Vintage Gay Media History

International Male Retro Fashions!

2012-02-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

UnderGear Art

2012-01-31T19:26:00.000-08:00

Undergear Monster 1993
By Rob Clarke, who includes a wide variety of artistic inspirations in his wonderful world of male erotica. According to the link to his site (below), part of his inspiration for the upper body of some of these phallic men was from a photo that the artist found in an Undergear catalog. Rob Clarke Serpent

International Male (part three)

2012-01-30T17:02:00.000-08:00

In 1977 the first International Male store opened in San Diego (at 2802 Midway Drive). Just a year later in 1978, a second store in West Hollywood was started (at 9000 Santa Monica Blvd). Meanwhile their mail order catalogs were chock-full of hansome men in sexy clothing and became a mainstay for gay audiences everywhere, offering "a distinctive look for fashion-conscious men" of the era. Simply put, their catalogs were a great place to look at men in underwear--including very skimpy shorts. Almost a decade before the big brands joined the fashion underwear marketplace, International Male was offering every conceivable style and color of cock holders, complete with lace-up bikinis, leopard prints, mesh knits, and more. The founder of the company (who had created the original Jock Sock) retired in 1987 and sold it to Hanover House. It's reported that their last paper catalog went out in 2007. The company still operates a thriving business on the internet.

Brent Cross

2012-01-28T21:16:00.000-08:00

Brent Cross earned a name for himself in the 1990s, thanks in large part to his wonderfully thick love tool. Brent performed in many films (as in dozens of them). His cleancut appearance was a nice contrast to how naughty he could be in action. His movies were varied, with films like Dirty White Guys to Men in Blue and Rope Tricks. Born in 1975, he appears to have retired from the business sometime around 1999. It's reported that he also used the stage names Brant Cross and Hunter Cross. Brent Cross also happens to be the name of a large mall outside of London.

Modern Origins of Sexy Male Underwear (part two)

2012-01-27T23:15:00.000-08:00

Today the marketing world of male fashion underwear is pretty much taken for granted. Models like Steven Dehler (above) certainly are pleasing to the eye and offer an ideal of what underwear could look like if we all had the great physique of Steven. These days, sexy ball keepers are available (3 to a pack) at malls, discount stores and the internet. But once upon a time, if you wanted more than the bland white basics in men's skivvies you were pretty much limited to speciality mail order, and both gay and straight men with the balls to wear them clipped their order coupons and sent away, which is where we resume our story in the early 1970s.

The Jock Sock. Even the name implied rugged athletics. By virtue of its design, the sock was totally male and as the ads proclaimed, "ideal for daily wear or beach and sports". In reality, it probably didn't offer the needed support for sports more strenuous than perhaps ping pong, but that was okay. Ads for the Jock Sock appeared in straight men's magazines such as Esquire, Oui, and Penthouse as well as gay publications and those somewhere in-between like After Dark. The ad below appeared in After Dark magazine's June 1972 issue:

But who could have ever guessed that a 1978 movie would generate a college campus fad for Jock Socks? Virtually unheard of before the movie Animal House was released, outrageous toga parties quickly became the expected norm in colleges all over America once the movie became a smash hit. In groups of two, three or more, fraternity studs and sporting teammates (always the popular guys on campus) alike began wearing Jock Socks under their togas with the full intention of disrobing before the night was finished. On its surface, strutting about a party wearing only a sock over your penis and balls was just a risqué party joke of youth, since nothing more scandalous than a naked beefy ass and a fabric pouch were actually being displayed. As the kegs emptied and toga sheets eventually fell off and onto soggy shag-carpeted floors, sorority girls no doubt were titillated enough at the beefcake spectacle to surrender some pink. And once again, straight society had provided an acceptable way for (at least presumably) straight men to act like sexual objects of desire with one another, while totally ignoring the homoerotic aspect of being drunk and almost naked (with your equally buff and also almost naked buddies) at 2 AM. Guys without the luxury of frat cash to send away for an official Jock Sock improvised --that smelly tube sock from your gym bag, slipped over your private jewels, had the same effect for free--and someone (male or female) was in your bed before the night was over, too.

The company that created the Jock Sock also had another mail order hit on its hands: Years before mainstream markets targeted men's fashion underwear in the 1980s with famous sporting stars-- a little catalog called International Male was being mailed all over the world. The company that knew how to market the Jock Sock to both gay and straight men (but mostly gay) would use the same strategy for many more clothing products. Please stay tuned for part three of this series this coming Monday.

story copyright VGMH 2012.

The Jock Sock (part one)

2012-01-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

Before there were famous sportsmen pitching "fashion" underwear for mainstream audiences in the early 1980s, there was another company that had already established a name for itself for selling sexy men's undies. If you were a young man in the 1970s who happened to read any number of adult men's publications (including both gay and straight magazines), then there's a good chance you probably saw an advertisement for the Jock Sock. It was the product of a company called International Male, which was a mail-order specialty retailer that has existed (in one form or another) since the 1970s. It's reported that the clothing line was originally created by Gene Burkard, a former advertising copywriter at the Milwaukee Journal. Gene had the very innovative idea to market a unique version of men's under shorts through the mail (called the Jock Sock) back in 1971. Nearly a decade ahead of the mainstream men's "fashion underwear" blitz, the Jock Sock was marketing genius--even the name sounded athletic and masculine. And talk about freedom--this underwear had no seat or leg straps and offered a stretch nylon pouch, understanding that men are in various states of arousal throughout the day. It was available in colors and fish net styles. And as we'll take a look at in part two, it was popular with both gay and straight men who mailed away for a pair.

Object of Desire: Jim Palmer's Sexy Underwear Ads

2012-01-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

He was handsome, down to earth, hairy and lean. Jim Palmer was (and remains) one of the best pitchers in major-league baseball history. And starting in the early 1980s, Jim became very famous as a spokesman and underwear model for Jockey shorts. His toned and naturally hairy physique appeared in the company's national magazine and television ads, as well as on billboards at locations like Times Square. There was even an underwear poster (please see below). The marketing message was very direct: "Jim Palmer, Star for the Baltimore Oriloes, wears Elance briefs."

And what to do about those men who thought that the skimpy 'bikini' was too-feminine looking (and tight-fitting) for their macho undergear? Simple--Keep the no-fly bikini style but give it a new name! Among serveral brands, the men's 'bikini' evolved into being known as 'sports' briefs. Jockey's Elance briefs were billed as having "European styling for maximum comfort and freedom" while maintaining "minimum coverage". If the ads did nothing else, they offered up a whole lot of sexual appeal for women and gay men alike. For lots of young dudes, the male Sears catalog underwear models now had new competition when it came to get busy in the bedroom or bathroom.

In an interview, Jim described: “It was Steve Garvey, Jo Jo White, Marques Johnson of the Bucks. Pete Rose was supposed to be there but he missed his flight. I had the briefest underwear on — the bikini underwear — and they threw me a [baseball] glove so I’d feel comfortable.” It's reported that he donated all of the proceeds from the sale of his underwear poster to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Straight Jim Palmer is the only pitcher to win World Series games in three decades, as he earned victories for the Orioles in the 1966, '70, '71 and '83 Fall Classics. And thanks to his underwear ads, he has also earned a special place in the memories of countless gay men.

Retro Penis Fashions

2012-01-24T18:11:00.000-08:00

The above advertisement came out in 1976 featuring male sports stars posing in untraditional appearing men's undergarments. Marketing men figured that the best way to convince everyday guys that wearing bright red, shocking yellow or even fish net underwear was 'cool and masculine' was to feature jock stars (men like Steve Garvey, Vic Hadfield, Lou Brock, Fred Dryer, Craig Morton, Terry Metcalf, Ed Marinaro, and Jim McMillian) wearing them in full-color advertisements. Compared to today's underwear ads, these look tame. But back then the ads were noticed. They were collected. No doubt lots of people did lots of things while looking at the men in their shorts. Today, a vintage Jockey (good-condition) ad page sells somewhere between $7 - $15.

But in addition to different colors, there were also fresh new styles of shorts in comparison to the traditional brief or boxer. Thigh-high cut shorts, pouches without a fly, and bikinis (also known in slang as banana hammocks) were pushed. The new phrase for these products became "men's fashion underwear" and the promotions worked well with mainstream men--well sorta. Many guys went for the basic primary colors and prints (compared to their traditional white shorts), but unlike women, many men refused to put fashion over comfort, especially when it came to trying to fit all of their man junk into skimpy bikini pouches that didn't allow much room for moving or expansion throughout a busy day. In the 1980s a research group for one advertising agency discovered that men, aged over 24 in their focus group, viewed the name "bikini" as having a feminine connotation to it...something that was easily fixed in future years. Please stay tuned for part two.

Tom 1989

2012-01-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we enjoyed Tom's debut in Playgirl magazine's January 1977 issue. He would return in October 1989 looking very fashionable for the times...just take a look at those neon clothes and smooth body! This issue featured actor Greg Evigan on the cover and begining on page 66, their Weekend Warrior pictorial.

Hairy January 1977

2012-01-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

Hairy (and sometimes very machismo-opinionated) Hollywood actor James Caan graced the cover of the January 1977 issue of Playgirl. For just $1.75 it was packed with lots and lots of goodies inside! This was a time when the magazine was still trying to copy the successful Playboy and Penthouse model of offering a mixture of investigative news stories, celebrity interviews and nudity--reflecting their motto of being well-rounded "Entertainment for Women"--only for some reason the format never really worked as well as it did with the adult men's magazines. In addition to an article about 'faking sex' in films, there was a story on the exploitation of women piece-workers. As far as their nude male offerings went, their discovery gent for the month was bull fighter Bill Lucidi and their centerfold stud was a fur-covered Tom Gagen, beginning on page 65 (photographed by Norbert Jobst). Handsome Peter Scott was also featured. Looking forward, it's interesting to note that James Caan would be on the cover of their March 1980 issue and Tom Gagen would appear in the October 1989 issue.

