Drafts, correspondence, journal articles, notes, newspaper clippings, surveys, legal documents, memoranda, transcripts, speeches, course curricula, subject files, ephemera, photos, and an audiocassette tape created or collected by sociologist and Episcopalian priest, Laud Humphreys, who is best known for his book, Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places--the first publication to examine the social and sexual behaviors of men who perform sex acts with other men in public restrooms. The majority of the collection consists of manuscripts, correspondence, lecture material, surveys, journal articles and newspaper clippings relating to Humphreys' career--from his doctoral work in 1968 until his death in 1988--and research in the field of sociology and, more specifically, homosexuality and criminology. The collection also contains personal papers including correspondence, documents and clippings related to his experience as an Episcopalian priest from 1955 to 1965, an altercation with a professor at Washington University in 1968, and his trial and subsequent imprisonment for an antiwar demonstration in Illinois in 1970.

Born on October 16, 1930 in Oklahoma, Robert Allan (Laud) Humphreys is a pioneer researcher in the study of homosexual behavior, combining academic study with political activism.

6.6 Linear Feet 14 archive cartons, 1 archive flat box

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).

The collection is open to researchers. There are no access restrictions.