P1. Other Identifier: Land Park Lanes, Land Park Bowl_ DPR 523A (9/2013) *Required information
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PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial
NRHP Status Code
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Review Code Reviewer Date
*P2. Location: Not for Publication Unrestricted *a. County Sacramento and (P2c, P2e, and P2b or P2d. Attach a Location Map as necessary.) b. USGS 7.5' Quad Date T R Sec ; Meridian
c. Address: _5850 Freeport Boulevard_____ City __Sacramento_____ Zip _95822_____ d. UTM: (Give more than one for large and/or linear resources) See Location Map. e. Other Locational Data: (e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, decimal degrees, etc., as appropriate) Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 035-0034-016
*P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries) AMF Land Park Lanes is a single-story 28,756 square-foot Mid-Century Modern commercial/recreation building (Figure 1) with a roughly L-shaped plan within a 110,207-square-foot rectangular parcel (Sacramento County Tax Assessor 2024). The entire parcel surrounding the building is paved with asphalt. The building has a concrete slab foundation and is of concrete construction. The building features a low-pitch side-gable roof with a shed roof extension on the south half of the east façade, creating a subtle folded plat roof profile at select elevations (Figure 2). The overhanging eaves of the roof profile are varied from moderate overhang to none depending on the façade (Figure 2–Figure 4) (See Continuation Sheets). *P3b.Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) HP6. 1-3 story commercial building *P4. Resources Present: Building Structure Object Site District Element of District Other (Isolates, etc.) P5b. Description of Photo: (view, date, accession #)
Figure 1. East (primary) façade, view facing
west (October 2024).
*P6. Date Constructed/Age and Source:
Historic Prehistoric Both
1960
*P7. Owner and Address:
Bowlero Corporation
7313 Bell Creek Rd
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
*P8. Recorded by: (Name, affiliation, and address)
Lisa Demarais, M.H.P. and Dan Herrick, M.H.C.
SWCA Environmental Consulting
100 Howe Avenue, Suite 230N
Sacramento, CA 95825
*P9. Date Recorded: October 22, 2024
*P10. Survey Type: (Describe) Intensive
*P11. Report Citation: (Cite survey report and other
sources or enter “none.”) SWCA (2024) Historic
Resources Evaluation Report for 5850 Freeport
Boulevard (AMF Land Park Lanes), Sacramento,
Sacramento County, California.
*Attachments: NONE Location Map Continuation Sheet Building, Structure, and Object Record Archaeological Record District Record Linear Feature Record Milling Station Record Rock Art Record Artifact Record Photograph Record Other (List):
P5a. Photograph or Drawing (Photograph required for buildings, structures, and objects.)
*Resource Name or #
(Assigned by recorder) AMF Land Park Lanes *NRHP Status Code 6Z
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BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD
B1. Historic Name: Land Park Bowl
B2. Common Name: AMF Land Park Lanes
B3. Original Use: Recreation – Bowling B4. Present Use: Recreation – Bowling *B5. Architectural Style: Mid-Century Modern
*B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations) See Continuation Sheets.
*B7. Moved? No Yes Unknown Date: ___ Original Location: ______________ *B8. Related Features: None
B9a. Architect: Unknown b. Builder: Winston Steel Works *B10. Significance: Theme Community Development – Commercial; Recreation Area Sacramento County Period of Significance N/A Property Type Bowling Center Applicable Criteria N/A (Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural
This eligibility evaluation finds that subject
property does not possess historical
significance under any established
California Register of Historical Resources
(CRHR) or Sacramento Register of Historic
and Cultural Resources (Sacramento
Register) criteria and is thus recommended
not eligible for listing in each of these
registers. The bowling has been evaluated
in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (see
Continuation Sheets).
B11. Additional Resource Attributes: (List
attributes and codes) _________
*B12. References: See Continuation Sheets.
B13. Remarks: None.
*B14. Evaluator: Lisa Demarais and Dan
Herrick, SWCA Environmental Consultants
*Date of Evaluation: October 24, 2024
This space reserved for official comments.
See attached map
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Property Name: AMF Land Park Lanes
P3a. Description (Continued):
The primary (east) façade of the building is dominated by a large , L-shaped decorative awning that protrudes from the roofline and has a large cut-out opening over the building’s entrance, reducing its functionality. The decorative awning has a strong linear and geometric form. There is a large, triangular steel sculpture north of the main entry doors, reminiscent of an antenna. The entrance is composed of non- historic aluminum-framed and glazed glass double doors. A secondary single-leaf door with a single-lite transom and picture window are at the southern end of the east façade. Adjacent is a protruding volume constructed of concrete masonry unit blocks with louvered venting and a shed canopy supported by steel poles. The primary façade also has Mid-Century Modern style starburst motifs and the word “BOWL,” but these are painted on and not architectural ornamentation (see Figure 1). The starburst motifs and lettering were also recently added circa 2015 (Google Earth 2014, 2015). A large, freestanding non-historic sign with a changeable marquee is east of the building, within the property’s parking lot. The permanent portions of the sign read “AMF Bowling Co.” and “Snack Bar” (see Figure 1). A small non-historic sign reading “AMF Bowling Co.” is on the north façade (see Figure 4). There are additional sets of steel and glass double doors on the north and south façades (see Figure 2 and Figure 4). Each façade also features interspaced steel pilasters.
Figure 2. South façade; view facing north.
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Figure 3. West (left) façade and south (right) façades, view facing northeast.
Figure 4. North façade, view facing south.
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*B6. Construction History:
AMF Land Park Lanes was constructed in 1960. A review of historical aerial photographs of the subject property from 1964 through 2022 shows the footprint of the building has remain unchanged during that period (National Environmental Title Research 2024; Sacramento County Tax Assessor 2024). Based on a review of various documents and source materials related to the subject property, as well as the existing conditions observed during the site visit to the property in October 2024 and several public photographs included in the property’s Google listing (Google 2024), the AMF Land Park Lanes building and surrounding property are known to have undergone several changes and alterations, including:
• Reconfiguration of the original entrance and installation of the current aluminum fenestration; • Replacement of other doors and select windows throughout the façades; • Replacement of the original roof with current metal seam roofing; • Improvements to interior spaces, including partial replacement of the original ceiling with a fiberglass tile drop-ceiling, installation of newer televisions and audio systems, installation of new signage by amenities, reconfiguration of the coffee shop, and replacement of the coffee shop kiosk desk; and
• Replacement of the original “Land Park Bowl” freestanding neon sign and marquee .
Property History
The bowling alley was first mentioned in available historical newspaper articles in August 1960, which depicted its interior (Figure 5) and reads:
A pre engineered, 148 foot [sic] clear span, described by James Winston of the Winston Steel Works as the widest of its type in a rigid frame building in Northern California, has been erected in Land Park Lanes. Plans call for the 32 lane [sic] bowling alley, restaurant and bar on Freeport Boulevard, opposite the Sacramento Municipal Airport, to be completed in about six weeks. Owned by the Gonzo Sakai family of Clarksburg, Yolo County, the $600,000 development will be operated by Dave and Dale Hanna. The steel span was engineered and built by the Winston plants in Sacramento and Stockton, San Joaquin County (The Sacramento Bee 1960a:17).
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Figure 5. Interior view of Land Park Lanes under construction (The Sacramento Bee 1960a:17).
Winston Steel Works, named after owner James Winston and founded in 1946, was a local producer of pre- fabricated steel warehouse and commercial buildings, with plants in Sacramento and Stockton. Winston had decades of experience as a designer, draftsman, engineer, estimator, and contractor and was a member of the Society of American Military Engineers, California Society of Professional Engineers, and Sacramento Chamber of Commerce. The builder used cranes to assemble poured concrete slabs and welded pre-engineered steel elements to construct its buildings—a common technique that Winston Steel Works used to construct buildings throughout Sacramento and that was likely also used to erect AMF Land Park Lanes (The Sacramento Union 1951:7). Winston Steel Works produced many pre-fabricated buildings in the Sacramento area and throughout Northern California, as well as a few buildings f arther east and abroad. Most notably, Winston Steel Works built its own plant at 4700 West Capitol Avenue in Sacramento; a highway maintenance station in the Auburn area, which included a warehouse, office, garage, fuel house, and pump house; Palm Market in Auburn; a boiler house at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton; an exhibit building for the Inter-Mountain Fair; Hi Land Market at Watt Avenue and I Street in North Highlands, Sacramento; a storage building for General Mills in Lodi; a metal shop at Folsom Dam; a bowling alley in Nevada City; and two buildings at two uranium mills in Argentina (The Sacramento Union 1951:7; 1954:45, 1959:23, 1962:4, 1957:31; Nevada County Nugget 1961:1; Auburn Journal 1957:15; Lodi News- Sentinel 1961:21; Stockton Evening and Sunday Record 1955:8). The company filed bankruptcy in 1964 and appears to have closed at that time (The Sacramento Bee 1964:65).
A grand opening advertisement for the bowling alley, which opened early November 1960, used the name Land Park Bowl and boasted Brunswick automatic pinsetters, subsurface ball returns, a nursey for children, a cocktail lounge, and a coffee shop featuring “excellent food” at modest prices. The bowling alley was also advertised as open 24 hours a day. Within the ad, a rendering of the building’s exterior shows its original appearance (Figure 6); several interior photographs were also included (Figure 8 and Figure 9) (The Sacramento Bee 1960b:23). The earliest available photograph of the building’s exterior (Figure
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7), from just before its opening, shows the original signage and indicates not all the exterior features in the rending of the grand opening advertisement were included in the building’s final design (The Sacramento Bee 1960c:A17). Based on this historical photograph, several original features have been altered since 1960.
The original operators of the bowling alley were David Hanna, Dale Hanna, and Earl Warren ( The Sacramento Union 1960b:35). In the 1960s and 1970s, the facility also offered bowling classes, leagues, and events for singles and seniors (The Sacramento Bee 1960b:82, 1976:40, 1969:28; Sheppard 1973:30). In the 1960s, the bowling alley suffered several ill-fated events—two robberies and two fires—and in 1974, the bowling alley was sold to Brunswick Corporation, which had previously operated the establishment under a lease (The Sacramento Bee 1961:32, 1966a:1, 1966b:32, 1968:64, 1974:46). The building continued to be operated as a bowling alley until its recent closure in March 2024 due to extensive damage to the building’s interior (Walike 2024).
Figure 6. Part of the Land Park Bowl grand opening advertisement, showing an exterior rending of Land Park Bowl (The Sacramento Bee 1960b:23).
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Figure 7. Land Park Bowl, 1960 (The Sacramento Bee 1960c:A17).
Figure 8. Bowling lanes at Land Park Bowl
(The Sacramento Bee 1960b:23).
Figure 9. Coffee shop at Land Park Bowl (The
Sacramento Bee 1960b:23).
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*B10. Significance (continued):
Historic Contexts
Development of Sacramento
Nineteenth Century
Before European colonization, Nisenan and Plains Miwok called the Sacramento area home. Spanish colonization, which primarily occurred along the southern and central coast of California, did not instantly affect the Indigenous populations of the interior of California. The first recorded European expedition into the interior of California occurred in 1808 by Gabriel Moraga. Moraga surveyed the region to find suitable locations for a future mission and named the Sacramento Valley and Sacramento River, after the Spanish word for sacrament. Throughout the next two decades, various travelers entered the Sacramento Valley, but no permanent non-Indigenous settlements were established until 1839.
In 1839 John Sutter, along with a few Hawaiian and European settlers, established the first non- Indigenous permanent settlement—a fort called New Helvetia. The land was granted by the Mexican government, which controlled California at the time after having gained independence from Spain in 1822. Sutter raised horses and cattle and farmed grain and corn. He also built a sawmill at present -day Coloma in El Dorado County, which would lead to the first discovery of gold in California in 1848 (Page & Turnbull 2019:19–20).
The resulting Gold Rush spurred massive westward American migration and settlement of California, greatly influencing the broader history of the state and the United States. Thousands of migrants poured into California during the Gold Rush, greatly accelerating its development (California Department of Conservation 2005; Rice et al. 1994:169). The Gold Rush was a major factor in California’s transformation from a sparsely populated western frontier to a center of industry, commerce, and trade. One year after the discovery at Sutter’s Mill, nearly 90,000 people had migrated to California in search of gold. As the gateway to the Sierra Nevada and the goldfields of the foothills, Sacramento quickly became a transportation hub and nexus of Gold Rush economic activity (Page & Turnbull 2019:19-20; Miller and Walton 2016:9).
