Who is peg leg bates

Being well known for his amazing dancing skills, Bates told the Lansing State Journal that he was thrilled to start a new venture in Lansing. Michigan Ave. A few months later, Bates returned and performed at the Reo Clubhouse. Music aside, during his local press interviews, Bates also talked about the loss of his leg, from the knee down, at a young age. In , just before his death, he danced at an event in his hometown of Fountain Inn, S.

He despised people pitying him and strove to be better than most two-legged dancers. Bates began doing shows in carnivals and minstrel shows, and his success eventually landed him spots in Vaudeville circuits by the age of Known for his grace, rhythm, and acrobatics, Bates quickly established a successful career as a tap dancer. During the s, he was a featured dancer in Harlem nightclubs and lit up the Broadway stage with his unique take on classic tap steps.

Bates broke down many racial barriers while he was touring, and famously made 19 appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show during the s and s. The popular resort catered to black clientele and often featured many jazz musicians and tap dancers. Peg Leg Bates eventually sold the property in , but continued to spread his philosophy of overcoming adversities by speaking to children and handicapped groups. You provide us with the inspiration and financial support we need to keep doing what we do.

If you have enjoyed this website or found it helpful, please pitch in. Each donation helps — and it only takes a minute. Thank you! Bates began tap dancing when he was five. After he lost his leg, he decided that the loss would not stop him. He taught himself how to dance with his peg leg and incorporated the sound it made into his tapping, making distinctive music with his dancing.

Bates became a famous dancer, appearing on Broadway, in movies and on television dozens of times. He even performed for the Queen of England. He was the first African-American resort owner in the US. In , Mr. Bates and his wife, Alice, transformed their acre turkey farm in the Catskill Mountains of New York into a resort for African-Americans.

For many years of his professional life, he had been denied the opportunity to sleep in hotels at resorts where he performed.

He wanted a better life for his people. An extraordinary human being, Peg Leg Bates has never boasted or sought self pity.