The Cotillion

 The COTILLION is a ballroom dance similar to the QUADRILLES. The Cotillion or French dances was a French Folk or Square dance done in the early eighteenth century and is claimed by many to have been in vogue before the Quadrilles. The Cotillion originated in the West Indies in the 1700’s, but was refined in France. About 1844, the Cotillion would be known by many as the GERMAN as well as being introduced to New York. It was danced by eight persons; however, any number of additional couples could join in. Nearly all the FIGURES were complicated but lively, permitting an endless variety of steps.

The Cotillion allows the young person to receive an education in ballroom dancing, social manners, etiquette, poise, confidence and self-esteem. It is safe and non-judgmental, guaranteeing personal attention and confidentiality. 

Good grooming is promoted as well as how to sit, stand and walk in an appropriate manner. Making eye contact and smiling is all part of making a good impression - something that can get the participant through future job interviews, business opportunities and any number of situations throughout life. 

In today’s society, Cotillion Balls are usually sponsored by charitable organizations. The ULYSEES TURNER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND, Inc., affiliated with Lilydale 1st Baptist Church of Chicago,  is happy to have the pleasant opportunity of carrying on an age- old tradition of presenting the Cotillion-Beautillion. This is also a way for the UTMSF to generate funds for scholarships. One scholarship is awarded to the young person who reports the most money and is thus crowned QUEEN or KING. The balance of the money is placed in the treasury to provide emergency stipends to college students upon request who are experiencing financial difficulty.

The origin and meaning of “DEBUT” is not only interesting, it hints of things to come. The word comes from the French word Debuter, which means the first stroke in a game. Now it has been the admitted reason of presenting a young lady/man to society; to announce that she/he is now a grownup and may join adult society.

We, the ULYSEES TURNER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND, Inc. are proud to present young men, as well as young ladies in full evening dress for all society to see.