Super-jock Tom Gagen was selected to be a finalist in the Playgirl Natural Man contest which was held in Los Anegeles in the fall of 1977. According to the brief story that went along with his photo spread, Tom was 28 at the time of posing, he liked his new VW (with sunroof), seafood, reading, antiques, and Marin County (where he lived).

Dashing Reynaldo Hahn

2012-01-20T19:18:00.000-08:00

By the age of 19 in 1894, dashing Reynaldo Hahn seemed to have it all...handsome, self-confident, smart and talented. Only there was something that he knew about himself that didn't fit into his own ideal of the perfect man...he way gay. To be fair, he was still a teenager and living in a world where political powers were changing and being gay was quickly becoming a negative religious tool (the scandal and disgrace of Oscar Wilde was about to happen...for more related history, please read my October post Gay Men & Religious Persecution: "Satan's Harvest Home" ).

While Reynaldo had already written many songs about love, his worldly sophistication masked both a shyness and self-loathing about his own personal sexual feelings. He had close intimate friendships with women, and his mixed-messages suggested that maybe he was confused and they could "change" him. The famed courtesan Liane de Pougy wrote Hahn love letters although she probably knew he could never reciprocate her feelings. Often sadly typical of men who see their sexuality as a flaw instead of a gift, in an effort to prove his masculinity, the personal letters Hahn wrote to his lady friends at that time were frequently very critical of "homosexuals" and "homosexuality".

But love stepped in and kicked him in the behind in 1894. At the home of artist Madeleine Lemaire he met an aspiring writer 3 years older than himself. Call it love at first sight, Hahn quickly changed his views about being gay when he found someone he loved. Living in a closet was no longer an option for him. The guy he fell head over heels for was (then little-known) Marcel Proust. Proust and Hahn shared a love for painting and literature. They also shared a love for one another, and became lovers who traveled together and collaborated on various projects. Although by 1896 they were no longer having sex together, they remained lifelong friends and supporters until Proust's death in 1922.

The intense love affair with Proust set Hahn free as a gay man. Hahn became a key member of the Paris gay set, which included Jean Cocteau and Saint-Saens. Now embracing his sexuality, his good looks and strong masculine personality were irresistible to many a man and he became very desirable in what must have been an amazing place and an amazing time to be gay in world history. Artist Charles Demuth (who I paid tribute to earlier this month,) also experienced that world. In 1909, Hahn became a French citizen. In 1914, at the outbreak of World War I, he volunteered for service in the French Army. Although he was above the official age, Hahn was accepted and served, first as a private, finally reaching the rank of corporal in WWI. It's reported he earned the respect of those he served with. While at the front he composed a song based on the poems of Robert Louis Stevenson. Forced to leave Paris in 1940 during the Nazi occupation (they hated and killed gays as well as Jews), he returned at the end of the war in 1945 to fulfill his appointment as director of the Paris Opéra. However, he died in 1947 of a brain tumor. How wonderful he was able to live a life that allowed him to witness that the manhood "ideal" of his teens was a myth created by insecure others filled with hatred and political ambition; Only when he accepted himself for who he was did his world become filled with true love and happiness, and no longer just topics written in songs for others.

Hahn’s memoirs are thought to be a valuable source for the musical and literary life of the era, and it's very interesting to trace the views of gays through the various biographies that have been written about his most prominent lover, novelist Marcel Proust. Jean Yves Tadié, in his 1986 “Marcel Proust: a Biography,” writes that Proust abandoned his first novel, Jean Santeuil, because he broke off his passionate involvement with Reynaldo Hahn, the young composer for whom he was writing it.

Triumph!

2012-01-19T13:29:00.000-08:00

From The Rawhide Male, #1 by Kris Studios

It's reported that on May 1, 1958, Chuck Renslow bought the Johnson’s Health Studio Gym, which at the time was the most popular men's gym in Chicago. Previous gym owner Irv Johnson was also the creator of Tomorrow's Man magazine and wanted to relocate to California. Chuck renamed the gym Triumph. It was a wise business move for Renslow. Here at the gym, Renslow and Dom Orejudos (aka Etienne) had access to the young beefy models who often appeared in their publications. By the time of the gym, Chuck was already the founder and photographer of Kris Studios (1954). In addition to many other ventures, Chuck would become the publisher of Triumph, Mars and Rawhide Male magazines. He and Dom were open lovers for more than 40 years. At the photo shoots, Orejudos would often arrange the themes/poses while Renslow would handle the lighting and take the actual photographs. Throughout his career, Mr. Renslow would be in the forefront of the Chicago political movement working for equal treatment and rights.

Chuck Renslow

Poppers (part two)

2012-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

The talents of Jerry Mills are easy to appreciate when one considers how vividly he was able to capture a time and lifestyle in gay history by using just a few sketches printed on just two pages in a gay mens' magazine. It's possible to look back at that era nostalgically and forget that the big city gay ghettos, which were a new and welcome alternative to living hidden in small towns for many men, had their own share of issues, which Mills captured in his humor.

12 Hours to Draw Attention to Congress and Free Speech

2012-01-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

Many major websites will go dark this Wednesday for 12 hours, protesting two United States Congressional bills which could greatly curtail Internet and free speech. In addition, thousands of more sites and blogs will join the protest to call attention to the cause, including VGMH. The lowest-rated Congress of all time can't lead the country--but many of them are trying to pass laws that would make it very difficult to express opinions on the internet and share ideas---and they are hoping that most voters won't pay attention.

The Internet Archive, a non-profit site that works with the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian to catalog and make documents, audio and video available to the public, plans to be dark from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT.To see what the internet would look like if they have their way, visit Wikipedia during the protest.

Internet giants Google, Wordpress, Yahoo!, Facebook, Twitter, eBay, Mozilla, and Wikipedia say that the proposed laws constitute a First Amendment violation, promote censorship, and harm the democratic flow of information. The pending U.S. legislation would make it impossible to run any website that links material (or allows commenters to link material) by making blogs liable for copyright infringement.

"Legislation such as this directly affects libraries such as the Internet Archive, which collects, preserves, and offers access to cultural materials," the Internet Archive said on its blog. "These bills would encourage the development of blacklists to censor sites with little recourse or due process. The Internet Archive is already blacklisted in China — let’s prevent the United States from establishing its own blacklist system."

If passed, The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and its Senate counterpart, the Protect IP Act or PIPA, would allow the government to shut down websites that contain content or links to unauthorized copyrighted content. Moreover, advertisers and Internet service providers would be banned from doing business with transgressors.

Vision of Courage and Dignity for All: Coretta Scott King

2012-01-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

The photograph above is of Mr. Bill Deming (right) enjoying a shower with Mr. Jem Echols (left). Both men had been flexing their muscles and showing off their physiques outside (in the California sunshine) for other photos in this set.

__________________

Reuters, March 31, 1998:

Coretta Scott King said the civil rights leader's memory demanded a strong stand for gay and lesbian rights.

"I still hear people say that I should not be talking about the rights of lesbian and gay people and I should stick to the issue of racial justice," she said. "But I hasten to remind them that Martin Luther King Jr. said, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.'"

"I appeal to everyone who believes in Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream to make room at the table of brother- and sisterhood for lesbian and gay people," she said.

"Gays and lesbians stood up for civil rights in Montgomery (and) Selma (Alabama), in Albany, Georgia, and St. Augustine, Florida, and many other campaigns of the civil rights movement," King said.

She said she saluted the contributions "of these courageous men and women" who fought "for my freedom at a time when they could find few voices for their own." Mrs. King spoke at a 25th anniversary celebration for the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund.

"Poppers" by Jerry Mills (part I)

2012-01-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

In the above Poppers strip, Billy is showering as we're introduced to Buster, a parasitic "crab" that lives in Billy's very active pubic hairs. Billy and Buster were the creations of Jerry Mills who was a gay cartoonist. Jerry became popular particularly for his creation of the Poppers comic strip. The comics told of the adventures of Billy, a West Hollywood handsome hunk who's in demand all over the gay community for his hot body. Indeed, in real life this was a time (before AIDS) when the gay liberation fight for equal rights in major cities had resulted in a new sexual freedom that many men took advantage of.

The strip's title also referred to alkyl nitrites. These drugs were commonly used by people (both gay and straight) who frequented pickup bars and they were especially popular in the gay communities. The rush of sensations experienced when poppers were inhaled were believed to make the pleasures of having sex even better. For better or worse, the drugs were often part of the sex culture from the 1970s disco scene into the 1980s. As one guy noted to a reporter for The New Romans (just after receiving anonymous oral sex from another man in a downtown Chicago club) "It takes getting your rocks off to another dimension". As awareness of how AIDS was actually being transmitted became better-known, poppers were viewed by many within the medical and gay health communities as dangerous. Like the bath houses where they were often used at, they promoted risky sexual activity. In his novel A day and A Night at the Baths, Michael Rumaker described the scene as being "permeated with that particularly inert, greasy odor of poppers. Wherever you went, the musky chemical smell of it was constantly in your nostrils." Poppers were not as safe as many thought for other reasons: Apart from causing localized damage to nasal membranes, poppers they were linked to anemia, strokes, heart, lung, and brain damage, arterial constriction, cardiovascular collapse, and a chronic depletion of T-cell ratio's associated with severe immune dysfunction.

The comic Poppers strip began in the early 1980s when Mills worked for In Touch for Men magazine. The editor at the time encouraged Mills to write a regular comic strip to add variety to the magazine's content. Poppers began in April 1982. Where many earlier gay-related comics were stereotypical, Mills was one of the first to present his characters as real everyday men with desires for love, friendship and a happy life.

