Created by Allen Dodsworth, who was a famous leading teacher of his day. He created it to teach his pupils more variation in 'the dance.' The Amsterdam was an open and shut dance ... that is, the first part was danced side by side with a partner, and the second part, or turn was danced in the waltz position (aka closed position) with the lady holding her dress out with right hand, while the gentleman allows his left to remain at his side.

This dance was composed in order to bring in use more of the graceful body movements in round dancing than heretofore, thereby accustoming the pupil to these valuable poses.