Fortnightly: A Western Springs Tradition Lives On

In the fall of 1930, a group of women met in the home of Mrs. Cleon Bigler to plan the organization of a not-for-profit Fortnightly dance group. The goal was to provide some fun for the village’s junior high students, as well as to teach social graces and proper ballroom etiquette.

This group was the first of what were called “Boards of Patronesses” that guided the group over many years.

Actual instruction was delegated to others, among the first being Mrs. Bigler, Mildred Dickinson, and Mildred Zook. 

The first Fortnightly took place in 1931 and was initially held in private homes. For those not familiar with the program, the name “fortnightly” was derived from the fact that classes were held once every fourteen nights …or every fortnight. Click on the 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th photos above to see representative scenes from the past.

The current program involves a series of five, after school dance instructions through the fall months. Formal invitations are mailed to the 7^th and 8^th grade students attending McClure Junior High School. Historically, about 90 to 95% of students do participate.

Students not only receive instruction on various dance steps, they also learn such social skills as helping a woman with her coat, opening a door, or getting refreshments. For many of the students, the big payoff comes after eighth grade when, as high school freshmen, they have the opportunity to put their new skills to work at their first homecoming dance. 

In its early days, the Fortnightly had very rigid rules, which some might consider old-fashioned for even those days. Click on fifth photo above to see the prescribed etiquette from the 1930’s. But, part of the success of the program is that it has adapted over the years to changing interests. For example, contemporary music is now used to teach traditional dance moves, including the fox trot, waltz, box step, hustle, and the cha-cha. 

With its strong cadre of volunteers, plus the country’s renewed interest in ballroom dancing, the continued success of the Fortnightly appears assured.

Do you have a favorite (or embarrassing) memory of your Fortnightly?  If so, submit a comment.