Shawn Sprockett

Join us for a lecture on San Francisco’s original “gayborhood,” North Beach. Before the Castro, Pride, or the Rainbow Flag, the beginnings of modern queer identity and activism was formed in the old Barbary Coast. Learn how movements are made as folks across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum found commonality under threat of police raids and surges of moral panic. We’ll revive more than a dozen lost queer bars, including some of the most infamous, the most star-studded, and the most radical bars in San Francisco history. See how the “unspeakable vice” of the Victorians found its place and, through the process, gained a voice.

Shawn Sprockett is a designer and entrepreneur in visual and emerging design. His practice has spanned 16 years of transition from IBM to Airbnb. He is a passionate observer of local history and in 2018 created the “Queer North Beach (Gay SF Before the Castro)” walking tour.

Doors open at 5:45 PM for socializing and snacks; Presentations begin at 6:30.

* REGISTRATION FOR PROGRAM *

* To reserve your spot as an SFHS member please CLICK HERE.
* To purchase a non-member ticket ($10, free for 13 and under) please CLICK HERE.
* View online live stream during the event on YouTube: CLICK HERE TO WATCH STREAM.