NORWICH – On Nov. 10, the Chenango County Historical Society, located at 45 Rexford Street in the city of Norwich, officially opened an exhibit by the Norwich Dance Club titled “The History of Ballroom Dance in Chenango County.” Opening the exhibit were Chair of the Chenango County Historical Society Linda Green, Director of the Historical Society Alan Estus and founder of the Norwich Dance Club Martha Ryan.

The exhibit has been dedicated to the memory of the late Bob Arnell, co-founder and original catalyst of the Norwich Dance Club. Arnell formed and was Director of the Big Band the Chenangoans. It was through his good graces and benevolence that the Norwich Dance Club was able to be created and prosper. Tedi Arnell, wife and partner of Bob Arnell, was in attendance and served as the official ribbon-cutter of the opening ceremonies.

The exhibit features a collection of retro-images of ballroom dancing. Town of Norwich Historian David Graham completed a composite of research that traces the history of Ballroom Dance in Chenango county. There are replicas of ballroom dance attire throughout the years titled “ Fashion Through the Decades.” Included is a pictorial and written celebration of local ballroom stars, both past and present, including Burr Harrington, Marv Mackoff, Wilma Mackoff, and Red Raville.