Local Historian Pens Book Documenting Impact of LGBT Culture on St. Louis

Gay and Lesbian St. Louis is the latest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s series Images of America. The book, by local author Steven Louis Brawley, along with the St. Louis LGBT History Project, is set to release on Monday, February 29, 2016, and uses powerful images to illustrate the city’s history and its place as a gateway, not only to the west, but also to the future.



In the late 19th century, St. Louis—America’s fourth-largest city—was a hub of robust commerce and risqué entertainment. It provided an oasis for those who lived “in the shadows.” Since 1764, the Gateway to the West’s LGBT community has experienced countless struggles and successes, including protests, arrests, murders, celebrations, and parades. St. Louis had its own version of Stonewall in October 1969 and is the hometown of icons such as Tennessee Williams and Josephine Baker. A colorful array of activists, drag queens, leather men, artists, academics, business leaders, and everyday folks have contributed to the rich fabric of the lesbian and gay community in St. Louis.



Highlights from the Book



Uncovers lost history and memories of LGBT community not found in traditional history books.



Marks historical landmarks such as Oscar Wilde’s visit in 1882, gay rights rally in 1977, and first pride event in 1980.



Explores potential links between early Native American culture and LGBT history.



Celebrates the work and struggle of activists, artists, and ordinary people who lived in and passed through St. Louis.



About the Author



Author Steven Louis Brawley is a historian specializing in LGBT topics. In 2007, he founded the St. Louis LGBT History Project in an effort to help preserve and promote the region’s LGBT legacy. The St. Louis community has rallied behind the project, helping amass and archive a rich collection of artifacts and photographs that offer a window into the vibrant LGBT past of St. Louis. Images of America: Gay and Lesbian St. Louis features photographs from project donors, the Missouri History Museum, the State Historical Society of Missouri, local newspapers, and private collections.



About the Publisher



Arcadia Publishing & The History Press creates the largest and most comprehensive publisher of local and regional content in the USA. By empowering local history and culture enthusiasts to write local stories for local audiences, we create exceptional books that are relevant on a local and personal level, enrich lives, and bring readers closer to their community, their neighbors, and their past. Have we done a book on your town?

You can order Gay and Lesbian St. Louis Here.



