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The Jaybowl turns 50!
This year, the Jaybowl will celebrate 50 years of operation
as one of KU's favorite campus destinations. Since 1953, students
have shared memories of date dashes, leagues and bowling classes
in the basement of the Kansas Union. Opened originally as
a six-lane center on the south end of the Union, the Jaybowl
was relocated to the north end of the building and expanded
to 12 lanes in 1960. Thanks to a makeover a la the Phase III
Renovation, the Jaybowl is looking better than ever. Despite
growing pains, this KU tradition still thrives.
Jaybowl highlights include three perfect games bowled in
league play, and a 1963 KU Bowling team national championship.
In 1977, beer sales became a reality on campus, and video
games, including such favorites as Pac Man and Space Invaders,
followed in the early 80's. Technobowling became the rage
in the '90s, transforming the Jaybowl into a late-night disco
for bowlers.
But while the Jaybowl evolved, it stayed true to its roots.
In 2000, when the Memorial Corporation considered a proposal
to modify the space, students petitioned to save the Jaybowl.
Today, it sports new lanes, lighting and an improved decor
as it shares level 1 with a new late-night lounge area, The
Hawks Nest.
Next time you're on campus, stop by and visit an old friend;
in the meantime, click here for
a complete chronology of the Jaybowl.
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