Also in 1848, and shortly after the discovery of gold in California, the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War and made California a territory of the United States (National Archives 2023). On January 4, 1850, California’s first constitutional convention convened, establishing the first 18 counties. Over the succeeding months, additional counties were added, bringing the total to 27 on the day of California’s admission to the United States on September 9, 1850. Sacramento County was one of those original counties, with the City of Sacramento its county seat. The City would beco me the capital of California in 1854, in large part due to the Gold Rush, which had caused massive population growth in the area and established its role as a center of commerce (California State Association of Counties 2019; Miller and Walton 2016:9).
While the primary draw to California in the late 1840s and early 1850s was the insatiable dream of striking it rich in the gold fields, many found the search for gold much more difficult than expected. Many of the people who migrated to the California gold fields, originally from agrarian and business backgrounds,
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soon realized the real riches lay in establishing enterprises that profited from miners, such as agricultural pursuits (California State Association of Counties 2019). This was true in Sacramento County, which is situated in the northern Central Valley, a region known for its rich agricultural lands. Grain cultivation and grazing dominated land use in the Sacramento area until the turn of the twentieth century when new crops such as citrus fruits and almonds took prominence (Page & Turnbull 2019:23).
Amidst the Gold Rush and statehood, Sacramento was under formal development and soon began to take the shape of a true city. In December 1848, John Sutter, Jr. and Sam Brannan hired topographical engineer Captain William H. Warner and Lieutenant William Sherman to survey and layout “Sacramento City.” The original city grid consisted of 26 lettered (originally A to Z, today C to Broadway) and 31 numbered (originally 1st to 31st, today Front to Alhambra) streets. Sacramento’s city grid was built directly at the base of the American River flood basin, where centuries of Sierra Nevada snowmelt created temporary lakes each spring, well into the 1840s. Sacramento’s original townsite was a 5-square-mile area, with each street 80 feet wide (except for Front and M) and each block 320 to 340 feet long. Each block was composed of many lots, and many blocks were divided by 20-foot-wide alleys (Figure 10) (Owens 2013:32–33, 42–43; Hallam 2013:63–64).
Sacramento grew through 1850; however, the population was not stable and remained largely transient aside from the core of merchants and hotel owners. California’s population was undoubtedly increasing, but the population of Sacramento grew sluggishly and inconsistently due in part to the transient nature of the early Gold Rush miners, flooding, and fires that destroyed buildings. In September 1849, a destructive fire swept through the business district, destroying several blocks of canvas tent and wood -framed structures, followed by a major flood in January 1850. In 1852 fire again swept through the business district, destroying over 55 blocks of the city. Original buildings in Sacramento were wood frame and canvas, but as fires and floods became a way of life, citizens began to erect buildings of brick and raised the street level, leaving the original street level below grade.
In 1854 Sacramento became the capital of California. This rise in prominence, coupled with the City’s strategic location and early commercial importance in the development of California, resulted in Sacramento becoming the western terminus for the first transcontinental railroad, which was constructed starting in 1863 and completed in 1869. The Central Pacific Railroad Company, which later became the Southern Pacific Railroad and then later the Union Pacific Railroad, was founded by a group of merchants and businessman known as “the Big Four,” who were based in Sacramento, or had strong ties to the region. This development solidified Sacramento as a center for transportation in California, providing immediate links to San Francisco and the growing agricultural hinterlands of the central valleys with the rest of the United States (Owens 2013:48–50; Page & Turnbull 2019:23).
Through the 1870s and into the 1900s, growth continued eastward away from the original core along the river embankment (or embarcadero) and K Street. The patterns of growth were often reflective of the types of amenities in given neighborhoods, including schools and parks. John Sutter Jr., the primary driving force for the development of Sacramento, had the City laid in a grid pattern with spaces specifically for city plazas. These plaza parks provided residents with publicly accessible spaces w ithin an urban core. In the 1870s, several state government buildings were built in Sacramento, including the extant Capitol
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Building and the adjacent landscaped park. As growth continued, pushed by the development of streetcars, which connected new neighborhoods with the urban commercial core, the main city grid began to fill. Homes were built in a variety of popular styles such as Greek Revival and Italianate. By the 1890s, speculators had begun to eye land outside of the main grid for development. This led to development of Sacramento’s first residential suburban tracts of Oak Park, Elmhurst, Curtis Park, and East Sacramento (Kremer 2012; Page & Turnbull 2019:21, 27).
Figure 10. Surveyor's map of the City of Sacramento, California, 1874 (J. R. Ray). Courtesy of the California State Railroad Museum.
Twentieth Century
Sacramento continued to grow during the early to mid-twentieth century with increased residential, commercial, government, infrastructure, and transportation development. The early twentieth century was marked by steady growth and early suburbanization, while Sacramento’s development during the
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post-war period largely followed national trends of continued post-war suburbanization, expansion of the automobile, and late-twentieth century urban renewal, which sought to bring people back to cities that were broadly viewed negatively. Many Americans at the time saw cities as centers of disease and crime.
Urban renewal, or urban revitalization, was undertaken across the United States during the 1950s to 1980s (Williams 2013:v, 23–25; Page & Turnbull 2019:29).
In the early twentieth century, residential expansion grew outward from downtown Sacramento to the fringes of the original city limits. These new homes were built in a myriad of newly popular architectural styles such as Prairie and Craftsman styles. Affluent homes were typically built on east –west-aligned streets, while moderately sized homes were constructed on the numbered streets. Ancillary buildings such as stables and cottages for laborers were constructed facing alleys. Several n ew neighborhoods like Boulevard Park, Winn Park, Newton Booth, and Bungalow Row emerged during this time, largely along streetcar lines. In addition to streetcars, in the early twentieth century, Sacramento developed four electric interurban railroads for passenger service. The service had more frequent railroad stops and were faster than the streetcars. Streetcar service ended in 1947, but some passenger rail service continues. Many new civic buildings were built in downtown Sacramento in the early twentieth century. This new civic construction largely adhered to popular styles at the time, notably Neoclassical Revival and Beaux -Arts Revival. This type of development briefly slowed during the Great Depression but was renewed during and post-World War II. Several military facilities were constructed at McClellan Field, Mather Field, and the Sacramento Army Depot while new state buildings were constructed surrounding Capitol Park (Page & Turnbull 2019:26, 32–33). Pre-war commercial development was largely within downtown and midtown (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-16).
Sacramento underwent many changes in the mid-twentieth century as a direct result of World War II and expansion of the automobile. The economy shifted from primarily agriculture to military, federal and state government, and transportation industries. Alongside the national population, Sacramento saw significant population growth of its own, with an increase from 105,958 in 1940 to 137,572 in 1950. T his growing population was also more mobile than ever before, spurring expansion of development outside of Sacramento’s downtown core. The growing post-war population spurred a housing shortage and rapid construction of new homes. New post-war residences were most frequently built in Minimal Traditional and Mid-Century Modern styles outside of the core city and in suburban areas (Page & Turnbull 2019:32– 33; GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-4). In 1947 planning for a new freeway system began, marking the beginning of a shift to automobile travel instead of streetcar and rail service. By 1961, the South Sacramento, Elvas, and Capital City Freeways were complete. The city core connected to these routes via surface streets. By 1954, planning for an east–west-oriented freeway was underway (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-13–2-14).
World War II also had a profound effect on the Japanese-American population; more than 7,000 Japanese- American Sacramento residents were forcibly relocated to internment camps during the war, and of those, only 59% returned to the city after the war. During this time, the government instituted the Bracero Program to fill job vacancies left by the removal of Japanese-American citizens with temporary Mexican labor. The program resulted in a shift in the ethnic makeup of Sacramento’s la bor force (Page & Turnbull 2019:29).
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With the increasing availability and affordability of automobiles in the post-war era, most new residents, drawn to Sacramento for its available jobs, began life in the suburbs. For these same reasons, in the 1950s, state government buildings began to be dispersed throughout the city and post-war commercial development was largely focused on areas outside of downtown Sacramento, specifically in areas south, east, and northeast of downtown (Page & Turnbull 2019:32–33; Page & Turnbull 2019:22, 26-28). New commercial development was focused on independent business alongside major thoroughfares outside of downtown and through or adjacent to residential neighborhoods. Some major retailers also left downtown, such as Sears, which moved to a new suburban location in 1956. The City convinced Macy’s to construct a new downtown store, which was completed in 1963, but this did not have the desired effect of inspiring new downtown commercial development (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2 -19).
Like the automobile and World War II, urban renewal had a profound impact across Sacramento during the twentieth century. Beginning in the 1950s, the City began efforts of urban renewal, starting with the West End, Sacramento’s skid row, through the newly created Sacramento Redevelopment Agency (SRA).
Subsequent plans undertaken in the 1960s to 1970s also involved redeveloping the Capitol Mall, Alkali Flat, and Oak Park areas. The roots of urban renewal date to the 1940s. At the federal level, the Housing Act of 1949 provided federal subsidies for local redevelopment projects and gave local agencies the power to acquire parcels through eminent domain for redevelopment, and the H ousing Act of 1954 coined the term urban renewal. At the state level, urban renewal dates to the 1945 Community Development Act. The movement was a reaction to the economic decline in cities across the country as commercial and residential development largely moved to the suburbs. Cities at the time were broadly viewed negatively.
Sacramento’s West End was seen as a center of vice, disease, crime, and juvenile delinquency. Ultimately, urban renewal resulted in mass demolition of buildings that displaced of thousands of residents and businesses in Sacramento (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-7–2-8; Page & Turnbull 2019:28, 30; Williams 2013:25). Despite the renewal efforts, the suburban model for development with sprawling expansions of residential neighborhoods, strip malls, and shopping centers would continue to define Sacramento and the surrounding region during the twentieth century, as evident in present-day.
South Land Park
The project area lies within South Land Park, which was annexed in the 1950s and today is bounded by Sutterville Road to the north, Florin Avenue to the south, Freeport Boulevard to the east, and Interstate 5 to the west. The area is known for its “rolling hills, mature native oak trees, and curving streets” (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-35). The Land Park area, including South Land Park, was named for William Land, Sacramento’s mayor from 1898 to 1899, who made his fortune with hotels in downtown Sacramento.
Before it was Land Park, the area was part of New Helvetia, an 11-square-league Mexican land grant given to John Sutter in 1841 by then-governor Juan B. Alvarado (Isidro 2005:7–13, 18; Hoffman 1862).
Development during this period was largely north of Sutterville Road in the town of Sutterville, within present-day Land Park but north of South Land Park. Early sketches show Sutterville as a burgeoning community as early as 1846 and include a brickyard, carpenter, blacksmith, and several saloons by 1847.
Sutterville Brewery was built on the south side of Sutterville Road for Robert H. Vance in 1853 , within the northernmost part of South Land Park. The brewery was demolished in 1853 and was known as Sutterville’s last remaining building (Whittle 2009; Isidro 2005:9). By 1885, the entire Sutter land grant had
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been divided into many tracts ranging from 10 to over 1,000 acres and sold to many different property owners (Shepherd 1885).
The first homes in South Land Park were built as early as 1902, at the southwest corner of present-day Sutterville Road and Freeport Boulevard, and several more homes were built by 1907 (U.S. Geological Survey 1902, 1907). The Mead Family, which built residences during this time, is largely attributed to developing the area. In the 1940s, after the economic downturn of the Great Depression, developers began larger-scale projects in South Land Park, though there was a pause during World War II. Since the 1940s, hundreds of homes have been constructed in South Land Park, and Freeport Boulevard has become a busy shopping district. The South Land Park Hills Historic District alone features 49 residences built by developer Joseph Eichler from 1955 to 1956, known for his non-discriminatory housing policies during segregation. By the early 1970s, construction of Interstates 5 and 80 was complete, providing better access to South Land Park and further solidifying the importance of the automobile and suburbanization in Sacramento (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:2-14, 2-35–2-36; Sacramento City Express 2024). Today, the neighborhood continues to retain its suburban qualities with post-war single-family residences and commercial corridors dotted with low-density shopping centers and strip malls.
Bowling and Bowling Alleys in Sacramento
The game of bowling, and its variations of target bowling (bocce, lawn bowls, etc.) and pin bowling, have ancient and widespread roots with early variations having been practiced in Egypt in the sixth century, Polynesia, and elsewhere. Modern bowling in the United States, however, evolved from traditions brought over by European immigrants and settlers, primarily from Germany and other parts of northern Europe.
The earliest portrayal of the game in the United States was in Washington Irving’s 1819 book Rip Van Winkle, which depicted characters playing an early variation of the game known as ninepins. Over the following decades, bowling became increasingly popular, resulting in the construction of indoor lanes in New York and other cities with large German populations, including Buffalo, Cincinnati, Chicago, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and others (United States Bowling Conference 2024).
