Boston's Historic Gay Bathhouses and Cold Water Swimmers: A Tale of Community and Change

Boston's vibrant history is etched not only in its iconic landmarks but also in the lesser-known spaces that fostered community and celebrated unique traditions. While the city is renowned for its revolutionary spirit and academic prowess, delve deeper, and you'll uncover stories of resilience, social evolution, and enduring communal bonds, like those found within the city's historical bathhouse scene and the dedicated L Street Brownies.

The Enduring Spirit of the L Street Brownies

For generations, an extraordinary ritual has unfolded on the shores of Dorchester Bay, marking the New Year with a defiant plunge into the frigid waters. This isn't just a fleeting tradition; it's a testament to the unwavering commitment of the L Street Brownies, the second oldest cold-water swimming club in the United States. Their story, some accounts trace back to the late 19th century, is deeply intertwined with the immigrant communities who brought with them the belief that alternating cold water immersion with heat, like saunas or steam baths, was a powerful elixir for health and vitality. Many of today's Brownies confidently attribute their robust immune systems to this invigorating practice.

The club officially organized in 1910, drawing its name from the very beach where they gather - L Street Beach - and the characteristic sun-kissed, nut-brown hue many members develop from their daily exposure to the elements. This dedication is palpable; the most committed members brave the icy waters every single day of the year. The centennial celebration in 2000 saw an impressive turnout, with both men and women taking the icy plunge into Boston Harbor, followed by the faithful return of some 40 members the next day to continue their cherished ritual.

The L Street Bathhouse, a historic structure serving these hardy swimmers, has itself witnessed significant transformations. Once a vital community hub, its journey reflects broader societal shifts. During Mayor Kevin White's administration in the 1970s, half of the building was repurposed for temporary high school classrooms. Though initially promised a swift return, the space eventually housed municipal offices, leading to a period of disrepair and vandalism. A proposal in the early 1980s to close the facility sparked significant public outcry, including a passionate protest by the Brownies, ultimately saving the bathhouse. Women within the community then spearheaded a determined four-year campaign to reclaim their portion of the building. Under Mayor Raymond Flynn, the entire structure underwent a vital renovation, re-emerging as a modern fitness center, a testament to the community's advocacy.

Navigating the Evolution of St. Marks Baths

Shifting our focus across the Atlantic, though not geographically, to the narrative of another significant communal space, we examine the history of St. Marks Baths in New York City. Opening its doors around 1900, St. Marks Baths initially served the local immigrant community by day. However, by the 1960s, its identity evolved, becoming a late-night haven for gay men. The 1970s marked a pivotal shift as it transformed into an exclusively gay bathhouse. While early accounts describe it as less than pristine, a significant turning point occurred when entrepreneur Jack Mailman acquired and completely refurbished the establishment in the late 1970s.

Mailman's vision was to create a welcoming and stylish environment. He transformed the interior into a sleek, modern space, aiming to provide a comfortable atmosphere where patrons wouldn't feel embarrassed about signing in under their legal names. The refurbished St. Marks Baths operated 24/7, spread across three floors. It boasted an admissions desk framed by brass cages, a nod to its former life as a bank. Patrons could enjoy a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, communal showers, and a large communal area conducive to anonymous encounters. The upper floors featured rentable cubicles, each equipped with a platform bed, a small table, and amber-tinted wall lamps, designed to flatter patrons' appearances. A cafe within the establishment even provided employment for notable figures like Vito Russo and became a regular haunt for artist Keith Haring.

With its updated design and convenient location, St. Marks Baths surged in popularity, particularly attracting a predominantly white, middle to upper-class gay male clientele. It became a sought-after destination for those seeking relaxation and connection after nights out at nearby clubs like Flamingo or 12 West. Mailman's influence extended beyond St. Marks; he later opened "The Saint," a successful gay club named in homage to the Baths, just a short walk away.

The Impact of the AIDS Epidemic and Changing Times

The advent of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s cast a long shadow over spaces like St. Marks Baths. As understanding of HIV transmission grew, concerns mounted that such environments, facilitating close physical contact, inadvertently contributed to the virus's spread. Public and private pressure mounted on Mailman to close the Baths. Despite staff advice to shut down, Mailman initially resisted, maintaining operations. The Baths had, in fact, never closed since its inception.

In an effort to bolster profitability, The Saint began admitting straight patrons on Fridays. However, by May 1987, the club's closure, due to a dwindling core audience of white gay men, signaled a significant shift. Shortly after Jack Mailman's passing, the building housing St. Marks Baths was sold and eventually repurposed by a video chain store, marking the end of an era for this historic gay venue.

Boston's Contemporary Scene: A Glimpse

While the historical context of places like the L Street Bathhouse and St. Marks Baths highlights a different era, Boston's contemporary scene offers its own set of experiences for those seeking similar social environments. Exploring establishments like Dillon's Russian Steam in Chelsea, which is noted for a clientele that includes a significant number of gay men, or discovering other steam rooms and saunas, reflects an ongoing need for these communal spaces. Listings for "Boston best gay bathhouses & cruising bars" with updated opening hours, reviews, and maps indicate a continuing, albeit evolving, demand for such venues within the city.

The journey from the communal warmth of the L Street Brownies and the evolving identity of St. Marks Baths to today's more nuanced offerings speaks volumes about community adaptation, societal change, and the enduring human desire for connection and shared experience. These stories, woven into the fabric of Boston's past and present, offer a compelling glimpse into the diverse tapestry of its social history.