About the Author

In this volume of historic images, San Francisco historian Dr. William Lipsky explores the early lesbian and gay residents of this city. Long before the Castro became a national model for a successful and integrated gay and lesbian community, San Francisco enjoyed distinct and queer neighborhoods. From interesting vaudeville performers such as Ella Wesner and Bothwell Browne to eminent authors such as Charles Stoddard to important civic leaders such as Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin, the current gay and lesbian generation of San Francisco has had many decades of preeminent predecessors. Thanks to their efforts and those of others in the recent and distant past, San Francisco opened the door for gay causes and unashamed celebration of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender life, art, and culture.