By the mid-1980s the strip was also being published ( in translation ) in Gai Pied Hebdo, a French-language gay magazine, and was translated into Japanese. As well as writing Poppers Mills also created ad hoc cartoons and wrote a history of gays in comics for the first Meatmen anthology.

It's reported that when Mills moved to the classifieds department of Advocate Men, the Poppers strip followed him. But by the beginning of the 1990s Mills' health was deteriorating and in his final few years he worked less. He designed posters for Queer Nation and sadly died in January 1993. He was survived by his partner, Sal Lucarello.

Kaleo (part two)

2012-01-14T16:06:00.000-08:00

In the last few minutes, snow began to fall here where I live in South Puget Sound Washington, making these scenes of troipcal locations (not to mention a hunky naked man) even more enjoyable.

According to Island Studs, Kaleo was a total jock in High School, playing soccer, football, basketball and baseball. Island Studs offers a short sample video of Kaleo in various forms of action including soft, hard and pumping out a load of man mayonnaise. As they say about him, "If you love naturally furry lower bodies, you will love Kaleo!"

Sunny and Warm with Kaleo

2012-01-13T17:23:00.000-08:00

The weather report here for the Puget Sound area includes possibilities of snow coming up, and so it seemed like a good time to pay a visit to mental visit to Hawaii and Island Studs' recent model, Kaleo.

Kaleo is a solid 6'2", 185 lbs of friendly Hawaiian mojo (he is part Portuguese, part Japanese, and part Hawaiian). Born on a farm on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kaleo grew up harvesting pineapples and papayas.

Akka Makka Cocka Walucka!

(okay, I made that up and it means nothing)

But I promise to have more Kaleo tomorrow!

More Muscular Donnie

2012-01-12T18:17:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we enjoyed Donnie Kay (misspelled sometimes as Donnie Kaye) posing in some nifty color shots for Saxon Studios. Today's photograph is also identified as being of Mr. Kay, sans any posing pouches. He certainly was a handsome man, no matter where in the above picture that a person happens to look. And he sure had a lot to stuff into those skimpy pouches. Establishing him as a true physique model superstar, Donnie was featured in the classic 1962s Demi-Gods and 1964s mars magazine. Originally, issues of mars sold for 50 cents. A copy of the issue that Donnie graced (in reasonably good condition) can fetch as much as $100 or more these days.

Donnie Kay in Living Color

2012-01-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Donnie Kay (sometimes his last name was listed as Kaye) posed for the January 1963 cover of The Young Physique magazine looking very ready to celebrate the new year. Donnie was a model for the Troy Saxon Studio.

Jack Bozzi

2012-01-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

At first glance his 1970s artwork looks very similar to other artists who sketched handsome muscular men for gay publications. But take a closer viewing and the images of Jack Bozzi (who also was known as Adam) have a definite look and feel that's all their own. The men are often more realistic looking than many other erotic artists and there's a certain marketing sensibility that would feel right at home if these sketches were intended to sell clothing or hair products. With names like The Backpackers, Highballing, Tailgate Trucker, Hunk Highballer, and Wrestle Him Down! these novels were popular fiction for gay men no doubt as much for the illustrations as they were for their engaging storylines.

In Hunky Highballer, we learn that "Mike was in his early twenties, medium-tall and stocky, dark-haired and masculinely handsome, and like most truckers, he talked to himself as he highballed his rig down the endless miles of freeway."

Later in chapter one: '"I've messed around with guys, if that's what you're driving at." Mike stopped to grip his Levi's and pull them up on his hips, then turned and headed for the wash basins opposite as he fastened the metal buttons. "I might even mess with you, if you're headed my way." He stopped in front of one of the stained basins, sloshed cold water over his face, grabbed a handful of paper towels from the wall holder...and met his own reflection in the mottled mirror as he dried off.'

More Glenn

2012-01-09T18:05:00.000-08:00

It looks like our military man Glenn is standing at attention (in more ways than one) in the photo above. Hey Glenn, that's quite a trick--pointing with both hands behind your back! Thanks again to Jason at SpunkWorthy for sending him our way.

SpunkWorthy

Sunday Smoothie

2012-01-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

Jason over at SpunkWorthy sure knows how to pick 'em and he usually has a good idea about what we like here at VGMH, although I suspect for many guys, Jason's latest find may be a little too-smooth for their personal tastes. According to Jason, Glenn is a transplant from Boston who made his way to San Diego courtesy of the U.S. Marine Corps. As Jason tells the story, Glenn's "A tall, lean 20 y/o with blue eyes, blond hair (when it hasn't been shaved off by his buddies... story in the video) and rosy cheeks that drive me nuts." Speaking of nuts, Glenn has a blonde dusting of soft peach fuzz covering his family jewels sack. Another surprise was the big hard mushroom head on his throbbing cock!

More photos of this jar headed honey coming up! A sample video of Glenn can be viewed over at Jason's SpunkWorthy.

More Walt

2012-01-06T17:03:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week we saw handsome Walt Covert on the cover of a magazine that was celebrating young men in their prime...and the good news is that he's returned...only this time he's combing his hair wearing just a skimpy posing pouch! The photo above makes me wanna walk up behind Walt and cup those plump cheeks in the palms of my hands. This blonde stud was a Champion Studios favorite in the early 1960s, the place where these photographs originated.

VGMH Review Update: Vintage Physique Photography

2012-01-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

Note: Vintage Physique Photography was the first pay site to be reviewed here at VGMH almost two years ago, so it was time for an early 2012 visit. As Tim at Vintage Physique Photography (VPP) recently told me, not much has changed over the past two years at his site. But other things have changed: Especially in the past twelve months, there has been an explosion of retro male porn showing up on many of the adult photo sharing sites. But with many of the identical photos now available for free viewing on these photo sharing sites, what continues to make Vintage Physique Photography unique is that Tim identifies almost 75% of his content's models by their names and offers some context as to its (the images) origins. The original VGMH review follows, updated where relevant, including increasing the overall rating for Vintage Physique Photography from a 95 excellent score 97:

To get an idea of what VPP is about, here's a portion of Tim Wilbur's (VPP's creator) mission statement: "...Very little is being done these days to make sure the history of physique photography is preserved in a way that will allow mass numbers of people to view its details. Photographs and magazines are thrown out by startled heirs, images on film are fading and being destroyed, or collectors keep their treasures locked away for no one else to see. Many times these brave individuals had their property raided by right-wing law enforcement and endured further threats, fines and sometimes even prison sentences. It would be a crime to let those who contributed material during this important period be forgotten. This web site will serve to preserve and present their work to anyone with a computer and an Internet connection."

THE VGMH REVIEW
The name of the site is Vintage Physique Photography and it's important to stress upfront that not all of the images are nudes and not all of them are even directly related to male erotica. It includes three types of media; 1) Vintage magazines (photos and articles), 2) Movies, and 3) Paper advertising (ads intended for a male audience). This content is then further categorized as being: 1) Fitness/physique, 2) Male posing nudes, or 3) Hardcore male porn (including illustrations).

Because it's always been common practice in the publishing industry for producers to reissue the same photo in several magazines, I expected (and found) that to be true with many of the magazine photos cataloged on VPP. This means that there will be duplicate photos included in those 747,341 images as they often appeared in more than just one publication. Also be aware that "images" does not always mean photographic images, as articles and text are also included. But anyway that it's looked at, Tim's library is impressively large, as the amazing site statistics above demonstrate.

JOCKS, COCKS, AND POSERS
There's so many men, coming from so many eras and from so many types of publications, that it would be impossible to adequately describe what "type" of men" are to be found within this site. It has an extensive library of fitness and bodybuilding photos (think muscle men in posing straps and trunks as they pose in sporting competitions). Type in a year and get a list of body building contest winners. If you enjoy the history of body building, stories about fitness and health, and images of beefy men in next to nothing, then you can spend countless hours in this section alone. In the smut section of the site there are all the classic favorites including Al Parker, Leo Ford, and Jack Wrangler and many anonymous men who dropped their pants for the camera over the decades.

With this much vintage material, it's important to underscore the "historical compilation" aspect of the site and the fact that some images have held up better than others over the decades. There are some wonderful high resolution photos that look as perfect today as when they were taken. Then there are some others that were probably less-than-great when they were brand new and have only become worse over time. The majority of content falls somewhere in-between these two extremes. To Tim's credit, VPP includes it all in order to preserve everything. This means that when surfing photos and movies, members encounter different degrees of image quality. The site also does a credible job of tackling the problem of preserving the integrity of the original document while recognizing the need for scanning stapled and bound magazines to make them accessible for modern technology sharing. With this in mind, more than a few images display a 'white flash' burn where the magazine pages were stapled together and wouldn't lay completely flat while being copied. The opinion here is that preserving the original intact magazine is more important than taking it apart for improved scanning.

In terms of operations, the style of the site is very basic and straightforward. Forget about fancy graphics and glossy front pages designed to get people to sign up. The huge amount of content is king here. The main menu page is simply there to get you to the material that you want to see…and it delivers very nicely. Tim is to be commended for undertaking the task of developing this diverse database. Click on a menu or particular item and you go right there (this is what is supposed to happen at all sites, however many sites have broken links and things that just don’t work, so it’s shouldn't be taken for granted). VPP has buttons on every page to take you back "home" so you can't get lost (some sites launch new browser windows and you cannot back out of them: again not a problem here). Places where viewers are expected to click for actions are obvious, and a change in font color helps track where members have already been.

New/updated material notifications are offered on the main menu. Taking a look at the update pages, they are current and new material seems to be added on a regular basis throughout every month. As time moves forward, new "vintage" material may mean 1990's plus. There are no DRM limits on downloading of material like some other sites.

