Chess has always been popular in New York. The first chess tournament in the United States was held in New York in 1847, and over the following century and a half many of the world’s best chess players were New Yorkers, including Bobby Fischer, Robert Byrne, and Larry Evans. The Parks Department responded to the interest by installing chess tables at numerous parks throughout all five boroughs. One of the best known parks for chess is Washington Square, where the lightning–swift speed chess players are part of the summer scenery. The best players can make a living just by betting on their games; less experienced players are happy to pay for the experience of losing to a master.