With the discovery of gold in California at Sutter’s Mill on the American River in 1848, the ensuing Gold Rush lured thousands of people from all over the world, including the eastern United States , as well as western Europe. Throughout the mining camps and emerging towns and centers, drinking and gambling were often the most ubiquitous forms of entertainment and recreation with saloons and gambling halls being constructed from the ports of San Francisco up into the gold fields of the Sierra Nevada, earning early California an overall reputation for “moral laxity” (Khoury 2012). Gambling games varied, ranging from cards to bullfights, boxing and races, to bowling and billiards. Bowling was particularly popular during the Gold Rush with many saloons and gambling halls constructing adjoining bowling alleys as an added amenity for patrons. In an 1851 letter written by Dame Shirley (Shirley and Russell 1922), the wife of a mining camp doctor, to her sister, she wrote:
The rolling on the bowling alley never leaves off for ten consecutive minutes at any time during the entire twenty-four hours. It is a favorite amusement of the mines; and the only difference that Sunday makes is that it never leaves off for one minute.
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As the launching point into the gold fields and mining camps of the Sierra Nevada foothills, 1850s Sacramento featured several saloons, billiard rooms, gambling halls, and bowling alleys. One of the earliest advertised bowling alleys was the Central Bowling Alley, located at No.51 J Street between 2 nd and 3rd Streets, which boasted four 70-foot lanes that were constructed “in the most substantial manner” and a bar “supplied with the most choice liquors of all kinds, and the finest flavored cigars . . . ” (Daily California Statesman 1855; The Sacramento Bee 1857). Many other bowling alleys were located throughout the central portion of the city, located in adjoining buildings or within the basements of saloons, which often featured billiards, shooting galleries, dance halls, and stages for live music. On e such place was called “The New Corner,” which was in the basement of the Morse Building, which is still standing in Old Sacramento at 1025-1031 2nd Street (The Sacramento Bee 1866). Towards the end of the nineteenth century, the game also had popularity outside of the saloons and gambling halls as a simple form of recreation, with alleys constructed in upper class social clubs, as well as the construction of lanes by the Sacramento Athletic Club and the Sacramento Young Men’s Christian Association as a form of recreation alongside gymnastics, fitness, and other forms of sport alongside intellectual and spiritual pursuits (The Sacramento Union 1887). Wealthy individuals also constructed their own personal bowling alleys within their grand mansions and estates within Sacramento and the surrounding area. One of the most notable was that of Adolph Heilbron, a German cattle rancher and landowner, who constructed his grand Italianate mansion at 704 O Street; the still extant residence was listed on the NRHP in 1976 (The Sacramento Bee 1892; Price 1975). Despite this proliferation of bowling as a more popular form of recreation, the majority of alleys and lanes continued to be in the setting of saloons, bar s, and German- owned beer gardens well into the early twentieth century (The Sacramento Bee 1896; Shannon 2017:3; Riess 2015:187).
Figure 11. Early bowling alley in Sacramento, 1915 (International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame 2024).
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As Sacramento expanded with the development of early streetcar suburbs in the early twentieth century, so did new recreation halls. In Oak Park and East Sacramento, new bowling alleys were developed as the sport continued to proliferate within popular culture. New bowling leagues were founded and tournaments were held at locations such as the Sequoia Bowling Alley on 909 K Street, drawing in teams from around the Sacramento area to regularly compete for a variety of prizes ( The Sacramento Star 1910).
Emerging as its own sport, local bowling scores were often increasingly published in local papers under the sports section. While the sport had previously been exclusive to men, women and youth bowlers became increasingly common during the 1920s and the sport was marketed to a broader, albeit Caucasian, demographic with new leagues, tournaments, and other events (The Sacramento Union 1931; Shannon 2017:3).
Bowling had been long associated with drinking establishments and the sale of alcohol; however, the enactment of prohibition in 1920 quickly changed the game. Many of the alleys associated with taverns and saloons were closed, while some bowling alley owners reorganized their business model to focus on the sport itself, decoupling from associations with alcohol and creating a more family-friendly pastime (Riess 2015:187). During this period, the common naming conventions of bowling alleys changed, often substituting the words like bowl or lane instead of alley. Rules and standards of the game and the distinctly American 10-pin variant were more codified and regulated by organizations like the American Bowling Congress, and new dry purpose-built bowling alleys were constructed throughout the United States, bringing the sport into the mainstream (Riess 2015:187; Shannon 2017:1–3). Despite the proliferation of bowling into popular culture as part of prohibition, a more widespread expansion of bowling alleys did not occur until its repeal, allowing for drinking to again become part of the bowling pastime , establishing it as a major outlet for socializing and recreation in communities, particularly for young men (Riess 2015:188). Unlike the bowling alleys before, large new bowling facilities with multiple lanes were constructed under the new specifications of the sport with bowling as the primary activity and not an added amenities as a barroom game. Just before World War II, there were an estimated 12 million bowlers in the United States, and the sport continued to grow in popularity steadily over the 1930s through World War II (Shannon 2017:1-4).
Many of these new post-Prohibition “bowling palaces” were constructed in Sacramento during the 1930s and early 1940s, including Captiol Bowl at 1415 L Street (1939), North Bowl at 1721 Del Paso Boulevard (1941), and Alhambra Bowl at 1229 Alhambra Boulevard (1942) (The Sacramento Union 1939, 1941; The Sacramento Bee 1942a). These facilities were composed in a Streamlined or Moderne style (Figure 12 and Figure 13) architecture with prominent marquee, and often featured a dozen or so lanes, air conditioning, restaurant corners, cocktail lounges, league meeting rooms, locker rooms, spectator seating areas, and occasionally billiard rooms (The Sacramento Bee 1942a).
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Figure 12. Advertisement for the Capitol Bowl,
1939 (The Sacramento Union).
Figure 13. Image of Alhambra Bowl from a
1942 flyer (Sacramento Public Library).
During World War II, bowling alleys in Sacramento remained open although construction of new alleys stalled. An exception was on military bases in the area, where bowling lanes were installed as a form of recreation for the servicemen (The Sacramento Bee 1942b). Approximately 4,500 bowling lanes were constructed on military bases across the United States during World War II and more women’s leagues were established amongst civilians. It was not until the post-war period that the expansion of bowling as a sport reached a new level of popularity outside of military bases. The 1950s and 1960s are often considered the golden age of bowling with new purpose-built bowling facilities constructed throughout the rapidly expanding post-war landscape of American cities and towns (Shannon 2017:3; Riess 2015:188). Bowling was an important aspect of recreation in post-war America, with an estimated 20 million bowlers across the country in 1948. A one-lane bowling alley was even installed in the White House by President Truman in 1947. Many of these post-war bowling alleys had restaurants, meeting or banquet rooms, and lounges that served as places to socialize or gather local clubs, groups, and organizations. Most often, they were constructed in Mid-Century Modern architectural styles, with the Googie style being most notable, and eye-catching signage, such as the one at Fireside Lanes in Sacramento (Figure 14), was a key design element (Shannon 2017:1, 4, 20-22; Pope Studios 1960).
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Figure 14. Fireside Lanes, 1960 (Pope Studios). Courtesy of the Sacramento Public Library.
Sacramento was no exception with new modern and larger bowling alleys constructed throughout the expanding reaches of the cities growing suburbs in the post-war era. New bowling alleys included Sacramento Bowl located at 917 6th Street (1948), Town and Country Bowl on Fulton Avenue (1956) South Bowl at 5005 Stockton Boulevard (1958), El Rancho Bowl at 900 West Capitol Avenue in West Sacramento (1959), Country Club Lanes at 2600 Watt Avenue (1960), Cordova Lanes in Rancho Cordova (1960), Fireside Lanes (1960) at 7901 Auburn Boulevard (see Figure 14), and Land Park Bowl at 5850 Freeport Boulevard (1960) (The Sacramento Union 1956, 1958, 1959, 1960a; Pope Studios 1960).
By the 1950s, bowling was solidified as an American pastime suitable for families, a stark difference from its early association with gambling. New facilities, typically composed in some variation of the Mid-Century Modern style, also featured significantly more lanes, new technologies, and amenities.
Bowling centers with 40 to 60 lanes became most common in the United States, and new technologies such as air conditioning, automatic pin setters, and underground ball returns became widespread. In Sacramento, smaller 20- to 40-lane bowling alleys were most common. Like bowling alley exteriors, interiors were also often lavishly designed with colorful carpets, murals, and other decorative details.
These types of bowling alleys were built rapidly across the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, and substantial building costs over one million dollars were not uncommon. Bowling center amenities
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continued to expand. Cocktail lounges and meeting rooms were still common, but instructional programs, live musical performances, coffee shops, concessions, childcare facilities, and pro -equipment shops also became common offerings. Many bowling alleys of this era were also open 24 hours a day to further attract diverse clientele. Some bowling alleys even offered laundry and grocery shopping services to attract housewives during daytime hours. The number of children bowling also substantially increased in t he post-war era with nearly 400,000 members of the Junior Congress bowling association in 1959 (Riess 2015:188; Shannon 2017:3–5).
Because of racial segregation, the bowling centers of this era were typically restricted to white Americans and the clientele was largely suburban, though with the encouragement of the National Bowling Association, some bowling alleys provided specific times for people of color to bowl. More often, older outdated bowling alleys were purchased specifically for use by persons of color (Shannon 2017:5). Of the bowling alleys constructed in Sacramento during this period, one of the most notable was the El Rancho Bowl (now Capitol Bowl), which is believed to be the first racially integrated bowling alleys in the region, allowing for patrons of any race to partake and form leagues at the facility (Saizan 2014). Another notable bowling alley was Country Club Lanes, which was the largest and most celebrated of these facilities during this period. In addition to the wide array of amenities, the building featured iconic Mid -Century Modern architecture with some Googie-inspired elements with its broad parabolic entrance canopies (Figure 15; The Sacramento Union 1960a).
Figure 15. Advertisement for the opening of Country Club Lanes (The Sacramento Union 1960a ).
By the 1970s, with increased forms of recreation and entertainment available to the public, the popularity of bowling started to wane. Bowling leagues became less popular and many bowling establishments were forced to close. As women entered the workforce in greater numbers, daytime customers became fewer.
Many bowling alleys were demolished during this period as land values increased. This trend would continue in part throughout the remainder of the twentieth century and into the twenty -first century. As part of this, many of the larger bowling centers built additional amenities to attract patrons, such as
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arcades. The character-defining features of many early bowling alleys were removed as they were purchased and updated in the 1970s and 1980s (Shannon 2017:5–6). New bowling alleys constructed at this later date were often within the setting of larger gaming facilities or bars, such as Punch Bowl Social in downtown Sacramento, offering only a few lanes as a single amenity and novelty rather than the primary form of recreation.
Mid-Century Modern Architecture
As discussed in the previous section, bowling alleys of the post-war era, like AMF Land Park Lanes, were typically built in Mid-Century Modern styles. Modernism emerged as a popular architectural style and aesthetic philosophy throughout the United States during the early-to-mid twentieth century, reaching its heyday in the post-World War II era. Modernism was greatly influenced by industrialization during and after World War II, which made new building materials such as glass and steel more common and affordable. Modernism markedly diverged from past architectural styles with its function over ornamentation ethos. Several Modernist-style offshoots developed during the twentieth century, including Googie, International, and Late Moderne (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-1–3-10). Though many of these styles had key differences, they typically shared the following features:
Form – overall geometric massing and simple, clean lines; emphasis on horizontality, though not with unrelieved flat planes; in multi-story structures, interior floors are often demarcated on the exterior with an inset first floor and cantilevered planes to indicate upper floors.
Structure – exposed structural system typically using concrete, steel, or wood materials, and some concrete block or masonry for smaller structures.
Roof – flat or low-pitches, often with deep overhangs/eaves emphasizing horizontality; some with large sweeping or folded forms.
Exterior and interior walls – contrasting materials and textures or smooth, blank walls typically filling entire structural “bays”; exterior walls and openings in offset planes along horizontal lines; use of exterior screens or grills that shelter window and door openings, usually in concrete or metal.
Windows – custom windows (ribbon, picture, corner); large expanses of glass arranged in horizontal groupings of vertically oriented sashes, with glazing often filling entire structural bays; windows may be located in clerestory, between solid walls and eaves.
Integrated site planning and landscapes designs – sliding glass doors, integrated indoor and outdoor private living spaces, courtyards with screens, walls, berms, or plantings that provide demarcation between private and public outdoor spaces; plantings generally have a horizontal orientation relative to sun angles and topography (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-5–3-6).