THE VGMH RATING

This site is not going to be for everybody and it doesn't try to be. To summarize, if you're interested in vintage men from the fields of sport and erotica then you should have a great time with Tim's wonderful library. And if you understand upfront that when it comes to antique documents, quantity does not always equate with today's expectations for image quality, then Vintage Physique Photography is definitely worth considering. With that in mind, the rating is a very high 97.

ADMISSION

Admission options are $7.00 for seven days, $12.00 for one month recurring, $30 for three months recurring, $55.00 for six months non recurring, and $99.00 for one year. Recurring charges will be automatically rebilled until you cancel your subscription. Payments are processed through Paypal. As with all internet transactions, please confirm these rates should they change. Any questions or concerns about memberships should be asked prior to joining. Contact information for Tim is available on the Vintage Physique Photography site.

http://www.timinvermont.com

Homemade Vintage or not?

2012-01-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

Today we have two nice dicks. Based upon the staining, it looks like this photograph has been enjoyed a whole lot over the years. The tiles, signet style ring on his finger, and bathroom fixtures all are similar to 1950's era photos. On the other hand, the photo below raises some questions about exactly how vintage it might actually be, including the modern pronged electrical outlet on the wall and what looks to me like photo shop effects to make it appear scratched. Then again I could be wrong and it's the real deal. Your thoughts?

Hot Guys on Magazine Covers!

2012-01-03T17:52:00.000-08:00

In keeping with our New Year's fitness theme, what could be better than 1968's Young Guys! magazine featuring Champion models Keri and Walt at the beach? Well, how about if one of these fit studs seems to be showing some of his man junk by accident? If you look closely at the highlighted yellow circle in the photo below, Walt's swim shorts don't seem to be able to cover everything in just the right spot. This magazine was a special edition by the publishers of Tomorrow's Man.

Now, let's fast forward to January 2012 and the UK edition cover of Men's Fitness magazine. It's nice to know that hunks with great chests never go out of style!

January 1990 Fit Men

2012-01-02T09:38:00.000-08:00

Every New Year, millions of us resolve to do things differently, and one of the top resolutions for millions of men is to get into better shape. That's why gym memberships rise so fast these first few weeks of January! For inspiration on getting fit, we have some very good looking gents circa 1990. The Playgirl magazine models for this month were Steve Downey, Kraig Anthony, and Scott Lockwood. On the cover was sexy actor Jack Scalia looking very ripped.

Red-haired Steve Downey was photographed by Robert Cunningam in all his glory for the new year issue.

It's easy to see why magazine cover man Jack Scalia was a popular (mostly television) actor . Born in 1950, the Italian and Irish hunk was drafted third by the Montreal Expos in 1971 as a pitcher. He was injured and never played in the Major Leagues. Reported to have married and divorced twice, Jack began his show business career as a clothes model, most notably in a series of sexy ads for Eminence briefs and Jordache jeans.

John Inman: Are you Being Served?

2011-12-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

This British sitcom was broadcast between 1972 and 1985. It was set in the men's and women's fashion departments of Grace Brothers, an upscale (fictional) London department store. The idea for the show came from one of the creator's brief stints working at Simpsons of Piccadilly in the early 1950's. Edgy for the early 1970's was that Are you Being Served? featured an obviously gay character.

Played by actor John Inman, "Mr. Humphrie" was a regular star of the show. His catchphrases, very campy mannerisms and sexual double-entendres were a part of every episode. He worked in the men's clothing department and was always ready to measure pants when the male customer was handsome. It's reported that the BBC, when contemplating making the series, tried at first to insist that Mr Humphries was removed because he was a gay character. Audiences took to him and the rest of the cast, which is why it lasted so long. However, not all gay men were happy about the role.

Inman once reported that four or five members of the group Campaign for Homosexual Equality picketed one of his shows in protest as they believed his persona did not help their cause. Inman said that "they thought I was over exaggerating the gay character. But I don't think I do." Others were happy to see a gay man portrayed on national television who was liked by his co-workers, not fired by his employers, and viewed the fact he was on television as a positive statement.

Both Inman and the producers denied that Mr Humphries compounded a stereotype of gay men. In 1976, he was named the BBC TV personality of the year. In December 2005 Mr. Inman formed a civil partnership with his partner of 33 years, Ron Lynch. Inman and David Croft (a show creator) stated that the character was "just a mother's boy" and that his sexual orientation was never explicitly stated.

Actress Rula Lenska, who worked with Mr Inman, told the BBC: "It was suggestive but never in your face or aggressive. It had an innocent quality that you rarely find today."

Inman continued to play in live shows after his success as Mr. Humphries, and began to incorporate camp mannerisms into those performances too, once saying "Even when I'm not playing Mr Humphries, say at a summer season, I camp it up a bit. If I don't the audience are disappointed.." Inman went on to star in more than 40 pantomimes, and was often cast as the dame. He used to make his own costumes and write his own jokes. He passed away in 2007.

More Guys with Electronic Gear

2011-12-27T15:44:00.000-08:00

It looks like there's a whole lotta pics being snapped by men with their iPhones and their pants down! By popular demand, here's some more of them sharing their manly presents.

Christmas Present

2011-12-21T15:59:00.000-08:00

Special Holiday Issue, 1991
This Playgirl "special" (since they already published the December issue back in November) did offer something great...Jon! Taking a quick look at the table of contents, this issue must have been worth every penny of the $3.95 they were charging.

EATURES
THE GIFT OF SEX: For the 12 nights of Christmas, give your true love...a dirty dozen sexy surprises! (Best of all—they're good for you, too.) By Dorian Yeager

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: When your guy meets the folks, beware! Their first impression of him may also be their last by Stan Sinberg

SEX SURROGATE...STRICTLY BUSINESS/STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL: The world of sex-as-therapy isn't as weird and wacky as it sounds. In fact, we thought it was well worth looking into... by Michael Konik

PICTORIALS
WAYNE'S WORLD: Wayne Carpenter, our Holiday Discovery, is nautical and nice
'TWAS THE NIGHT: Contrary to popular belief, certain creatures are stirring this Christmas Eve
REAL LIVE LONDONO: When our Holiday Man of the Month Jon Londono shines on the silver screen, just remember: We told you so.
THE BEST BUNS OF 1991: Some of this year's best shots snuck up from Roasted behind. Finally, PLAYGIRL brings up the rear...
SOLDIER BOY: In true PLAYGIRL style, we salute luscious John King on his return from Operation Desert Storm

Santa Came Early This Year

2011-12-20T15:25:00.000-08:00

It's just a fact that things get busy this time of year, especially when all the neighborhood guys return home for the holiday-all at once! 'Secret Santas' don't have to wait until the official holiday to pay a visit and drop off a present or two.

Special Delivery! Hairy Bo is cumin' all over town!

2011-12-20T09:06:00.000-08:00

Somewhere on Santa's wish list must be a request for a "man with a treasure trail, very hairy rump, and ready to be played with as soon as delivered". Well, Bo certainly fits that wish list and he even comes with pink rosy cheeks (the pair on his face, at least). This straight 21 year-old married man showed up at Santa Jason's SpunkWorthy looking for work in smut. Jason was nice enough to share him with us--a bonus post today and tomorrow in addition to the already planned yuletide holiday offerings. Jason knows that VGMH likes 'em hairy and noted about photographing Bo that "All that hairiness going on from his stomach and all the way to his ass crack sealed the deal."

As Jason noted: "Bo had saved up a 3-day load so when he got the go-ahead to bust, he writhed around the bed and, with a few short breaths, shot it all over his hairy stomach."

Manly Scents

2011-12-18T15:21:00.000-08:00

One of the classic gifts to signify the passage into male puberty and manhood has been cologne or after shave. And once that milestone has been met, a guy can expect to receive a least a few bottles of the stuff over his lifetime as gifts.

More Mel Roberts

2011-12-13T17:36:00.000-08:00

Below: Skinny Southern California beach stud Sean Patrick caught by Mel's camera in a very comfortable and relaxed moment. Well, most of his body looks relaxed (grin). Popular thanks to the iconic California lifestyle that was represented as anything else, orders came in from all around the world.

Below: Photo of "The Cove" gay-friendly beach, La Jolla California circa 1958.

As mentioned in yesterday's post, these photos come to VGMH courtesy of the Fotofactory, which offers: Volume One California Boys: Photographs from the 1960s and 1970s and Volume Two, The Wild Ones. Fotofactory also still issues Roberts Original Photos Gallery Prints (Printed and Signed by Mel Roberts), and a series of blank greeting cards.

The Art of Mel Roberts

2011-12-12T19:45:00.000-08:00

Mel Roberts was one of the early pioneers of Southern California physique photography. Born in Toledo, Ohio, on August 26, 1923, he was drafted into military service in 1943 and served as a cameraman in the South Pacific for the U.S. Air Force. Afterwards around 1950, Mel began to study film at the University of Southern California.

In 1953 Mr. Roberts worked on Herbert Biberman's movie Salt of the Earth, a story that focused on Mexican-American miners who were striking against a giant corporation. It became the only motion picture blacklisted in American film history, being produced by a number of film artists tagged/blacklisted for their membership in the Communist Party or other leftist organizations. The film starred actor Will Geer (a blacklisted bisexual actor who decades later played the grandfather on television's family drama The Waltons).

Mel's photography was first published in Young Physique magazine in 1963. Unlike other physique photographers, Roberts only took pictures of men he knew personally. Everything fell into place: The dreamy Southern California locations, enthusiastic and uninhibited young men ready to pose, and a gifted photographer who understood the beauty of male nudity, all combined into some powerful imagery. Using Rolleiflex cameras from the 1950's through to the early 1980's, Mel took an estimated 50,000 photographs of around 200 models. Like other pioneers, Roberts had to build his own color lab to develop prints since no lab would process his film because of the content. The transparencies he sent to Eastman Kodak were returned to him with holes punched through the crotches of the models! Blonde Sean Patrick probably became Mel's most famous model,epitomizing the Southern California lifestyle for thousands of men living all around the world.

