Tapping Into Black History: Clayton ‘Peg Leg’ Bates

In a live episode of Kaatscast, recorded at the Emerson Resort & Spa on November 8, 2024, host Brett Barry engages in a detailed discussion with Elinor Levy, Folk Arts Program Manager at Arts Mid Hudson, about the life and legacy of Clayton ‘Peg Leg’ Bates.

The show explores Bates’ inspiring journey from losing a leg in a cotton gin accident at the age of 12 to becoming one of the most celebrated tap dancers, performing on Broadway and appearing on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ at least 21 times.

Image: Clayton ‘Peg Leg’ Bates owned and operated the Peg Leg Bates Country Club in Kerhonkson, New York, from 1951 to 1987, along with his wife Alice E. Bates.