North Street Arena
The North Street Arena was at 41 North Street until being torn down in the late 1951 to make way for the North Street overpass. It was one of the biggest attractions for wrestling matches at the height of wrestling popularity between the world wars. On some nights the wrestling matches at the Salem facility were refereed by Jack Dempsey and Jack Sharkey. The arena was originally built as a riding stable and converted by new owner James Chalifour into a roller skating rink in 1950. It later became the home to the Salem's team in the American Roller Polo League. They played polo in roller skates instead of horses. They hosted many events, including billiards, tennis matches, roller skating and indoor bicycle races. Seating capacity was 1,900 though many events drew more. Rudolph Valentino even visited.
See Also
- Vertical File - Famous visitors to Salem
- "A famous city attracts famous people" Salem Evening News, June 7, 2000, p. A2
- The North Street Arena was a "Guy thing" Salem Evening News, July 5, 2001, p. A3