Sean Patrick circa 1968

Sexuality in the late 1960's was, by Robert's own accounts, open and fun. He often had a handful of young men staying at his home and many of them had girlfriends who were also welcome at the house. Roberts' photographs highlight the experimental openness and uninhibited attitudes of the late 1960's and early 1970's. When not at the beach, many of the photographs in his books, magazines and videos were shot in the house and around the back garden.

Bobby Kroop circa 1973.

His portraits of young men, between the ages of 18 and 25, were "at the epitome of their development" as he characterized them, and Mel became immediately successful in the U.S. and Europe. They made Mel one of the most prominent male photographers of the time. In 1977 the Los Angeles Police Department raided his home and studio and confiscated his cameras, negatives, letters and mailing list. It's reported that the LAPD refused to return Roberts's property, even though no charges were ever filed against him. On August 26, 2007 Mel Roberts pasted away in Los Angeles, California. At the time of his death, he resided in the same home in Bel Air in which he lived in for over 50 years.

Gradually over time, interest in his work grew stronger and today what remains of his collection is considered highly collectible by vintage erotica aficionados who can afford it. Roberts's photography is now represented in galleries in New York, Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Palm Springs. One of the most avid collectors is said to be Sir Elton John, who acquired almost sixty images for his personal collection. For the rest of us, the Fotofactory Press published two books of Mr. Roberts’ work, which are currently out of print but available in their original sealed condition: Volume One California Boys: Photographs from the 1960s and 1970s and Volume Two, The Wild Ones. Fotofactory also still issues Roberts Original Photos Gallery Prints (Printed and Signed by Mel Roberts), and a series of blank greeting cards.

Don Anderson, circa 1973

Zachary

2011-12-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

Zachary Scott reportedly was born in 1973 and worked in the business between 1997 and 2002. Standing 5' 11" and coming in at a lean 184 pounds, his dark blonde hair and swimmer's build made him very popular, not to mention his 10" throbbing cock. Among his more famous films were 1998's Men in Blue and Whatever You Say, Sir! Both movies played on intense rough macho sex themes, and Zach's non-pretty-boy look worked perfectly.

In Men in Blue, actor Blue Blake plays a seriously disturbed closeted cop who bends the laws to serve his sexual cravings, and also bends over quite a few other men in the process. Whatever You Say, Sir! continues to be a favorite and finds new audiences (after almost a decade from it's initial release) of gay men looking for authentic-looking military themed sex. The big budget Studio 2000 movie included actors who really looked like they could be soldiers, realistic uniforms, military trucks and tanks as props, and army-style base sets throughout.

This movie featured anal sex, blow job servicing, deep throat fucking/domination, circle jerk masturbation and more. Performers included Brad Hunter, Shane Thomas, Zachary Scott, Casey Morgan, and Kevin Cobain.

Vinny (part two)

2011-12-10T14:43:00.000-08:00

SpunkWorthy

Vincent's a big guy (all the way around) and there's no doubt about it--after he sexes you up, you're going to feel it for a long, long time afterwards. Maybe that's why he has that sly smile on his face.

If it's time to deck your halls, Vinny has got the balls!

SpunkWorthy

Santa's Hunky Helper

2011-12-10T09:56:00.000-08:00

Vincent comes to us from our pal Jason over at SpunkWorthy, who says that Vinny is 26 years old (so he's not a twinkster) and he's "one beefy fucker" which we like a lot here at VGMH. He's hung with some nice hairy balls to play with. It wouldn't be Christmas without some anticipation, and more pics of Vinny will be arriving to your computer later today if you check back-especially if you've been very bad! Until then, a video of Vinny can be watched over at SpunkWorthy.

Randy Kelly

2011-12-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

Blue eyes, long straight dark brown hair, a dimpled chin and those full lips ready to kiss...Randy had a look all his own and packed a thick 7-inch penis in his pants.

2000's "Holiday Heart"

2011-12-08T17:50:00.000-08:00

Oh, could this be one of those warm and cute holiday made for cable TV movies? You know, the ones where a bossy drag queen takes in a drug addict bitch and her sweet young daughter. All kidding aside, this movie has it's tender moments that make it a good holiday film.

At it's best, the movie depicts the ugliness of drug addiction, the poor living conditions found in most inner city neighborhoods, the toll of being in prison, and church hypocrisy. Robert Townsend directed Ving Rhames, Mykelti Williamson and Alfre Woodard.

Choirmaster by day and female impersonator by night, Holiday (Rhames) is a lonely man after his lover (a closeted policeman) gets killed. Into his life comes a bright young girl, who tags along her drug-addicted mother (Woodard). He offers Niki and Wanda a free apartment in one of the buildings he owns, which happens to be across the hallway from his own place. Gradually the women learn that Holiday is more than a cartoonish stereotype. “Just so you know,” the mom tells Holiday at one point, “I don’t do fags!” to which Holiday has a quick comeback: “And I don’t do no-good evil bitches who sleep all day instead of taking care of their children!” Snap! The mom (in the tradition of Lifetime movies for women, manages to remain a victim) brings in a dangerous crack-headed/ass-beating boyfriend drug dealer but by the end, everyone has learned that Holiday is a good man and that his sexuality has nothing to do with his capacity for boundless, unconditional love. The script makes a point of reminding the audience that this little girl's best hope for a good life isn't thanks to her mother, isn't thanks to her mother's straight boyfriend, and isn't thanks to the missing man who created her--it's a gay man. As the movie jacket says, "He'll do anything in power...to keep them together."

1997's "Santa's Cummin'!"

2011-12-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

'Tis the holiday season and this naughty Santa is cumming all over the place! Bearded 'Ol Saint Dick can't stop jerking off all over the place--and no surface is safe from getting a load of North Pole sticky goo. By the time he made this video, Jeff had been at the top of his 'gay for pay' game for over a decade. He is a bona fide superstar in gay smut history. So by the time of 1997's Santa's Cummin'!, it must have been hard to come up with new and fun ways to display his worldwide worshipped big dick.

His career is the stuff of Hollywood legends--Interested in personal bodybuilding since the tender age of 11, Jeff was born Charles Casper Peyton In Carmi, Illinois in back 1962. While studying to become a real estate agent, Peyton posed for some modeling shots and was soon discovered by porn director John Travis in 1986, who saw a promising future star in gay smut. While Jeff's celebrity is primarily a result of his gay films, Stryker‘s foray into straight porn, Jamie Loves Jeff (with Jamie Summers) was one of the biggest selling straight adult movies of all time.

Dominic

2011-12-06T18:52:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week we paid a visit to the other hunk inside Playgirl magazine's December 1989 issue, Bud Ralph. Now it's time to say hello to hairy Dominic Volpe who also posed nude but in a very different setting.

Forget Sugar Plums--We Like These Visions!

2011-12-05T18:01:00.000-08:00

Not sure exactly why, but there's just something about this nifty red wreath that VGMH likes a lot. From a 1947 Christmas catalog, at only 87 cents it's a pretty good deal.

And then there's this little gem of a salad, that for some reason again looks very good~ If only we could figure out why...

December 1989

2011-12-04T08:21:00.000-08:00

The hunky and hairy cover model was Dominic Volpe who also posed nude inside, but Playgirl's Man For December was a bubble-butt cutie named Bud Ralph. They shot Bud outside in the snow and also by a toasty warm fire. Personally, I prefer the cold outside pics. This holiday issue also offered stories about Scott Bakula, John Tesh, and a photo fantasy called "On the Rocks." But wait! There was also the Third Annual Playgirl Awards: "Absolutely scandalous! What was? The year 1989, and that's why we loved it. Who did what to whom, and why? Who made it? Who blew it? Who were the rude, the cads and the snuggly? One last look at the weird and wacky year that ends the decade."

The magazine said of Bud "Bud Ralph is the perfect guy to snuggle up with on those cold winter nights. And if you're looking to light a different kind of fire."

Ed Gallagher's Gift

2011-12-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

The holidays can be a time of stress and anxiety, just as much as they can bring happiness and peace. Suicide rates go up. VGMH thinks this is probably a good time to remember that in 1985, a famous handsome football star desperately laid himself 100 feet above the ground atop the cold cement Kensico Dam ledge, asked God to forgive him, and then rolled his body off in an attempt to kill himself. Why? The tough offensive lineman for the University of Pittsburgh (1977-1979) felt he couldn't deal with the nightmare that had become his life.

Ryan White

He was living secretly as a gay man in a world where the word "gay" wasn't used---"fag" or "faggot" were the derogatory insults of choice. And this was the mid-1980's when men were dying like flies from AIDS and many in society said openly that they were good to get rid of homosexuals. The same year he tried to kill himself, 13 year-old Ryan White became a symbol of the intolerance that was inflicted on AIDS victims. Once it became known that Ryan (a hemophiliac who had contracted the disease from a tainted blood transfusion) school officials banned him from classes and he was subjected to prejudice for just being sick.

Just 12 days before trying to end his life on the dam, Ed had decided he couldn't be untrue to his desires any longer and had his first sexual encounter with another man. Only the joy of waking up next to another guy (who he had met at a gay bar the night before) was overcome by the real-life fear of AIDS and the knowing that he was one of the people that mainstream society loathed.

"I was so scared of dying of AIDS and hurting others, I thought maybe I should just kill myself," Gallagher recalled later. "I didn't’t want to be gay, I didn't’t want my father knowing, I didn't’t want anyone knowing."

Only fate stepped in and this 6' 3" gay sportsman didn't die.

