This guided walking tour uncovers a hidden chapter of LGBTQ history at the former Men’s Penitentiary on Welfare Island (now Roosevelt Island). Known as the “Fag Ward,” this segregated unit housed those imprisoned for homosexuality—individuals whose lives were criminalized, yet whose resilience gave rise to unexpected beauty and community.
Though now demolished, attendees will walk the prison’s former footprint and hear how inmates labored in the laundry by day and, by night, the “Fag Ward” transformed into a vibrant underground culture—singing, dancing, and rehearsing for an annual Christmas vaudeville and drag pageant.
The tour features artists behind THE GORGEOUS NOTHINGS, an upcoming Off-Broadway musical, alongside a companion podcast series by MAKING GAY HISTORY.
Accessibility
The island is accessible via car, the “F” train, Q102 bus, and tramway. We will travel approximately 1.5 miles on mostly flat, paved terrain – walking the perimeter of the former penitentiary.
Location Information
RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.
guided
Sunday, May 3, 20261:00 PM
1 hour
Borough: Manhattan
Theme: Advocacy, Food & Entertainment, History & Culture
Language: English
