Registration

• Admission for this tour is $30. Members receive exclusive discounts on our programs and courses. Not a member? Learn more.

• Please check your spam folder for your email confirmation. If you have questions, please call (215) 732-1600 or email rsvp@rosenbach.org.

• Registration opens for Delancey Society members on Friday, March 14, for Rosenbach members on Friday, March 21, and for the general public on Friday, March 28. Registration opens at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Description

For many centuries, Queer people have faced marginalization by mainstream society. Yet their obstacles have also given them unique perspectives on the human experience and inspired important contributions to art, literature, and politics. In this tour, we will meet Queer people from history and consider how their diverse identities shaped their lives and informed their work. This program features several important items from the Rosenbach’s collection including a letter documenting a historic meeting of Oscar Wilde and Walt Whitman in Camden, New Jersey, where the two shared a kiss; romantic love letters exchanged by the legendary film actress Marlene Dietrich and the playwright Mercedes de Acosta; and page through Acosta’s personal Bible (which doubled as her scrapbook devoted to the elusive actress Greta Garbo). We will also examine rare books and manuscripts illuminating the lives of Harlem Renaissance figures Langston Hughes and Philadelphian, Alain LeRoy Locke, and view a commonplace book that once belonged to the Chevalier d’Éon, an influential nonbinary person who was a soldier, courtier, and spy. The tour will conclude with a consideration of what comes next in the movement to win full acceptance for Queer people and how LGBTQ+ rights intersect with other issues, including racial justice.   

Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month with the Rosenbach as we reveal the often-hidden but always-fascinating history of Queer people! 

Would you like to learn more about lesbian playwright Mercedes de Acosta? Listen to episode 28 of The Rosenbach Podcast:  Episode 28 | “Here Lies the Heart”: The Passionate Life, Rebellious Love, and Remarkable Romances of Mercedes De Acosta — The Rosenbach Museum & Library 

Behind the Bookcase: Hands-on Tours at The Rosenbach

Behind the Bookcase: Hands-on Tours offer unparalleled access to see, and even touch, rare and important items not usually on view to the public. Each program is dedicated to a different author, theme, or topic and grants a truly hands-on experience with materials in The Rosenbach’s inspiring collection.

See all upcoming tours here. Space is limited and advance registration is strongly recommended.