Detailed History 1900 to 1910

A function to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the club was held at the Lyttelton Arms on the afternoon of Tuesday 20th May 1902. A presentation was made to Dr Freer an original member who was still a member of the club in 1902. Mr Henry Smith, the only other original member still alive was unable to attend on medical advice. The reception was held from 5:30 to 6:00 pm. Chess and bowls were played from 6 to 7 and then at 7 there was a high tea.

Among those present were Lord Cobham, Revs W. Jones and Wrigley, G.E.A. Bellingham, S.J Dudley, G. Grosvenor, R. Deakins, Henry Freer, Leacroft Freer, Barratt, Garland, Harman, H.M. Hill, J.W. King, Mills, Sheldon, Smith, Selleck, Short, Davis, Best, H.M. Colis, T. Young, Turner, Addison, A. Grove

Lord Cobham mentioned that he and his father had been patrons of the club for 50 years and raised some laughter by wishing to see chess made compulsory at the war office and in the House of Commons.

Dr Freer alluded to "this very interesting and solemn occasion" and to the set which he would hand down as an heirloom. He had often seen and played with Lord Cobham's father, the late lord Lyttelton who took a keen delight in the game and often went with them to Birmingham or Wolverhampton to play.

He recalled how the club was founded in 1852.

Dr Freer had a book with the records of 60 matches with other clubs from 1858 which he hoped to hand to Mr Deakin so that it should not be lost sight of. Lord Lyttelton had played several games especially against Mr Lumley a blind player.

In conclusion after enlarging on the moral value of chess, he hoped the club would live when he passed away and that some day, Carnegie or some local millionaire or philanthropist would give the club decent premises where they might have good light and air and have a prosperous future.

The evening concluded with chess including a simultaneous display by Mr Bellingham who played 14 games, losing only one.