The future of the B&B

Although the conditions that once made clubs like the B&B necessary — the criminalization of homosexuality and the limited acceptance of uniforms in gay world — have changed, the B&B is continuing to thrive and meet the needs of its members. The LA Division’s membership has now reached 17 active officers plus 12 honorary and reserve officers, with additional candidates in the pipeline for induction into the club as active officers. The San Francisco and Desert Divisions have somewhat similar numbers of active officers. The opportunity for shared appreciation of uniforms that the club provides, and the time spent socializing together and working together to stage events that are in some cases magical if not phenomenal, have created strong bonds of brotherhood among members, providing the basis for the B&B’s anniversary year slogans: “50 Years in Uniform” and “50 Years of Brotherhood.” Given the durability of the club’s constitution that has proven itself as a robust guide to the club’s operation, the strong traditions of the club, and the strong bonds that have developed among club members, it is possible that the B&B will endure as long as there are men who have an appreciation of highly polished tall boots, crisp, well tailored uniforms, and the men who wear them. 

History prepared by Tom Priestley