THE HISTORY OF THE MAVERICK SQUARES OF BAKERSFIELD, CA Early 1994 There was a group of square dancers who had "dropped out" of dancing due to one reason or another. A great caller, by the name of Jay Henderson, contacted a few of us and asked if there would be an interest in getting together to dance on Thursday nights. The answer was yes, and we started looking for a place to dance. Nancy Fenwick (one of the founding members) who then worked for Chevron, was successful in getting us a place to dance. The place was an old house that was converted into a small recreation hall and was located on Chevron's property next to the Golden Bear Refinery in Oildale, California. During this time money was real tight. Consequently, Jay was kind enough to call for "a greatly reduced" rate. Many members "chipped in" to help give Jay a small amount for his time. Many times during the early first years, we had yard sales, car washes and raffles to support our very small club. September of 1994 - The first beginner's class was formed with 23 students. This years class 2002 --> October 3, 1994 - The Maverick Squares were accepted into the U.S.D.A. Being accepted into the U.S.D.A. placed the club as a participant in supporting the Bakersfield Fiesta and helping with the tasks that have helped it to be successful. From 1994 to present, our club has continued to grow. Jay Henderson is still our club caller and, just this year, he graduated 19 new dancers. Jay is always happy to call for demonstrations in order to promote square dancing. Our club does demonstrations for schools, Girl Scouts, convalescent hospitals, craft fairs, the Kern County Fair and many more organizations, to numerous to mention. Jay even donated his time to teach students at B.A.R.C. (special children with disabilities) how to square dance. A few ladies in the club, who sew, helped to make their outfits. By Carol Noel COME JOIN US FOR A FUN NIGHT OF DANCING ANYTIME! |
Jay, Ron, Estelle (90 years young) and Martha with Carol in back. |
Our club 2002 |
