Scottish Country Dancing in Medicine Hat was started in the mid 1940’s by a small group of dedicated individuals. In 1976 the group became a registered Alberta Society as well as an affiliate of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society of Scotland. (The RSCDS)

The group continued to flourish and in 1981 we became a branch of the RSCDS.

This year we will be hosting our 32nd Annual Workshop, Banquet and Ball. We are looking forward to seeing our friends and hopefully meeting some new friends.  Currently we are working diligently at organizing this years up and coming workshop and ball.  As soon as we have our details finalized we will be sure to update this site for your up to date information.  So keep checking back.  Hope to see you there in October 2007.

Scottish Country Dancing is traditional social dancing that was derived from the court dances of the middle ages. Couples dance a series of figures which vary from dance to dance. These dances are characterized by their primarily longwise sets and unique progressions.

Country Dances found their first popularity in the Tudor and Elizabethan courts. This popularity quickly spread to the French and other European centres, as well as the Edinburgh court.

As the 19^th century progressed, Country Dances declined in popularity in Europe as the other new social dances gained in popularity. Only in Scotland, did the Country Dances continue to flourish along with the new dances.

By the outbreak of the 1^st World War, Country Dances had survived in Scotland for over 200 years, but their popularity was starting to decline. It was due to the hard work of the RSCDS, that Country Dances have maintained their popularity into the 21^st century.

The Scottish Country Dance Society was created November 26, 1923 by Miss Jean Milligan and Mrs. Ysobel Stewart. It’s objectives were to practice and preserve Country Dances as they were danced in Scotland by collecting old books, manuscripts and pictures of Country Dancing, and by publishing new books and music.

In 1951, King George VI gave his permission for the society to us the word "Royal" and thus the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society was born.

Today the RSCDS is a worldwide organization with over 25,000 members, 200 branches and 500 affiliated groups. It’s objectives today are as important as ever.

Membership within the branch is open to all persons over the age of 16. A special membership is available to those under 16. For more information, please contact us.