Our Queer History

A TIMELINE

In 2021, we created a history installation for our annual festival to show others just how much queer history is right here in northwest Louisiana. We've found that many people, especially young people, have no idea what has been cultivated right in our own backyard. This timeline includes a variety of information spanning from the 1940s to today. We've also included a few deaths that have impacted our community, especially our trans community. Please know we have worked diligently to report the most accurate facts about OUR QUEER HISTORY and invite others to share their photos and stories by emailing us at queerport@gmail.com.

1944 - Louisiana Coffee Shop (The Korner Lounge)

This little corner cafe opened in the 1920s and some time in the 1950s became The Korner Lounge, an LGBTQ+ bar. The bar is still open and is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ bars in the country. This bar hosts drag shows the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month, as well as hosting a monthly leather night.

1960s - The Elbow Room

Little is known about this bar, but sources say it was opened in the early 1960s just a block away from The Korner Lounge. It was located catty-corner to The Strand Theatre, though it was eventually demolished.