Margot Comstock
Margot Comstock
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| Comstock, Margot Mary | |
| Born | October 11, 1940 Paterson, New Jersey |
| Died | October 7, 2022 |
| Occupation | Founder, Softalk |
Career
Margot Comstock was a pioneering figure in early personal computing media, best known as the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Softalk magazine, one of the most influential and beloved computing publications of the early 1980s. Her background in journalism and her enthusiasm for the burgeoning personal computer industry helped shape a unique and highly readable magazine that captured the spirit of the home computing revolution.
Early Life and Education
Margot Comstock earned a Bachelor’s degree from Heidelberg College in Tiffin, Ohio. Before her pivotal role in the computing industry, Comstock worked as a freelance textbook editor, magazine article writer, and journalist, honing her skills in writing and editing. Her early career also included a stint as a crossword puzzle constructor for Daily Variety in Los Angeles from 1987 to 1991, and she later worked on the editorial desk at Daily Variety from 1989 to 1992.
Founding of Softalk Magazine (1980–1984)
In 1979, Comstock’s career took a significant turn after winning over $15,000 on the television game show Password, where she competed alongside actress Loretta Swit. With these winnings, she and her husband, Al Tommervik, purchased an Apple II computer, sparking their enthusiasm for personal computing. Inspired by the potential of the Apple II, Margot was hired by Softape to run the software publisher's newsletter. With a vision of something more ambitious, they founded Softalk magazine in 1980 with help from Softape founders William V. R. Smith and William Depew, using Margot's remaining Password prize money, a second mortgage on the Tommervik's home, along with backing from investor John Haller.
Comstock served as co-founder, president, and editor of Softalk, published by Softalk Publishing Inc. in North Hollywood, California, from 1980 to 1984. Unlike other computer magazines that focused on technical programming or niche applications, Comstock envisioned Softalk as a general-interest publication with a journalistic approach, making it accessible to non-programmers interested in the cultural and social aspects of the Apple II ecosystem. The magazine covered hardware, software, gaming, business, and home applications, featuring contributions from industry figures like Doug Carlston and Bill Budge. Its unique tone and community-driven content, including the “Tradetalk” section and retail-based bestseller lists, made it a central hub for the Apple II community, growing its readership from 30,000 to 250,000 at its peak.
Consulting and Industry Contributions (1981–1988)
Comstock served as a consultant for software companies, including Origin Systems (1981–1988) and Sir-Tech Software (1986–1987), leveraging her industry connections to facilitate networking and business development. She also contributed as a consultant and reviewer for San Luis Revue in San Luis Obispo, California, from 1986 to 1988, and wrote a column for II Computing in San Francisco from 1985 to 1986, further sharing her expertise in the Apple II ecosystem.
Post-Softalk Career (1984–1997)
After Softalk folded, Comstock continued to influence the computing and publishing industries. In 1987, she was recognized as a Microcomputer Pioneer by the Smithsonian Institution for her contributions to the microcomputer revolution, alongside Al Tommervik. That year, she was interviewed for a Smithsonian video history project, discussing her role in the Apple II community.
From 1992 to 1993, Comstock managed the creativity center at Broderbund Software in Novato, California, a company known for titles like Prince of Persia and Carmen Sandiego. Her role involved fostering creative development, drawing on her experience as a connector in the software industry. In 1994, she founded MC ART Comm. in Fairfax, California, where she worked as an editor, writer, graphic designer, and consultant. She also co-founded the Digital Sports Network in Fairfax from 1994 to 1996, exploring new ventures in digital media.
Comstock contributed to the gaming industry as an associate designer for Sierra Software’s computer adventure game Rama, based on Arthur C. Clarke’s science fiction series. Additionally, from 1997, she taught Creative Publication Design and Editing at the College of Marin in Kentfield, California, sharing her expertise in publishing with aspiring designers and editors.
Later Years and Legacy
Comstock’s influence extended beyond her active career. In 2014, she delivered a keynote presentation at KansasFest, an Apple II convention, reflecting on Softalk’s impact. Her work was celebrated for its role in fostering the Apple II community, earning her the nickname “The Glue” from Doom co-creator John Romero for her ability to connect industry players.
Comstock passed away on October 7, 2022, leaving a legacy as a publishing pioneer who shaped the early personal computing industry. Her work with Softalk not only chronicled the Apple II era but also built a community that bridged developers, users, and enthusiasts, contributing to Apple’s cultural prominence.
