There are a number of historical clips which have survived which document the origins of Lindy Hop from back in the day. Many are embedded scenes in movies, as well as new reel clips. These are great resources to see the origins of the dance and many of the moves that we’ve learned over the years being done in the early days of the dance.
A Day at the Races
A Day at the Races was a 1937 film featuring a promenant Lindy Hop clip. Wikipedia entry It was performed...
Film Vodvil
Film Vodvil was a 1943 American musical film produced by Columbia Pictures. It included a performance by Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers...
Hellzapoppin
Hellzapoppin’ is a 1941 movie which features one of the most iconic clips of Lindy Hop. Wikipedia entry It was...
Hi De Ho
A short film featuring Cab Calloway
Jumpin Jive
Cab Calloway leading the orchestra with the Nicholas Brothers performing a tap routine. From the movie ‘Stormy Weather’(1943)
Keep Punching
Keep Punching was a 1939 movie with an extended clip of what became known as the Big Apple Routine. In...
The Playboy Clip
Al Minns and Leon James appeared in on Playboy and showcased a bunch of solo jazz moves.
The Savoy Ballroom
Wikipedia
Spirit Moves
Spirit Moves is a documentary series from 1987 by Mura Dehn. There’s a lot of information on Wikipedia The clips...
Theater Owners Booking Association
This association formed the circuit on which black performers were able to travel and perform in the 1920 United States....
Venice Beach Clip
This is a historical clip from Venice Beach in 1938 which predates Lindy but shows some of the same dances...
Whitey's Lindy Hoppers
Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers was one of the most famous groups that helped create and popularize the dance of Lindy Hop....