Chess Clubs in Anniston, Alabama. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Anniston, AL and Surrounding Areas
Anniston, Alabama and its neighboring communities offer several opportunities for chess enthusiasts to engage in the royal game. From casual meetups to competitive tournaments, players of all ages and skill levels can find suitable chess activities in the area.
1. Anniston Chess Club
Location: Anniston Public Library
Address: 108 E 10th St, Anniston, AL 36201
Description: The Anniston Chess Club meets weekly at the public library, providing a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels. The club focuses on casual play and skill development, with experienced members offering guidance to beginners. Equipment is provided, though players may bring their own sets. The club occasionally hosts small tournaments and simultaneous exhibitions.
2. Oxford Chess Society
Location: Oxford Public Library
Address: 110 E 6th St, Oxford, AL 36203
Description: Just 10 minutes from Anniston, the Oxford Chess Society gathers twice weekly for casual games and instruction. The club emphasizes chess education, with structured lessons for beginners and game analysis sessions for more advanced players. Monthly rated tournaments provide competitive opportunities for serious players.
3. Jacksonville State University Chess Club
Location: JSU Theron Montgomery Building
Address: 700 Pelham Rd N, Jacksonville, AL 36265
Description: Open to both students and community members, this university-affiliated club meets weekly during academic terms. The club hosts regular blitz tournaments, lectures by strong players, and intercollegiate matches. Their annual Northeast Alabama Open attracts players from across the region.
4. Gadsden Chess Club
Location: Gadsden Public Library
Address: 254 S College St, Gadsden, AL 35901
Description: Located about 30 minutes from Anniston, the Gadsden Chess Club is one of the most active chess organizations in northeast Alabama. The club hosts weekly rated games and monthly tournaments sanctioned by the United States Chess Federation. Players range from casual enthusiasts to serious competitors.
5. Talladega Chess Group
Location: Talladega Public Library
Address: 203 S St E, Talladega, AL 35160
Description: This friendly chess group meets bi-weekly, offering a relaxed atmosphere for players from Talladega County and surrounding areas. The group emphasizes casual play and chess education, with senior members providing free lessons to newcomers. Their annual county championship features divisions for all age groups.
6. Local School Chess Programs
Several Anniston-area schools maintain active chess programs that occasionally host community events:
Anniston High School Chess Team (1301 Woodstock Ave, Anniston, AL 36207)
Donoho School Chess Club (2501 Henry Rd, Anniston, AL 36207)
Saks Middle School Chess Program (7800 Saks Rd, Anniston, AL 36206)
These school programs frequently compete in regional scholastic tournaments and sometimes host intergenerational chess nights open to the public.
The Anniston area provides diverse chess opportunities suitable for both recreational players and serious competitors. With multiple weekly meeting options within a short distance, chess enthusiasts can easily find games at their preferred level. Most clubs welcome new participants without advance notice, though tournament players should verify specific requirements. The growing chess community in and around Anniston continues to develop, offering excellent resources for players to learn, compete, and enjoy the game.
