Salvatore T. Abate collection

Collection — Box: 1-2

Identifier: 113.2339

Staff Only

The Salvatore T. Abate collection is a compilation of computer programming manuals, software instructions, computer catalogs, news articles, game reviews, notes, and other papers pertaining to the Commodore 64 computer, related software, and accessories. These archival materials supported Abate’s interest in one of the most successful home computers of the 1980s. Additional scope and content information can be found within the contents list of this finding aid.

This collection is arranged into four series. The materials are housed in two archival document boxes.

Dates

1982-1991

Creator

Abate, Salvatore T. (Sam) (Person)

Conditions Governing Use

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

Extent

1 Linear Feet (2 boxes)

Additional Description

Abstract

The Salvatore T. Abate collection includes photocopied and original computer manuals for software related to the Commodore 64 computer, computer catalogs, news articles, and handwritten notes. The materials are from between 1982 and 1991.

Biographical Note

Salvatore (“Sam”) T. Abate (1932-2009) was born in Rochester, New York. He attended East High School and joined the United States Air Force after graduation. After his service in the Air Force, Abate was employed by General Electric and given the opportunity to travel worldwide during his tenure. He decided to return to Rochester and commenced a 35-year-long career with Xerox Corporation, where he worked as a configuration planner.

Fascinated by the latest technologies and gadgets, Abate referred to them as his “toys.” He was drawn to the Commodore 64 computer in the mid-1980s by its ability to create spreadsheets and maintain finances. Abate soon acquired additional Commodore hardware and accessories, along with various programming manuals and software. Abate also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, sailing, dancing, and working with CB and HAM radios.

He meticulously maintained his “toys,” ensuring they were well-preserved for future use. Eric Abate, son of Salvatore (and donor of this collection), adds, “He would always say things like ‘leave it like you found it’ and ‘put everything back in its place.’ Finding the Commodore 64 in the great condition it [was] in reminded me of these lessons and shows that this ‘toy’ was one of his favorites.”

System of Arrangement

Series I: Computer manuals and instructions, 1982-1989

Series II: Catalogs, 1989-1990

Series III: Articles, 1984-1991

Series IV: Notes, 1989

Custodial History

The Salvatore T. Abate collection was donated to The Strong in April 2012 as a gift from Eric Abate, in memory of Salvatore T. Abate. The papers were accessioned by The Strong under Object ID 113.2339. The papers were received from Eric Abate in one box.

Related Materials

Original Commodore 64 hardware, software, and accessories belonging to Salvatore T. Abate have been donated to the International Center for the History of Electronic Games at The Strong.