bonesinPA Posted January 19, 2004 Share Posted January 19, 2004 Founded in 1956 the Chessmen were a small drum corps based out of Easton PA sponsored by the local VFW post 1290. I've asked the Post if they had any info on the chessmen and have yet to get back to me. This is what i have so far. founded in '56, colors - red and white, active through '76 then became Regency One. All gathered on corpsreps.com. I'm interested because Easton is my hometown and its disappointing that this corps has just kinda faded away. I've managed to find one member, one of my english teachers, but thats it. If anyone has any information, or can point me in one direction or another thats be cool. Larry M Bones Contra '03 '04 DCI class of 2008 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bpplun Posted January 20, 2004 Share Posted January 20, 2004 I went to a few rehearsals with the Chessmen in the late '70'S. The only information I can give you is the name of the Director at the time. If you look up Craig Wiedaw (sp) you may have some luck. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeff Posted January 20, 2004 Share Posted January 20, 2004 The Chessman were a fine corps and gave a start to Jim Prime Jr. and Donnie Van Doren of Garfield, Star, and Blast fame, I believe. The brass line was instructed by Jim Prime Sr., who was also a great judge as well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CathyVaughn Posted June 26 Share Posted June 26 Hi! I’m one of the Rolphs. There were six of us in the Chessmen. My Mother was Publicity Manager and my Father was their photographer from about 1967 and I, Cathy, being the youngest had left in 1976 when they folded. Jim Prime, John Piparato, and my Father, Bill Rolph were just a few of the early people that helped establish The Chessmen. My sister Sally was a Drum Major, my sister Susie was Color Guard Captain, my brother Richard kicked a— with being and training a kick butt rifle squad and had no trouble doing a six on any day. Then there were greats like Bill Bataglia our drum line Instructor, and two of Bracken Drum & Bugle Corps Instructor’s. My brother Bob, was a saprano and Soloist, we were all close with Donnie VanDoren and my sister Linda was also a Color Guard Captain. I was just a rifle, but Da— we were good. Add in there Craig and Kelly Weidaw who tried, their best, to continue this Corps legacy. Contact me for any help. We were predominantly black, red and white, prior to 1974 when we received our new gold, black and red uniforms. Be glad to help with any info I can. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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