Bebop

The Block Marble Company's "Bebop" is a rare and intriguing example of early electro-mechanical (EM) pinball design. Produced in 1948 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this machine is a conversion kit for Genco's 1948 'Screwball,' with the original name concealed beneath the right flipper and new 'Bebop' score cards replacing the original apron instructions. Its music-themed presentation offers a glimpse into the evolution of pinball's mechanical and artistic development during its formative years.

One of the key features that sets "Bebop" apart is its use of two flippers, which were still a relatively new innovation at this time. The machine also boasts three kick-out holes, providing an additional level of challenge and strategy for players. As a conversion kit, it also included plastic light shields on the playfield as advertised.

Notably, very little is known about the design or art on this machine beyond what survives on the converted Screwball playfield, which might be expected given its age and relative obscurity. Nonetheless, "Bebop" remains an interesting piece in the history of early electro-mechanical, music-themed pinball design.