Our archives currently contain very little about the experiences of LGBTQ individuals and groups in the York area. This is something we are actively seeking to rectify, so if you are aware of any organisations or individuals who hold archives that might interest us, or you feel that you might be able to support us in this work, please contact us.
We recognise, though, that some archive collections are best kept in local communities rather than in an archives service, as they support the creation of a sense of place and community identity. If you are looking for advice on how to create your own archive, or how to preserve what you currently have for future generations, please have a look at our advice for community groups or get in touch. We’ll be happy to support in any way we can.
If you are interested in researching LGBTQ history in the UK, the best place to start is with the recently-produced National Archives (UK) webinars on Hidden Love, and Queer Club Culture in London, 1918-1967. Hidden Love is designed as an introduction to the types of records you can find in The National Archives collections, in the form of six case studies. Queer Club Culture in London, produced as part of The National Archives ‘What’s Online’ webinar series, looks at some of the clandestine LGBTQ venues in London, and those that attended them, through police records, photographs, court reports and witness statements.
For more in-depth research, there is also The National Archives (UK) research guide to sexuality and gender identity history, available on their website. Please do be aware that many of the terms required to search the archive collections successfully are now deemed offensive, but they were in common use at the time. More information on this can be found in the guide. You may also wish to consult the University of York’s Borthwick Institute guide to LGBT history in their records.