Ivan Linn Talents

The five Linn brothers were/are very musical, gaining an appreciation for music from both their parents, Peter and Maude Linn. Whether it was singing, dancing, playing an instrument, OR a combination of all three, each of the Linn boys was musically talented.

For a time, brothers Ellis and Ivan formed a group that entertained in and around Dayton. Ellis was and still is a great pianist, and in my fondest memories, played the great old honky tonk songs that Grandma Linn also played. Stanley, Rolland, Ellis, Ivan, and Merlyn all had rhythm, using their talents on the dance floor with the ladies or entertaining others.

Ivan Linn was certainly no exception. With much financial hardship, Peter and Maude found a way to pay for Ivan's dance lessons where he excelled at tap. 

While attending a Navy school at the Naval Air Technical Training Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Ivan entered a contest in Oklahoma City, and was chosen as the winner out of a group of 235 contestants. This gained him the attention of Ted Mack scouts who invited him to appear on the Ted Mack Amateur Hour, an early version of American Idol-type talent shows where the audience voted for their favorite. 

I am delighted to be able to share with you the video of the entire Ted Mack program from September 26, 1952. Ivan is the second entertainer in the video.

https://clipchamp.com/watch/USvTHxDcxAW

And following are two news articles about Ivan's appearance on the Ted Mack Amateur Hour in 1952 and at the American Legion in Fort Dodge as a child.

On a little side note, I found Mrs. Helen Childs (age 38) in the 1940 US Federal Census, living with her husband Walter (age 40) at 1111 Union Street in Boone. She is listed as a dancing instructor with her own studio. Her husband was a brakeman for the railroad. No children listed.

Just another proud moment in our Linn history. Thanks, Ivan, for sharing your talents with all of us.