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During the war, material rations and a moratorium on housing construction in the United States stagnated the construction of Modernist architecture. After the war, with these limitations removed, the economy in a period of prosperity, and the population expanding, there was a construction boom that favored Modern design principles and features. Modernist architecture of the post-war era is referred to under the umbrella of Mid-Century Modernism. A variety of property types were newly constructed in the Mid- Century Modern style in the post-war era, including residential, institutional, commercial, and educational buildings (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-1–3-6, 3-9–3-10). Common features of these buildings included “cantilevered roofs, flat or shed roof forms, deep overhanging eaves, canted and large expansive windows, and a variety of incorporated materials, including wood, stone, brick, stucco, plastic, metal, and concrete” (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-9–3-10). Styles under the umbrella of Mid-Century Modern architecture included Modern Ranch, Contemporary, Commercial Modern, Brutalism, and more ( GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-10–3-15).
During the 1950s to 1970s, Mid-Century Modern commercial architecture was often influenced by the earlier International style. On the opposite end of the spectrum, many commercial buildings in the 1950s and 1960s, were built in the striking Googie (or Exaggerated Modern) style. While the International style, and Mid-Century Modern commercial architecture influenced by the style, was defined by crisp clean lines, flat roofs, horizontality, and limited ornamentation, the Googie style was dramatic and striking.
Common features of Googie-style architecture included exaggerated non-linear rooflines, irregular massing and asymmetrical façades, colorful accents, prominent signage, neon lights, and starburst motifs (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:3-8–3-9, 3-12). Key commercial corridors in Sacramento include Stockton Boulevard, Franklin Boulevard, Freeport Boulevard, Broadway, Del Paso Boulevard, Fair Oaks Boulevard, and Capitol Avenue. Examples of Mid-Century Modern architecture, such as the Loan/Chase Bank (4701 Freeport Boulevard) (Figure 16) and Gunther’s Ice Cream (2801 Franklin Boulevard), can be found within these areas (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017:1-6, 2-13). The South Land Park Hills (Eichler) Historic District is composed of 49 Mid-Century Modern homes (Sacramento City Press 2024).
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Figure 16. Loan/Chase Bank Building, 2017 (GEI and Mead & Hunt 2017).
Eligibility Evaluation
SWCA carefully considered whether AMF Land Park Lanes possesses historical significance under any CRHR or Sacramento Register criteria and historical integrity under the seven aspects of integrity. As the eligibility criteria for both registers is analogous, eligibility is considered concurrently, below.
Criteria 1/I
AMF Land Park Lanes is not significantly associated with events that have made a significant contribution to broad patterns of history under CRHR Criterion 1 and Sacramento Register Criterion I. While the bowling alley was part of a broader trend of the growing popularity of bowling in the mid -twentieth century and the proliferation of new bowling alleys throughout the United States during that period , AMF Land Park Lanes was one of hundreds of mid-century bowling alleys built across the United States and one of many built in the Sacramento area during this period, of which more characteristic and influential examples exist. The subject property also did not have an influence on the development of bowling or patterns of development relating to bowling, which was one of the earliest forms of recreation in Sacramento and the surrounding region. Furthermore, the subject building was one of the later bowling alleys constructed in area during this post-war “Golden Age” of bowling. The property also did not have an influence on the broader development of South Land Park and, on its own, does not characterize the
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commercial development of this area. In summary, AMF Land Park Lanes is not a good representation of the themes and period it is associated with, indicating the associations do not rise to the threshold of historical significance. Thus, AMF Land Park Lanes is recommended not eligible under Criteria 1/I.
Criterion 2/II
There is no evidence that the AMF Land Park Lanes has an important association with any person or persons who made significant contributions to history at the local, state, or national level. Research did not reveal any notable figures specifically associated with the bowling alley, and research did not indicate the potential for significant associations in this regard. Thus, AMF Land Park Lanes is recommended not eligible under CRHR Criterion 2 and Sacramento Register Criterion II.
Criterion 3/III, IV, and V
Constructed in 1960, the AMF Land Park Lanes building is composed in the Mid-Century Modern style.
Although the building was originally designed and rendered with many hallmarks of the style —full- height glazing entrance system, flagstone cladding, and L-shaped columns integrated into a pronounced folded plate roofline—what was constructed in the building’s original form was notably reduced in detail, creating a simpler and more commonplace characterization of the style (see Figure 14). Furthermore, AMF Land Park Lanes formerly had a distinct, lavish sign characteristic of Mid-Century Modern commercial properties and typical of post-war bowling alleys; however, this sign is no longer extant. Outside of the L- shaped decorative awning and the triangular structure at the entrance, the building currently lacks any characteristic Mid-Century Modern features. Additionally, the non-extant sign was the only notable characteristic of the original design that represented broader themes of architecture and design regarding both the Mid-Century Modern style and post-war bowling alley design. Due to the removal of this feature and other alterations found throughout the building, the current building is essentially a simple box form with simple Modern-style elements at the entrance. Overall, in its current condition, the subject property does not embody the Mid-Century Modern style, particularly within the context of South Land Park and Sacramento, which features a notable collection of Mid-Century Modern resources that better embody the style and its characteristics.
As an example of the post-war bowling alley property type, the subject property does not appear to rise to a level of significance. Although these post-war bowling alleys are becoming increasingly rare, several examples exist within the Sacramento area that better reflect the characteristics of the typology, the most notable of which is the extant Country Club Lanes building, which was the largest and most celebrated bowling alley of the period, complete with amenities and architectural details that fully embody the typology and this era in bowling alley design. By comparison, the subject building, particularly in its altered state, is a typical and lackluster example of this typology and does not rise to a level of significance under these criteria.
There is no known architect for the property; though, its simple design indicates its engineer and builder, Winston Steel Works, was likely also responsible for the design. Winston Steel Works has not had a profound influence on the history of architecture, design, or engineering; research indicates the company only ever produced pre-fabricated buildings using well-established construction and assembly techniques.
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The steel span roof structure was, at its time of construction, believed by Winston Steel Works to be the largest in Northern California, but it was not a new feat of engineering, as large steel span roof systems have been common in California and the United States since the post-war era. The engineering of the building was also pre-fabricated and not unique. Many such roof systems dating to the mid-century period also exist throughout Northern California, and while AMF Land Parks Lanes may have had one of the largest in Northern California for a time, this would have been a brief and/or very marginal accolade not reaching the threshold of historical significance. As such, the subject property lacks historical significance for its engineering. Similarly, the building does not appear to be a significant work of a master architect or builder.
In summary, AMF Land Park Lanes is not historically significant for its engineering or as the work of a master architect or builder, nor does it significantly embody the characteristics of Mid -Century Modern architecture or the post-war bowling alley property type in Sacramento. Thus, the subject property is recommended not eligible under CRHR Criterion 3 and Sacramento Register Criteria III, IV, and V.
Criterion D
The history of bowling in the United States and Mid-Century Modern architecture in Sacramento are well- documented and understood topics. No other historical or pre-historic associations with the property are known to exist, and thus, the bowling alley property is unlikely to yield additional information important to prehistory or history. As such, AMF Land Park Lanes is recommended not eligible under CRHR Criterion 4 and Sacramento Register Criterion VI.
Summary of Eligibility
This eligibility evaluation finds that while AMF Land Park Lanes has some historical associations under CRHR Criterion 3 and Sacramento Register Criteria III, IV, and V with Mid-Century Modern architecture and post-war bowling alley design, the property does not rise to a level of significance under these criteria as more notable and better examples of both are found in this locality. This is exacerbated by various alterations, which have impacted the building’s overall integrity and its ability to convey any potential significance under these criteria. The subject property also lacks historical significance under CRHR/Sacramento Register Criteria 1/I, 2/II, and 4/VI. Thus, SWCA recommends AMF Land Park Lanes not eligible for the CRHR and Sacramento Register
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California Office of Historic Preservation
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Sacramento Public Library
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2014 “Capitol Bowl” in West Sac Living. November 4. Available at: http://westsacliving.com/west- sac-blog/capitol-bowl/. Accessed October 21, 2024.
Shannon, Sandra
2017 “Post WWII Commercial Recreation, 1940-1975” in Los Angeles Citywide Historic Context Statement. Office of Historic Preservation, City of Los Angeles Department of City Planning, Los Angeles, California. Available at: https://planning.lacity.gov/odocument/aa3a99f9-c5da- 4823-903d-9fa2310dc432/PostWWIIBowlingCenters_1949-1970_0.pdf. Accessed October 2024.
Shepherd, Fred A.
1885 Official Map of Sacramento County, California. Available at:
http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.gmd/g4363s.la000034. Accessed October 2024.
Sheppard, Allen
1973 “Strictly for Singles.” May 18, pg. 30.
Shirley Dame and Thomas C. Russell
1922 The Shirley letters from California mines in 1851 -52; being a series of twenty-three letters from Dame Shirley Mrs. Louise Amelia Knapp Smith Clappe to her sister in Massachusetts, and now reprinted from the Pioneer magazine of 1854-55; with synopses of the letters, a foreword, and many typographical and other corrections and emendations. San Francisco, Printed by T.C. Russell. Available at: the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/22015468. Accessed October 18, 2024.
DPR 523J (9/2013) *Required information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
Trinomial
CONTINUATION SHEET
Property Name: AMF Land Park Lanes
Stockton Evening and Sunday Record
1955 “Permits for New Buildings Issued Here.” July 30, pg. 8. Stockton, California.
United States Bowling Conference
2024 “History of Bowling.” Available at: https://bowl.com/about-us/history-of-bowling. Accessed October 18, 2024.
U.S. Geological Survey
1902 Fairoaks, CA quadrangle. TopoView. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C.
Available via: https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/topoview/viewer. Accessed October 2024. 1907 Davisville, CA quadrangle. TopoView. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C.
Available via: https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/topoview/viewer. Accessed October 2024.
Walike, Lauren
2014 “Beloved bowling alley in Sacramento permanently closes after fire.” KXTV-TV, Sacramento, California. Available at: https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/amf -land-park- lanes-sacramento-fire-bowling-alley/103-efc00f59-87b5-4d1f-a5bc-055f51084f7b. Accessed October 2024.
Whittle, Syd
2013 “Sutterville Brewery.” Historical Marker Database. Available at:
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=58583. Accessed October 2024.
Williams, James Michael
2013 West End Boys: Urban Redevelopment and the Elimination of Sacramento’s Skid Row . California State University, Sacramento. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/10211.9/2238. Accessed October 2024.
*Date of map: 2024
DPR 523J (9/2013) *Required information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI#
LOCATION MAP Trinomial
Perkins Coie LLP
505 Howard Street
Suite 1000
San Francisco, CA 94105-3204
T. +1.415.344.7000
F. +1.415.344.7050
perkinscoie.com
Cecily Barclay
[email protected]
D. +1.415.344.7117
F. +1.415.344.7317
May 20, 2025
Preservation Commissioners
Sean de Courcy, Preservation Director
Whitney Johnson, Assistant Planner
Michael Sparks, Senior Deputy City Attorney
City of Sacramento
915 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Request for Continuance of May 21, 2025 Commission Hearing Regarding Ordinance Listing 5850 Freeport Boulevard on the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cultural Resources (M24-014)
5850 Freeport Boulevard, APN: 035-0034-016-0000
Dear Commissioners and Staff:
I am writing on behalf of my client, AMF Bowling Centers, Inc. d/b/a AMF Land Park Lanes (“AMF”),1 the tenant of the bowling alley located at 5850 Freeport Boulevard, to request a continuance of the above-referenced hearing until Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
A. Overview.
The bowling alley building was severely damaged by fire in February 2024 and was permanently closed at that time. Since then, the site has been continuously breached by trespassers, who have torn off tarps and other improvements installed to protect the building from rain, breached back entry roll-up doors, and removed virtually all electrical wiring as well as components of the HVAC systems (rendering them inoperable). The building continues to be subject to ongoing physical damage from weather and trespassers. We are working with City staff to obtain permits necessary to restore permanent power to the site and replace the roll-up doors in the back with secure vertical doors, which will enable AMF to secure the site with lights, cameras, and alarms that can signal law enforcement when further trespasses occur. These actions are necessary to render the site safe enough to allow AMF to take the steps referenced in Sacramento Municipal Code (SMC) section 17.604.800 to prevent further deterioration.
This work also will enable architects and engineers to safely inspect the site to assist in making a determination whether the building should be designated historic and whether it would be feasible to restore the building as a bowling alley. We accordingly request a continuance of the hearing on whether to recommend that the property be placed on the City’s historic register an additional two months, to July 18, 2025. AMF will use this time to process the above-described permit and restore power and security to the building, as well as to meet with staff in an effort to find a solution for this currently unusable site that is acceptable to all.