Gallagher survived the fall but discovered that he was left a paraplegic. He later recalled that before his suicide attempt, Ed had become unable to reconcile the image of himself as a masculine athlete with being gay. He later admitted that the incident forced him to come to grips with his own sexuality: "I was more emotionally paralyzed then, than I am physically now." Ed saw it as a second chance at life and he made every moment count. He knew firsthand the stereotypes of gay men as being effeminate and non-competitive. Ed knew the myth that there are no gay football players in college or pro sports. And he knew that he was living proof that they were lies---and he said so to everybody who would listen.

Ed made it a point to tell his story and show his pride in who he was as a man. He focused his efforts on helping kids accept themselves for who they are. Ed also went on to become a fierce advocate for disabled rights, creating the organization Alive To Thrive. He eventually died May 2005, after having a life-changing positive impact on thousands of others. Thank you.

It Gets Better

Polish Sausage with Oranges

2011-12-02T18:02:00.000-08:00

With the season of giving kicking into high gear, Robert Chandler over at Fantastic Foreskin gave us these photos of his current model from Eastern Europe. The oranges and the old typewriter in the background are unusual props but certainly not the strangest we've ever seen in a smut setting. Says Robert of his find and the photo shoot: "Micael is a Polish guy with a boyish look, an innocent face and a lean, tone, flawless body. He has an unshaved bush and hairy balls. Best of all is his thick, covered cock. He undresses and squeezes oranges on himself. It sounds weird, but trust me, you'll want to lick up every drop!" As the photos show, Micael's gift to VGMH comes wrapped twice-first in boxers and then in foreskin. A sample video of this young man playing with his package can be viewed over at Fantastic Foreskin

Steven Klein

2011-12-01T18:13:00.000-08:00

I can't say I always like his work, but there's usually something about Steven's art photography that manages to get my imagination working overtime. It helps that he often includes male sexuality (and sometimes nudity) in his photos. On the flip side, his images often seem to be obviously intended to push buttons for commercial success rather than for true artistic expression. VGMH doubts that Steven cares about critics very much, as he is doing very well these days: He's worked with Madonna, Tom Ford and many others, like Brad and Angelina. Oh yea, he also recently directed the music video for Lady Gaga's Alejandro. The man is red hot right now, but he's been making his name for some years now.

In 2003, a coffee table book called X-STaTIC PRO-CeSS (XStatic Process) was released which retailed for $350 and limited to 1,000 copies. The book was hand-bound and printed in Italy on customized paper.

In 2006 Steven created Secret Ceremony, featuring hunky Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, among others. Enjoy

Steven Klein

The Art and Life of Charles Demuth

2011-11-30T17:57:00.000-08:00

Charles was an American Precisionist painter, born in Lancaster Pennsylvania on November 9th 1883. Through his art, Mr. Demuth candidly depicted the gay world that he witnessed first-hand in watercolors he painted for his closest friends: the sexual encounters going on in public baths, sailors fondling one another while peeing, and man/man sex at Coney Island. Historically, for gay men his works have great significance, for they visualize and help document what was going on back then (no big surprise here...men were doing the same things that men have always been doing). But what may appear to be pretty darn tame by today's standards was considered very daring in the teens and twenties of the last century. These works were not shared with the public back then when he painted them.

In his youth, he studied at Philadelphia's Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. He later studied at Académie Colarossi and Académie Julian in Paris, where he became a part of the exciting and electric avant garde art scene. Bohemianism was alive and Charles was living in the thick of it. Though still relatively underground, a network of venues (salons, bars, cafés, and bathhouses) catering to gay men emerged throughout Paris, particularly around the areas of Montmartre and Les Halles. Spirited conversations were complimented with sexual energy.

While he was in Paris he met Marsden Hartley by walking up to a table of American artists and asking if he could join them. He had a great sense of humor, rich in double entendres and they asked him to be a regular member of their art social group. Through Hartley he met Alfred Stieglitz and became a member of the Stieglitz group. In 1926, Charles had a one-man show at a New York gallery run by his friend Stieglitz.

Happily, his talent continues to shine...today he is not best-known for being a "gay man who painted gay men in sexual situations", but for his gifted work as a watercolorist of all life; his still-lifes, figure paintings and "pop" art are highly collectible. His "Figure 5 in Gold" (1928 abstract of a fire engine #5) is his most-famous work (right). It is displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. It helps to consider that 1928 was not only the year Demuth painted this inconic artwork, it was also the year that Andy Warhol was born...that's how far ahead of his time Charles was.

"3 Sailors" 1917 by Charles Demuth

"Two Sailors Urinating" 1930 by Charles Demuth

"Turkish Bath with Self Portrait" 1918 by Charles Demuth

"Four Male Figures" 1930 by Charles Demuth

"Aucassin and Nicolette" 1921 by Charles Demuth
An invalid in later life, Demuth was bedridden in his parents' house. He died in Lancaster Pennsylvania, October 23, 1935.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Advertising From the Past

2011-11-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

Santa (above): For a gay blog like VGMH, this ad's just too-darn-easy to come up with lots of snickers and naughty comments about. Please add your own below.

More Rob Cryston

2011-11-27T09:02:00.000-08:00

With that trademark bunny tattoo on his left pec (looking similar to Thumper), Rob kept getting better looking as he matured. And by attracting so many fans over so many years, his followers watched as Rob changed his look and style during a decade-long smut career; going from a mostly smooth and lean bottom into a hairy and muscular top. Pairing him with cock-hungry Chad Connors worked very well.

Rob Cryston

2011-11-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

With his piercing blue eyes, pursed upper lip, and those big strong arms--Rob Cryston made his mark in gay erotica for an entire decade. It's reported that Rob began acting in adult smut when he was 20 years old back in 1991, appearing in the video Sex Between the Lines. The movie became a big hit. The plot: Rumors are flying that sultry macho soap star Bryan Stephens might be gay. When two sexy reporters get on the case, they set out to prove the rumor true. Lucky for them Bryan's a huge fan of big dicks.

He went on to become one of the top stars in the business, performing in many 1992 in titles such as Weekend Liberty, Voice Male, Single White Male, Down Bi Law, Disconnected, Brief Encounters, and Desert Drifters--and that was all in one year! A decade is a long time and fans were able to watch this man grow and mature. Hairy or smooth, jar-headed crew cut or with dark curly locks, Rob was always hot. He was named 1993 Best Actor for Single White Male and also won a 1995 Grabby Award as a Best Performer.

Other titles during his long career included The Roommate (1993), Toilet Tramps (1994), The Fluffer (1994), G.I. Jocks (1994), House for Sale Sex (1995), Blow by Blow (1996), A Day in the Life of Austin -starring Austin Ashley who VGMH recently reviewed (1996), Bubble Butt Play (1997), Mavericks (1997), Every Inch a Man (1998), and Untamed (2000).

Born in January 1971, it's reported that he also went by the stage names Robbie Roberts and Roby Cryston. Sporting a classically handsome face and beautifully masculine physique, 5' 8" Rob was a sex star for more than what was between his legs-which was a pleasing average size at around 7 inches. Stories suggest he moved on to work in real estate.

Above: Looks like Rob just got rear-ended by another driver.

PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR PART TWO!

'Black Friday', VGMH Style

2011-11-25T08:01:00.000-08:00

Retailers began calling the day after Thanksgiving "black Friday" because so many people started their Christmas shopping (lured by discounts) that the stores made enough money to put their bottom line profits for the year in "black" ink instead of money-loosing"red" ink.

Creating our own holiday tradition several years ago, VGMH started this tribute to the men of African decent who've kindly appeared in gay smut over the ages. A number of early models made their mark in the business and remain true classics. Early legends such as Bob Mizer (Athletic Modeling Guild) routinely photographed handsome African American men like Gerald Oglesby and Tyronne Jones.

From 1950's body builders posing for early physique photographers to everyday gentlemen making some extra money in the 1970's, black men have a long and valued place in gay erotic history. Craig Calvin Anderson's Sierra Domino Studios produced beautiful images of black men during the 1970's. The 1980's and technology (VCR machines and inexpensive videos) brought more black men into gay smut than ever before. Today also kicks off VGMH's Christmas Season!

Below: Ronnie, from Sierra Sierra Domino Studios

Below: Mr. Larry Samuels

Below: Mr. Willie Lewis

THE END

VINTAGE MAGAZINE THANKSGIVINGS

2011-11-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

This November 1957 issue of Popular Mechanics is one of my all-time favorites. In addition to a nifty story about how to build your very own backyard ice rink, there's a great story inside about Walt Disney's Disneyland.

The article is written reflecting the type of reader of this nuts and bolts magazine--men interested in how things work---and wowweee does it ever deliver! Once upon a time there was an attraction at Disneyland called the Rainbow Cavern Mine Train. This article illustrates how they made the paint pots percolate as trains passed by. The story also describes drive belts for hippos, five-horse-power electric motors for alligators, and even tells a secret--a toot from the train whistle tripped sound-actuated switches that turned on the spinning rocks! Very modern!

And if that wasn't enough, there was also a pattern to make your own Happy Hunter Pipe Rack!

Of course with the kick-off for the holiday season, Kodak offered their new Pony II camera. Hmmm..wonder who (or what) he is taking a photo of.

And the new 1958 cars!

It was a time when straight men could openly indulge in sexual delights with this November 1957 issue of Playboy magazine...

...and sadly a time when gay men were largely invisible to much of mainstream society and their sexual pleasures were forced to be disguised behind topics like fitness, such as this Health and Strength also from that same month and year. Thankfully, the times have changed!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

November 1988

2011-11-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

If you turned to page 44 of this Playgirl issue, there you would find their Man for November Doug Chapman, looking very sexy. There was also a story about Johnny Depp, an interview with Steven Bauer, and a naughty photo set called Flesh for Fantasy on page 74. But for many men (and a few women) it was this sportsman in his tight blue jeans who made the biggest splash that month.

