Although it is thought by many that this is an ancient game there is no sound evidence to show it was played prior to the 1880's. It is believed that it was introduced in Shanghai province by a Hung Hsiu-Ch'uan.
Another belief was that it was developed from an older card game. The Chinese term for card "P'ai" can mean objects made of paper, card, bamboo, bone, ivory or any other solid.
It was played prior to 1920 by the Chinese but after 1920's it became known and played by those outside of China.
A set of 144 Mah Jong tiles are made up of 36 tiles in Bamboo suit, 36 in Circle suit, 36 in the Character suit, 16 Wind tiles, 12 Dragon tiles, and 8 bonus(4 Flowers & 4 Season).

We meet on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 2.00 p.m. in members' homes. The next meeting will be on 24 November. The following meetings will be 8 and 22 December, with a possibility of a lunch and Mahjong 'party' on New Years' Eve for those who are available – further details later. If you require any information regarding MahJong please contact Adrienne on 482386