| Holiday Bowl was constructed in the Crenshaw District of Los Angeles in 1958. Initially it was patronized primarily by Japanese Americans, who relied heavily on bowling as a community-rebuilding tool after interment. As the ethnic mosaic of the Crenshaw neighborhood evolved, so did the clientele of Holiday Bowl. It soon became characterized by the peaceable coexistence of its diverse patrons, and served as a beloved community center to the Crenshaw neighborhood.; The building was sold in 2000 and slated for demolition despite its undeniable cultural significance. The community fought for the preservation of the bowling center; however, the influence of commercial development on local politics won in favor of preservation.; What made Holiday Bowl significant to its community? How could preservationists have better delineated these qualities in their argument for preservation of the bowling alley? And, how might preservationists more effectively identify and advocate for cultural significance in the future?... |
