ARTIFACTS: Articles from the Lakewood Historical Society

Helene Hammond Dance Studio

The Lakewood Historical Society received a wonderful donation this fall of paper memorabilia and 167 photographs relating to the Helene Hammond Dance Studio. The studio functioned from 1930-1942 in the Gehring Building at Detroit and Warren. Helene Hammond not only owned the studio and gave classes in dance and acrobatics, but also produced shows and designed costumes. Tuition for five private lessons was just $6.50! The studio also performed annual Dancing Displays at the Hanna Theater, Masonic Hall and the Public Auditorium downtown. Programs included "Just Imagine, a Ballet in Three Acts", "Melody Ship", "Romance", "Ye Olde Costume Shoppe", "Rhythm Train", and "Sugar and Spice." Since it contains information on an early business run by a woman, this addition to our collection is very special!

Many of the photographs are of dancers in costume for one of the Dancing Displays. Others are individual shots of posed dancers. We would like to identify as many people as possible in these pictures. Were you or anyone you know involved with the Helene Hammond Dance Studio? Contact the Lakewood Historical Society by phone, 216-221-7343, or e-mail: lakewoodhistory@bge.net.

Mazie Adams
Lakewood Historical Society Newsletter [Fall, 2000]