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Finding aid to the Lynn Ludwig Photographs Collection, 1988-1998
GLC 65
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Title: Lynn Ludwig Photographs Collection,
Date (inclusive): 1988-1998
Collection Identifier: GLC 65
Creator:
Ludwig, Lynn
Physical Description:
41 scrapbooks + circa 200 encapsulated photographs in 3 oversized boxes
(25.0 cubic feet)
Contributing Institution:
James C. Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center, San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 557-4567
info@sfpl.org
Abstract: Portraits and informal photographs of gay bears, gay bear events, Ludwig family and events, holidays, Northern California
scenery and locations. There are some flyers included in the albums, as well as attendance name badges.
Language of Materials: Collection materials are in
English.
The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk
hours. Collections that are stored offsite should be requested 48 hours in advance.
Copyright retained by Lynn Ludwig. All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing
to the City Archivist.
[Identification of item], Lynn Ludwig Photographs Collection (GLC 65), Gay and Lesbian Center, San Francisco Public Library.
Donated by Lynn Ludwig, June 2010.
Lynn Ludwig is a gay photographer based in the San Francisco Bay area. His work has centered on documenting the "gay bear"
social scene and many gay events such as the Harrison, Folsom and Castro Street fairs and San Francisco Pride parades.
The subjects of Ludwig's photographs include gay bear events, gay bears, Ludwig family and events, holiday photographs, Northern
California scenery and locations. There are some flyers included in the albums, as well as attendance name badges. In addition,
there are sometimes announcements for weddings or anniversary parties, and obituaries and notices for memorial services. Many
albums record attendees at bear social events which often include annual contests for Mr. San Francisco Bear, hot tubs, swimming
pools, and bars. Many of the swimming photos appear to be taken at Fifes in the Russian River, Guerneville area. Lots of skin,
tattoos, and some albums contain nudity.
Ludwig numbered his early photograph albums. He has chosen to keep some of the early numbered albums, such as "Album 1" because
it contains family photographs. Consequently, the collection contains 41 scrapbooks which begin with Ludwig's "Album 2." There
is a note for each album with an original number.
Arranged by format, then chronologically.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Ludwig, Lynn--Pictorial works
Bears (Gay culture)--California--San Francisco
Fairs--California--San Francisco
Gay men--California--San Francisco--Social life and customs--20th century
Gay men--United States--Portraits