Vintage Tipp

Howard "Mutt" Hoover owned 125 E. Main St. He is standing on the step. He added the first bowling alley in town. I have fond memories of going there with my mom while she bowled—she is in last week's picture. 

If I remember correctly, and you are welcome to correct me if I am not, there were pinball machines on either side of the entrance. To the left was a counter where my dad bought his hunting licenses. To the right, Becky Wolf had a lunch counter with high stools. She made the best milkshakes! The bowling lanes were on the left in the back, and the pool hall was on the right. Kids were never to venture into the pool hall. Many high school boys, including Gordon Pittenger, were pin boys - a very dangerous job!

Through the years, there have been a number of other businesses, such as Brubaker's Market, M & J's Gift Shop, and now The Fox and Feather Trading Co. In the early 60’s, Tipp Bowling Lanes was built near where Polley's Carpet is now on the west side of Tipp. It was modern and fun - but nothing could compare with the atmosphere of Mutt's place! 

The Tippecanoe Historical Museum will now be open Saturdays, 10-2. Stop in and browse through our files and enjoy our displays. For further information, or to make an appointment, call 937-698-6798 or 734-875-6520.