Chess Clubs in Auburn, Maine. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Auburn, ME and the Surrounding Area
Chess players in Auburn, Maine, and nearby communities have several options for organized play and chess education. From casual library meetups to competitive club play, these organizations welcome players of all ages and skill levels. Below is a comprehensive guide to chess clubs in and around Auburn.
1. Auburn Chess Club
Location: Auburn Public Library – 49 Spring St, Auburn, ME 04210
Description: The Auburn Chess Club meets weekly at the Auburn Public Library, offering a welcoming environment for both recreational and serious players. The club features open play sessions with boards and clocks provided, occasional beginner lessons, and seasonal tournaments. Players of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate in this community-focused chess group.
2. Lewiston Chess Club (3 miles from Auburn)
Location: Lewiston Public Library – 200 Lisbon St, Lewiston, ME 04240
Description: Just across the Androscoggin River, the Lewiston Chess Club provides another excellent option for local players. The club emphasizes skill development through casual games and periodic workshops. The library setting offers a quiet atmosphere conducive to thoughtful play, with experienced members often available for mentoring newer players.
3. Poland Community Chess Group (12 miles from Auburn)
Location: Poland Community Church – 1970 Maine St, Poland, ME 04274
Description: This informal chess gathering meets biweekly in a relaxed community setting. The group particularly welcomes families and junior players, with multiple boards available for simultaneous games. While competitive play occurs, the primary focus remains on enjoyment and learning the game’s fundamentals.
4. Turner Chess Circle (15 miles from Auburn)
Location: Turner Public Library – 98 Matthews Way, Turner, ME 04282
Description: The Turner Chess Circle meets monthly at the town library, offering a low-pressure environment for rural chess enthusiasts. The group organizes thematic game nights (focusing on openings, endgames, or famous matches) alongside regular play. All equipment is provided, and beginners receive patient instruction from experienced members.
5. Bates College Chess Society (4 miles from Auburn)
Location: Bates College Commons – 2 Andrews Rd, Lewiston, ME 04240
Description: While primarily serving the college community, Bates’ chess group welcomes serious local players for their weekly meetings and periodic rated tournaments. The club maintains a balance between casual play and competitive preparation, with access to chess literature and computer analysis tools.
6. Oxford Hills Chess Collective (20 miles from Auburn)
Location: Norway Memorial Library – 258 Main St, Norway, ME 04268
Description: This northern Oxford County group gathers twice monthly for extended chess sessions. The collective emphasizes chess as a social activity, with timed and untimed game options available. Special events include family chess nights and simultaneous exhibitions by local experts.
Additional Chess Opportunities in the Area
Several other venues occasionally host chess activities:
Mechanic Falls Recreation Department (10 miles): Seasonal youth chess programs
Edward Little High School (Auburn): Scholastic chess team practices (contact school for details)
Central Maine Chess Facebook Group: Organizes periodic meetups across Androscoggin County
Final Considerations
When visiting any Auburn-area chess club, it’s advisable to:
Verify meeting times in advance as schedules may change seasonally
Inquire about any membership requirements or participation fees
Confirm equipment availability (though most provide basic sets)
Check age policies if attending with junior players
The Auburn-Lewiston area offers a surprisingly robust chess scene for its size, with options ranging from purely recreational to moderately competitive play. These clubs provide excellent opportunities to develop chess skills while connecting with fellow enthusiasts in central Maine.
