Welcome to the Jim Cyrus Gameroom
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My first recollection of playing a pinball machine was when I was about five years old. A friend had one in his basement and I was allowed to play it. Even at that early age I remember thinking it would be nice to have one of my own that I could play anytime I wanted.
My next recollection of pinball was while in 3rd through 5th grades of school. My School was across the street from the St. Albans bus station which had TWO machines. However, playing time was limited due to limited funds.
My family moved several times while I was in grades 6-8 and I don't remember playing pinball during this time. Entering 9th grade, I discovered a nearby restaurant which had a jukebox and at least one pinball. I felt I had "arrived". I had an allowance and two other sources for of income; lawn mowing and caddying. With these funds, I spent many hours the next few years listening to Jukes and playing pinball. Back then, I still remember thinking it would be nice to have your own pinball.
Jump to 1962 and its marriage, kids, and "real" jobs and pinball is all but forgotten. Until July 1996 when I happened upon a yard sale and saw a pinball machine in the driveway. It turns out it was owned by an old friend I hadn't seen in years. The Gottlieb Scuba, was in nice working shape. He helped me bring it home and set it up in the spare bedroom to make a toy room for the grand kids. I soon realized I had been wrong about it being "nice" to have your own pinball, it is FANTASTIC.
I still have the Scuba and have added several other games. The kids and grandkids love them, the wife hasn't left me, so I feel like I have "arrived" again.
Jim poses for a photo used in a Charleston Gazette story
Come back anytime!