Champion Chess Players from Georgetown: The Story of Nellie and Jackson Showalter

Chess champions Nellie and Jackson Showalter from Georgetown, Kentucky, were a dynamic duo both on and off the chessboard. The husband and wife team made waves in the chess world, with Nellie being hailed as the strongest female player in America in the early 1900s. Jackson, known as the “Kentuckian Lion,” was a formidable opponent, facing off against some of the best players of his time.

Their story is one of love, dedication, and a shared passion for the game of chess. Jackson, a graduate of the Kentucky Military Institute, was a chess prodigy from a young age. He honed his skills on the board and even taught his wife, Nellie, how to play. Within six years, Nellie was able to beat her husband with a handicap, showcasing her natural talent and dedication to the game.

The Showalters’ legacy lives on in the World Chess Hall of Fame, where Jackson was posthumously inducted in 2010. Their great-granddaughter, Amy Showalter, accepted the honor on behalf of the family, highlighting the lasting impact the couple had on the chess world.

Their story is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. The Showalters may not have been kings and queens, but in the world of chess, they reigned supreme.