Got a light?

These vintage drag and gay nightclub matchbook covers are, well, FIRE

The website Dangerous Minds is consistently a treasure trove of obscure and fascinating artifacts; a trend that continues with their recent collection of vintage matchbooks highlighting gay bars, drag queens, and cabaret stars from days of yore.

Related: Video Game Challenges Users To Lather Up Hot Guys In The Locker Room Shower

From the old-school matchbook for Toronto’s The Barn (pictured above, and owing more than a little to Tom of Finland) and Kansas City’s The Jewel Box Lounge (highlighting a bevy of female impersonators) these examples are hypnotic and transporting; totems from a bygone era that effortlessly bring “you both affectionate sentiment and practical service,” as the copy on matchbook proudly boasts.

Personal fave: The matchbook emblazoned with “That was no lady!”

Related: The Bizarre World Of Gay Dinosaur Erotica Is Very Much A “Thing”

Take a look:

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated