I have to say that our new building has taken
longer than I expected or wanted.
Due to the location
of our new building, everything—including the excavation—had
to be done by hand. Yes, by hand—a shovel and a wheelbarrow.
We
started off thinking that the foundation was just going to be a crawl
space but once we started digging, we didn’t see any reason why
it couldn’t be a basement for more storage. You can never
have enough storage space when collecting pinball games for a museum.
It will also house the heating and air-conditioning systems, as well
as all the piping for the other buildings that need the heat and air
for winter and summer use.
Once
we stopped digging, we had a 6-foot high basement with a concrete floor
and waterproofed walls.
Once
the winter snows and spring rains finally stopped, we were able to
finish the basement slab and first floor decking. The walls went
up rather quickly, but upon late delivery of the roof trusses
the spring season had begun. It took us five more weeks to get the
building under roof and shingles.
We
are currently waiting for the windows and doors so that it will officially
be ready for framing inspection by the county officials.
If
we didn’t mention already, this addition will of course house
pinball games. But more importantly, it will include bathroom
and kitchen facilities as well as tables for fundraising parties. Visitors
are always welcome by appointment. Please or call us at 301.384.3802
to schedule a visit!
Remember,
these are only temporary quarters for the National Pinball Museum. Your
contributions and donations will help us further the progress for our
final home.
“If a movie is described as a romantic comedy you can
usually find me next door playing pinball.”
—George Carlin
