How to Play Kelly Pool

A Brief History of Kelly Pool

Kelly Pool, also known as Pea Pool, has a rich history that dates back to its invention by C. Kelly Mulvaney in April 1897. Initially popular in Chicago, the game quickly spread across the United States, captivating players from California to Maine. Its unique blend of strategy and luck made it a favorite among both casual players and serious billiards enthusiasts.

The game was characterized by its "open" nature, allowing any newcomer to join without prior introduction, which contributed to its social atmosphere. In its early days, Kelly Pool featured a set of numbered balls and a bottle containing corresponding numbered markers, known as peas. The objective was to pocket the ball associated with the number drawn from the bottle, which added an element of secrecy and surprise to the gameplay.

Over the years, Kelly Pool has evolved. While it retains its core mechanics, modern variations often simplify some of the original rules. The game's popularity waned in some areas but has seen a resurgence as players seek out unique and engaging billiards experiences.

How to Play Kelly Pool

Kelly Pool is played on a standard pool table with 16 balls: one cue ball and 15 numbered object balls (1-15). Here’s how to play:

Setup

• Players: The game accommodates 2 to 15 players.
• Equipment: You’ll need a pool table, 16 balls (1 cue ball and 15 object balls), and a set of numbered markers (peas or pills) placed in a narrow-necked bottle.
• Drawing Balls: Each player shakes the bottle and draws a numbered pea, which corresponds to their secret object ball. Players must keep their assigned numbers hidden from others.

Gameplay

1. Breaking: The first player breaks from the "D" area of the table.
2. Turn Order: Players take turns based on the order determined by their drawn peas.
3. Shooting Rules:
   • Players must always hit the lowest numbered ball on the table first.
   • If they legally pocket their assigned ball (the one corresponding to their pea), they win that round.
   • If another player pockets someone else's assigned ball, that player is out for that round.

Fouls

• If a player fails to hit a numbered ball or scratches (pockets the cue ball), their turn ends, and the next player takes over.
• Balls pocketed on foul shots are spotted back on the table.

Winning

The first player to legally pocket their assigned ball wins the game. Variations exist where points can be scored for pocketing other players' balls or for various achievements during gameplay.

Scoring Variations

In some versions of Kelly Pool, players can score points for pocketing other players' balls or for specific actions during the game, adding another layer of strategy.

Kelly Pool is not only a fun game but also encourages social interaction and strategic thinking among players. Its blend of luck and skill makes it an engaging choice for gatherings and casual play alike.

Citations:
Billiards Forum
Sir Billiards
Wikipedia
Billiard Blitz
YouTube Tutorial