1 AMF is affiliated with Lucky Strike Entertainment Corporation (formerly known as Bowlero Corp.), which previously submitted materials to the City regarding this matter.
Preservation Commissioners
Sean de Courcy
Whitney Johnson
Michael Sparks
May 20, 2025
B. More Time Is Needed To Restore Power and Inspect the Site.
After the building was permanently closed in February 2024, AMF sought a permit to demolish the structure in May 2024, but that permit is being held in abeyance by the City pending the outcome of the historic designation process. AMF is now in the process of seeking a permit to restore electrical power to the site and install vertical doors to replace the roll-up doors that are repeatedly breached by trespassers. We are in discussions with staff and moving as quickly as we can to resolve this issue, but need more time to address the matters described below.
The fundamental problem is that AMF cannot (and the City should not) determine whether the site is historic unless and until more information can be obtained. Without detailed inspections of a well-lit site, AMF cannot possibly determine what repairs are needed or even whether restoration is feasible. The evaluation of the building’s potential for historic preservation cannot be addressed until these issues are resolved.
As noted, we are currently applying for permits to restore power and replace roll-up doors with vertical doors so that both the subsequent work referenced in SMC section 17.604.800 to preserve the building, and a thorough inspection can be conducted safely. AMF needs a permit to bring electricity to the site, so that AMF can install lights, cameras and alarms. Once automatic alarms can be installed, law enforcement can be alerted before future trespassers cause any further damage and steal the new wiring. Although staff has suggested on numerous occasions that generators be used instead of bringing power to the site, our contractors are refusing to enter the site without full electrical service, as it would not be safe. Moreover, the generators themselves would be stolen.
Without an assessment of the structural and functional integrity of the building, it is not possible to determine whether it retains any historic significance. None of the information currently before the Commission discusses how the site could retain any historic integrity in light of the fire, the water damage resulting from rains, the removal of wiring and HVAC equipment, and the other physical damage caused by trespassers. The proposed ordinance recites that the site retains its historical integrity today, but it cites only circumstances that existed “up until the point of the fire.” The City and AMF need time for a full inspection of the building to develop more information regarding whether the site retains integrity and what options for restoration exist.
Finally, AMF understand the City is imposing fines of $800 a month for failing to secure the site and make the repairs. Thus, the City is placing AMF in a fundamentally unfair “catch-22,” where AMF is fined for not shoring up the site while not granting a permit necessary to shore up the site. We need additional time to engage City staff in discussions about these fines.
C. More Time Is Needed To Conduct the Research and Analysis Needed to Determine Whether, If the Building Has Integrity, It Is Historic.
We also request more time to allow Page & Turnbull, whom we have retained, to resolve the discrepancies amongst the historic reports and fill in the gaps where information is incomplete.
The Commission should not make a recommendation based upon incomplete information.
Preservation Commissioners
Sean de Courcy
Whitney Johnson
Michael Sparks
May 20, 2025
As noted above, the reports and proposed Ordinance do not recite any facts supporting a conclusion that the building retains historical integrity despite its damage. The Brunzell report prepared for the Sacramento Historical Society and the proposed Ordinance also contain incomplete information regarding the supposed basis for the historical designation. There is no discussion of whether the referenced LGBTQ+ and Nisei Leagues were closely associated with this building, or whether the Leagues played at several bowling alleys. They likewise do not identify anything unique about this particular bowling alley. They rely on broad, generic statements that could apply to any property in the City. For example, the proposed ordinance states “The property is associated with the commercial development of the South Land Park area of Sacramento in the mid-twentieth century and with the transformation of Freeport Boulevard into a commercial corridor.” However, every building in the City is “associated” with development of the area within it is located; there is nothing historic about being part of development. The conflicting report prepared for Lucky Strike (formerly known as Bowlero Corporation) confirms there is nothing unique about this bowling alley.
The information before the Commission is incomplete also in that it does not address whether, considering the property restrictions that would result from a historic designation, the designation would exceed constitutional takings limitations by requiring more investment than the property would be worth. This issue is further complicated by the fact that it is unclear what requirements would apply to the site if it were designated historic and to what extent the building could be remodeled or replaced.
D. Conclusion.
AMF has not taken (and the City should not take) a position regarding whether historic designation of the property is appropriate until both parties have more information about whether the building currently retains integrity, the detailed nature of its association with the Leagues referenced in the staff report, and whether the building can feasibly be restored.
Obtaining that information will require discussions with City staff to overcome the issues that are preventing the City from issuing a power permit. These actions will take time. We accordingly request that the Commission’s consideration of this matter be continued until July 2025.
Sincerely,
Cecily Barclay
cc: Steve Moroneso, Lucky Strike Entertainment
David Clark, Lucky Strike Entertainment
PIONEER MUTUALH o o k & L a d d e r S o c i e t y
Sacramento Regional Fire Museum
P . O . B o x 9 8 1 5 2 4
West Sacramento, CA 95798
(916) 859-4181
www.sacfiremuseum.org
November 26, 2024
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Hello Sean,
Iam writing as arepresentative of the Pioneer Mutual Hook and Ladder Society DBA the Sacramento Regional Fire Museum. The Board of Directors support the historic preservation of the AMF Land Park Lanes building at 5850 Freeport Boulevard.
Sincerely,
Randy Wootton
Board Chairman
3650 Industrial Blvd. #160 |West Sacramento, CA 95691
From: Delta Mello
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Please SAVE the Land Park Bowl Building
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024 4:00:57 PM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Dear Sean,
I am the current Executive Director/CEO of the Sacramento History Museum and I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd.
Built in 1960, at the
pinnacle of America's popularity
with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid- Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate
freeway
planning and development. The unique “space age” look of the front entrance was designed at the genesis of the JFK launched space-race era. The building design is not only historically architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento.
The exceptional 148
foot interior prefabricated clear span design
alone was, and remains historical today, and is worth preserving.
Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became
a popular community family magnet and gathering place for both genders to compete on common ground, and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese American communities. Culturally, the
Sacramento
riverfront had bowling (also known as tenpin) in bars and gambling halls as far back as the 1850's. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
Let us not relive the loss of the Alhambra Theatre!
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically
significant, meets CEQA
requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
(she/her)
“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”---Albert Einstein
From: Gregg Lukenbill
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl Preservation
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024 4:23:06 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl ("Bowl") building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Built at the time of America's popularity pinnacle of bowling in 1960, the purpose built bowling alley building was a cornerstone of the post WWII south area Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom, in the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. At the genesis of the JFK launched space race, the building entrance had a unique 1960 space age look.
Land Park Bowl made Freeport Blvd.a family entertainment destination located just south of the Crossroads Shopping Center. The building design is not only historically architecturally significant, it is singularly unique, and a landmark in South Sacramento.
The unique 148 foot interior prefabricated clear span design alone was, and remains historical today, and is worth preserving. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place for both genders to compete on common ground.
Both culturally and particularly historically, in gold rush Sacramento in the 1850's, the Sacramento river front had bowling (also known as tenpin back then) both within, and adjacent to, bars and gambling halls growing into a thriving industry until prohibition. It became a mainstay of family culture, leading to the Land Park Bowl building itself. The Land Park Bowl building is now the very last bowling alley in the
entire City of Sacramento, and should be preserved. Shades of the infamous beloved Alhambra Theater City demolition for a grocery store potentially revisited.
To say that the building is not eligible is a ludicrous conclusion on the part of the Bowlero consultant. There is absolutely no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Gregg Lukenbill
PO Box 162140, Sacramento CA 95816 – [email protected] - PreservationSacramento.org Preservation Sacramento – Founded in 1972 as Sacramento Old City Association December 6, 2024
Sean deCourcy, Preservation Director
Community Development Department
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor,
Sacramento, CA 95811
RE: Evaluation of Land Park Bowl
Thank you for reaching out to careholders within the Sacramento historic preservation community regarding this property. The Board of Directors of Preservation Sacramento wishes to express our disagreement with the conclusions of the SWCA evaluation of the building performed on behalf of the property owner, and our agreement with the conclusions of the evaluation provided by Brunzell Historical on behalf of Sacramento Historical Society. The SWCA analysis failed to adequately consider the property’s significance under Sacramento Register Criterion i, for its association with Sacramento’s Japanese-American community, and its association with LGBTQ+ history. Its evaluation of the property under Criterion iii is also inaccurate, by misconstruing guidelines for evaluating bowling alleys for the SurveyLA project as minimum criteria for listing in the Sacramento Register . The property is eligible for listing in the Sacramento Register as a landmark, and therefore a historic resource for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act. Furthermore, the property should be considered for listing in the National Register of Historic Pl aces under cover of the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in California Multiple Property Document for its association with Japanese Americans, due to its development by Toki and Gonzo Sakai, a Japanese-American Issei family, and with establishment of Nisei bowling leagues in Sacramento.
Criterion I: Japanese American s and bowling leagues in Sacramento While the SWCA evaluation mentions building developer Gonzo Sakai, Sacramento’s Japanese American community, and the issue of segregated bowling alleys in passing, it failed to connect these dots and discuss the development of bowling as a recreational activity among Japanese Americans. In 2018, the California Museum for History, Women and the Arts opened an exhibit named Kokoro, documenting Sacramento’s Japanese American community during the era PO Box 162140, Sacramento CA 95816 – [email protected] - PreservationSacramento.org Preservation Sacramento – Founded in 1972 as Sacramento Old City Association between imprisonment and redevelopment, that
included photographs of sports activity including a
Nisei women’s bowling team from the collection of
Alice Tsumura (see Figure 1.)
Nisei bowling leagues were discussed in Wayne
Maeda’s Japanese Americans in the Sacramento
Region (Sacramento JACL, 2000, pp. 221-222),
which mentions establishment of the first informal
Nisei bowling leagues in 1938, 1946 establishment
of the Nisei Bowling League at Capitol Bowl, and
the efforts of this bowling league and
Sacramento’s Japanese American Citizens’ League
(JACL) to allow their membership in the American
Bowling Congress (ABC). The Nisei Bowling League
expanded into the Sacramento Nisei Bowling
Association (SNBA), which included 15 different
leagues. Until the fire that ceased its operations in
2024, the Sacramento Nisei Bowling Association
still met at Land Park Bowl, a site they had used for
decades, according to Darren Tsumura, a member
of the league (ABC-10 interview, February 12,
2024,
https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/bowling-alley-future-unclear/ ).
While Maeda references Forum Bowl and Capitol Bowl as earl y sites of Nisei bowling leagues, and El Rancho Bowl in West Sacramento as having been built by Japanese Americans, Land Park Bowl was the sole bowling alley in the city of Sacramento constructed by a Japanese-American developer, Yolo County farmer Gonzo Sakai, and utilized by Nisei bowling leagues until 2024.
This combination of factors, including construction by a Japanese-American family , direct association with Nisei bowling leagues, and the association of those leagues with integration of national bowling associations, means Land Park Bowl is eligible for the Sacramento Register under Criterion i for association with Japanese-American history.
LGBTQ+ Bowling Leagues
Sacramento’s LGBTQ+ Historic Experience Project was approved by Sacramento’s City Council on December 2, 2024. This report includes a historic context for LGBTQ+ sports and pastimes in Sacramento: A gay and lesbian bowling league, the River City Bowlers, competed at the Figure 1: Members of Nisei bowling le ague, circa 1960, from collection of Al ice Tsumura.
PO Box 162140, Sacramento CA 95816 – [email protected] - PreservationSacramento.org Preservation Sacramento – Founded in 1972 as Sacramento Old City Association Alhambra Bowl at 1229 Alhambra Boulevard. The league later met at Land Park Lanes at 5850 Freeport Boulevard (extant) and included a team of Black gay men and lesbians called “Four Brothas and a Sistah.” Members included Robert Jones, Steve Sykes, Asa Salley, John Ortiz - Hudson, and others. (Sacramento LGBTQ+ Historic Experience, 2024 Page & Turnbull, Page 126.) This statement was also independently verified by Dr. Will Gre en of East Sacramento Preservation on November 18, 2024, who had been a member of the league . This context statement establishes a frame work for nominating historic resources for association with LGBTQ+ organizations, and this clearly demonstrated association with Land Park Bowl means the property is also eligible for the Sacramento Register under Criterion I for association with LGBTQ+ history.
