Description
Recollections and other autobiographical materials by Fred Boydell (1906-1987), recounting his experiences growing up gay
in Scotland, his emigration to California in 1969, and his life as an older gay man in Hollywood.
Background
Fred Boydell was born in Scotland on September 9, 1906, the son of a dairy farmer. His father died when Boydell was thirteen,
and he was apprenticed to a manufacturer. He eventually settled near Glasgow. Although he realized he was gay before his teens,
he married in his 30s; his wife, who was aware of his sexual orientation, died after approximately ten years, leaving a young
daughter. In 1969, facing mandatory retirement, Boydell accepted the invitation of a friend, an antiques dealer in Los Angeles,
to move to California and help him run the business. In Los Angeles, he became involved with the Society of Pat Rocco Enlightened
Enthusiasts (SPREE). He later volunteered his services with ONE, Inc. He died in Los Angeles in February 1987.
Restrictions
Researchers wishing to publish materials must obtain permission in writing from ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives as the
physical owner. Researchers must also obtain clearance from the holder(s) of any copyrights in the materials. Note that ONE
National Gay and Lesbian Archives can grant copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold the copyright.
It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for all other materials directly from the copyright
holder(s).