Get ready for a provocative and playful journey into the naughtier side of queer history! We’re excited to present “Smut Share,” an 18+ after-hours event that brings together two powerhouse queer archives from Eastern and Western Massachusetts. The History Project and Sexual Minorities Archives are teaming up for a one-of-a-kind, adults-only exploration of the more risqué and lesser-seen items from our collections.

This isn’t your typical history lesson! Join us as we uncover and celebrate the erotic, the taboo, and the beautifully bold artifacts that have shaped LGBTQ+ history. From vintage pornographic materials to scandalous love letters and everything in between, we’ll dive into the stories and secrets that these items hold, shining a light on the complexities of queer desire across time.

What to Expect:

• Curated Selections: Our archivists from The History Project and Sexual Minorities Archives have handpicked a tantalizing array of items to share, each with its own unique backstory.

• Engaging Discussions: We’ll delve into the historical context of these artifacts, discussing how they reflect and resist the social norms of their times. Expect to learn, laugh, and maybe even blush a little!

• Q&A Session: Have burning questions? We’ll wrap up with an open Q&A, where you can ask our archivists anything about the items we’ve shared or about the process of preserving such unique and delicate materials.

• Community Connection: This is a rare chance to connect with like-minded folks who share an interest in queer history and erotica. Whether you’re an archive enthusiast, a history buff, or just curious, all are welcome to join the conversation.

Who Should Attend?

This event is open to all genders and identities, but you must be 18+ to attend. Whether you’re new to queer history or a seasoned expert, “Smut Share” offers something for everyone who appreciates the richness of LGBTQ+ culture.

Why Attend?

“Smut Share” isn’t just an opportunity to peek behind the curtain of queer history—it’s a celebration of the diversity of LGBTQ+ experiences and desires. By participating, you’re supporting the preservation and exploration of these vital stories, ensuring they continue to inspire and educate future generations.

Don’t miss out on this unique and engaging event. Register now and get ready for a night of historical smut, stimulating conversation, and community connection!

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The Sexual Minorities Archives (SMA) is a project of the Sexual Minorities Educational Foundation (SMEF), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The SMA is one of the oldest and largest archival collections of LGBTQIA+ books, historical documents, media, art, textiles, and artifacts in the world. We operate out of a converted victorian known to us as “The Pink Lady” in Holyoke — right in the heart of Western Massachusetts.

The Pink Lady is home to treasures such as Out Books On Wheels (a grassroots mobile free lending library of Queer and Trans books), the Leslie Feinberg Research Library (a collection of 1,250 books which belonged to late author and activist Leslie Feinberg’s personal collection), and an extensive and authoritative archival collection of western Massachusetts (especially Northampton’s) long history of LGBQTIA+ resistance, excellence, and love.

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This event is free and open to the public.

RSVP on Eventbrite, link to the Zoom will be sent out the day of the event. Email info@historyproject.org with any questions. For security purposes, Zoom meetings require an authenticated Zoom account, so please be sure to register with Zoom prior to the event.

Any (optional) donations made support The History Project's mission to document, preserve, and share LGBTQ history and will be split with The Sexual Minorities Archives. Thank you for your support!