Fistful of Firsts

Introductory slide of video

Fistful of Firsts is a 2023 retrospective video, produced by Jim Babcock. It presents a series of important events in the history of gay square dancing, beginning with its formation in 1976.

Background

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the IAGSDC, convention planner Joel Smith initially approached Jim in July 2022 to provide something that would "celebrate the milestone"^[1] to be displayed at the 2023 convention Follow Your Northern Neighbour. A few ideas were put forth, but nothing definitive emerged. When they were in Atlanta at the 2023 Promenade Down Peachtree fly-in, Joel brought up the subject of a video, and Jim accepted the challenge.

The initial concept was to "highlight "the firsts" that have occurred over the four decades, with accompanying photos and more information about each topic. A lot has happened! Additional requests for photos may be coming if nothing is found in Karl's archives or on the wiki. Suggestions for other "firsts" not on this list are welcome."^[2]

Over the next few months, Jim conducted research on over 70 points of gay square dance history, combing thorough this wiki, the digital scans of Karl's archival collection, various internet databases of archival newspaper collections, and visited two archival repositories in person. As questions surfaced about certain topics, dozens of members in the LGBTQ+ square dance community were contacted to supply information and/or media resources (ie. photographs and videos.) This collaborative approach allowed for a rekindling of interest in resource sharing. Of note, the significant contributions of Bob Moritz, Freeman Stamper, James Ozanich, Karl Jaeckel, Russ King, Scott Carey, Steve Browning, and Tom Maturo are to be praised.

The video premiered in Ottawa, ON in July 2023.