Title: Sherman Park Rainbow Association Records
Inclusive Dates: 1993-2002

Creator:

• Sherman Park Rainbow Association

Call Number: UWM Manuscript Collection 214

Quantity: .2 cubic ft. (1 box)
Repository:

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries, Archives Department

Archival Location:

UW-Milwaukee Libraries, Archives / Milwaukee Area Research Ctr. (Map)

Abstract:

The Sherman Park Rainbow Association (SPRA) was the first LGBT neighborhood organization in Wisconsin. Information about the formation of the SPRA in 1993 is found in the articles of incorporation, a grant application to the Cream City Foundation, and early newsletters. The newsletters and meeting minutes provide the most comprehensive information about SPRA, although the minutes span only a three-year period. The collection includes scant documentation of SPRA's work with the Sherman Park Community Association and local LGBT organizations. A press release, ca. 2002, describes the end of the organization.

Language: English

URL to cite for this finding aid: http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1711.dl/wiarchives.uw-mil-uwmmss0214

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Formed in 1993, the Sherman Park Rainbow Association (SPRA) was the first LGBT neighborhood organization in Wisconsin. It existed primarily to provide a social network for gays and lesbians living in this West Side Milwaukee neighborhood, although it occasionally became involved in civil rights issues. SPRA held monthly meetings and social events such as picnics, potlucks, and holiday parties. The group worked with other local LGBT organizations, including PrideFest, the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, and the Domestic Partnership Task Force. SPRA also collaborated with its mainstream counterpart, the Sherman Park Community Association (SPCA). SPRA members sat on the SPCA Board of Directors, provided leadership for the Neighborhood Watch and the Neighborhood Housing Survey, and volunteered for ShermanFest. The group dissolved in 2002 due to declining membership participation.

Citation Guide for Primary Sources

• Cream City Foundation Records. UWM Manuscript Collection 205.

• Marilyn R. and Walter J. Johanssen Papers. UWM Manuscript Collection 86.

• Sherman Park Community Association 1992 Oral History Project Records. UWM Manuscript Collection 111.

• Sherman Park Community Association Records. UWM Manuscript Collection 72.

Access Restrictions

There are no access restrictions on the materials, and the collection is open to all members of the public in accordance with state law.

Use Restrictions

The researcher assumes full responsibility for conforming with the laws of libel, privacy, and copyright which may be involved in the use of this collection (Wisconsin Statutes 19.21-19.39).

Acquisition Information

Scott Gunkel donated the collection in June 2004 (accession 2003-098).

Processing Information

Michael Doylen processed the collection at the Archives in August 2004.

Box   1 Folder   1	Articles of Incorporation, 1994
Box   1 Folder   2	Bylaws, 1996
Box   1 Folder   3	Correspondence, 1993-2001, undated
Box   1 Folder   4	Cream City Foundation Grant Application, 1994
Box   1 Folder   5	Directory, 1996
Box   1 Folder   6	Domestic Partnership Task Force, 1997, undated
Box   1 Folder   7	Fliers, 1995, undated
Box   1 Folder   8	Logo Design, undated
Box   1 Folder   9	Meeting Minutes, 1995-1997
Box   1 Folder   10	Membership Cards, 1996-1997
Box   1 Folder   11	Mission Statement, undated
Box   1 Folder   12-20	Newsletters, 1993-2001
Box   1 Folder   21	Press Releases, 2002, undated
Box   1 Folder   22	PrideFest, 1996-2002, undated
Box   1 Folder   23	Survey, 1996-1997, undated
Box   1 Folder   24	Trademark Registrations, 1994