Frank Street Jr.
1943
He was a prominent chess player known for his remarkable achievements in the chess world. In 1965, he secured victory in the U.S. Amateur Championship, a testament to his chess prowess. Street was an integral member of the Takoma Park Chess Club, alongside notable figures like Larry Kaufman and Larry Guilden. During the 1960s, Street, along with National Masters Walter Harris and Ken Clayton, played a pivotal role in nurturing Black chess talent in the Washington, D.C., region.
Street earned the title of Master in 1965, marking a significant milestone in his chess career. His reputation soared, primarily due to his triumph in the U.S. Amateur Championship that same year. For an extended period, he held the highest rating among African-American chess players. Street’s exceptional skills also led to victory in the club championship at the renowned Washington Chess Divan, where he defeated Ken Clayton. Notably, Street was only the second African-American chess player to attain the prestigious title of National Master, following in the footsteps of Walter Harris. His accomplishments were celebrated with his image gracing the cover of the July 1965 issue of Chess Life magazine.