PHOTOS: Massive fire guts Lincoln Square Lanes, neighbors mourning loss of favorite hangout

The historic Lincoln Square Lanes, open since 1918, smolders at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Western this morning. All photos Eric Rojas, Broker, Kale Realty

Lincoln Square Lanes located at 4874 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago IL 60625 has been destroyed by a massive fire. Our community woke up to the sirens and the news that a neighborhood favorite bar and bowling alley since 1918 had completely burned down.  I gathered with dozens of neighbors and friends after our school drop off this morning to witness the seen and the traffic chaos it created.

Looking southwest from Lincoln and Western.

Traffic looking south down North Western Avenue this morning from West Winnemac Avenue.  The normally heavy morning traffic was exasperated by the shut down of Lincoln Avenue. Smoke still billows from the bowling alley.

Many trucks and firefighters on the seen.

News trucks were staged all around the intersection. One neighbor and friend spoke with the owner of Matty K's Hardware (destroyed on the ground floor) while another spoke with a Lincoln Square Lanes manager.

Firefighters tear off the northeast cornice. The entire roof of the building completely collapsed.

The destruction of the business is very sad in many ways.  It truly was a meeting place for so many neighbors and their families.  The remodeled bar and restaurant offered tons of space to gather for Packers/ Bears, March Madness, countless kids' bowling parties, live Karaoke and bands.  It was a perfect location near bus and CTA Brown Line for friends living further south. Obviously, it is a livelihood for the owner and employees.

It was also the familiar retail anchor and gateway to the developing North Lincoln Avenue between Western and Foster. Many new condo units have been built over the last several years along the strip. House and condo owners along with the many apartment renters could walk over as regulars. It may take years to sort out and redevelop the prominent corner in a highly desirable neighborhood.

After basketball drinks at Lincoln Lanes.