Description
Collection contains approximately 6,000 photographs pertaining to the run and publication of The Tenderloin Times, a free
monthly newspaper published in the Tenderloin, San Francisco, 1977 – 1994, by the Hospitality House. The photographs in the
collection begin in December 1981 and end in November 1993. Photographs document cultural activities, Tenderloin residents,
local politicians campaigning, protests, AIDS activism, homelessness and advocacy. Also included are publicity photographs
sent by theater groups, music performers and dance troupes.
Background
The Tenderloin Times was published by the Central City Hospitality House and considered the "Voice of the Central City since
1977." Started by several shelter residents, the then two-page newsletter began with a promise: "To publish news that directly
affects the residents of this area." Meanwhile, it emphasized its autonomy from its funder, Hospitality House. From the start,
the Times worked in an activist tradition. As years progressed, the text of the newspaper was published in English, Cambodian,
Lao and Vietnamese. It won numerous awards, including one from the Smithsonian in 1991 for innovative use of computers and
Media Alliance's Meritorious Achievement Award for Community Journalism in 1983. Over the years, editors of the newspaper
included Rob Waters, Sara Colm, Julie Scheff, and Josh Brandon.
Extent
5 cartons, 1 box
(5.5 Cubic Feet)
Restrictions
All requests for permission to publish from photographs must be submitted in writing to the Photo Curator. Permission for
publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.
Availability
The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center's Photo Desk hours. Collections that are stored offsite
should be requested 48 hours in advance.