### Steve Young: The Visionary Behind the Pinball Renaissance
Pinball, a hobby that has experienced waves of popularity and near-disappearance, is presently witnessing a revival, propelled by both contemporary high-tech machines and a passionate group of aficionados who value classic tables. Among these enthusiasts is Steve Young, a man whose fervor for pinball has not only enriched his private collection but also established a business dedicated to preserving historic pinball machines and keeping them in play. Through his enterprise, **The Pinball Resource**, Young has emerged as a pivotal figure in the pinball restoration community, providing elusive parts, schematics, and knowledge to collectors and operators around the globe.
—
### The Evolution of Pinball and Its Obstacles
The origins of pinball can be traced back to 18th-century France, where the game called bagatelle provided entertainment for the upper class. This game gradually transformed into the pinball we recognize today, with the advent of spring-loaded plungers and flippers during the mid-20th century. By the 1930s, Chicago had become the hub of pinball manufacturing, creating machines that made their way into bars and arcades across the United States.
Nevertheless, pinball’s journey has been marked by conflict. In the 1940s, it faced bans in cities such as New York, where it was labeled a gambling device associated with organized crime. It wasn’t until 1976, when pinball proponent Roger Sharpe demonstrated the skill involved in the game in a courtroom, that pinball was officially acknowledged as a skill-based game rather than a game of chance. This landmark decision lifted many restrictions and marked the start of a renewed wave of popularity.
Despite its peaks, pinball has encountered several downturns, especially with the emergence of video games in the 1980s. Numerous manufacturers went bankrupt, leaving behind a legacy of machines that were never designed to last more than a handful of years. This is where the tale of Steve Young commences.
—
### The Origin of The Pinball Resource
Steve Young’s love for pinball ignited in the 1970s during his studies in metallurgical engineering at Lehigh University. Along with friends, he not only played pinball but also managed machines on campus, overseeing a collection of 26 games. This practical experience provided him insights into the mechanics of pinball and the necessity of having spare parts on hand.
By the time Young completed his degree, he had built a personal collection of 30 to 40 machines and began to sell parts to fellow enthusiasts. His growing reputation led to him being dubbed “The Pinball Resource,” a title created by the editor of the *Pinball Trader Newsletter*. Over the years, Young’s business flourished, acquiring parts inventories from defunct manufacturers such as Gottlieb, the innovator of the flipper in 1947.
Today, The Pinball Resource serves as a veritable archive of pinball history, hosting one of the largest assemblages of schematics, manuals, and rare components in the world. Housed in a humble facility near Poughkeepsie, New York, the business operates more like a personalized service than a typical online shop. Customers place orders through email or phone, often engaging directly with Young, who is renowned for his vast knowledge and hands-on methodology.
—
### In the Workshop: A Dedication to Conservation
The Pinball Resource is not merely a storage space for vintage parts; it functions as a center for manufacturing and creativity. Young has procured specialized machinery to produce components that are no longer attainable, ranging from rubber rings and pop bumper caps to custom-wound coils. His team even enhances original designs, strengthening vulnerable points to prolong the durability of these classic machines.
One of the most intriguing elements of Young’s operation is his commitment to authenticity. For instance, he employs decades-old hot stamping devices to imprint logos onto pop bumper caps, ensuring they resemble the originals manufactured years ago. This meticulous attention to detail has garnered him the trust of collectors and operators around the globe.
—
### A Distinct Business Approach
In an age where online shopping and digital transactions are prevalent, The Pinball Resource distinguishes itself with its traditional method. The company refrains from accepting credit cards, PayPal, or other electronic payment systems. Instead, customers make payments via check, money order, or wire transfer—often even after their orders have been dispatched. This trust-centric approach has cultivated a devoted customer base, many of whom value the personal connection accompanying each exchange.
Young’s dedication to customer service extends beyond simply processing orders. He frequently offers guidance to customers on how to troubleshoot their machines, occasionally advising them against purchasing unnecessary parts. This sincerity and expertise have made him a cherished figure in the pinball community.
—
### The Impact of Steve Young
Steve Young’s influence on the pinball scene transcends his commercial endeavors. By conserving and recreating parts for vintage machines, he has guaranteed that these artifacts of Americana will continue to enchant players for years to come. His personal collection, now concentrating on wood rail machines from the 1950s, embodies his profound appreciation for this beloved pastime.
