Little League
About This Machine
The 1966 Midway Manufacturing Little League is an electro-mechanical baseball-themed 'bat game,' notable for its use of magnetically-actuated targets. Three 'baseball' targets and two 'umpire' targets are spinning targets, while four 'player' targets are hanging targets; all nine carry a permanent magnet that trips a nearby reed switch when the target moves.
A standout feature is the Curve Ball, which uses an electromagnet controlled by a rheostat to alter the ball's path -- an inventive use of electromechanical technology for its time. The backbox offered operators the option to set 3, 4, or 5 replays for 25 cents, and the cabinet measured 55 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 66 inches high.
The manufacturer's original flyer touted 'new magic-spinning targets on playfield and rear panel.' Little else is documented about Little League's designer, but its magnetic target system marks it as an inventive example of mid-1960s EM baseball pinball.
Images (31)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Sports - Baseball
- Notable Features:
- Spinning targets (5), Hanging targets (4), Reed switches (9), Permanent magnets (7), Electromagnet (1). The three 'baseball' targets and the two 'umpire' targets are spinning targets. The four 'player' targets are hanging targets. All nine targets each have a permanent magnet attached to them, using magnetism to open and close a nearby glass-encased reed switch when the target moves. An electromagnet is used for the Curve Ball feature and its effect on the ball is controlled by a rheostat. Backbox has a jack for 3, 4, or 5 replays for 25 cents (operator option). Power switch under front of cabinet. Cabinet advertised as 55 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 66 inches high. Replay wheel maximum: 19 Sound: 1 bell Ball composition: steel, 13/16 inch diameter, quantity 5.
Credits
Documentation
- DownloadSchematic Diagram (paginated)3 MB