LYNN — Filmmaker and award-winning historian Jim Moser has announced the release of “Queer Heroes of the North Shore: Four Centuries of Love, Rebellion and Survival,” a groundbreaking new book published by Deer Hill Press that reclaims the forgotten, sanitized, and straight-washed histories of Essex County.
To celebrate the release, Moser will host a free public talk and book launch on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Lynn Museum and Arts Center.
The fast-paced, emotionally resonant presentation will take attendees on a 400-year journey, revealing the hidden sanctuaries, fierce activism, and astonishing lives of people who fought to live authentically. Profiling over 130 queer heroes — including historical figures, community leaders, and everyday people — the book features incredible local stories from Lynn, Gloucester, Newburyport, Lawrence, Topsfield, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Swampscott, Rockport, Haverhill, Essex, and Salem.
The May 9 talk will highlight the local roots of iconic figures, including:
Henry Davis Sleeper, the brilliant interior designer who built a glittering sanctuary on Eastern Point.
John Hays Hammond Jr., America’s most prolific queer scientist and inventor.
Leonard Bernstein, the legendary musical genius born in Lawrence.
Fran Dalton, who courageously broke gender molds to live an independent, authentic life in Newburyport.
Pat Gozemba, a fierce activist and archivist who helped ensure the community’s stories would not be forgotten.
Governor Maura Healey, who shattered the lavender ceiling and has deep family roots in Essex County.
“Queer people have always been on the North Shore—more numerous, more resilient, and more extraordinary than the history books have allowed us to know,” says Moser. “This event is about looking at those who were brave enough to be themselves in the face of crushing societal expectations. In the current climate, we need to preserve our stories so that they are not erased. I wrote this book so that young people can connect with their queer ancestry and know that they belong.”
Following the presentation, there will be an audience Q&A session and a book signing. Copies of Queer Heroes of the North Shore will be available for purchase.
Suggested Interview Topics & Media Angles:
Jim Moser is available for interviews and can speak dynamically on:
Uncovering “Straight-Washed” History: The archival process of finding queer joy, rebellion, and survival hidden in Essex County’s historical records.
The Definition of a Queer Hero: Why the book includes not just those who identified as LGBTQ+, but women who denounced patriarchy and people who defied a strict gender binary centuries ago.
The Urgency of Preservation: Why documenting local LGBTQ+ history is a necessary act of preservation in today’s political climate.
Event Details:
What: Book Launch & Public Talk: Queer Heroes of the North Shore
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – noon
Where: The Lynn Museum and Arts Center, 590 Washington St., Lynn, MA
Admission: Free and open to the public.
For more information about the book, the author, or to RSVP, please visit: https://queerheroesnorthshore.my.canva.site/
Eventbrite:
