How do I install the patch? I've read a thread on this topic before, but I can't find it now that I actually want to use it:( .
Ta!

Just run the patch, it's as simple as that. :) Your directory might be something like c:\program files\infogrames\civilization\
(or c:\progra~1\infogr~1\civili~1\)

I downloaded patch 1.29 while playing with the intent of closing and saving before opening the patch. The patch opened on its own while I was playing (year 1942). It now crashes in 1950 no matter what I do. I have even uploaded and installed a new patch thinking that it was possibly a glitch in the upload. No good. Any suggestions?

Hmm, so you were playing while the patch was installing? It's best to close out of the program, since the old patch is still in memory, and may overwrite the new patch.