The Clinton Library

This summer, I took a trip into Little Rock to see the Clinton Library. When I asked, I was informed that the presidential library had three chess sets on display. One that was particularly interesting was a decorative chess set with caricatures commemorating the Belfast peace accords. I remember that news announcement, sometime during 1997 I think it was. I was working for a British fellow in those days, a short guy with an oversized ego. I think everyone has met at least one of those in their lives.

This set (called “The Northern Ireland Political Chess Piece Process.") was designed by Belfast sculptor Anto Brennan and produced by his company Open Windows Productions. As it was a gift to the library from President Clinton, the staff did not know any of the details whether this was given to the President or by whom, but furnished me with this photo. The photo may be a little difficult to read; on the Nationalist / Irish side: King is Bernie Ahern, the Irish Prime Minister; Queen is Mary McAleese, President of Ireland; Bishop is Sean Brady; Knights are John Hume and Seamus Mallon; Rooks are Martin McGuinness and Gerry Adams; with paramilitary pawns. On the Loyalist / UK side: King is Tony Blair, British Prime Minister; Queen is Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of England; Bishop is Robin Eames; Knights are Dr. Ian Paisley and David Trimble; Rooks are David Irvine and Dr. Mo Mowlam; with pawns depicting the R.U.C.

Enlarge picture: Belfast Chess Set

Please note: the center column, entitled “Rules of the Game of Chess,” has been left blank.

I found another chess set on the top floor of the exhibit and was able to snap this photo somewhat surreptitiously (I’m pretty sure the security people said no photos were allowed) so the photo quality isn't so very good:

Enlarge photo: Rulers of the Sea

This set is called “Rulers of the Sea” with a nautical theme. It was a gift to the President and the First Lady from the artist, Alexander C. "Doc" Cullison of Washington, D.C., on the occasion of President Clinton's first Inauguration in 1993.