Jack Murtha Papers

Jack Murtha was involved in square dancing beginning in college. Jack served as the original Director of Woodleaf Outdoor School and developed a square dance teaching program for elementary schools. Jack developed the Diamond System, a series of records and written instructions, which made it possible for other callers and dancers to enjoy the hobby. This system is still in use in many places around the world today. For over ten years, Jack and Thelma, his wife, flew to China to teach the Chinese dance leaders to dance, teach, and call American square dances. The Murthas played a major role in bringing a group of Chinese dance leaders to America where they attended the Callerlab Convention in Los Angeles. Jack attended Callerlab Conventions and over the years he served on a number of important committees and was chairman of several. He received the Chairman's Recognition Award for his dedicated service to the organization and to square dancing. For many years Jack maintained an archives of square dancing, recording the backgrounds and experiences of many of the activities' leaders. Jack passed away in July 1999 and was posthumously awarded Callerlab's highest honor, the Milestone Award, in 2001.