The Legacy of the Kilgore College Rangerettes: 85 Years of High Kicks and History
When the Kilgore College Rangerettes made their debut in 1940, they captivated audiences with their precision, grace, and iconic high kicks. Founded by Gussie Nell Davis, the first-of-its-kind drill team was created to entertain crowds during halftime at football games. Davis’ vision and leadership transformed the Rangerettes into a national sensation, influencing countless high school and college drill teams across the country.
The Rangerettes’ inaugural performance was met with silence from the audience, as the skirts worn by the dancers were considered risque at the time. However, the crowd’s thunderous applause and standing ovation marked the beginning of a legacy that would endure for decades to come. The museum, located on the Kilgore College campus, is a treasure trove of history that showcases the evolution of the Rangerettes over the past 85 years.
Megan DeHoyos, manager of the Rangerette Showcase & Museum, reflects on the impact of the organization on her own life. Having been a Rangerette herself, DeHoyos feels privileged to preserve the group’s past, present, and future through her work at the museum. She describes the museum’s creation as a labor of love by many individuals on campus, highlighting the importance of celebrating the organization’s history and legacy.
The Rangerette Showcase & Museum serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for many visitors, including one gentleman who sought a picture of his mother, a former Rangerette. Despite her struggles with Alzheimer’s and dementia, the woman remembered her time as a Rangerette, showcasing the lasting impact of the organization on its members. DeHoyos emphasizes the sense of responsibility that comes with being a Rangerette, as each member carries on the legacy of those who came before them.
Hayley Triplett, a former team captain, shares her experiences leading tours at the museum and interacting with visitors from around the world. She recalls a moment with a young girl who expressed interest in becoming a Rangerette, highlighting the organization’s ability to inspire future generations. Triplett’s own journey from museum visitor to Rangerette exemplifies the powerful influence of the organization on its members and supporters.
O. Rufus Lovett, a photographer who has documented the Rangerettes since 1989, speaks to the discipline and tradition embodied by the team. He recounts his interactions with the dancers and their founder, Gussie Nell Davis, capturing the essence of the Rangerettes through his lens. Lovett’s photographs not only showcase the team’s performances but also the unique blend of glamor and small-town charm that defines the Rangerettes’ identity.
DeHoyos emphasizes the Rangerettes’ role as representatives of their community, college, state, and country, distinguishing them from other collegiate dance teams. Despite challenges in maintaining visibility in today’s media landscape, the Rangerettes continue to perform and inspire audiences both nationally and internationally. The museum serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Kilgore College Rangerettes, preserving their history for future generations to appreciate.
In conclusion, the Kilgore College Rangerettes have left an indelible mark on the world of dance and performance, shaping the lives of countless individuals over the past 85 years. Through their commitment to excellence, tradition, and community, the Rangerettes continue to uphold their legacy as pioneers of precision dance and ambassadors of American culture. As visitors walk through the doors of the Rangerette Showcase & Museum, they are greeted by a rich tapestry of history and heritage that celebrates the enduring spirit of this iconic organization.
