That’s when Andrew Finson, president of Lawson Boat and Motor, said he wants the facility on Fluvanna Avenue to open for business. This is concurrent with the goal set by contractors in 1959 who, in July of that year, said they “promised to have the building completed and ready for use by late September or early October.”

In 1959, Ten Pin Lanes Inc. expanded their corporate operations and began building on Route 17 at the former Gordon farm. They owned other bowling alleys in the area, but this one was going to be different. With a $150,000 price tag, it began with 24 lanes but the need for additional lanes became apparent within the first year of operation. In 1960 16 lanes were added, and it was considered the largest layout of its kind in Western New York, with a total 40 lanes. It was advertised as a high-end eating and drinking establishment, as well as a place for family fun. The Fountain Bowl slogan read as follows: ‘Where dining and recreation meet in an atmosphere of cordial hospitality.’

In 1963 the Post-Journal wrote, “The pink brick, redwood, and glass structure combines bowling fun and dining pleasure in a setting designed to please the most discriminating tastes.” The lounge and dining room combined sat 150 people and were offered as a venue for banquets and wedding receptions. “Cluster lights along (the) length of the spacious, carpeted observation area contribute a ‘night club’ effect to the section where friends of bowlers may relax with food or drink while watching bowling progress. Luncheons and dinners are served daily both in the snack bar and adjacent luxurious dining room-cocktail lounge with it’s flowing fountain for which the building was named.”

Today, Finson is hard at work with a hands-on approach, and wears many hats. He continued the Fountain Bowl tradition of “cordial hospitality” when he donned his tour guide cap for an inquisitive member of The Post-Journal staff. He states that he can barely keep up with the growing demand for boat storage and rentals and he doesn’t see it slowing down any time soon. With the building he also acquired three acres of land which will be utilized for expansion when the time comes.

The original beams over what were the bowling lanes.

Finson stated he wanted to use an existing building that had a good solid foundation, and added, “I couldn’t afford to build a structure like this one.” He saved money in purchasing the old bowling alley, and preserved a bit of local history in the process.