William swan gay

William Dorsey Swann (March – c. December 23, ) [2] was an American activist. An African-American born into slavery, Swann was the first person in the United States to lead a gay resistance group and the first known person to self-identify as a "queen of drag". [1][3]. The First Self-Proclaimed Drag Queen Was a Formerly Enslaved Man In the late 19th century, William Dorsey Swann’s private parties attracted unwelcome attention from authorities and the press.

Today, more than a century after William Swann’s last known ball, the houses of the contemporary ballroom scene maintain the same basic format as the House of Swann’s. Queenie Swann, as he was honored by his peers, is one of the first known Black cross-dressers and LGBTQIA activists. He was born William Dorsey Swann in slavery in and was the property of Ann Murray on her plantation in Hancock, Maryland.

This location in Washington County was a convenient route for runaway slaves from Virginia and Maryland to Pennsylvania. Therefore, it is difficult to. The second Pardon Case File I located was P, William D. Swan (NAID ). In this file, the federal record reveals one of the points where Swann makes queer history.

First drag queen in history

The existence of these papers is the first instance where an “American [took] specific legal and political steps to defend the queer community’s right to gather without the threat of criminalization, suppression, or. Swan Broadside. By Elle Warren. These same opponents also had held a secret primary in an attempt to focus all opposition support on one of their candidates.

The April act freed more than 3, enslaved people and drew thousands of Black Americans to Washington, which quickly became a center of Black political, intellectual and cultural life. By Andrea Poteet-Bell. Repository Details. She [ The Palmer Woods Association's Home and Garden Tour on July 26 promises to be more than just a showcase of stunning architecture and manicured landscapes.

He married Margaret P. See www. Ultimately, Cleveland denied the petition. Conditions Governing Access Collections are stored offsite and must be requested in advance. From year. Do I need therapy? Swann was born into slavery in Washington County, Maryland, around Abstract William G. Ever wondered if foster care is for you? He was rushed to the hospital from his St. The court sentenced Swann to days in prison.

Encouraged to work as soon as he was old enough, the young Swann found employment as a hotel waiter. Swann also adopted the title for himself. Held in secret in Washington, D. But … Swann was hiding in plain sight. If we need rules, we are free to make up the rules that we choose. Swan Broadside, MS. Search Collection. Fair Michigan. Not because they aren't old enough to comprehend it, but because I know they do.

In fact the only proof we can ever hope to find is the exact opposite.