A Hidden Gem

     Even though I have lived in the New Orleans area for my entire 28-year life, there are things that I still don't realize I'm missing out on. Many times with life being so fast-paced, you don't pay attention to the smaller things that are right in your face; a gem hidden right in plain sight.

     As I made a walk in a part of town I wasn't so familiar with last week (around city Park near Bayou St. John), I was very surprised to find one of these 'Hidden Gems.' It was a small park a few blocks down from a coffee shop right in walking distance from City Park. 

     Alcee Fortier Park is a small park nestled along the boundary of the Bayou St. John neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana. As I strolled through the area, I had to stop in awe at the fact that there are two ornate concrete, built-in chess tables in the park that are there for people to play on. In my opinion, it's quite rare to find these types of installments in my hometown. Most people just meet at local parks or cafes (without said installments), unpack their USCF tournament sets clocks, etc., and get to playing. Don't get me wrong, that is still nice in its own right, but in comparison to major chess hubs like New York and San Francisco, our area lacks amenities like this.

     Of course, there was no one on the chess boards (especially at 10 A.M. in the morning), but to imagine bringing your pieces out and enjoying a game as if you were in a major hub, playing potential masters and hustlers alike is awe-inspiring, to say the least; just you, your favorite music, a cup of good coffee or tea, nature, and the board. The romantic days of chess in New Orleans, where Paul Morphy took on 20 people in simultaneous exhibitions may be long gone in the city, but what can be better than relaxing in a small park playing chess, right? 

     Just like the ad on the truck says in the background, we have to find our beach. I think I may have found one. 

My question for a response to this post is:

1. If you live in New Orleans: Did you know this hidden gem existed and are there more like it?

2. People from other cities with more outdoor chess table installments: Do you all enjoy the atmosphere of being in nature on any given day playing the game you love? 

(Please leave your answers in the comments)

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