Collection context
Summary
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The collection contains photographs of Sylvester taken at a performance at the War Memorial Opera House (San Francisco), March 11, 1979; at an Atlanta AIDS Benefit, January 31, 1983; at his birthday party, September 10, 1983; and two portraits that may have been used for promotional purposes. In addition, there is a press kit for the documentary "Do You Wanna Funk: the Life and Times of Sylvester," and proclamations from San Francisco mayors Dianne Feinstein and Art Agnos regarding celebrations to honor of Sylvester.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Sylvester James, Jr. (September 6, 1947-December 16, 1988), better known as Sylvester, was an American disco and soul singer-songwriter. He lived in San Francisco and performed with the Cockettes in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He was known for his flamboyant and androgynous appearance. He died of AIDS on December 16, 1988.
- Acquisition information:
- The photographs were donated by Monica Wynn, February 2005. The proclamations were donated by Barbara Smookler, May 2011. The provenance of the press kit is unknown.
Indexed terms
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk hours.
- Terms of access:
-
All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items. Copyright retained by photographers.
- Preferred citation:
-
Collection on Sylvester. San Francisco Public Library, James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center
- Location of this collection:
-
San Francisco Public Library100 Larkin StreetSan Francisco, CA 94102, US
- Contact:
- (415) 557-4567