New Book Is a Complete Comprehensive History of Chicago’s Gay Bars
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St Sukie de la Croix’s new book is a complete comprehensive history of Chicago’s gay bars.
His new book, “Last Call Chicago: A History of 1001 LGBTQ-Friendly Taverns, Haunts & Hangouts,” written with Rick Carlin, is just published. Profusely illustrated with 600 photos, period advertisements and clippings — often from otherwise forgotten bars being closed down by the police — the book is an invaluable historical reference and a trip down memory lane for anyone who went to clubs in Chicago.
Chicago didn’t develop its large gay community by accident.
“Illinois became the first state to decriminalize homosexuality in 1961,” he said. “All over the Midwest, obvious gay men, feminine gay men, all moved to Chicago because they thought they were going to be safe here. Throughout the ’60s, there were drag bars everywhere, all over Chicago. There’s an incredible history of cross-dressing.”
Outsiders always bring a keener eye than native-born residents, and de la Croix is no exception.
“Something I’ve discovered about America, and I’ve been here a long time …” he said. “In America, they think if you cover something up, it completely disappears. Not everybody, of course, but like down in Florida. They think, if you don’t say ‘gay,’ it disappears. It’s almost Neanderthal, to think if you don’t see it, it doesn’t exist. I liken it to putting on a corset. It makes your waist look smaller, but it all flops out the top. It all comes out somewhere. You can’t hide these things.”
