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Why was the American Bowling Congress organized in 1895?

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bowling Tommy Jones competing in the Professional Bowlers Association Tournament of Champions final in Uncasville, Conn., April 1, 2007.

The American Bowling Congress (ABC) was organized in 1895 primarily to resolve ongoing disagreements regarding bowling rules, which were characterized by a divide between bowlers in New York and those in other regions.1

Prior to the formation of the ABC, the lack of uniform playing rules and equipment specifications had stifled the development of the sport. While an earlier attempt to standardize the game was made in 1875 with the creation of the National Bowling Association, that organization failed to gain national acceptance. By establishing the ABC in New York City on September 9, 1895, the organization successfully developed standardized rules and equipment specifications, providing a consistent structure that allowed the sport to grow steadily.21