The Boylston Chess Foundation Inc is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting chess through running tournaments and scholastic clinics for education and recreation. It operates as a 501(c)(3) educational organization focused on fostering interest in chess and supporting chess activities in the Boston area.

History

The Boylston Chess Club, which the Foundation operates, traces its roots back to the 19th century, making it one of the oldest chess organizations in the United States. Historically, chess activities were maintained by the Boston Young Men's Christian Union starting in the 1850s, frequented by notable players such as John F. Barry and Harry Nelson Pillsbury during the 1890s. The club itself was formally organized on August 27, 1919, with Augustus Seaver as its first president. It received charter number 51 from the United States Chess Federation in 1945.

Over time, the club has moved locations several times due to facility and rental challenges, including a notable move in 1989 to the YWCA building in Boston and again in 2003 to Davis Square, Somerville. In 2005, the Boylston Chess Foundation was established as a Massachusetts non-profit corporation to operate the club and its activities. In 2022, the club purchased and renovated its current premises in Boston, solidifying its presence in the city.

Activities and Impact

The Boylston Chess Foundation is one of the most active chess organizations nationally. Since 1991, it has organized over 2,400 rated chess tournaments, supporting a wide community of players ranging from beginners to masters. In 2022 alone, the foundation hosted 113 tournaments with 491 different players, of whom 24 were chess masters and 45 were experts. Membership that year included over 300 individuals.

The organization also offers scholastic clinics designed to educate and engage young players, promoting chess as a beneficial educational and recreational activity.

Financial Information

The Foundation funds its activities primarily through program services and contributions. For the fiscal year ending in December 2018, revenue sources included program services (64.5%), contributions (15.3%), and modest investment income. The organization maintained assets of approximately $84,500 with liabilities under $1,200 at that time, reflecting a stable financial status as a nonprofit educational entity.

The Boylston Chess Foundation continues to be a central hub for chess in Boston, combining a rich historical legacy with active community engagement and competitive play. It contributes significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of the region through chess education and competition.