While the SWCA analysis utilized SurveyLA standards to analyze the building’s historic integrity for purposes of its architecture, they did not include how SurveyLA evaluates bowling alleys based on association with events:
Bowling centers may also be significant for their association with ethnic/cultural groups and may be discussed in the ethnic/cultural themes developed as part of the citywide historic context statement (see in particular the African American and the Japane se American Historic Contexts). (SurveyLA Citywide Historic Context Statement, Commercial Development/Post WWII Recreation/Bowling Centers, 1949-1970, Page 2.)
Land Park Bowl qualifies for listing under this standard, locally interpreted as Sacramento Register Criterion I, even if the building does not qualify for local listing for its architect ure.
However, the building is also eligible for listing for its architecture, as detailed below.
Land Park Bowl ’s Googie Architecture (C riterion iii)
SWCA’s finding of ineligibility is based on differences between a pre-construction rendering and the as-built design of the building, and absence of the bowling alley sign. A public comment letter submitted by SacMod on December 4, 2024, makes three points to support eligibility under Criterion iii. First, while signage is often a character -defining feature of mid-century bowling alley design, its absence does not disqualify a building from consideration. Second, it is the as-built building that should be considered when evaluating historic integrity of a building, not differences between pre-construction renderings and what was actually built; using the correct basis, the building retains a high degree of historic integrity, and its evaluation of the building as a simple rectangular form with Googie design s attached is the basis of most examples of Googie architecture. Finally, SWCA excluded SurveyLA’s mention that Extant post- war bowling centers are now rare; therefore, a greater degree of alteration or fewer character defining features may be acceptable. Some design features may have been modified, altered, or replaced.
PO Box 162140, Sacramento CA 95816 – [email protected] - PreservationSacramento.org Preservation Sacramento – Founded in 1972 as Sacramento Old City Association Adjacent setting may have changed . (SurveyLA Citywide Historic Context Statement, Commercial Development/Post WWII Recreation/Bowling Centers, 1949-1970, Page 22.) Preservation Sacramento supports SacMod’s conclusions regarding the building ’s eligibility.
Recarding the evaluation’s findings that the property lists no architect of record, i t is not necessary to identify a named architect for a property to be eligible under Criterion iii , so the lack of an arc hitect of record does not preclude eligibility. Finally, the statement by SWCA that better examples of Mid-century Modern bowling alleys exist, such as Country Club Lanes in Arden-Arcade, does not preclude eligibility of this building, especially because their local example (Country Club Lanes) is located outside the city limits, and therefore is not eligible for listing in the Sacramento Register. By contrast, while being the sole building of its type does not necessarily make a building eligible for listing in the Sacramento Register, Land Park Bowl is the last surviving bowling alley located within the Sacramento city limits. It is the last building of its kind in the city.
For these reasons, we ask the Preservation Director to return a finding that Land Park Bowl is eligible for listing in the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cu ltural Resources under Criterion i in the areas of Ethnic History (Japanese) and LGBT Q+ History, and Criterion iii as a locally significant example of Googie architecture.
Sincerely,
William Burg
President, Preservation Sacramento
Sacramento Area Fire Fighters
Local 522
December 13, 2024
Sean de Courcy, Preservation Director
City of Sacramento Community Development Department
300 Richards Boulevard Sacramento, CA 95811
Re: Land Park Bowl aka Land Park Lanes - 5850 Freeport Boulevard Dear Sean,
I
am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese American communities.
Firefighters swear to protect life and property, this is exactly what Sacramento Area Firefighters did at Land Park Lanes. The building was saved from the fire, and we hope it will remain an iconic part of Sacramento.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, but also a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento and should be preserved. There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved! Respectfully submitted,
Trevor Jamison, President
Dustin Rodriques, Secretary Treasurer
Jeremy Crawford, Director of Membership
Ryan Henry, Sacramento City Vice President
Sean Scollard, Metro Vice President
Bryant Powell, Cosumnes Vice President
Greg Fonts, District Vice President
John Collins, Sacramento City Director
Jeremy Gardella, Sacramento City Director
Pete Votava, Metro Director
Michael Gildone, Metro Director
3720 FOLSOM BOULEVARD • SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95816-6741 • (916) 739-8522 • FAX (916) 739-8613 • www.iaff522.org A affiliated with: Interna tonal Associat ion of Fire Fighters • California Professional Firefighters • AFL-CIO • Sacramento Central Labor Council
December 4, 2024
Sean de Courcy, Preservation Director
City of Sacramento Community Development Department
300 Richards Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95811
Submitted via e-mail
Re: Land Park Bowl aka Land Park Lanes - 5850 Freeport Boulevard Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the evaluations conducted by SWCA Environmental Consultants (for Bolero Corporation - October 2024) and Brunzell Historical (for the Sacramento Historical Society - November 2024). We reviewed both reports with great interest, as this Mid-Century Modern Googie bowling alley has been well-loved by the community for 64 years. There was a large outcry when the interior was damaged earlier this year. However, the bowling alley’s character-defining exterior features remain intact. There is much hope that the building can be rehabilitated or adaptively reused and remain as an example of Googie architecture. It is located on a southern stretch of Freeport Boulevard’s commercial corridor in South Land Park that is dotted with many prominent Mid-Century Modern buildings. Of note, Land Park Bowl is the last extant mid-20th century bowling alley within the City of Sacramento.
As you know, Sacramento Modern (SacMod) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2010; we are dedicated to preserving modern art, architecture, and design in the Sacramento region. We co-sponsored the 2017 Sacramento Mid-Century Modern Historic Context Statement and Survey.* While Land Park Bowl was not specifically mentioned in the Survey, it remains a Mid-Century Modern Googie building that meets more than one criteria to qualify it as an eligible historic resource.
Although SWCA’s evaluation is well-written, it incorrectly asserts that the building’s eligibility is diminished because: 1) the site’s original signage is absent, and; 2) the building does not look exactly like the rendering in a newspaper advertisement.
However, neither of these conditions preclude the building’s significance. And — as many in the building industry can attest — not every structure ultimately appears exactly as originally conceptualized or rendered.
A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, preserving and protecting modern art, architecture and design in the Sacramento region.
Gretchen Steinberg 4910 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95822 [email protected]
SacMod.org
Also, SWCA’s evaluation applies Los Angeles’ Survey LA criteria to a Sacramento building — which seems problematic since Survey LA’s standards are slightly different from those developed by Sacramento to evaluate eligibility of a Googie building. While SWCA’s report is well-researched, we disagree with some of their analyses and conclusions which are based upon their arbitrary application of eligibility criteria. Even if Survey LA’s evaluation criteria for bowling alleys are considered applicable, they include the following caveat: “Extant post-war bowling centers are now rare; therefore a greater degree of alteration or fewer character-defining features may be acceptable. Some design features may have been modified, altered, or replaced….” We concur with the overall analyses and conclusions in Brunzell Historical’s evaluation.
While Brunzell’s report is more succinct, it clearly identifies the building’s qualifying features, integrity, and context; and accurately applies eligibility criteria for evaluating a Mid-Century Modern Googie historic resource.
We would like to underscore the building’s significance for both the Asian and LGBTQ+ communities — who formed groups such as the Sacramento Nisei Bowling League/ Association and the River City Bowlers. Both leagues found Land Park Bowl to be a welcoming space to gather and recreate beginning in the 1960s and 1970s and onward for decades until the recent interior damage occurred. SacMod is happy to share our research findings. Please also refer to the photo and SacMod’s observations on Page 3 of this letter that identify the building’s original and intact Googie features in detail.
In conclusion, we are writing in support of listing the property as a historic resource and urge you to pursue historic status. It is our opinion that there is sufficient evidence that Criterion A/1/a1 and Criterion C/3/a.iii - v are met and that the former Land Park Bowl building retains sufficient integrity and original features to include it on the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cultural Resources.
Respectfully submitted,
Gretchen Steinberg
President, SacMod
*For those unfamiliar with the Sacramento Mid-Century Modern Context and Survey, it can be found here:
https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/community-development/planning/preservation/mid-century-modern
The context statement/survey was made possible from over $66,000 in grant funding, with support from the California Office of Historic Preservation and matching funds from SacMod. The one-year project was overseen in partnership with the City of Sacramento’s Preservation Office within the Community Development Department. A historical consulting team led by GEI Consulting with Mead & Hunt conducted extensive evaluations of five properties and wrote the final report that included information from SacMod’s research files. The survey was conducted by community volunteers. The project was intended as a starting point to identify mid-20th century historical resources and define styles for future historical evaluations. Rather than being a definitive and all-inclusive encyclopedia, it was intended to be a catalyst to identify and protect Mid-Century Modern resources within the City of Sacramento.
2024.12.034 SacMod re: Land Park Bowl aka Land Park Lanes Page 2 Original Googie features, materials, and characteristics of Land Park Bowl/Lanes include:
• an exuberant custom triangular steel sculpture made of solid and diamond grille screen elements. The sculpture perpendicularly intersects the large front awning and rises vertically above the above the roofline like a rocket taking flight for outer space — intentionally designed to capture the attention of passing motorists;
• a dramatic, exaggerated angular soffit/overhang on the front elevation; this soffit is supported by freestanding poles and is punctured by a trapezoidal open space that allows natural light into the entrance. The overhang and adjacent soffits contain built-in downward facing light fixtures that illuminate the front perimeter of the building at night; • irregular rectilinear massing and multiple planes with abstract and angular portions; • an asymmetrical façade that conveys movement;
• flat rectilinear awnings above the front and side entrances supported by angular poles; • several geometric elements (rectangles, diamonds, triangles, trapezoid); • a variety of materials, including steel, glass, aluminum, concrete, and cement blocks; • three cinder block wall enclosures: one with solid cement blocks and vents; one with solid cement blocks topped with the same diamond grille screen material used in the triangular sculpture; and one composed of decorative screen blocks. The decorative screen blocks have an open diamond pattern consistent with Basalite’s Harlequin pattern. The front entry wall with double glass doors is also composed of solid cement blocks. • Both the solid and decorative screen blocks were likely acquired from a nearby legacy business: Blomberg’s Basalite Distributors — aka Blomberg Building Materials / Blomberg Builders (now Blomberg Window Systems) on Blair Avenue. 2024.12.034 SacMod re: Land Park Bowl aka Land Park Lanes Page 3 Land Park Bowl, aka Land Park Lanes is a Mid-Century Modern bowling alley located at 5850 Freeport Boulevard, on a commercial corridor in Sacramento’s South Land Park neighborhood.
It retains many original features and characteristics consistent with mid-20th century Googie architecture. Photo by Debra Jane Selzer via her website Roadside Architecture.
From: larry schluer
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: 5850 Freeport Blvd.
Date: Sunday, November 24, 2024 9:50:59 AM
Hello Mr. de Courcy,
I recently heard the Land Park Bowl building is slated for demolition. Please consider the retention of this building as a significant historical building in Sacramento.
Born and raised in East Sacramento, I have always enjoyed classic structures, like the Tower and Crest Theaters and the aesthetics they bring to the community. I have spent many hours in the old Alhambra Theater before its demolition, a huge loss to the community.
Spending many hours in this bowling alley in my high school years, I am quite familiar with the massive openness of the structure, only to stand in the shadow of the front exterior that pairs so nicely with the Art Deco theme of the airport across the street. The facade represents not just a by-gone era in Sacramento, but is a significant, historical element as the last bowling alley building in Sacramento. This building is a gem and being so close to the Executive Airport can substantially anchors both locations to encourage socio-economic growth and development in the area.
Since 1948…
Thank you,
Larry Schluer
From: Mr Marvin Lane
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: AMF Land Park Bowling Alley
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 2:47:14 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became
a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I myself, have been bowling at Land Park Bowl off and on for the last 30 plus years with the last 10 years solely at Land Park. At the time of the fire I was in a league called the CSEA Thursday Mixed League which had been around since 1968 beginning at South Bowl then moving to Alpine and then to Land Park after the closure of Alpine; the league had to fold after 55 plus years of existence. Land Park is basically the only alley in the South Sacramento/Elk Grove area that offered league bowling every day of the week.
Without it many people either relocated to other alleys farther away or quit bowling altogether like my team has. I think it is a vital part of the community.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity
with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of
the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate
freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically
significant, meets CEQA
requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Marvin Lane
Google Maps
Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.
8169 La Almendra Way Sacramento, CA 95823
Marvin (I have no cruise control) Lane
[email protected]
From: AOL Mail
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Historic Preservation Land Park Bowl
Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024 11:33:02 AM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento.
