Bathhouses caught on for a sexual and safe place for gay men and in some cases even lesbian clubs, to meet for sex, or otherwise under safe and comfortable conditions. By the 60's and 70's it was common to enter one, have tons of sex, and see a drag queen or performer. They became so popular that Bette Milder actually started her career performing in them with Barry Manilow, where she got dubbed Bathhouse Betty.Then HIV arrived and hit the bathhouses very hard, with most shuttering. Numerous bathhouse were raided in this period and some cities even banned bathhouses entirely. For gay men, the bathhouse has created a sense of community and camaraderie. Things have changed a lot since the 60s and 70s since hook up apps. But I firmly believe nothing like a face to face meeting, and bathhouse are a integral part of the gay culture to this day. I can remember when I was out in my second year, and my two friends took me to DC to the Crew Club. I was in awe, blown away, and felt like I finally belonged with my people. Never mind that I just happened to be naked and having sex three times that night. Since then I have enjoyed visits to bathhouses from time to time, and had just encounters, or orgy groups, or my favorite, the glory hole rooms!!!! The Lad and I have even gone together on occasion.
But don't get me wrong, there also not just about sex. I saw many come to just hang out and talk and watch the video screens, and many now even have bars, so some come just to drink and mingle. Not everybody goes there for sex. Say what you want, but bathhouses are and were a vital part of the gay community for people who might be in the closet or still not quite sure what their sexuality is. It give us yet another safe place to play, and for people to dip their toes into the water without taking the plunge. And who doesn't enjoy some sanctuaries with the mens from time to time? I know I do.
Happy Pride 🌈
