Computer Museum of America Acquires Collection from Microsoft Co-Founder
1 days ago
The Computer Museum of America (CMoA), already renowned for its vast collection of digital artifacts, has taken a monumental step in preserving the history of computing with its latest acquisition.
The museum has acquired the entire collection of historical computing systems, exhibit materials, and educational resources from the Living Computers Museum (LCM), founded by the late Paul G. Allen, Microsoft co-founder and visionary philanthropist. The acquisition solidifies CMoA’s position as one of the most comprehensive technology museums in the world.
Founded in 2019 in Roswell, Georgia, the Computer Museum of America has quickly grown into a must-visit destination for tech enthusiasts, historians, and students alike. With this acquisition, the museum will continue to fulfill its mission to preserve the history of computing, while offering visitors unique insights into the technology that has shaped modern life.
“We couldn’t be more proud to carry on the legacy of the former Living Computers Museum, and Paul Allen’s passion for the history of computing, its evolution, and its global impact,,” said Lonnie Mimms, founder of CMoA. “Our institution has worked for years to preserve and protect such technology as a critical record of the innovation process, and the chance to steward thousands of items from LCM will further enhance our mission to share and celebrate these important stories.”
The Living Computers Museum, which operated from 2012 until its closure in 2020, was a testament to Allen’s passion for computing history. The museum offered hands-on experiences with working computer systems from various eras, allowing visitors to explore how these technologies evolved. With CMoA now the caretaker of these exhibits and artifacts, the legacy of LCM will live on, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and be inspired by the history of computing.
A Collection Like No Other
The artifacts acquired from LCM include a wide range of computing systems that illustrate the rapid advancements in technology across decades. These items will now complement CMoA’s existing exhibits, which already feature an impressive array of computing milestones, from NASA’s Apollo Space Program to supercomputers and microchip innovations. By incorporating LCM’s collection, CMoA aims to provide even more in-depth educational opportunities and public exhibitions focused on the history and future of technology.
In addition to the physical artifacts, CMoA has also acquired exhibit and educational content from LCM that will enhance the museum’s programming and outreach. The integration of these materials will further expand CMoA’s ability to inspire the next generation of computer innovators, programmers, and enthusiasts.
Looking to the Future
This acquisition comes as CMoA gears up for its most ambitious project yet: Fifty Years of Innovation at Apple, set to open in spring 2026. This exhibit will offer an unparalleled look at Apple’s contributions to the tech industry, featuring rare artifacts and stories behind the products that have transformed the way we live and work. As the museum continues to expand, the addition of LCM’s collection ensures that CMoA will remain at the forefront of technology education and preservation.
In addition to CMoA’s acquisition, earlier this year, portions of LCM’s software preservation efforts were transferred to SDF.org, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving computer history. Some of Allen’s personal collectibles and art have also been featured in Gen One: Innovations from the Paul G. Allen Collection, a highly anticipated auction series presented by Christie’s, with all proceeds going to philanthropy.
With this new chapter, the Computer Museum of America continues to build on its mission to preserve the stories and artifacts of the digital age. As it grows, the museum is more dedicated than ever to showcasing the rich history of computing while inspiring future innovation.
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