The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved! Sincerely,
Rick Goishi
9004 Chaff CT
Elk Grove, CA 95758
Sent from AOL on Android
From: Kamilah Washington
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Historic Preservation of Land Park Bowl
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 8:10:06 AM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard
, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email:
[email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
My family and I have been bowling league and tournaments at Land Park Bowl since we arrived in the Sacramento area in 2011. Not only has this location been a staple in the community since my mother was a child growing up here in Sacramento in the 60's and 70's, fast forward 40 + years and it still was making an impact in young peoples lives. My two children, both bowled Youth leagues here, and really fell in love with the sport, earning SMART program scholarships through the jr leagues at Landpark, and continuing into adulthood, giving them a safe place to be, learning how to improve with practice, and learning how to be teamplayers.
The sport of bowling offers many avenues, whether through fitness, discipline, or college scholarships, that it should definitely be able to continue to provide in the South Area of Sacramento. So many opportunites for the community will be lost if Land Park Bowl does remain close.
Please consider not only the past history , but the present and future that this will affect .
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity
with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of
the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Kamilah Washington
8865 La Riveria Drive #C
Sacramento, CA 95826
Kamilah E. Washington
510-692-0132
Have a great day!!!
Notice: Information contained within this email is intended for the sole use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed. It may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and/or exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any use, distribution, dissemination in any manner, or copying of this transmission is prohibited by law and may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties. If you have received this transmission in error, please delete it and notify the individual or department noted above by telephone, or return the entire transmission via U.S. Mail.
Thank you.
From: pattie fong
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Historical designation of Land Park Bowl building Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 9:32:49 AM
I support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. It should be preserved not only for its period architectural features but also for its historical significance as the last bowling alley in the city and its popularity as a gathering point for the Sacramento Japanese American communities.
Pattie Fong
From: Dan Fong
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 3:17:31 PM
Dear Sean,
I strongly support the historical preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl is the is the only bowling alley in the south area. It was a bowling alley that frequented to bowl when I would travel from Yuba City on Friday night. There was always bowlers participating in leagues from 6pm to 1130pm. There no other bowling alleys in the south area. It is a unique landmark in south Sacramento. Bowlers from the south area now have to travel much farther to find family entertainment. This building should be preserved.
Sincerely,
Dan Fong
751 Westlite Circle
Sacramento CA 95831
From: ilene frank
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 1:40:34 PM
Mr. Sean de Courcy
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities and much more.
My family (several hundred) and I have bowled there since the 60's. I was born and raised in South Sacramento/Elk Grove and Land Park Bowl has been our entertainment and exercise with family gatherings, social and community events. Land Park Bowl was the last Bowling Alley in South Sacramento. We have know where else to go in the south area. Everyone that bowled the leagues there were like family and we are all now separated. Please see that building as an historic site as it is almost as old as I am (70). T he bowling alley was a cornerstone
of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building
is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Ilene T. Frank
9042 Weeping Fig Way
Elk Grove, CA 95758
(916) 761-3247
From: rick kerksieck
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 3:32:04 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
My Family, and I have been bowling at this alley since the early 2000's. I have been a league bowler, and have attended numerous birthday, and family celebrations there. I think it would be a shame to let this building be destroyed.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Rick Kerksieck
618 Lelandhaven way, Sacramento CA 95831.
From: Karen Narduzzi
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 2:18:01 PM
Preserve this landmark! Not only is it a landmark, it served the community as a place for families to come together for entertainment (bowling, video games etc. This is a huge deal, please, please take the community to heart and do not remove such an ICON.
Thank you!
Karen Narduzzi
10151 Festa Ct.
Elk Grove, Ca 95757
Sent from my iPhone
From: S S
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024 1:14:43 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
It is a wonderful experience and way for communities and families to meet and share valuable time together.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Shawn Lin
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
From: Michele
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 9:54:18 AM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd.
Growing up in South Sac during my teen years this was always a place to go and hang out. And now that I am a senior I had fallen in love with it again. It was a game I was able to pick up quickly and gave me an opportunity to socialize. We need this Bowling alley for it is a place that every age group can enjoy.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Michele Spagnolo
1304 Meadow Rd
West Sacramento
Sent from Michele's iPhone
From: Greta Wallace
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 6:21:36 PM
I grew up in Land Park and moved back to my family home in LP. My family used the bowling alley. I will use it again. Please save it.
Greta Gross Wallace
Sent from my iPhone
From: h yee
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl building
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 5:15:17 PM
Hello Mr. de Courcy
I'm writing to support the historical preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. It's an architecturally, culturally & historical building and meets CEQA requirements. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Herman Yee
4080 Deer Trail Way 95823
From: Nancy Lum
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land park bowl building
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 7:37:37 PM
Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese- American communities.
PLEASE keep this Land Park Bowl building. Many of us have been bowling here for many years!! This is have been land mark for many of us!!!! Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Nancy Lum
Sent from my iPad
From: GEORGE PADOVAN
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl Building Preservation
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 6:37:45 AM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I have had the pleasure to bowl in this establishment for over 40 years dating back to the early 1980's. The fire that closed this establishment in early 2024 was devastated to all who frequently bowled at Land Park but especially the senior bowlers who were in there 70 - 90-year-olds that live close to this establishment, and this was their only place for them to bowl and stay active in their later years and also a place for social activities which are somewhat limited in the South Sacramento region. Many of these members of our city were Japanese Americans who no longer have the ability to travel the necessary distance outside our city to continue to bowl.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building
is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento and should be preserved!
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved! Sincerely,
George Padovan
40 Del Vista Circle
Sacramento, CA 95823
From: Calvin Okimura
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowl
Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024 12:06:29 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard
, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
<<<Insert your personal experience here>>>
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling
alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved! Sincerely,
Calvin Okimura
8664 Grimsby Ct.
Elk Grove, CA 95624
From: Irene Nabeta-Yee
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Bowling Alley
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 3:15:59 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard
, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese- American communities.
When I first moved to Sacramento, I bowled at South Bowl Alley on Stockton Blvd. Then South Bowl was demolished. Then my league moved to Alpine Alley on Florin Road. Alpine Alley closed due to asbestos. Then I moved to Land Park Alley. Now, Land Park Alley is burnt and may no longer be there. We would like Land Park to be rebuilt because there are no other bowling alleys in South Sacramento. If Land Park can remain as a bowling alley, then the youth can use it as another segway to bowling.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Irene Nabeta-Yee
916-524-8968 Cell
From: Steve Guest
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land Park Lanes
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 7:22:42 PM
Sean, I am reaching out to you to send my support in designating the currently damaged, and unoccupied Land Park lanes on Freeport Blvd a historic site.
I bowled there for the first time when i was 15 in 1975. At the time of the fire, i was bowling several senior leagues with hundreds of us meeting weekly to enjoy good exercise and cammaraderie.
This venue is deeply missed by so many bowlers, primarily senior citizens. Please do anything and everything humanly possible to save this site.
Thank you for your time.
Steve Guest
Sacramento
From: Brian Roberts
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Land park lanes bowling alley
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 1:14:32 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
<<<Insert your personal experience here>>>
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Brian William Roberts
17 Raindrop Ct
Sacramento California 95823
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
From: Kathy Omachi
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Letter in support of the Land Park Bowl
Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024 5:49:55 PM
Dear Sir,. I am writing in support to preserve the Land Park Bowling Alley. I realize that it is a bit unusual to request ,the preservation of a bowling alley as a historical land mark but we must acknowledge its historical significance to the community life of the local Japanese-Americans and the region.as
a safe place to gather. Our community
was still recovering from the hatred of World War II and the on-going racism and discrimination as reflected in the Land Park Asian homeowners exclusion actions.
As representatives of the Fresno Chinatown Preservation, Inc organization we are well aware of the need to preserve all aspects of a historic community such as a Japanese confectionary shop, a Basque Hand Ball Court or a Mexican Baptist Church. These properties, such as the Land Park Bowl, preserve for our future generations a true sense of where they came from and just who were their ancestors. Thank you for all your efforts to help preserve our history. Ms. Kathy Omachi, MSW uC Berkeley/1976
From: John Schwartzler
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Permit Request to Demolish Land Park Lanes
Date: Thursday, December 5, 2024 12:13:13 PM
Attn:; Sean De Courcy
Sacramento City Community Development Dept.
300 Richard's Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95811
Dec. 5, 2024
RE : Land Park Lanes at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Sacramento
It has come to my attention that Bowlero Corp. has applied for a Permit to demolish the Land Park Lanes Bowling Alley at 5850 Freeport Blvd. in Sacramento. We've lived in the area since 1967 and have enjoyed Bowling and Parties at Land Park Lanes over the years. It always has been a Community gathering place for Events. Considering it's unique Design and Location in the Land Park neighborhood, The Structure needs to be preserved to once again provide the Local Community a place to meet together for Celebrations and Events, as few locations exist that can provide for large gatherings.
Please consider these Impacts on our Neighborhood when you respond to the Permit Request.
Thank You,
John & Sandy Schwartzler
(916) 316-5056
From: [email protected]
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Please help SAVE Land Park Bowl Building
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 5:33:56 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard
, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I have been bowling in Sacramento Nisei Bowling Association (SNBA) leagues at Land Park Bowl since the early 1980's. Before that, when I was younger, I used to go bowl there with friends. It was a safe place to go to spend time with my friends, and a close and convenient place as I grew up in the Hollywood Park area. I now live in the Pocket area, as well as many of my Nisei league bowling friends. We were devastated when the fire occurred and then finding out that Bowlmor had no intentions of renovating the building.
The SNBA was created in the late 1940's after the Japanese-Americans were release from the Internment camps, as a way to get together. They suffered many hardships at the beginning as local bowling establishments would not allow them to enter. There was 1 (one) proprietor that allowed them to bowl and the Association was created and grew from there. We have since lost many of our Nisei (2nd generation) bowlers. Our current membership consists mainly of 3rd generation bowlers, with some 4th generation bowlers getting interested in bowling.
Land Park Bowl is the last bowling alley in the South Sacamento area.
With the closure of South Bowl, and then Alpine Valley Lanes, our SNBA leagues have been reduced in number, as well as our Association members. After the closure of Alpine Valley Lanes, and having to move all of our leagues that were there to Land Park, we had at least 1 (one) league every night of the week (Monday through Friday) at Land Park.
With the closure of Land Park, our SNBA leagues have had to scramble to find a place where most of our Association members were willing to go to.
As many live in the Greenhaven/Pocket and Elk Grove areas, many have opted to quit bowling as they do not want to drive all the way out to Country Club Lanes.
Especially our Senior members, who do not want to
drive on the freeway and/or at night.
As it is, Country Club was only able
to accommodate one Mens league (4 bowlers per team) on Friday night, and 3 (three) of our mixed leagues (4 bowlers per team) combined into 1 (one) league on Sunday, losing members who also did not want to bowl on a Sunday (family time).
One other Mens league was also able to get
into Country Club on Sundays, but lost a lot of league bowlers due to the day of the week changing to Sundays and the location.
They also had to
drop down to a trios format (3 bowlers per team).
The 1 (one) Womens
league had to go to The Alley in Elk Grove (does not cater to leagues).
Most of the Womens league members did not want to drive out to Country Club.
Please help to save Land Park Bowl.
To be renovated so that we can
possibly move back "home", where we feel more comfortable.
It is also a
safer drive for our Association members.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity
with bowling, the
bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate
freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The
Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling
alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the
building is architecturally,
culturally, and historically
significant, meets CEQA
requirements, and must be
preserved!
Google Maps
Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.
Thank you for your time in reading this email.
Sincerely,
Karen Nakao
7356 Souza Circle
Sacramento, CA 95831
From: Ishmael Bihl
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Please save Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 10:49:23 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese- American communities.
It was also home to the River City Bowlers league before the fire. The oldest LGBTQ+ league in Sacramento and Northern California for over 40 years! Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Ishmael Bihl
River City Bowlers, league President
4306 Ocean Lane
Elk Grove, CA 95757
May 19, 2025
City of Sacramento Preservation Commission
9151 Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
RCUD CNTV CLERK OFFICE
MnV 27 '25 PM2:04
RE: Ordinance Listing 5850 Freeport Boulevard on the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cultural Resources
To whom it may concern,
I am currently the president of River City
league in Sacramento.
Bowlers, the oldest ongoing LGBTQ+ bowling
The River City Bowlers bowling league was established in 1977 at a smaller bowling alley named Alhambra Bowl that only had 161anes. When the LGBTQ+ community became of aware of this league supporting their interest, the league increased to 44 teams comprised of 5 members (220 bowlers) the next year so it had to move to the Land Park Lanes. Land Park Lanes has 32 lanes which required the league to have 2 shiffs from 3-9 pm. The following year the league size had to be condensed to only 32 teams and continued at this size for several years.
