79 Bonneville... needs HELP

hello all.. I am 18 and fairly new to automotive work... i resscently bought a 1979 Pontiac Bonneville. I paid 50 bucks for the car... It needs alot of work... any advice from anyone would be helpful... First.. the starter is not working... i cant find it either... anyone that could tell me where it is?... also i believe the altenator is not charging the battery right.... any way to test this theory without buying a new battery?... i tried to start the car after chargin the battery for several hours and it backfired up through the carbureator, blowing a ball of flames from the top, almost making my friend bald. The next time i tried it made a screeching noise and then nothing, no clickin, trying to start ot anythinng. I took the key out and let it sit for a couple of minutes while i cussed. when i came back the interior lights were all on... when i put the key in they all went off and EVERYRHING was dead... timing problem?, and a blown fuse?... how do i adjust it? where is the fuse box?... what else... the radio doesnt work... thats mostly my area of expertise... but i cannot seem to find color codes for the wires... any help here would be much appreciated... i think thats all for now... thank you

What engine, did it ever run? check the battery connections and grounds, starter is under the engine, r/s usually. You will need at least a basic manual for this car, or some experienced help. Welcome to AF. Make sure the wires are on the plugs and cap in the right order, see if the engine turns by hand and is not seized.