Welcome to Ellsworth's Candlepin Alley!
Looking to visit? This bowling alley isn't like any other bowling alley!
The pin-setting machine are the oldest known in the world!
The candlepin lanes date back to 1949, the machines are prototypes!
Help Spread The Word Of Candlepin Bowling To Make It Popular Again!
Hello! My name is Autumn, and I became the owner of this candlepin bowling alley in 2020 when I was just 18 years old. I came in with a mechanical background, but nothing could have prepared me for the incredible challenge—and privilege—of taking care of the oldest candlepin pinsetters still running today. When I first took over, only two lanes were working. Through years of learning, trial and error, and a lot of determination, I’ve slowly brought all 12 lanes back to life—including one lane that hadn’t run in over 36 years.
These machines are not just bowling equipment—they’re pieces of history. Candlepin bowling itself is a rare sport, found almost exclusively in New England and parts of Canada, and many alleys have closed over the years. The machines here are so unique and historic that the alley has been recognized on endangered lists and by historic preservation groups in Maine. Instead of replacing them, my mission became preserving them. I’ve taught myself how to repair and rebuild the machines, often fabricating parts by hand just to keep them running. I’m still the only one who works on the machinery, but I now have a small team helping me keep the rest of the place running.
Today the plaza has grown beyond just bowling. Alongside our 12 candlepin lanes, you’ll find arcade games, golf simulators, pool tables, darts, ping-pong, cornhole, a full kitchen, and a classic malt bar. My dream is to continue growing this space into a full entertainment center while still protecting the history that makes it special.
From time to time, I also offer behind-the-scenes tours of the machines so people can see the magic (and chaos!) that keeps them running—though tours can only happen when bowling is closed due to the complexity and safety of the equipment.
Keeping a place like this alive takes constant work, creativity, and support from the community. Every visit, every shared story, and every bit of encouragement helps ensure that candlepin bowling—and these incredible machines—continue running for generations to come.
Gofundme link below for those looking to support from away!