The Big Debutante Ball

The annual North Carolina Debutante Ball, which presents debs from all over the state, continued its tradition Friday night at the Meymandi Concert Hall in Raleigh.

For 87 years the debs have been chosen based on their families’ contributions to North Carolina economic, cultural, social and civic life.

Long considered the premier social event in the state, it originated in 1923 as the "Raleigh Fall Festival," sponsored by the merchants of the city. Prominent young ladies from throughout the state were presented as candidates for Queen of the Festival before a queen was crowned by the governor. In 1927 the Terpsichorean Club was formed and held the first North Carolina Debutante Ball. The purpose of the club, which derived its name from the Greek mythological muse, Terpsichore, the goddess of dancing and choral song, was to "sponsor annually a ball for the presentation of North Carolina Debutantes to be held in Raleigh on the first weekend after Labor Day."

My wife was once presented there. In fact, she was leader (and "spoke of the wheel") of the ball.

And now it was my granddaughter Raven's turn.

She was one of the 162 young ladies who received invitations this year. They were selected by more than 200 nominators located throughout the state. The final approval of the Debutantes was made by Terpsichorean Club members.

For most debutantes, the excitement starts in the spring, when the invitations – or "bids" – arrive. The season gets into full swing around the first of July and culminates with the Debutante Ball the weekend after Labor Day. In between, there are numerous brunches, barbecues, buffets, cocktail parties, mother-daughter teas and father-daughter cookouts to attend. A young woman who accepts every invitation may go to 30 parties or more in a season.

Last weekend there were eight functions held in Raleigh honoring the debutantes, their families and their escorts. But the ball on Friday evening was the focal point of the weekend. And my eyes were on Raven, my granddaughter (seen here with rose corsage). I have never been so proud of anyone in my life.

"And debutantes, after all, still wear white. They still carry roses. And for at least one breathtaking moment, when they descend the staircase and extend a long white glove to reach for their fathers' hand, all the money it took to get them there must seem worthwhile."
– The News & Observer 9/6/1991

Author Patrick Simpson and his wheelchair-restricted wife Anne uncover their experiences exploring historical and cultural experiences around the world. Visit now to learn how independent travel for disabled persons is not only possible, it can be fun!! www.booksbypatricksimpson.com