Grant (part two)

2011-11-22T19:26:00.000-08:00

SpunkWorthy

Hairy Feast: Grant (part one)

2011-11-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

What a fury surprised when 25 year-old Grant arrived at Jason's doorstep in San Diego to do his first nude photo shoot. The first thing noticed about Grant was his freshly shaved baby-face and that million-watt smile that lighted up the room. The next thing to notice was that tuft of hair creeping over the neckline of his t-shirt. When Grant took off his t-shirt, there was the classic Marine tattoo proudly displayed on one of his arms. Then there was that fury tummy. Jason says that he told Grant that a lot of SpunkWorthy friends like hairy dudes and that Grant might make a few fans, and "That, of course, made him blush a little." A video sample of Grant can be watched over at SpunkWorthy.com

Please stay tuned for part two.

Gobble These Down!

2011-11-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

A Sunday pre-holiday extra post!

TV reports say that the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner keeps getting more expensive, even as average incomes remain flat or decrease. It looks like these gents are serving up some delicious meat that's free and tasty. And by the looks of things, their happy guests can't get enough!

Fur Trappers (part three)

2011-11-19T18:56:00.000-08:00

BARGAINING FOR BOOTY
(THE ART OF ETIENNE)
The French traded European manufactured stuff in return for their prized beaver skins. In exchange, firearms and booze were highly desired by the native men. Personal relations between the French fur traders and Native American men were sometimes very good and sometimes very bad.

Both the British and French colonists were confronted with the fact that in many Native American cultures, it was normal for men to have sex with other (female-acting and dressing) males. and they were welcomed and respected by their tribes. It's been widely recognized that the French coined the term "berdache" to label these men who lived in female roles.

Throw into the mix the ultra-homophobic missionaries and it must have been quite a time. No doubt that Etienne saw the potential for sexy male escapades in the wilderness when he created this great fantasy work. By the end of the series, once again our artist displays his sense of humor, with the studs sexually spent and another couple of notches added to his list of male conquests.

End of Series

Man Fur: The Sex Traders (part two)

2011-11-18T17:47:00.000-08:00

MALE BEAVER FEVER
There was a time when just Europeans couldn’t get enough beavers. We’re not talking about the Hustler magazine kind of beaver, but rather the furry little critters that live out in the wilderness. Rugged French fur traders and trappers were among the earliest representatives of their homeland in early North America. How early? Consider that during the era from roughly 1660 through 1763, a fierce rivalry grew between France and Great Britain as each power struggled to expand their fur-trading territories in North America. The poor animals didn't stand much of a chance.

The demand in Europe for beaver was huge because the furs gave the wearer protection against the elements as well as a mark of social distinction. The reduction of the beaver population was so large that it actually forced the trappers and traders to push deeper into the interior lands in search of their prey. Some of these men took their families into the woods with them, but this was rough and dangerous living, and the lifestyle made many of them bachelors out of necessity and choice. Thus it made sense for them to work in teams of two men, and accounts from that time suggest that they literally slept together for many obvious reasons, not the least of which would be for mutual warmth and protection.

Stay tuned for part three

Vintage Gay Art, Based on Early American History

2011-11-17T17:52:00.000-08:00

THE SEX TRADERS

VGMH's already reviewed famed gay artist Etienne's life, so in honor of Thanksgiving we'll shift the focus to one of his series rather than the man himself. This art portfolio is simply known as Trappeurs. Like all of Etienne's work, there's so much more going on in addition to the obvious...and in this case the French men who are the trappers are rooted in real American history that's often overlooked. More on the actual history behind these sexy fantasy drawings in parts two and three.

Trappeurs

Our French fur trader is busy chopping wood when, right on time, a canoe carrying a sexy blonde frontiersman arrives at the shore, looking eager to barter while cautiously carrying his rifle.

From the looks of things, they've made these sort of deals before, as the campsite visitor goes right to business and helps our trapper remove his European black boots. Looks like that beautiful buck skin jacket with fringe is coming off, too. Those moccasins look comfortable enough to leave on during their "negotiations." So, what's being traded between these two men? Please stay tuned.

TOMORROW: PART TWO

Lou Cass

2011-11-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

In 1987 a very masculine Lou Cass Cass began his acting career in porn, appearing in Weekend Workout. He continued to perform in adult entertainment throughout the rest of the decade as a professional and reliable model. It's reported that Lou quit smut after making Catalina Video's Man of the Year (co-starring alongside Joey Stefano, who smut folklore suggests was very turned-on by Lou and not just pretending for the cameras) to act in mainstream productions and to record music, with TV appearances in Beverly Hills 90210, Dr Quinn Medicine Woman, Burke's Law, LA Law, Models, Inc. and Melrose Place. In 1990, Lou recorded a compact disc single, Rated X, which became the first recording by a male porn star to hit the Billboard charts.

Regarded as a good guy by many, he's also performed to help raise funds for AIDS research. Mr. Cass returned to smut in 2007, starring (non-sexually) in Falcon Studio's DARE. It seems that the older Lou becomes, the more rugged and macho he gets. In May 2008, Lou Cass won the "Best Actor of the Year in a non-sexual performance" at the Grabby awards in Chicago.

Dane (part two)

2011-11-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

The photo below really shows off Dane's big guns, not to mention his red-tipped torpedo that's looking for a friendly target to penetrate.

Island Studs

Speaking of targets...

The photographer of Dane noted that "He begins the shoot by stripping naked in the bathroom and shaving his sweet face with his dick flopping over the sink's edge. Watch as his nervousness melts away when I put him to work naked in the sun, trimming the bushes in the tropical garden. Check out the big cock swinging between his hairy thighs and his all-natural body hair as he works. Watch as he even exposes his hairy butt hole several times as he bends over to cut the lower branches from a bush!"

Dane

2011-11-14T18:55:00.000-08:00

The folks over in Hawaii at Island Studs sent us these images of Dane, a hairy semi-pro body boarder surfer. The image above of Dane wearing a straw hat is certainly reminiscent of some great vintage models from both Hawaii and Havana. And then of course there's Dane's throbbing manhood that he seems very proud of showing off. As they said: "Dane is one surfer Island Stud with one of the best muscle bodies we have seen on the beaches of our Island! Enjoy every inch of this young jock!"

More photos of Dane tomorrow!

For those that are interested, a sample video of Dane playing with himself can be viewed over at Island Studs

Sunday Classics

2011-11-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

What makes a classic? No matter what age we happen to be living in, a classic should still make sense and be relevant. It should stand up to the test of time. For this Sunday VGMH serves up some classic common sense passed down through the ages, mixed with some modern beefcake shot in a very classic male erotica-style.

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." Dr. Seuss

The model's name is Caleb Halstead. Born in 1988 from Cedar Rapids, it's reported that he became a gifted athlete during his high school years before IMG Models discovered Halstead when he was 19-years old. The images they took were sent to well-known photographers who were impressed with his bone structure. Today he is a top fashion model. He's also gained a large gay fan club, no doubt thanks in part to retro-looking homoerotic photo shoots like these.

For those interested, Caleb stands 6' tall, has brown hair and blue eyes. His waist is 30 inches and inseam 32. His shoe size? 10.5.

"Many of the things you can count, don't count. Many of the things you can't count, really count." Albert Einstein

“Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric.”
- Bertrand Russell

"A man's age is something impressive, it sums up his life: maturity reached slowly and against many obstacles, illnesses cured, griefs and despairs overcome, and unconscious risks taken; maturity formed through so many desires, hopes, regrets, forgotten things, loves. A man's age represents a fine cargo of experiences and memories." Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Wartime Writings 1939-1944, translated from French by Norah Purcell

1980's Bobby Madison

2011-11-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

Bobby Madison was a popular performer in 1980's gay erotica. Bobby also worked as Brian Michaels and he appeared mostly for Matt Sterling and William Higgins productions. Known for his thick and bushy black hair, Bobby sucked, topped, and bottomed his way through pre-condom 1980's porn. Among his films were Leo & Lance (1983), Brother Load (1983), A Matter of Size (1983), The Bigger the Better (1984), Pipeline (1984), The French Lieutenant's Boys (1984 with Doug Weston), and Below the Belt (1985). He reportedly retired from the porn industry in 1986 following his last movie, In Heat.

Of all the 1980's films that Bobby performed in, one that has becomesomething of a classic of the pre-condom fucking genre is Brother Load. As the movie liner notes describe: "Brother Load focuses on the sexcapades of two sets of brothers and their buddies in a story that breaches the Pacific, from central California's farmlands to Hawaii's virgin shores. Sibling rivalry? There's none of that to be found here!" The production values are good and the sex is hot.

Veteran's Day

2011-11-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

Thank You Veterans, both Gay and Straight.
Now for the first time, everyone can serve and be honest about who they are and who they love, without fear of being discharged or disgraced.

VGMH salutes these vintage buddies with a mission-to protect and serve their country.

World War I — known at the time as “The Great War” — officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, but fighting actually ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, went into effect between the Allied nations and Germany on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. For that reason, Nov. 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The original concept for the celebration was for a day observed with parades, public meetings, and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11 a.m. World War II and the Korean War created millions of additional war veterans beside those the First World War already honored by Armistice Day. In 1954, President Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name of the legal holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day to honor veterans of all wars.

The Uniform Holiday Bill, signed in 1968, was intended to ensure three-day weekends for federal employees by celebrating four national holidays on Monday: Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Columbus Day. The fourth Monday in October was established as the new date for the observance of Veterans Day, to take effect in 1971. The first Veterans Day under the new law was observed with much confusion on October 25, 1971.

