History on the Square – May I Have the Pleasure of this Dance?

History on the Square returns to the heart of downtown Gettysburg on Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 p.m. at Hotel Gettysburg, located at 1 Lincoln Square, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This engaging evening program blends Civil War history, politics, dance, and 19th-century social culture through live performance and historical interpretation.

“May I Have the Pleasure of this Dance? From the Ballroom to Hell ~ Politics and Pleasure Collide!” centers on President Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inauguration Ball, held in Washington, D.C. in 1865. Presenters Nancy Walker and Jef Savage recreate the atmosphere of the era with live demonstrations of two dances featured on the original inauguration ball dance card, including a Polka and a Danish Dance, performed in reproduction period ballroom attire.

Historical readings, commentary, and storytelling explore how ballroom culture reflected the political and social tensions of Civil War-era America. The evening also features audience participation opportunities, a traditional parlor game, group dance instruction, and a live Q&A session. Guests can also view original period artifacts, including clothing, newspapers, dance manuals, sheet music, etiquette guides, and fashion plates.

Admission includes hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket. Sponsored by the Gettysburg Foundation.