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Henry Gerber House: A Landmark of LGBTQ+ History

Visit the Henry Gerber House in Chicago's Old Town, a National Historic Landmark and the birthplace of the American LGBTQ+ rights movement.

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The Henry Gerber House in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood stands as a monument to the early LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States. It was home to Henry Gerber, who in 1924 founded the Society for Human Rights, the first chartered gay rights organization in the country.

A brief summary to Henry Gerber House

  • 1704 N Crilly Ct, Chicago, Old Town, Illinois, 60614, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check visiting hours in advance, as they may vary.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Town neighborhood, known for its historic charm, cafes, shops, and parks.
  • Read about Henry Gerber's life and contributions to LGBTQ+ rights before your visit to enhance your experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Red Line to the North/Clybourn station. From there, you can take either the #72 or #73 bus towards the Old Town area. Get off at the intersection of North Ave & Halsted St, and walk about 5 minutes north to N Crilly Ct. The Henry Gerber House is located at 1704 N Crilly Ct. A single ride on the CTA bus or train costs $2.25-$2.50.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of North Avenue and Halsted Street in Chicago's Old Town, walk north on Halsted Street. Turn right onto W Eugenie Street, then turn right again onto N Crilly Ct. Walk down N Crilly Ct, and the Henry Gerber House will be on your left at 1704 N Crilly Ct. This is approximately a 5-minute walk.

  • Car

    From North Avenue, turn onto N Crilly Ct; the Henry Gerber House will be on your left at 1704 N Crilly Ct. Street parking is available, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions. Parking fees vary.

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Discover more about Henry Gerber House

Located in Chicago's charming Old Town neighborhood, the Henry Gerber House is a significant landmark in the history of LGBTQ+ rights. This unassuming brick row house, built in 1885 in the Queen Anne style, was once the residence of Henry Gerber, a German immigrant who became a pioneering advocate for gay rights in the United States. In the mid-1920s, Gerber lived here and established the Society for Human Rights (SHR), the first chartered organization in the U.S. dedicated to advocating for the rights of homosexuals. From this house, Gerber and his fellow activists published 'Friendship and Freedom,' one of the earliest known gay civil rights publications. The organization's mission statement was written here, marking a turning point in the history of homosexuality in the United States. Though short-lived, the SHR's work laid the groundwork for future generations of LGBTQ+ activists. The house itself has undergone several changes throughout its history, reflecting the evolution of the surrounding Old Town neighborhood. Today, the Henry Gerber House serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. While the interior is not always open to the public, the exterior is well worth a visit, and a historical marker in front of the house commemorates Gerber's legacy.

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