Chicago Chess Center (I)

The original Chicago Chess Center, operated by Jules Stein, opened in 1977 at 2666 N. Halsted St. in Lincoln Park. In 1984, the Chicago Chess Center relocated to 2923 N. Southport Ave.

Stein died March 16, 1989, after which the Chicago Chess Center was taken over by Ray Socha. Socha and Joshua Flores continued to operate the club on Southport Avenue until November 1990. Shortly thereafter, it relocated to 1921 W. 47th St. in Back of the Yards. The club held its last rated tournament in November 1992 and closed down about a year later.