About The Federation
Square dancing and related dancing can flourish only through effective organizations. Dr. Ralph Piper and Morry Gelman should be credited with the organization of the Federation in 1947. (A History of Square Dancing in Minnesota, Dec 2012)
Minnesota was the second state in the US to organize a folk dance federation. The original purpose of the Federation was to:
- Provide new opportunities for folk dancing
- To make folk dancing more popular
- To introduce new types of folk dancing to members
- To promote a spirit of friendship and understanding among the dancers
- A tentative program that included a schedule of monthly statewide festivals to be located in various parts of the state
The Federation started with predominantly folk dances then square dancing became more and more popular changing the programs to half and half. When round dancing became popular it took the place of folk dancing. Clogging and Line dancing were eventually added as well. But ultimately the role of the Federation has not changed.
In 1951 the Federation broadened by organizing the state on a regional basis. Minnesota was divided into six regions that follow county lines. Each region had their own board of officers and a constitution that aligned with the state constitution. This was an important step for the Federation. It allowed local areas to promote festivals to their dancers.
In order for the National Square Dance Convention to be held in St Paul in 1963, a name change was required, and officially done on April 1, 1962, to change from the Folk Dance Federation of Minnesota to the Square Dance Federation of Minnesota.
The Square Dance Federation of Minnesota, Inc became a member of the United Square Dancers of America (USDA) in June 1986 at the Indianapolis National Square Dance Convention.
The Federation emblem started as a dancing couple on an outline of the state of Minnesota by Floyd Fredine. In 1972 Roger McGowan modified the emblem and then in 1983 graphic arts professionals modified again. This was to ad markings for regional boundaries and the name of the organization to encircle the emblem. Additional minor changes occured through 2012.
