The Valley Arena
Located on South Bridge Street in Holyoke, MA, USA, the Valley Arena opened in 1926, when Homer Raineault converted the "Gas House" into a boxing arena. He ran it until he died in 1944, when his nephew, Oreal Raineault, took over. Shows were on Monday nights. (In 1936, ticket prices were 40 cents.)
It was known as having a great atmosphere, with foot-stomping and hand-clapping. Big bands appeared there on weekends (including the Dorseys, Glenn Miller, and acts by boxers Max Baer and Maxie Rosenbloom). The venue also presented wrestling.
Many well-known fighters appeared here, including Rocky Marciano (who made his pro debut here), Willie Pep, Sandy Saddler, Beau Jack, Sixto Escobar, Lou Salica, Fritzie Zivic, Paddy DeMarco, Tony DeMarco, and Lou Ambers.
Joe Louis refereed a wrestling match here, and Jersey Joe Walcott fought an exhibition. Visiting boxers usually came by train or bus from New York and slept above Kelly's Lobster House.
The arena twice burned to the ground (on June 13, 1943, and 1952) and was restored (re-opening the second time in May 1953). It closed for good on May 12, 1960, when it was destroyed by a third fire. (Wikipedia)
1 comment:
I was born in Holyoke in 1931,, I used to go to the Valley Arena to the Sunday shows where entertainers like Rosemary & Betty, the Clooney Sisters entertained with the Tony Pastor band, and Louie Prima appeared,, Also attended the wrestling matches with family on Wednesday nights, and boxing on Monday nites with THE BOYS FROM SPRINGFIELD..
I left Holyoke at age 17,and went into sho-biz.. I am celebrating my 70th year in Burlesque, and was searching for the History of the Arena, and was shocked to learn that it is a PARK !!! So many wonderful memories.. Thanks for the memories...
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