It was quite apparent that the commemoration of this day was a matter of historic and patriotic significance to a great number of our citizens, so in 1975 President Gerald Ford signed legislation to return the federal observance of Veterans Day to Nov. 11, based on popular support throughout the nation. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to Nov. 11, not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of county, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Horst P. Horst

2011-11-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Horst P. Horst was born Horst Paul Albert Bohrmann in 1906 in Weissenfels, Germany. His career in photography began after he met photographer George Hoyningen-Huene, and by 1931 he was shooting for French Vogue. Horst P. Horst's work was displayed in museums in New York, London, and Cologne. Horst is best known for his dramatic, shadowy fashion shots

Horst rented an apartment in New York in 1937 and met Coco Chanel, whom Horst called "the queen of the whole thing". He would photograph her fashions for three decades. He met Valentine Lawford, a British diplomat, in 1938 and they would live together as a loving couple until Horst's death. They adopted and raised a son, Richard J. Horst.

In 1945 he photographed United States President Harry S. Truman, with whom he became friends. In the 1960s, encouraged by Vogue editor Diana Vreeland, Horst began a series of photos illustrating the lifestyle of international high society that became very popular.

More Vic

2011-11-08T19:04:00.000-08:00

Victor Racek arrived into erotica from his homeland in the Czech Republic. It's reported that this 6'1" hairy and hung man was discovered thanks to his interest in working out and fitness. It's easy to imagine Vic turning quite a few heads in workout gear. He was born in 1973 and has also used the names Peter Rascek and Viktor Razek. This sex magnet graced the pages of the October 2000 issue of INCHES.

Oops!

2011-11-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

For anyone who's ever taken a photo and then later discovered that their subject matter had their eyes closed, their mouths open, or both--here's something that you'll probably enjoy seeing--this happens to professionals, too! The first image is of Vic Racek looking very seductive with his man junk sprawled out over one thigh. The next two photos are bloopers.

Mac Attack!

2011-11-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

Beefy Big Mac

Below: Would anyone care to help Mac admire the family jewels?

His first shoot for Men magazine displayed Mac's assets in a studio setting and with a more shaved Mac flexing his muscles in traditional physique poses. Which photo set style do you prefer?

Just as easily as men drift into smut they typically drift on to other pursuits in life. Mac worked for Body Image Productions before it seems that he left the business.

More Mac

2011-11-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

Mac Quintero posed for Men magazine's May 2008 issue. Prior to this photo set, he had displayed his manhood for Honcho and Torso in 2004 and for Madate in 2007. Born in 1975, he stands a rock-solid 5'8".

More Mac tomorrow!

Rugged Mac

2011-11-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

These 2008 photos appeared in Men Magazine. The bonered-up stud is Mac who had previously modeled for the publication and created an instant fan club of guys who fell head over heels for the stud. For this riverside photo shoot Mac let some of his man fur grow out as well as not shaving that hansome mug.

Please stay tuned for more of Mac later today!

1980's Mike Gregory

2011-11-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

He was a familiar performer in gay smut between 1987-1990. Mike appeared in INCHES magazine in both 1998 and 1989, in addition to other men's publications during the same era. A versatile performer, his 9" penis was in almost as much demand as was his behind and mouth. Mike's green eyes and dirty blonde hair were easy to look watch. He performed for Falcon Studios, Catalina, Rascal, and other producers.

Unfortunately for Mike, it looks like he wasn't offered enough parts where he really could differentiate himself from the dozens of other performers in the business who looked similar, who were also smooth with swimmer builds, and who had equally big cocks and talented mouths.

One of his most famous performances was in Behind Closed Doors where he services Tom Steele. Hunky football stud Tom gets his cock slathered and sucked (all while wearing a jockstrap and football gear) by Mike Gregory. Tom plays with Mike's ass, spanks his cheeks a few times, and then decides to screw Gregory (this is pre-condom action). Just in time, Mike Ramsey shows up wearing a black leather jacket and pulls out his own cock to get in on the fun. Gregory loves dick and gets two big ones. Everyone leaves getting what they wanted.

The movie featured: Jim Bentley, Joe Cade, Kevin Wiles, Mike Gregory, Mike Ramsey, Paul Coder, and Tom Steele.

Time Magazine 1969: The Homosexual in America

2011-11-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

October 31, 1969

On October 31, 1969 this colorful cover first hit the magazine racks at drug stores and supermarkets everywhere. It probably wasn't coincidence that it came out just four months after the Stonewall riots and after the summer's huge popularity for the movie Midnight Cowboy. The magazine editors and writers could have been on the cusp of reporting for what turned out to be the modern turning point in gay activism. But instead, much to their shame, TIME magazine ran this cover story titled "The Homosexual in America" which largely presented a negative and disgusting portrayal of gay men in society. Sadly, this respected publication appears to have played to the darkest of prejudices in American culture at the time, giving credibility to intolerance. The story asked the question to readers, “Is there a homosexual conspiracy afoot to dominate the arts and other fields?,” and blamed homosexuality on “many emotionally disturbing experiences during the course of several years.”

For the most part, gay historians regard the article as offering condescending and negative views towards gay men, similar to that presented in a CBS News documentary that aired two years earlier that was similarly titled "The Homosexuals". Consider that the article describes the "life of a homosexual is a pathetic little second-rate substitute for reality, a pitiable flight from life. As such it deserves fairness, compassion, understanding and, when possible, treatment. But it deserves no encouragement, no glamorization, no rationalization, no fake status as minority martyrdom, no sophistry about simple differences in taste — and, above all, no pretense that it is anything but a pernicious sickness."

The reality that gay men were a part of everyday society was something that many Americans did not want to acknowledge, and the riots and publicity for Midnight Cowboy were something that they feared. An entire class of people, who had suffered living in denial about who they really were, had begun to demand an end to police brutality and discrimination. For every step forward that was made by courageous gay rights activists, publications such as this one pushed the cause of acceptance back. As the story said “Though they still seem fairly bizarre to most Americans, homosexuals have never been so visible, vocal or closely scrutinized by research,” the article stated. “They throw public parties, frequent exclusively “gay” bars (70 in San Francisco alone), and figure sympathetically as the subjects of books, plays and films. Encouraged by the national climate of openness about sex of all kinds and the spirit of protest, male and female inverts have been organizing to claim civil rights for themselves as an aggrieved minority.”

Aaron, continued

2011-11-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Note: Here at VGMH we like to take a nostalgic approach to the holidays--believing that they were more fun in past years, before retailers decided to begin hawking their Christmas merchandise about the same time as the kids were starting to get ready to go back to school in late August. That's why the Halloween posts and decorations are already down here at VGMH. As in past years, if you missed some of them don't worry, as some favorites will return in future years when the season rolls around again. Thanks to everyone who commented--I really appreciate it. I'm sorry but I'm way behind on emails and so if I haven't replied to yours please understand.

It's easy to imagine a sunny fall afternoon on Fire Island (and that's the best I can do-imagine-since I've never been there) after the crowds of summer have long-since left and a the beaches are quiet. Aaron's a November 2008 [correction in comments below] beauty that was photographed on the island. Coming or going, he certainly looks good.

Aaron

2011-10-31T22:03:00.000-07:00

Aaron posed in November 2007 for Playgirl. The location? Fire Island. Wednesday's post will uncover what's poking around inside those green plaid boxers.

Johnny are you queer?

2011-10-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

Josie Cotton recorded her hit single "Johnny Are You Queer" under Bomp Records in 1981. Born Kathleen Josey in Dallas, Texas, Cotton sang with Dallas area bands before moving to Los Angeles. The performance of the single attracted the attention of Elektra Records, which re-released both the single and a full album in 1982.

More Parker Haven (part two)

2011-10-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Playgirl

Parker's photographs date back to September 2008.

Playgirl's Parker Haven

2011-10-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend a crisp sunny autumn afternoon, than enjoying a nice outdoor shower and giving the ol' boner some fresh air with a walk in the freshly-mowed grass? Parker is certainly a man who looks able to rise to any occasion. Playgirl online featured this refreshing hunk.

Please stay tuned for more Parker~!

A Real Gay Halloween Treat: Vintage Wes Christiansen

2011-10-20T18:45:00.000-07:00

We can thank COLT Studios for photographing the blonde (and very hairy) beauty of Wes.

Dan Kloeffler Comes Out

2011-10-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

ABC's World News Now anchor Dan Kloeffler, who has been out to friends, family, and co-workers for years, elaborated on his ABC blog about the reasons for coming out at this time:“…I too no longer wanted to hide this part of my life.” Speaking especially to issues facing LGBT youth, Dan said, “There have been too many tragic endings and too many cases of bullying because of intolerance. As a kid I wanted someone to look up to, someone that could relate to the feelings I was having…As a journalist, I don’t want to be the story, but as a gay man I don’t want to stand silent if I can offer some inspiration or encouragement to kids that might be struggling with who they are.”

Peter Glenn: 1960's Tough Guy

2011-10-17T19:05:00.000-07:00

Peter Glenn was a physique model during the 1960's and seemed to be a natural when it came to posing in leather...including this copy of MARS magazine from 1967. As the cover proudly says... "BRUTES IN BOOTS!!!" are waiting to be found inside the May issue. Models for this rough-as-cowhide issue included: Glenn Bishop, Ed Lull, Paul Ferguson, Richard Edwards, Ted Polard, Helmut Reidmeier, Lucky Woods, Eric Oden, Rick Anderson, E.Z.Webster, Garry Price, Ted Hudson, Phil Cook, Peter Glenn, Jon Craig, Martin Carue, Mike Starr and more. If you invited hairy Peter over to watch TV one night, the odds were pretty good that this leatherman probably wasn't going to be turning on Gentle Ben. What was very likely to get turned-on before the night was over was you.