Not just parties: Unraveling Fire Island’s queer history
Fire Island, an LGBTQ+ resort destination, during the summer. Many take residency in second homes or time shares there, and visitors make joyful memories they won’t forget until next time.The thin Atlantic Ocean barrier on the coast of Long Island has sheltered generations of queer culture, split between the neighboring towns of The Pines and Cherry Grove.
You’ll never get as many hellos as when crossing the jungly wooden crosswalks, but it hasn’t always been such an “It Girl” LGBTQ+ destination for speedos, day parties, and, well, all things fun.Before you board the ferry to Fire Island, here’s the historical scoop on your arrival to America’s first gay and lesbian town.New York City is lively year-round, but you won’t find many of the city’s queer locals during summer weekends.
That’s because Fire Island is conveniently located approximately two hours away, taking a train on the Long Island Railroad to a ferry delivering you at the entrance.The heat hits differently in the Concrete Jungle than on miles of beach or in a backyard pool.
There’s nothing quite as exciting as finding your way through the centuries-old maritime forests heading to your first hookup of the season.But aside from the tropical vibes and flaming greenery, the Island welcomes all who enter with one notion: May the gayest person win, even when it was illegal.Cherry Grove was claimed queer since its inception as a beach town in the nineteenth century, which made it revolutionary.
