MARK RUBERY CHESS

The Irish-born master, James Mason (1849-1905), was one of the world’s best half-dozen players in the early 1880s. Born in Kilkenny, Ireland, he adopted the name James Mason (his original name is unknown) to avoid discrimination against his Irish background when he and his family immigrated to the United States in 1861. He became a shoe-shine boy in New York City and frequented a Hungarian cafe where he learned chess. Coming to the notice of J. Gordon Bennett of the “New York Herald,” Mason was given a job in the newspaper’s offices, a start in life that both suited his literary aspirations and gave him the chance to study chess. In 1876, he made his mark, winning first place in the 4th American Congress in Philadelphia. He eventually settled in England in 1878 and was a regular tournament participant in that country. Fond of drink, Mason is alleged to have lost many games when in a ‘hilarious condition.’ Although considered by his peers to be a jolly good fellow first and a chess player afterwards, he never fulfilled the promise of his first years in England. Instead, he wrote books on the game, in excellent style, no doubt as a result of his journalistic background. His two most popular textbooks, “The Principles of Chess in Theory and Practice” (1894) and “The Art of Chess” (1900) both ran to several editions and have been published in numerous languages. Another of his books, “Social Chess” (1900), contains many short and brilliant games. (George Mirijanian –‘ Sentinel & Enterprise’)

Steinitz, the first world champion, in The Field, 24 June 1882:

‘The game between Mason and Winawer belongs, to quote an expression of

Herr Falkbeer, to the “finest gems in the jewel box of Caissa”. On the 40th move Mason initiated one of the finest and most original combinations that has ever been produced in practical play.’ ‘In chess, as in much else, good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from poor judgment. Never make the same mistake twice. Make a new one.’ –D.J Morgan