Theophilus Thompson

Theophilus Augustus Thompson (April 21, 1855 - after 1874) is considered the first African-American chess player recognized in the United States.[1] In addition to competing in tournaments, he wrote a book Chess Problems: Either to Play and Mate published in 1873.

Contents

Early life and education

Thompson was born into slavery in Frederick, Maryland[2][3][4] as were his parents.[3] After emancipation, in 1868, he worked as a house servant in Carroll County, Maryland.[3]

Career

In April 1872, John K. Hanshew, the publisher of The Maryland Chess Review, gave Thompson a chessboard and some chess problems to solve. He showed an immediate ability to learn the game and master its rules.[4][1] Thompson's fame grew and he competed in a number of tournaments.[5]

He gained lasting fame for his book of endgame positions: Chess Problems: Either to Play and Mate (1873).[4] It was published by Orestes Brownson Jr., the editor of the Dubuque Chess Journal.[3]

Thompson disappeared soon after he gained prominence.[2] It was rumored that he may have been the victim of a racial lynching, but his disappearance is a mystery.[4]

The US Chess Center in Washington D.C. hosts the Theophilus Thompson Chess Club in his honor on Saturday afternoons.[2][6]

References

  1. ^ a b Thomas-Lester, Avis (2007-03-11). "Kings of a Different Game". Washington Post. p. C01. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/03/10/AR2007031001383.html. Retrieved 2007-03-14. 
  2. ^ a b c Barnes, Denise (1996-01-25). "Not-so-famous halls of fame honor men and women who were the best in diverse fields". Washington Times: p. M4. 
  3. ^ a b c d Brennen, Neil R. (2006). "The Caged Bird: The Story of T.A. Thompson". http://www.thechessdrum.net/historicmoments/HM_Thompson/index.html. Retrieved 2007-03-14. 
  4. ^ a b c d "Theophilus Thompson: Master Emeritus". The Chess Drum. http://www.thechessdrum.net/drummajors/T_Thompson.html. Retrieved 2007-03-14. 
  5. ^ Shabazz, Daaim. "The Rising of the Black Star". United States Chess Federation. http://beta.uschess.org/frontend/news_7_285.php. Retrieved 2007-03-14. 
  6. ^ White, Alexander S. (1995-07-28). "Making the Move From Pawn to King". Washington Post: p. N51. 

External links