Tulsa in Tulsa County, Oklahoma — The American South (West South Central)
Rose Bowl Lanes
7914 E. 11th St.
— Tulsa's Historic Route 66 —
Photographed By Mark Hilton, October 22, 2019
1. Rose Bowl Lanes Marker
Inscription.
Rose Bowl Lanes was constructed in 1962. Architect William Henry Ryan based the unique design on concrete bomb shelters he had seen in Germany during World War I. The free-standing reinforced concrete structure did not need interior supports and could easily house multiple bowling lanes. The unique structure with its two symmetrical concrete domes, bubble gum pink color, and soaring windows quickly became a hotspot when it opened in 1962 as the Rose Bowl Lanes. Boasting audience seating, a game room, food counter and other traditional elements of the 10-pin heyday, it not only drew many locals but also became known for its regional bowling tournaments, drawing people from all over the country. The distinct design and color made it stand out to passers-by on Route 66.
For 45 years, the building entertained bowling enthusiasts along Route 66, changing ownership several times throughout the years until it was purchased by bowling giant AMF. In 2005, the bowling center closed its doors.
Rose Bowl Lanes was constructed in 1962.
Architect William Henry Ryan based the unique design on
concrete bomb shelters he had seen in Germany during World
War I. The free-standing reinforced concrete structure did not
need interior supports and could easily house multiple bowling
lanes. The unique structure with its two symmetrical concrete
domes, bubble gum pink color, and soaring windows quickly
became a hotspot when it opened in 1962 as the Rose Bowl
Lanes. Boasting audience seating, a game room, food counter
and other traditional elements of the 10-pin heyday, it not only
drew many locals but also became known for its regional
bowling tournaments, drawing people from all over the
country. The distinct design and color made it stand out to
passers-by on Route 66.
For 45 years, the building entertained bowling enthusiasts
along Route 66, changing ownership several times throughout
the years until it was purchased by bowling giant AMF.
In 2005, the bowling center closed its doors.
Erected 2019 by Tulsa Route 66 Commission. (Marker Number 2.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Notable Buildings. In addition, it is included in the U.S. Route 66 series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1962.
Location.
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36° 8.892′ N, 95° 53.661′ W. Marker is in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in Tulsa County. Marker is on East 11th Street east of South 73rd Avenue E, on the left when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 7419 East 11th Street, Tulsa OK 74112, United States of America. Touch for directions.
3. Rose Bowl Lanes Marker looking west on Old Route 66.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 6, 2019. It was originally submitted on November 6, 2019, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama. This page has been viewed 532 times since then and 82 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on November 6, 2019, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama.
