Burton Chess Club

Burton Chess Club, located in Burton-on-Trent, is a well-established and prestigious chess club with a rich history. The club is affiliated with the Derbyshire Chess Association and is dedicated to providing and supporting chess in Derbyshire and the Derby District.

The club offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for chess enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to experienced players. Whether you are interested in casual social chess or competitive play, Burton Chess Club has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of Burton Chess Club's history is its association with the famous chess player Joseph Henry Blackburne. During his heyday, Blackburne was the second-ranked player in the world, only surpassed by Wilhelm Steinitz. Blackburne was renowned for his blindfold simultaneous ability, where he played against multiple opponents without sight of the board. Excitingly, many of these blindfold simultaneous events took place locally in Burton-on-Trent.

Blackburne gave two-day exhibitions at the club on seven occasions, showcasing his remarkable skills.

The club owes much of its success and history to the generosity and hospitality of W. H. Worthington, a prominent figure in the brewing industry and the president of the Burton Chess Club. Worthington provided the club with a venue in the new Liberal Institute Club, which opened in 1880.

He also donated impressive trophies, including a cased sterling silver cup and a large boxed solid ivory chess set with a wooden board, possibly used by Blackburne himself.

Burton Chess Club has an unbroken history that it takes great pride in. The club has a strong sense of community and camaraderie, welcoming new members and providing a supportive and friendly environment for chess enthusiasts. The club organises various events, competitions, and tournaments throughout the year, catering to players of all skill levels.

If you are interested in joining the Burton Chess Club or finding a chess club in Derbyshire for social or competitive chess, you can find more information on the Derbyshire Chess Association's website. The association, which has been supporting chess in Derbyshire for over 75 years, runs the Derby and District Chess League and other chess competitions in the region.

Burton Chess Club is a place where chess lovers can come together, improve their skills, and enjoy the strategic and intellectual challenges of the game. Join today and become a part of a vibrant and passionate chess community in Burton-on-Trent.