A Square Dance Pioneer: Jimmy Clossin

This summary of an interview with Jimmy Clossin by Miriam Gray appeared in 1960. More than 50 years later, it is impressive the ways in which he anticipated the challenges facing the square dance movement. This excerpt provides a taste of Clossin's views:

"Mr. Clossin stated that recent activities in square dance have created confusion and have not contributed much of lasting value. Too many hobbyists have not studied their material, and the changes of the last eight years have been detrimental to the recreational values of square dancing. Before World War II square dancing was a recreational activity. He conceded that there are still some groups that are operating as they have always done, an encouraging fact. ... The most pressing problem in today's square dancing, according to Jimmy, is too much new material; dancers, regardless of ability, are exposed to more than they can master. Under these circumstances, square dancing cannot serve its recreational function."