I had Claude resurrect BitchX, the old IRC client, and it was running the same afternoon

A developer successfully resurrected the old IRC client, BitchX, with the help of Claude. The BitchX source code, untouched for decades, presented challenges due to ancient autoconf, K&R-era C, and missing headers. However, by working through the errors with Claude, the developer managed to compile and run the client, complete with its ANSI logo, on the same afternoon. This achievement prompts a discussion about reviving other defunct projects using similar methods.

This report highlights Claude's ability to debug and adapt decades-old code, unlike typical AI applications focused on generating new code.