Many great things have come out of  Worcester Massachusetts but  surely one of the greatest is Candlepin Bowling.  Bowling in various forms can be traced back to the stone ages but it was in 1880 that the game of Candlepins as we know it today was developed.

In 1879 Justin White purchased a billiard and bowling establishment on Pearl Street in Worcester.  Shortly after his purchase he discovered some unconventional bowling pins included in the purchase, one inch wood cylinders ten inches high resembling broomsticks, three inch wide cylinders resembling candles and some balls ranging in size from three to five inches.  Because these pins made the game difficult and the scores low Justin knew he must make some changes or his future in the bowling business would be short lived.

It was in 1880 Justin would increase the size of his new pins to twelve inches high with the center being two inches tapering down to one inch on each end.  Almost immediately the new game took off, with inquires coming into Pearl Street about the new game.  Justin began manufacturing the new pins for other proprietors.  It wasn't  long before many establishments only had Candlepins and competition between members began to increase. 

The first published high score in 1880 was a 112 with average scores ranging in the 80's.  Being the father of Candlepins wasn't enough in 1888 Justin was given the title as the first Champion Candlepin Bowler because of his record 131 game.  This record didn't last long, six months later Justin bowled a 133 game.