The National Archive of Lesbian, Gay Bisexual & Transgender History

Butch Femme Couples, circa 1920, donated by Barbara Warren and Stephanie Grant, Archive vertical file.

The Center's National History Archive

The archive works to preserve our communities' heritage, making it accessible through regular exhibits, publications and scholarly research activities. Founded, and coordinated, in 1990 by volunteer archivist Rich Wandel, the collection includes thousands of papers, periodicals, correspondence, and photographs donated by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and organizations. The Archive is a national leader in gay and lesbian archives by virtue of the size of its collection, and advocacy efforts for gay and lesbian history. Countless researchers, academicians, historians, filmmakers, etc.,. pour through the files in search of further information regarding queer history dating back from 1950 to the present.

By making its collections accessible weekly and by appointment, the Archive provides current and future scholars the opportunity to piece together the actual and true history of our communities often glanced over by the mainstream media. For information on how to donate papers and ephemera, contact Rich Wandel at 620.7310 or e-mail the archive at archive@gaycenter.org