Baton twirling is said to have originated at dance festivals in Asia and Eastern Europe. At these festivals, people would twirl and toss knives, guns, torches and sticks to the rhythm of the music. This activity made its way to armies, where they rhythmically twirled their rifles while marching. When an army was parading, a rifle twirler would always be in front of the other marchers.

After a few years, the “mace” took the place of the rifle during twirling. The mace was much larger than the batons of today and was quite imbalanced, but is still used by some marching bands today. The mace barer or "drum major" twirled the baton as he led the army or band; this was very popular in the United States following World War II with the American Legion Bands and the Fireman’s Bands.

As this practice gained momentum, the maces underwent a series of changes to make twirling easier. They were given smaller ends of light rubber, made from hollow light metal and balanced to give accuracy to the twirler. It is thought that the involvement of females ("drum majorettes") and the progression of twirling is what resulted in the lightening and balancing of the baton. The sport came to North America when Major Millsap’s created baton twirling when he established Millsap's College in the United States in Mississippi after the Civil War.

The baton has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Asia and Eastern Europe. If the sport of baton twirling is as interesting to you as its history, go ahead and give it a try. Contact Starline Batons or check out the online catalog to get started today!

Posted: 5/24/2012