The Pinball Preservationist: How One Man is Rescuing Vintage Machines and Keeping the Joy of Pinball Alive

Pinball machines, those iconic symbols of arcade gaming history, have had their ups and downs over the decades. From facing adversarial public opinion and legislation to a dwindling fan base, the silver ball industry has bounced back time and time again. Today, a resurgence in vintage and modern machines—featuring blockbuster franchises like X-Men and Godzilla—has reignited interest. However, among the modern high-tech pinball tables and arcades popping up globally, one man's passion lies in preserving the past: Steve Young.

Young is not just an avid collector; he is a dedicated restorer of classic pinball machines, particularly those that date back to the 1940s and 1950s. For him, the thrill isn't necessarily about achieving high scores but about the intricate balance between nostalgia and mechanics. It's about ensuring that these vintage machines not only look pristine but also function flawlessly, capturing the magic of their original era.

From Passion to Profession

Over the last 50 years, Young has become a beacon of hope for the pinball community through his business, The Pinball Resource. Unlike the flashy storefronts of modern arcade suppliers, The Pinball Resource is discreetly located in a nondescript building a few miles outside of Poughkeepsie, New York. Young has intentionally kept signage minimal; he prefers it that way to maintain a low profile. For the dedicated pinball enthusiast, however, Young is a familiar name—an invaluable resource for parts, manuals, and knowledge.

Inside, the atmosphere is not that of a bustling arcade but rather a workshop filled with filing cabinets, machinery, and the occasional vintage machine. Young has amassed one of the world’s largest collections of rare parts and schematics, ensuring that countless pinball machines can continue to be restored and enjoyed by future generations.

The Journey Through Pinball History

Pinball’s origins date back to 18th-century Europe, evolving from a simple game of bagatelle to the arcade sensation it became by the mid-20th century. Chicago became the hub for its manufacture, where companies thrived until the onset of arcade video games in the 1980s challenged their existence. Pinball machines faced numerous obstacles, including laws labeling them as gambling devices; however, a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 1976 shifted perception, classifying pinball as a game of skill rather than chance.

The post-1976 era saw the renaissance of pinball, culminating in the establishment of The Pinball Resource just as the industry began to modernize. Young’s journey began during his university years in the '70s, where he discovered his knack for repairing machines while maintaining a collection of arcade games on campus.

Reviving the Golden Age

Young’s operation is deeply rooted in a rich history, particularly with the Gottlieb brand, known for significant contributions to pinball design, including the introduction of the flipper in 1947. After Gottlieb ceased operations in the mid-90s, Young seized the opportunity to purchase their backstock and equipment, cementing The Pinball Resource as the go-to supplier for everything Gottlieb.

The detailed attention Young pays extends to more than just machines; it encompasses the production of parts that those machines require. From rubber bumpers to intricate wiring, Young has managed to recreate essential components using methods acquired through years of meticulous work.

A Unique Business Model

What's more intriguing about The Pinball Resource is Young's unconventional approach to customer service. He refuses to utilize credit cards or PayPal, preferring traditional payment methods like checks and cash while often shipping orders before payment is even received—a trustful strategy that has fostered an avid customer base.

With a whimsical nod, Young quips that for new pinball owners: "Don't turn your back on them. They multiply when you're not looking." This lighthearted advice hints at the true passion and dedication required in the world of pinball—an exciting pursuit where both persistence and enthusiasm pay off.

In a world that is constantly modernizing, Steve Young has made it his life’s mission to ensure that the nostalgic thrill of vintage pinball machines not only survives but also thrives, continuing to delight players and collectors alike. With plans to narrow his focus on rare wood rail machines, the legacy of this remarkable hobbyist is poised to influence many generations to come. The conclusion is clear: in the care of dedicated enthusiasts like Young, the world of pinball will continue to gleam and resonate with laughter and joy.