URGENT UPDATE: The Red Hook Pinball Museum is set to host an exciting pinball tournament on Saturday at 2 PM, drawing enthusiasts and families alike to this unique venue in Brooklyn, New York. Co-founders Wesley Muchalski and Kevin Murray are racing against the clock to ensure all machines are in top condition after a recent glitch left one of their vintage games out of commission.
Muchalski, balancing on crates at the nearby Seaborne cocktail bar, faced a mid-play emergency with a 1964 Gottlieb “Majorettes” machine. “The ball count stepper unit snapped off completely,” he recounted. With a bustling crowd around him, he managed a quick fix but warned, “It still has a slight hiccup.” This dedication reflects their commitment to preserving pinball history, with machines dating back to the 1880s.
The museum, which opened its doors in February 2023, boasts one of the only playable collections of electromechanical pinball machines in New York City. Muchalski and Murray, both musicians in their 20s, have invested thousands of hours restoring these analog marvels. Unlike the flashy digital games most people know, the museum’s machines rely on gravity, chimes, and bells, creating a tactile experience that today’s video games lack.
As excitement builds for Saturday’s tournament, the museum has become a cherished spot for locals and visitors. Families flock to the games, and kids can often be seen using milk crates to reach the flippers. “Kids really love them,” Muchalski noted, “because there’s not quite as much of a skill element.” This makes it less stressful for young players who may not excel at newer digital games.
The Red Hook Pinball Museum is more than just a collection of games; it’s a cultural hub. The museum hosts an open house every second Sunday of the month and draws competitive players from across the region. Each machine features a handmade placard detailing its history and quirks, inviting visitors to engage with the stories behind the games.
“It’s a very physical experience when you’re playing,” Murray explained. Each machine is painstakingly restored, with parts often sourced from Facebook Marketplace and handmade repairs. Their passion project is a testament to the duo’s love for the game and its history.
The museum’s collection includes rare finds, such as the 1931 “Whiffle”, considered the first true pinball machine, and an 1880s wooden Bagatelle board. “These games tell the story of pinball’s evolution and survival,” Muchalski stated, underscoring their mission to keep the history alive.
Visitors can drop in by appointment or during public events, with all games available for free play. Donations are encouraged to support the museum’s future. In an exciting development, Muchalski and Murray are in advanced talks for a second location in Carroll Gardens and are considering nonprofit status to secure the collection’s longevity.
As the countdown to Saturday’s event continues, the buzz in the community is palpable. The Red Hook Pinball Museum stands as a vibrant testament to nostalgia and community spirit, inviting everyone to join in the fun and excitement of pinball, past and present. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique experience!
