Remembrances of
Herman Frithjof Johnson
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My Introduction to Folk Dancing

Gerhard Bernhard
(Sister Bay, Wisconsin)
(920)-421-2986

It was in the fall of 1969 when I joined a group of AYH (American Youth Hostel) members for a weekend outing at the Indiana dunes. The trip was announced as a hiking weekend. I don't remember anything about the hiking, but the rest of the weekend was quite different. The optional evening activity was to be some kind of a dance at a nearby barn. I thought why not give it a try because there was nothing else to do. The bar scene was not my thing.

We were welcomed warmly by this nice man who introduced himself as Herman Johnson. I felt comfortable right away. Some interesting music was playing in the background and someone demonstrated or taught a dance. I was not particularly turned on by the dancing at first, but the music, especially the variety and intricacy of the dance music was very much to my liking. Somehow I got up the courage to do some easy dances upon Herman's encouragement. His kindness and enthusiasm were infectious and I just had to try. It was new to me that one could dance to music that actually was pleasing to listen to, and that one didn't have to be in a smoke-filled room to do it.

I remember that evening as if it had happened yesterday because it was my introduction to folk dancing. The next morning Russ Acton invited a few of us to his nearby vacation home to demonstrate some really neat couple dances including the Zillertaler Landler. I was hooked on folk dancing! In the years following I attended several of his regular "barn" dances, and I always enjoyed visiting with Herman at other folk dance events in the Chicago area.

In the 1980's Paul and I had the privilege of welcoming both Herman and Helen at least twice at the DCFF in Door County. Now, while reminiscing about Herman, an interesting thought comes to mind: It is quite possible that the Door County Folk Festival, (and the Door County Sunset Concert Cruises a year later) might never have happened had it not been for that memorable evening at Herman's barn in Chesterton and the encouragement by this kind and enthusiastic man!

Thank you Herman, it was a privilege knowing you!

Gerhard Bernhard
(Sister Bay, Wisconsin)
(920)-421-2986


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