Remembering Shelly’s Leg: Vitally Proud Space in Seattle’s Queer Herstory

Overviews
Written By Nisha Karanam

Shelly’s Leg (1973-1977) was Seattle’s first openly gay bar and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. The popular nightclub got its start in a rather unique way. Shelly Bauman, the founder of Shelly’s Leg, lost her left leg in a parade accident in the early ‘70s. She used the money from her settlement to open the nightclub in 1973. Bauman chose to create something that was groundbreaking for its time. Her decision to open the club was about more than just business; it was about creating a community.

Nisha Karanam

(she/her) Nisha is an avid storyteller who thrives on exploring the intersection of language and creativity. A graduate of San Diego State University with a B.A. in English and Comparative Literature, she is deeply passionate about writing and all forms of artistic expression. Her enthusiasm lies in pushing boundaries and crafting unique narratives that challenge conventions. Whether through prose, poetry, or other artistic mediums, Nisha is dedicated to the art of storytelling and its power to connect and inspire.

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