For a few years I would have occasion to ride my bike near a large building that indicated it was the "Sports Basement". As I didn't need any sporting equipment I never bothered to swing over one block to check it out. However, one of my sons mentioned that it is a great place to get athletic shoes at somewhat of a discount, as well as any other sporting equipment, or sports clothing you might desire.
A few years ago I wandered over that way and discovered that it is quite the sports store, but also that it is an intriguing historical building. The Olympic size rink was opened in the fall of 1940. Several world championships were held there. A bit of research told me that Sonja Henie skated there at the grand opening.
The ice rink was a popular spot for 67 years.
In 2007 Iceland closed due to financial, mechanical and safety issues.
Today, this is what the rink looks like:
The rink is chock full of sporting items for sale, from shoes to clothing,
bicycles and skis.
But, a few historical remnants from the rink remain.
My favorite being this electronic sign that would indicate announcements
for the skaters, or the score of a hockey game.
Quite a history. Sad it had to close, but things change.
ReplyDeleteI guess there is small niche for skating rinks. There is one elsewhere in the Oakland area that is still open.
DeleteHow interesting but I wish it was still a skating rink. In suburban Chicago in the 1960s (and probably earlier), the park tennis courts were flooded to make an outdoor ice rink for the neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteOur high for the coming 2 days is 60*F!!! Let the melting begin!
Hugs!
I just saw a clip about curling, which is an ancient sport played on Scottish lakes. Then, even in the 1800's they began flooding contained areas to for rinks, and now almost all curling is held in indoor arenas. I remember my dad flooding an area in our yard for a skating rink.
DeleteI love buildings with interesting histories, and I love that they kept the scoreboard as a nod to its history. You are really living the life, and I'm enjoying tagging along.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you are traveling with me. It is so much more fun when friends are along ;-)
DeleteSometimes I can almost 'feel' the history/ghosts? in old buildings.
Indoor roller skating rinks are coming back in fashion again, maybe that would be a route to go if this store goes out of business?
ReplyDelete