In 1959, Elroy Meyer decided to build O'Fallon Bowl as a place for his community. As residents of O'Fallon, he saw the area growing and new subdivisions forming even back in the 1950's. The closest bowling alley was only 16 lanes and 12 miles away.

 

Elroy, along with brothers-in-law Cotton and Elmer Schneider,  built the $450,000 facility - a 16-lane, 21,000 square-foot bowling alley. It stands in it's original location today.

 

Elroy passed away in 1982 and his wife, Bernice, took over with son, Don, as manager. Larry Schwentker has been with them for over 30 years, as an assistant manager. Today, much of the day-to-day responsibilities are managed by her children and grandchildren.

 

Likewise, many customers of O'Fallon Bowl have been faithfully coming to see them every week for a very long time. Some have been coming through their doors for more than 40 years - all the while still attracting new bowlers and younger generations.

 

Though rich in history, O'Fallon Bowl keeps up with the technologies of the game without losing their small family business charm. In 2008, they put in their newest electronic scoring system. The facility was completely re-carpeted (floors and walls) in 2008 and has new smoke filtration systems in the bar and near the lanes.

 

All of the Meyer children and grandchildren have been involved with running the family business and continue to bowl in leagues there as a part of their family heritage. In 2009, O'Fallon Bowl celebrates 50 years in business as a community gathering place for good times and good friends - achieving exactly what Elroy and Bernice set out to do back in 1959.