Chess Clubs in Illinois

January 31, 2023

Chess has a long history in Illinois, dating back to the 19th century. Some of the early chess clubs in Illinois include the Chicago Chess Club, the Illinois Chess Association and the Evanston Chess Club.

The Chicago Chess Club, one of the oldest chess clubs in the United States, was founded in 1857. It was a major center of chess activity in the country and attracted many of the strongest players of the time. The Illinois Chess Association, founded in 1890, is the oldest chess organization in the state. It promotes chess throughout Illinois and organizes tournaments and events for players of all skill levels. The Evanston Chess Club, founded in the late 1800s, is another early chess club in Illinois. The club has been active for over a century and holds regular meetings and tournaments for its members.

Throughout the history, these clubs and many other chess clubs, organizations and schools in Illinois played a significant role in promoting chess in the state and providing opportunities for players to improve their skills and compete. Illinois is also known for hosting prestigious tournaments such as the US Open, US Junior Open, and US Women’s Open.