Sierra Founders Ken And Roberta Williams Donate Company Archive To Museum

From Gamasutra.com (with thanks to Akril for bringing it to our attention!) –

The International Center for the History of Electronic Games in Rochester has expanded its collection to include a major contribution from Sierra On-Line co-founders Ken and Roberta Williams.

The collection includes two decades of work comprising roughly 140 games, as well as design documents, artwork, newspaper articles, memorabilia, photographs, company newsletters, business records, press releases, catalogs, and annual reports, according to museum officials.

In a statement, Ken Williams said the collection, which will now be available to researchers and historians, includes many items the pair never intended for public consumption, including King’s Quest design documents that have remained secret for decades.

“Giving them up was not an easy decision, but it seemed the right time, and I’m sure her fans will enjoy this ‘behind the scenes’ peek at her creativity,” Ken Williams said. “I would encourage anyone who is curious about the history of gaming, the history of Sierra, or the creativity behind our games, to visit the museum.”

The Williams’ long career as game designers began in 1979 with the founding of On-Line Systems and the creation of Apple II adventure title Mystery House, based on Roberta’s infatuation with Colossal Cave Adventure.

Their company renamed to Sierra On-Line in 1982 and eventually grew to encompass over 1,000 employees. Sierra is perhaps best remembered for popularizing graphical adventure games, creating franchises that include King’s Quest, Space Quest, Gabriel Knight, Quest For Glory and Leisure Suit Larry.

The Williams left the company soon after selling it to CUC Interactive in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of IPs and back catalog still being actively sold today.

What Do You Want? Good Graphics Or Good Taste?

Leisure Suit Larry

I’ve gone and dug up my original shirt that I purchased from Sierra many, many, many, many eons ago – and managed to not only keep, but keep in excellent condition! That’s right folks, it’s the original Larry Laffer shirt from Land of the Lounge Lizards. I remember wearing this as a kid (much to the dismay of my father)!

The shirt was only available from that Snazzy Pink Form.

You can see more by clicking:
Leisure Suit Larry: Front Shirt.

Leisure Suit Larry: Front Shirt (Close Up).

Leisure Suit Larry: Back Shirt.

Leisure Suit Larry: Back Shirt (Close Up).

It’s almost as cool as wearing a Leisure Suit. Almost.

The MOJO Big Band!

Per Al Lowe: On my way to MOJO rehearsal tonight but be sure to come here us perform at Matthews Winery TOMORROW NIGHT, Friday, September 23rd. I promise good jazz, great wine, and lots of fun. See you there! You can reserve you place on the Matthews Wine! Jazz on the Green – September 23, 2011 | Estate House – You won’t want to miss this wonderful summer evening at our winery! Enjoy this special event, featuring live music by MOJO, a local 17 piece modern jazz band. Depending on rain or sun, we’ll either be in the cellar or outside, so bring your lawn chairs and picnic blankets and set up out on the lawn with your own picnic dinner or enjoy the food services of G&G Dogs, a gourmet vendor who sells locally-produced gourmet hot dogs and sausages. Music starts at 7:00pm and goes until 9:00pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. You can apply $5 of your ticket fee toward a glass or bottle of wine. The price of this event is $10 +Tax