150 Years of Streatham & Brixton Chess Club

Celebrate with them at their rapidplay on 17th September

Enter their rapidplay on 17 September and celebrate 150 years of chess in Streatham and Brixton!

Richard Tillett of Streatham & Brixton Chess Club writes…

Streatham & Brixton Chess Club has a long and fascinating history going back to 1871, making us one of London’s oldest chess clubs. We started life as Endeavour in 1871, then we morphed into Brixton Chess Club, before merging with Streatham Chess Club in 1946. During our first 150 years we had many ups and downs, and along the way a cast of famous – and infamous – chess characters passed through our neighbourhood. The full story is told in Movers and Takers: a chess history of Streatham and Brixton 1871-2021, written by club president Martin Smith.

Martin’s book has been the centrepiece of a programme of 150th anniversary events, which kicked off quietly during the pandemic and gathered pace through 2021 and 2022 as the lockdown restrictions eased. We’ve held matches against neighbouring clubs, open-air events on Streatham and Tooting Commons, talks to local history groups, and a very enjoyable simul with former club member GM Daniel King.

Our final anniversary event will take place on Saturday 17 September when we will hold a one-day rapidplay at Streatham Library. We are taking entries now. There will be six rounds of 25 minutes plus 5 seconds per move, and two sections: Major (under 2400) and Minor (under 1750). The entry fee is £20 for ECF Silver members (£29 for Bronze and non-ECF members). The winners and runners-up in each section will receive £100/£50; further prizes subject to entries. For more information and online entry, visit the tournament website.

To obtain a copy of Movers and Takers email SFChess@btinternet.com, who will provide details for online payment (£12.50 plus £2.50 P&P). There aren’t many copies left though, so you’ll have to be quick!