The Origin of some bowling terms

[Robotech_Master]

Q. What is the origin of the term "Dutch 200?"

A. The Dutch 200 refers to a game in which strikes and spares are alternated. The term is believed to be a take-off of "Dutch treat" where two people share the cost of a date. Strikes and spares share the game in alternate frames in a "Dutch treat 200" manner which with usage was reduced to "Dutch 200."

Q. What is the origin of the term "Brooklyn strike?"

A. This refers to shots that "crosses over" the 1-3 pocket for right-handers and 1-2 for left-handers and produces a strike. It originated in New York where people would "cross over" to Brooklyn from Manhattan. A side term "Jersey side" references left-handers and refers to people crossing over from Manhattan to New Jersey.

Q. What is the origin of the term "Turkey?"

A. The term dates back to before the turn of the 20th century. In those years, scoring was much more difficult and to get three strikes in a row was quite an achievement. During Thanksgiving or Christmas week, the proprietor would present a live turkey to the first person on each team who scored three consecutive strikes. The term has carried over ever since.