Memory-Sharing Meetup at the former Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop

Did you shop at the Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop (at either location!)? We’re sounding a “call for memories” from former customers and supporters with an informal memory-sharing meetup and recording session outside the former location of what was the second location of the trailblazing bookstore. All are invited to meet Project manager Amanda Davis and our communications team outside 15 Christopher Street where we’ll record (lo-fi on iPhones) your recollections of this important community space. Swing by for 10 minutes, say hi, share your story!

In 1973, Craig Rodwell moved his Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop, the first gay and lesbian bookstore on the East Coast (and the first of its kind in the nation to operate long term), from its original home on Mercer Street to a prominent location on Christopher Street, near the center of New York City’s gay life. The shop, which also served as a vital community center, occupied this site for over 35 years.