Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ

A popular custom originating in the 19th century, dance cards resulted from a woman’s social dilemma of choosing dance partners at parties. Typically made of paper with an attached cord and pencil, Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ women wore the small card around their necks or wrists so men could sign their names for a desired dance.

In addition to adding a flair of sophistication, dance cards provided women a predictable schedule for the evening. Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ sorority girls often found their dance cards full as they waltzed the nights away at Homecoming dances and formal balls. The Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ cards pictured are from the ’20s and ’30s.

Photo courtesy Patrick Campbell