Even deep in the heart of Texas, the American promise of land, liberty and happiness for all continues to breathe much-needed diversity into our cultural sphere. This time, in the shape of a board game, Mahjong.
“There’s a Mark Twain quote about how you can’t create good, honest assessments of other people by sitting in your corner of the world,” said Richard Hafemeister, director of operations at the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education. “[Through Mahjong] people are going out to explore another culture with each other. They’re learning something new, and it’s making them better at understanding the world around them.”
Mahjong has steadily taken hold of the Coastal Bend in the decades since its American arrival. First introduced by homesick Asian immigrant communities in the 1920s, primarily those of Chinese descent, the game remains in our cultural zeitgeist through periodic boosts in its popularity. From hitched rides in the bags of American soldiers in the 1940s to the widespread solitaire version as an early 2000s computer game, Hafemeister explained this newest influx of Mahjong players comes as no surprise.
“Seeing a grassroots boost in Mahjong tournaments in cafes and bars, the same way it was back in Hong Kong 150 years ago when it rose in the first place, is heartening to me,” he said. “Getting folks out and doing stuff that requires this kind of critical thinking post-COVID is tricky. We’ve got to come up with new ways, socially and personally, to regain and relearn those skills now that it’s over. [Mahjong] is a good way to do it.”
The community aspect, cultural intrigue and engaging gameplay have players of all backgrounds scouring the city for new public venues to play. Mahjong tournaments and casual games have existed for years, but as Bub+Beck owner Jennifer Butler explained, these could be intimidating for new players.
Butler, among the many new to Mahjong in the city, said her boutique joined the list of game hosts in early 2023 to satisfy the need for beginner groups. After the success of her first beginner Mahjong night, she specialized in nights to encourage those of all skill levels to join. All sessions consistently filled up.
“There’s online Mahjong, but it’s not the same as playing in person,” she said. “The classes filled up because there are people that want to learn, but don’t have the resources. I have the space, I have the tables and the tiles, so everything came together beautifully.”
Prospective players can find opportunities to learn and refine their skills across the Coastal Bend, from casual game nights like the Aransas County Women’s Club to more standardized competitions. Just this past January, the Rockport Maritime Museum celebrated 28 years of its annual Mahjong tournament. Mahjong has proven to be here to stay, and anyone interested will find a warm welcome — wherever their first game may be.
Contact: bubandbeckbymadisontaylor.com
