Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Chess at the Business Men's Club & Cotton Exchange

Cotton Exchange
Business Men's Club
The Memphis Chess Club formerly met at an earlier Cotton Exchange Building from 1904 - 1905 and at the Business Men's Club from April 30, 1906 - 1934.

On March 15, 2011 chess was played once again at the historical Cotton Exchange on Union Ave, and the former Business Men's Club on Monroe Ave, in Memphis Tennessee.  Through a series of contacts with the Turley Company, my wife and I were able to meet with Mr. Henry Turley.  He was generous in sharing time with us and showing us around his buildings despite his busy schedule.  Exhibiting fine Southern hospitality, he gave us the grand tour of his office complex within the Cotton Exchange.  After enjoying the view of the river and the downtown area from his office, he and I engaged in a quick round of chess where I played the Sicilian against his e4.  After his business associate had Mr. Turley sign some paperwork, we exited onto Union Avenue, and he escorted us across the street to what used to be the Business Men's Club at 81 Monroe Ave.  Just as we reached the second floor from the marble staircase, Mr. Turley challenged me to another round of chess in which I had the white pieces and played the English.  This time we discussed strategy and tactics more than playing the game.  After the session, Mr. Turley had to move on to his next appointment.  He was quite the gentleman to my wife and I, and we are indebted to him for such a wonderful tour.

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Business Men's Club
The Business Men's Club Building



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Monroe Ave.


Brass Elevator Doors at the Cotton Exchange
 Mr. Turley's Balcony
Overlooking the Business Men's Club







Mr. Turley's Office

Exit to Union from the Cotton Exchange
Chess on the second floor of the Business Men's Club