Experience the LGBTQ+ collections at the Missouri Historical Society’s Library and Research Center

We’re planning a special club outing to explore an important part of our community’s history! Join us on Saturday, March 22nd, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM to experience the LGBTQ+ collections

The Missouri Historical Society’s Library and Research Center, located at 225 S. Skinker Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, houses extensive archival collections that document the history and experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community in the region. These materials provide invaluable insights into the community’s social, cultural, and political journey over the years.

Key Archival Collections:

• Lesbian Alliance of St. Louis Records (1973–1981): This collection includes newsletters, flyers, and poetry produced and collected by the Lesbian Alliance of St. Louis, a feminist organization dedicated to advancing equal rights for women and lesbians. Notably, it features “Moonstorm,” a magazine written by and about the lesbian community in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

• Lesbian and Gay News Telegraph Records (1981–1990): Founded in 1981, this local LGBTQ newspaper aimed to encourage communication within St. Louis’s LGBTQ community. The collection contains unpublished articles, newspaper clippings, newsletters, a poster, and issues of the Gay-News Telegraph, along with an oral history interview with editor Jim Thomas.

• LGBTQIA+ Periodicals Library Collection (1986–2014): This collection encompasses national publications related to LGBTQIA+ parenting, political and legal groups, travel, and HIV/AIDS, reflecting the diverse interests and challenges faced by the community during this period.

• Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis Records (1970–2011): Founded in 1972 with a mission to spread the Gospel to the gay and lesbian community, this collection includes administrative files, publications, artifacts, correspondence, and conference materials, shedding light on the church’s activities and its role within the LGBTQ community.

• Personal Rights of Missourians (PROMO) Records (1984–2003): PROMO has been instrumental in advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ Missourians. Their records contain meeting minutes, newsletters, legislative materials, and educational resources, highlighting their efforts in education, political lobbying, and grassroots organization.

This will be a great opportunity for us to learn more about our local LGBTQ+ heritage, engage in meaningful conversations, and enjoy time together as a club. Feel free to bring friends and partners as well!