The Independence Squares was founded in 1988 by Teacher/Caller Mr. Allan Laufer and a brave group of Philadelphians. Some of these people were recruited through the fledgling Country-Western dance community beginning in the area. Classes were in Philadelphia, and dances were in New Hope, Pennsylvania. From the beginning, the Independence Squares was a mixed group of gay and lesbian dancers (with a smattering of straight folk!) from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. As the club became more organized, we sought and obtained non-profit corporate status in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1991.