Our Membership
For more than three decades, the Howard Staunton Society has honoured the life and legacy of Howard Staunton (1810–1874) — chess master, scholar, and cultural pioneer.
Membership is open to all who share an interest in chess history, literary culture, and Staunton’s enduring influence on both the game and the arts.
By joining, you help the Society continue its work: commemorating Staunton’s achievements, promoting education and research, and inspiring new generations of chess players and thinkers.
Why Join the HSS?
Membership of the Howard Staunton Society brings you into a community united by curiosity, heritage, and intellectual engagement.
Our members receive:
- Invitations to Society dinners, lectures, tournaments, and online events
- Access to quarterly newsletters and annual bulletins (digital and/or print)
- Opportunities to take part in commemorations, research projects, and cultural campaigns
- Eligibility to vote and help guide the Society’s direction (where applicable)
- Access to exclusive Society insignia and merchandise
Membership Categories and Benefits
Our membership structure reflects both heritage and progression, inspired by the pieces on the chessboard — from Squire to Rook. Each tier offers unique privileges and a different level of involvement in the Society’s life.
Squire (Bronze - Youth)
For youth and students under 30 (with proof of active study), or under 20 if not in education. Ideal for aspiring players, researchers, and young enthusiasts. Benefits include: digital newsletters and bulletins, access to mentoring, and educational events, invitations to online lectures and selected Society events, occasional research support, digital membership certificate. Annual fee: £25.
Knight (Silver)
The core membership tier, offering full engagement with the Society’s programme. Benefits include: printed and digital publications, invitations to all dinners, lectures, and tournaments at member rates, personalised membership certificate and lapel pin, 10% discount on merchandise. full voting rights at the AGM, priority booking for Society events. Annual fee: £70.
Overseas Knight (Silver)
Designed for international supporters who wish to stay involved digitally and occasionally in person. Benefits include: digital publications and bulletins, invitations to online lectures and international gatherings, optional printed certificate and insignia (at cost), full AGM voting rights, priority access to event recordings and digital content. Annual fee: £35.
Bishop (Gold)
A distinguished level of membership for those wishing to contribute more actively to the Society’s cultural mission. Benefits include: all Silver Member privileges, deluxe membership pack, name listed in Society publications and on the website, opportunity to sponsor lectures, prizes, or awards, invitations to exclusive 'Bishop & Rook' receptions, dinners, events. Annual fee: £150.
Rook (Platinum)
Our highest and most enduring level of membership, reflecting loyalty and long-term commitment to the Society. Benefits include: Lifetime membership and full voting rights, all publications (digital and print) in perpetuity, invitations to all Society events at member rates, Life Member certificate and pin, complimentary invitation to the Life Members’ Reception, permanent recognition on the Society’s website and printed roll of honour. One-off fee: £1,000.
Honorary Patrons
Honorary Patron status is extended by invitation of the Committee to distinguished individuals who represent and support the Society’s aims. The Howard Staunton Society is privileged to count among its patrons HSH Prince Marek Kasperski, HSH Princess Petrina Kasperski, and Sir Alan Fersht FRS. Those whose standing in chess or society may aid our mission are warmly invited to contact the Committee.