Founded in 1885, the Franklin-Mercantile Chess Club is the second oldest chess club in America.  From the appearence in 1786 of Ben Franklin's famous essay "The Morals of Chess," Philadelphia has long been a prominent center of chess activity.  International and American chess greats like Steinitz, Zukertort, Lasker, Pillsbury, and even the legondary Paul Morphy, were frequent visitors and competitors, enjoying the friendly atmosphere and hospitality of the local scene, especially at the Franklin Chess Club.

More information about the club's history can be found in this pamphlet, written in honor of our Centennial which was celebrated in 1985.

We welcome you to be a part of our rich heritage.