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Dolly Parton Pinball Machine in the Appalachian Collections

A virtual exhibit about the 1979 Dolly Parton pinball machine and its backstory—one Appalachian woman's wrestling with fame, her image, and her mountain identity.

Contributors

This virtual exhibit is based on the ongoing Dolly Parton Pinball Machine project curated by Christopher Miller.  Miller did the research, developed the content, and is designated pinball repairperson. Student Jonita Horn assisted with research. Student Curatorial Assistant Caroline Hughes added additional information and developed this online version during fall 2013. Student Curatorial Associate Kathryn Dunn did additional editing in 2015. Small revisions were made in spring 2017 and spring 2020.

Dolly Parton Pinball, More than Just a Game

The development of Bally's Dolly Parton themed pinball machine during 1978-79 presents an interesting case study in Appalachian and rural identity.

From the Library Catalogue