Star Twirlers

The Star Twirlers square Dance Club was formed in 1969 from the remains of two clubs, the "Kings and Queens" and the "Valentimers" both of which had folded, because both clubs had lost their callers: Clayton Valentine and Emery Wilson.

They had twenty two couples to begin that first season. They danced at Pitcher School with Charles Hawley as their first caller, on the second and fourth Saturdays. Charles was new as a caller and agreed to call for free that first year. During the fall of 1969, the club graduated seven more couples, using the Hawley's basement for lessons.

In 1971, the club secured the services of Ron Stowell as the clubs second Caller. In 1972, many of the club made their way to Des Mones, Iowa to attend the 22nd National Square Dance Convention.

Also in 1972, the Star Twirlers graduated still another large class with fourteen new couples. In the 70's the Star Twirlers began dancing at the Union Hall at 95th & Grandview Road.

In 1975, the Star Twirlers were the first club to register 100% of its membership for the 24th National Square Dance Convention in Kansas City. Nearly every member of the club assumed some area of responsibility for that National. Many continued to travel to other nationals after that, traveling in a caravan of RV's. In 1978, the club registered 16 couples for the Oklahoma City National Square Dance Convention.

At one time during the 70?s the club had a membership of about 34 couples. Ron & Gayle Stowell called for the club 1971 through 1979, and then resigned as the clubs caller. Roy and Melba Wheeler would be the clubs new caller, and remained as such until the club folded in 1985, because Roy and Melba were moving out of the area.

The club had made countless friends, hosted many fun dances, and had had the good fortune to have had three dedicated callers. Those who were left from the club began to seek other clubs to join, and many of them are still dancing!

Submitted by Bob & Shirley Stock Chartered Members of The Star Twirlers