About the Southern Knights ....

John Kephart and John Carlton

It all started back in August 1984 from a simple phone conversation. Two like callers (John Kephart & Johnny Carlton) began discussing their philosophy of Square Dancing and a lasting friendship was ignited. These two individuals realized their ideals were so similar that sharing ideas and talents would be of great benefit to them and the activity. Thus began many long hours of practice to hone their calling techniques as well as become comfortable learning songs for post dance concerts. Finally, in 1985, they sponsored the first Southern Knight square dance. The Plus Program dance was attended by dancers from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Delaware. Following the dance, John & Johnny performed in concert as an additional entertainment feature for their guests. Both were club callers for the prestigious Princeton Squares of New Jersey.

Following the success of the Southern Knight dance, John & Johnny joined together with Ralph Trout and Pete Diven to form the Mason Dixon Line Quartet. The success of the group was felt throughout the tri-state area. Unfortunately, in the summer of 1986, John was transferred to Europe for a three-year assignment. The Mason Dixon Line continued to perform until late 1988.

John & Johnny again met with a fortunate situation in 1991, when John was transferred to Ft Knox, KY. This placed him approximately 30 miles south of Louisville where Johnny had moved following his retirement from the U.S. Air Force. So once again, they began making plans for their future in square dancing.

In 1995, John retired from the U.S. Army and moved to San Antonio, Texas where he began to re-establish himself in the Square Dance community. A year later, Johnny & his wife Sharon moved from Louisville, KY to San Antonio. Now John & Sherry and Johnny & Sharon work together in promoting square dancing to the fullest. They perform together and separately at many square dance activities and are available for bookings. For information, contact us by using our feedback form, click here.