Abstract
Debutante balls, also known as coming-out parties, are elite, formal occasions where young women between the ages of 16 and 21 are presented to a community. The participants, referred to as “debs,” frequently receive instruction in etiquette, dancing, and manners as a lead-up to the annual ball. The presentation of the debutantes symbolizes their transition from girlhood into womanhood; often escorted by their fathers, this choreographed display communicates to society that they are entering a new phase of their lives.
The Historical Society retains the right to reprint articles in any format or media, and retains the right to grant that permission to others.