The Barn Dance was originated in Scotland in the 1860's. The barn dance was also known as the "Pas de Quartre" which basically was a generic term for American folk
dancing in rural communities or the "poor people's ballroom" of the times. It has been said to have first reared its head at the Gaiety Theater when Meyer Lutz composed the tune "Pas de Quatre."
These parties were usually thrown after the raising of a barn or would be given as a birthday party, homecoming, or wedding etc. These dances were to merge with Square Dancing in the United States.
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Barn dances
were very popular up until about 1899 as farmers and common folk
would usually not be invited to the fancier balls of the upper class.
In the 1930's, Radio stations such as the WLS
National Barn Dance Radio Show, broadcasted many Country
and Western songs as well as featuring many Country artists of the
day which would add the main link to combine Country music, Barn
dancing and Square dances together.
Barn dances consisted of Waltzes,
Virginia
Reels, Corn Husking Dances, Jigs,
Buck,
Schottische
dancing etc. Henry Ford the Automaker was very fond of these and
Square dances.
mORE TO cOME... See Square Dance for additional info
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Burlesque