Game Show History collection

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: 2022.gameshow

Staff Only

The Game Show History collection in the archives is continually acquiring new materials. Documentation in this collection includes game scripts, specification documents, press kits, photographs, audiovisual materials, and other related information. Of particular interest to researchers are the video oral history interviews conducted by Bob Boden and Howard Blumenthal for The Strong. As materials are acquired by the museum, they will be added to this collection.

As of April 2023, the Game Show History collection is arranged into four series, two of which are further divided into subseries. The physical materials are stored in two archival document boxes and one AV box.

Dates

1958 - 2023

Creator

Blumenthal, Howard (Person)

Language

The materials in this collection are in English.

Conditions Governing Access

At this time, U-matic tapes in Series III are accessible to on-site researchers only. Advanced notice is required.

Conditions Governing Use

This collection is open for research use by staff of The Strong and by users of its library and archives. Though intellectual property rights (including, but not limited to any copyright, trademark, and associated rights therein) have not been transferred, The Strong has permission to make copies in all media for museum, educational, and research purposes.

Extent

1.5 Linear Feet (2 archival document boxes, 1 AV box)

370 Gigabytes (Digital files.)

Additional Description

Abstract

The Game Show History collection contains documentation on the development, production, marketing, and distribution of game shows. As archival materials are acquired by the museum, they will be added to this collection.

Historical Note

Established in 2021, the National Archives of Game Show History at The Strong preserves the history of game shows—from the earliest panel shows and quiz scandals, to the games and puzzles of the 1970s, to the big money network series and the classic games now in primetime. The National Archives of Game Show History focuses on acquiring the records and materials of the many professional producers, performers, directors, designers, writers, executives, and staff members who have been involved in all facets of game show development, production, marketing, and distribution. (Please see also “A Brief History of Game Shows.”)

System of Arrangement

Series I: Production, 1998-2018

Series II: Publicity, 1977-c.2000s and n.d.

Subseries A: Press kits

Subseries B: Photographs

Series III: Audiovisual materials, 1958-2022

Subseries A: Video oral histories

Subseries B: Footage

Series IV: Undeveloped game proposals, 1989-2007 and n.d.

Custodial History

The Game Show History collection at The Strong is a compilation of gifts from various donors. These include Object ID 122.1315, gift of Adam Nedeff (May 2022); Object ID 122.2940, donated by Jacob Sachleben (June 2022); and Object ID 123.198, donated by Christian Carrion (May 2023). Further materials will be added to this collection as they are received by the museum.

Related Materials

The Strong preserves many other artifacts related to the National Archives of Game Show History. To view the museum’s board games, video games, electronic games, memorabilia, and artifacts associated with game shows, please access the Online Collections portal, click on the “Popular Collections” tab, and select the web category “Game Shows.”