Queering the Redneck Riviera: Sexuality and the Rise of Florida Tourism

Discover the untold stories of gay men and lesbians in North Florida in Queering the Redneck Riviera: Sexuality and the Rise of Florida Tourism. In this eye-opening book, Jerry Watkins dives into the forgotten history of the LGBTQ community in a region often overlooked. From the challenges they faced to the crucial role they played in transforming the Emerald Coast into a prominent tourist destination, Watkins uncovers a narrative that has long been erased.

At a time when Florida was selling itself as a "family-friendly" paradise, queer individuals were forced to navigate their identities in a society plagued by moral panic and repression. Watkins delves into this period, drawing from an array of sources, including newspaper articles, advertising campaigns, oral histories, and government documents. Through these, he uncovers the resilience and tenacity of queer life during this era.

Transportation improvements following World War II meant queer individuals could access safe spaces to socialize, leading to the emergence of gay and lesbian beach parties, bars, and friendship networks that spanned the South. Watkins's meticulous research reveals a community that not only helped boost Florida's tourist economy but also established a visible LGBTQ presence in the Sunshine State, defying conservative morality.

With rare photos from the Emma Jones Society, a bold Pensacola-based group that hosted gatherings and conventions in public places, Queering the Redneck Riviera offers a fresh perspective on the relationships between sexuality, capitalism, and conservative values in the latter half of the twentieth century. Don't miss out on this captivating journey that challenges prevailing narratives and sheds light on a hidden aspect of Florida's history.

Explore Queering the Redneck Riviera now and uncover the unspoken stories of LGBTQ individuals who defied societal norms and paved the way for change in the Sunshine State.