Description
The collection documents the personal and professional interests of Harry Hay and his partner John Burnside. Of particular
note are the materials on the Mattachine Society, the Radical Faeries, anti-draft activities, berdache and Native American
culture, music, and California Kaleidoscopes. In addition, the series of writings and speeches includes work by Hay, Burnside
and Will Roscoe, among others.
Background
Harry Hay (1912-2002) was a political activist, labor advocate, and teacher. He was a founder of several homophile organizations:
the Mattachine Society, the Circle of Loving Companions, and the Radical Faeries. Hay's interests also included anti-draft
activities, the Communist Party, Native American culture and berdache (two-spirit people), and music. Hay's life partner John
Burnside (1916-2008) was an inventor and a gay activist. Burnside invented the teleidoscope and the Symmetricon, and created
the business California Kaleidoscopes, Inc. He was also a co-founder of the Circle of Loving Companions and the Radical Faeries.
Extent
80 cubic feet (50 cartons + 33 oversized boxes)
Restrictions
Copyright and literary rights are held by The San Francisco Public Library. All requests for permission to publish or quote
from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist.
Availability
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. The Hay additions in boxes 67-80 are closed
to research until processed.