Zollo. Following Danny Zollo’s passing in 1964, his widow, Mary Zollo, partnered with Capucilli, ensuring the continuity of operations. After Capucilli’s retirement in 1977, their son, Phil Zollo, took over the bowling center, eventually passing it on to his son, John.

The bowling alley was known locally for its friendly, community-focused atmosphere, often likened to the television show “Cheers.” Solvay Recreation Alleys did not maintain a website, contributing to its secretive charm and low-key presence. Nonetheless, it became a popular venue for various bowling events, including the Post-Standard Masters Tournament and local leagues for the blind and senior citizens.

Noteworthy in the history of Solvay Recreation Alleys is its recognition as the first bowling center in Central New York to install automatic pinsetters in 1953. Despite facing competition from more modern, corporate bowling establishments, the center thrived due to its affordable pricing and loyal community support. Over the years, however, the bowling industry in the Syracuse area experienced a decline, with more than ten bowling alleys closing between the 1970s and the late 1990s.

Photographs spanning many years showcase Solvay Recreation Alleys as a hub of community activity, capturing the camaraderie and connections formed among patrons and local bowlers. Each lane in the alley represents one of Phil and Alice Zollo’s 14 children, adding a personal touch to the establishment’s legacy.

The unexpected closure of Solvay Recreation Alleys marks the end of an era for many community members who fondly remember the bowling alley as a place of friendship and fun. While the Zollo family contemplates the future of the business, the memories created at this local institution will remain a significant part of the fabric of Syracuse and its bowling history.

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Additional Resources

• Syracuse.com: Central New York’s Oldest Bowling Alley Closes
• Wikipedia: Bowling
• Syracuse.com: John Zollo Obituary
• Google Search: Central New York Bowling Alley
• Hudson Valley Post: Charming Secret New York Bowling Alley
• Google Scholar: Bowling History
• CNY News: Upstate New York Old Businesses
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bowling Halls
• The New 961: What’s Happening in WNY
• Google News: Bowling Alleys Closure