This league became an important gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community and helped to create and organize other LGBTQ+ sports. The bowling members joined IGBO (International Gay Bowling Organization) and the league participated in the first Gay Games in San Francisco in 1982. Our River City Bowlers league has continued to have a positive impact in the Sacramento area LGBTQ+ community.
The River City Bowlers league has always raised Funds to support the Bowling to Veterans Link (BVL) and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Land Park Lanes has always welcomed and supported our marginalized community and has always been our home until the recent fire that forced us to relocate to another bowling alley and has survived with only 14 current teams.
PLEASE save Land Park Lanes, our home. We want to come home.
Sincerely,
Ishmael Bihl
River City Bowlers, president
From: Michael Ota
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Preservation of Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 3:57:22 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities. My family has had countless family bowling events and cherished memories at this location since the 1970's.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Michael Ota
2368 Glen Ellen Circle
Sacramento 95822
From: Carol Patton
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Preservation of Land Park Bowl
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 5:35:33 PM
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land park Bowl made Freeport Boulvard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento's south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento's Japanese-American and all bowlers in the outlying communities. i have lived in Sacramento all my life and have bowled at South Bowl , Alpine Alley, both close. There is no bowl near. i have been a bowler, for well over 50 years. Every Thursday night, and had not missed a Thursday, in that 50 years. I am in my 70's and and do not wish to travel a far distance to be able to bowl.especially at night.
It is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
This email is on behalf of my 32 member league called CSEA Mixed. It was a league that bowled in Sacramento for over 60 years. It was started by a group of California State Employees, and was originally housed at South Bowl on Stockton Blvd.
Thank You
Carol Patton
4324 62ns Street
Sacramento, CA 95820
From: Manila Vongmany
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Preserve Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 11:27:50 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I bowled at Land Park Bowl for more than 10 years and have formed wonderful friendships through the bowling community there. Many of these friends were even at my wedding, and I cherish the lifelong memories I’ve made at this special place. Land Park Bowl has always been more than just a bowling alley—it’s a place where people connect and share a love for the sport.
Since the fire damaged Land Park Bowl, our league was moved to Country Club Lanes, but Sunday was the only available day, which is inconvenient and disrupts weekend plans. The location is also much farther away, making it less accessible for many of us.
I strongly encourage you to designate Land Park Bowling as a historic landmark to preserve its legacy and ensure it remains a cherished part of our community.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Manila Vongmany
From: Jody Tao
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Preserve Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 7:19:27 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese- American communities.
I have bowled at Land Park Bowl since 1976. After retiring in the Seattle area my wife and I decided to return back to Sacramento in 2017. As a senior we started bowling in the Nisei and non-Nisei bowling leagues at AMF Land Park Bowl three times a week Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. This was our connection to get back to knowing our Japanese- American community and the south area community in the Sacramento area. Without this social connection, I think it would have been difficult to get involved with the community. We are very grateful to have that opportunity at AMF Land Park Bowl and we would like it to continue to others so they can make friends in the community.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Jody Tao
8708 Cooperston Way
Elk Grove, CA 95624
From: Michael Kawasaki
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Preserving Land Park Bowl
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 10:21:37 AM
Good morning Mr. de Courcy,
I'm writing in support to historically preserve the Land Park Bowl building on Freeport Boulevard. The building (and people) have been a staple in our community for over 30 years. The location was family friendly and it was the only last standing entertainment locations in our area. West Sacramento has Capitol Bowl, Arden has Country Club, Citrus Heights has Bowlero North and Elk Grove has The Alley but what about us? Many of those bowling alleys are on the outskirts of Sacramento and we are trying to save the one last good thing on Freeport Blvd. I grew up just down the street and remember riding my bike with friends to head down to the alley just to bowl a few games. As we've grown and moved away, it became a place to meet and catch up with old friends while bowling with our kids and families. I hope you can help save and bring back to life one of the last buildings in the area that was a staple in our community.
Sincerely,
Michael Kawasaki
From: J. H
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Re: Preservation of Land Park Bowl on Freeport Boulevard Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 3:35:12 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard
, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
My wife and I remember bringing our daughters to Land Park Bowl to sell Girl Scout cookies to many of the bowlers, easily thirty + years ago! And, we got to marvel at the age of the bowlers. Back then, many were in mid-to-late 50s and 60s!
I also joined the Nisei Bowling League three years ago in order to bowl with my then, 89 year old mother-in-law. Yes, she is AWESOME and easily out scores me. It's been over 40 years since I last picked up a bowling ball...
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling
alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Robert H.
PO Box 954
Shingle Springs, CA 95682
From: Bill
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Save Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 8:50:02 AM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Being a league and recreational bowler, Land Park Bowl is the last bowling center in South Sacramento.
South Bowl and Alpine Alley had closed. I had friends bowling on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Sacramento Nisei Bowling Association (SNBA) would have tournaments at this location.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
William (Bill) Kitagawa
9 Las Positas Circle
Sacramento, CA 95831
From: Gladys Kawaye
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: SAVE Land Park Bowl
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 5:44:48 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Boulevard.
I used to go with my relatives to watch them bowl weekly. Since then, I have bowled in many leagues, some at Land Park Bowl. Many Issei and Nisei families bowled in leagues at Land Park Bowl. The Chinese leagues have also been present for years at Land Park Bowl.
My late sister-in-law worked at Land Park Bowl for many years and recruited me when they were short handed. I worked there part time for over twenty-five years. I was working the morning of the fire at Land Park Bowl. There are so many memories held within those walls and I would hate to see the building demolished. I still drive by on occasion and feel great sadness seeing it boarded upas it is now. It would be wonderful if the building could be saved and restored.
Sincerely,
Gladys Kawaye
Sent from my iPad
From: Ray Valdovino
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Save Land Park Bowl
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 10:41:02 AM
Dear Mr. de Courcey
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became
a popular community family
magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese- American communities.
In 1976 while attending Sacramento City College, I had the privilege of working at Land Park Bowl as a Front Desk Attendant.
At the time, Land Park Bowl was owned by the
Brunswick Corporation.
My job consisted of flooring the nightly leagues, accepting each league secretaries lineage fees, making nightly bank deposits and securing that everything was locked and alarmed before closing for the evening.
Those were just a few of my
duties.
One of my main reasons for getting a job at Land Park Bowl was to be able to practice for free because I knew I wanted to become a professional bowler.
After I got off from those
early morning shifts, I would also help the lane man with his duties so that I could get some much needed practice in.
Having the opportunity to practice for free and understand lane maintenance and oil patterns (with the expertise help of the lane man) I became one of the best bowlers in the area.
I also opened up my business (Ray’s Pro Shop) in 1976 so I could understand every aspect of the game inside and out. I eventually earned my PBA card (Professional Bowlers Association) and have had a very successful career that is still going to this day. I have one PBA title, I was the number one seed for a PBA National event at Earl Anthony’s Bowl in nearby Dublin, California which was televised on ESPN and I was also voted into the Sacramento Bowling Hall of Fame.
Had it not been for Land Park Bowl,
my life could have been totally different.
I even met my wife Donna, while I worked at Land
Park Bowl.
We have been married for 37 years and we have one beautiful daughter.
The Nisei Bowling Organization which I have been a member of for almost 50 years also helped me become the bowler and person I am today.
The Nisei leagues and it’s entire
bowling community has been a staple at Land Park Bowl and I would be forever indebted to you if you could somehow find a way to save Land Park Bowl.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity
with bowling, the bowling alley was a
cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate
freeway planning and development. The building
design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. TheLand Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically
significant,
meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Ray Valdovino
519 Shaw River Way
Sacramento, CA 95831
December 11, 2024
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I have fond memories of bowling classes at Land Park Bowl when taking physical education classes at Sacramento City College in the early 1970’s. It was a special place to have church bowling events and socialize with bowlers in the Japanese American leagues.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development.
The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Walter Menda
622 Lelandhaven Way
Sacramento, CA 95831
From: Roger Fujii
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Save Land Park Bowl building
Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 8:17:45 AM
ean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities. <<<Insert your personal experience here>>>
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Roger Fujii
3894 W Land Park Dr
Sacramento 95822
916-708-7343
From: mary okamoto
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: SAVE Land Park Bowl Building
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 9:20:22 AM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento.
The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Mary Okamoto
Sacramento, CA 95818
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From: Marie Reichmuth
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: SAVE Land Park Bowl Building
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 5:14:06 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Over my lifetime, I have bowled there for over 30 years. And my recent stay of 11 years, was spent as a widow after losing my husband of 15 years. It wasn’t easy walking into this bowling alley and asking to be put on an unknown team to start a new chapter in my life and do something I used to do as a single person. I met the most welcoming people and team members, and gained many lasting friendships too. It was the best thing I could have done to go forward in my life, get out of the house, and stop the depression that sets in when you lose a spouse, friend or family member.
Please consider bringing this bowling alley back to life, and save other people’s lives too!
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Marie L. Reichmuth
9044 Ancestor Dr.
Elk Grove, CA 95758
From: Lillie R
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: SAVE Land Park Bowl building!
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 3:09:03 PM
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
I have been bowling in various leagues through the Nissei Bowling Association since the early 70's. I am 92 years old.. I would like to see the building rebuilt in order to return to these lanes. It's a convenient location and holds many memories...
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park
Bowl building is the very last bowling
alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved! Sincerely,
Lillie R.
Sacramento, 95820
From: Barry Tsugawa
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Historic Preservation of the Land Park Bowl Building Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 6:05:50 AM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
Land Park Bowl supported many NIsei (2nd Generation) bowlers when it first opened.
I have memories of the family watching my dad compete in a competitive Nisei bowling league. The best one was when he captained a team that won the league. I later joined with my dad in a Nisei league and bowled the only 300 game in the long history of the league.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
Barry Tsugawa
1403 Greenborough Dr.
Roseville, CA 95661
Ph: 916 622-6770
From: John Yoshikawa
To: Sean deCourcy
Subject: Save Land Park Bowl!
Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024 11:12:23 PM
Sean de Courcy
Preservation Director
Community Development Department
City of Sacramento
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor
Sacramento, California 95811
email: [email protected]
Dear Sean,
I am writing to strongly support the historic preservation of the Land Park Bowl building at 5850 Freeport Blvd. Land Park Bowl made Freeport Boulevard a family entertainment destination located in Sacramento’s south area. It became a popular community family magnet and gathering place and is a significant location for Sacramento’s Japanese-American communities.
Built in 1960, at the pinnacle of America's popularity with bowling, the bowling alley was a cornerstone of the post WWII Mid-Century Modern architectural development boom during the early days of Sacramento's interstate freeway planning and development. The building design is not only historically and architecturally significant, it is a unique landmark in South Sacramento. The Land Park Bowl building is the very last
bowling alley in the City of Sacramento, and should be preserved.
There is no question that the building is architecturally, culturally, and historically significant, meets CEQA requirements, and must be preserved!
Sincerely,
John Yoshikawa
8645 Glenroy Way
Sacramento, CA 95826
PO Box 162140, Sacramento CA 95816 – [email protected] - PreservationSacramento.org Preservation Sacramento – Founded in 1972 as Sacramento Old City Association May 21, 2025
To: Sean deCourcy, Preservation Director, City of Sacramento 300 Richards Boulevard, 3rd Floor
Sacramento CA 95811
Re: Support for Listing of 5850 Freeport Boulevard on the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cultural Resources (M24-014)
Director deCourcy,
The Board of Directors of Preservation Sacramento wishes to express our support for listing 5850 Freeport Boulevard, also known as Land Park Lanes, in the Sacramento Register of Historic and Cultural Resources. The property meets Sacramento Register Criterion I for its association with Sacramento AAPI history, due to its development by Japanese-American developer Gonzo Sakai, and its hosting of Sacramento’s Nisei bowling leagues. It is also eligible for its association with LGBTQ+ history for its hosting of LGBTQ+ bowling leagues, including the River City Bowlers.
William Burg
President, Preservation Sacramento Board of Directors
Dear Sean,
I truly appreciate the historical significance of Land Park Bowl has had on the community in the past, but I would like to express support to NOT preserve the building as historical. I believe that would restrict the ability for the building to serve as a community staple for the present and future and it should be free to turn into whatever the community desires.
Bowling alleys have closed all over because it’s an activity that’s losing popularity and interest. There are many other activities that are growing and gaining interest and participation that could be better options to get members of the communities out of their houses and being active and meeting others. By designating it as a historical property, it would be handcuffed in the potential possibilities that could take place there.
In addition, making it a historical property would likely require the city to financially support it and at a time when the city is facing a massive budget deficit, it doesn’t seem financially prudent.
Thank you for your consideration and reading my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Michael King
Hollywood Park resident