Crystal chandeliers, decorative cornices, wall sconces, and polished teak floors mounted on carriage springs that "give"; this hall is designed for dancing.
537 dancers packed into Lovett Hall for one last dance, February 2005.
Karen Missavage photo

THANK YOU, CONTRA DANCERS Sunday February 6th 2005 is permanently etched in our hearts as a day of grandeur, celebration, fun, love and hope. We were completely overwhelmed by the gathering of 537 dancers and friends in Henry Ford's Lovett Hall. This beautiful hall was made most grand by the glow that came from the dance floor…like we've never seen before. The celebration spirit was all around us with photos and books and cards and plaques and flowers. There was a panorama of smiles and laughter the whole day. Every aspect of the gathering from the greeting at the entrance, to the hearty hellos and hugs inside, to the sharing of dances, to the heartfelt goodbyes, and to the dinner afterwards, was witness to the love you have for dancing and each other. It was this outpouring of support that makes us confident that there will be another American Contra Dance in Lovett Hall someday. The Henry Ford could only view this gathering as a statement that this dancing is here in Michigan to stay, and Lovett Hall is a key piece of the clock that keeps it ticking, and should be used for its rightful intent. We're at a loss as to how to thank you in a way you deserve. You are our delight and constant joy. Your friends in fellowship, music and dance, Glen Morningstar and The Olde Michigan Ruffwater Stringband

The same back atcha! Here's the plaque we presented to Ruffwater and Glen at the last dance.

An out-of-towner finally drops by... "The room was set up for a reception, with many large round tables covered in white tablecloths. Then I looked at that wonderful polished wooden floor, which the Henry Ford management claimed had to be rewaxed regularly to accommodate the dancers. It bore many long scratches leading to the legs of those round tables. Not just scuffs. Scratches, up to six feet in length. While the floor was clean, the scratches were all over the place..." Read the rest of Susan Booker's comments here.