Archives Programs & Projects
The Center announced in June that it will put our building up for sale and seek a new home. Beginning the week of September 29, 2025, the Archives will be closed to all researchers and visitors so that we may prepare our collections for this eventual move. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Archives in the future. Please email archives@waygay.org with any questions or to discuss potential donations.
We produce an array of programming and projects that further the mission of the Archives and the Center. For more information about any of these initiatives please email us at archives@waygay.org.
The Gay History Wiki
A site developed by Center Director Chris Bartlett, the Gay History Wiki aims to collect the life stories of Philadelphia men who since 1981 have died following complications to their battles with AIDS/HIV and the friends and places who helped develop one of the country’s richest LGBT traditions since the 1960s.
Pennsylvania LGBT History Network
The PA LGBT History Network engages people in discovering Pennsylvania’s LGBTQ+ history, historic sites, history projects, artifacts and archival collections, and facilitates collaboration between the organizations, institutions and individuals that provide stewardship of this heritage. Become a part of the Network on Facebook, or join our Google Group.
Philadelphia AIDS Oral History Project
The Philadelphia AIDS Oral History Project is a collaboration led by the Wilcox Archives and a Community Advisory Committee in partnership with the AIDS Library of Philadelphia (Philadelphia FIGHT), the Dornsife School of Public Health at Drexel University, and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. It strives to collect the individual experiences of people with HIV/AIDS as well as those who were first responders in developing support and services during the early years of the epidemic. Emphasis is placed on those whose stories have traditionally not been heard.
Philadelphia LGBTQ History Group
The Philadelphia LGBTQ History Group is sponsored by the Wilcox Archives for Philadelphia-area researchers, writers, educators and those with an interest in LGBTQ history. We meet approximately once a month to share work in progress, discuss issues, and learn from one another. Join our Google Group to learn about meeting dates and upcoming topics.
Philly LGBT Mapping Project
A project developed by Archives Curator Bob Skiba, the Philly LGBT Mapping Project identifies over 1,000 places in the greater Philadelphia area of importance to LGBTQ history and culture.