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Game of chess by telegraph
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Game of chess by telegraph
A game of chess played between London and Portsmouth, through the electric telegraph of the South Western Railway on April 10th, 1845. Suggested by Mr. Staunton, Chess editor at the ILN, the game took nine hours and was eventually abandoned and concluded a draw. The engraving here shows players in the room at Nine Elms Station, 88 miles away from Portsmouth where their opponents were playing. Date: April 12th 1845
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Media ID 4360186
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10216151
10th 12th 1845 Abandoned Chess Draw Editor Electric Eventually Hours Played Portsmouth Suggested Telegraph Concluded Staunton
EDITORS COMMENTS
A Historic Moment in Chess History: The Telegraph Game of April 12, 1845 This print depicts an extraordinary event in the annals of chess history: the telegraph game between London and Portsmouth, which took place on April 10, 1845. The idea for this groundbreaking contest was suggested by Howard Staunton, the esteemed chess editor at the Illustrated London News (ILN). The game was initiated through the electric telegraph of the South Western Railway, marking the first time that a chess match was played over such a long distance. The game, which began at Nine Elms Station in London, was 88 miles away from Portsmouth where their opponents were situated. The players, eager to test the limits of technology and their strategic prowess, engaged in a battle of wits that lasted for an impressive nine hours. However, despite their determination, the game was eventually abandoned due to the complexity of the match and the limitations of the telegraph system at the time. The engraving here offers a glimpse into the scene at Nine Elms Station, where players and onlookers gathered to witness this historic moment. The anticipation and excitement were palpable as the telegraph operators relayed each move, bridging the distance between the two cities. The telegraph game between London and Portsmouth not only showcased the potential of this new technology but also highlighted the enduring appeal of the ancient game of chess. This fascinating snapshot of history is a testament to the ingenuity and curiosity of the human spirit, as well as the enduring allure of the game of chess. The date of April 12, 1845, will forever be remembered as a significant milestone in the annals of chess history.
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