2 min read

Foundation names research study space in honor of James Lynn Williams

Bob Mizer Foundation : Oct 20, 2024 3:16:15 PM

naming opportunity charles longcope jr james lynn williams

3:31

SAN FRANCISCO – October 10, 2024 --

The Bob Mizer Foundation announces the naming of its third-floor Rare Books & Special Collections Study Room as the James Lynn Williams Rare Books & Special Collections Study Room, marking the second space at the Foundation's headquarters to be named through the organization's donor recognition program.

`This dedication follows Williams' previous contribution that established the Charles Longcope, Jr. Photography Research Archive earlier this year. Williams, a dedicated supporter of the Foundation, continues to honor both his own legacy and that of his late partner, Charles Longcope, Jr., through his sustained commitment to preserving LGBTQ+ cultural heritage.

James Lynn Williams is the life partner for 46 years of Charles Longcope Jr.

"The Foundation's work in preserving and sharing these invaluable materials with researchers and the public is essential," Williams says. "I'm honored to help ensure these unique collections remain accessible to future generations."

The newly named study room will provide a dedicated space for scholars, students, and researchers to examine the Foundation's extensive collection of rare books, periodicals, and special collections, including its complete run of Physique Pictorial magazines.

"James' continued generosity demonstrates his deep understanding of our mission," says Den Bell, Foundation founder and president. "This study room will stand as a testament to his commitment to preserving LGBTQ+ history and culture."

The James Lynn Williams Rare Books & Special Collections Study Room houses the Foundation’s extensive collection Mizer's catalog indexes and personal diaries, as well as extensive collections of erotic studio advertising ephemera and rare books. The Charles Longcope, Jr. Photography Research Archive houses the Foundation’s extensive collections of photographs taken by Bob Mizer himself, as well as the John Lillis & Jeff Bailey Photography Collection, composed of more than 30,000 images that Lillis donated to the Foundation in 2019. The Archive also houses a collection of 125,000 vintage photographs donated by Trent Dunphy and Robert Mainardi.

A formal dedication ceremony will be scheduled during the 2024 holiday season.

For more information about naming opportunities for other significant areas of the Foundation, e-mail info@bobmizer.org.

James Lynn Williams is the life partner for 46 years of Charles Longcope Jr.

About The Bob Mizer Foundation

Bob Mizer (1922-92) was a mid-century male physique photographer. In 1945, Mizer founded the Athletic Model Guild; in 1951, he began publishing his pioneering zine Physique Pictorial, which would enjoy a press run of nearly 40 years.

During an era in which artists like Mizer could be (and were) censored and silenced by the ongoing threat of heavy fines, exposure to a puritanical public, and even jail time. His work remains a groundbreaking and critical component of LGBTQ+ culture and history, resonating with a global audience even today.

The Bob Mizer Foundation is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Mizer's surviving works, which include photographs, slides, negatives, and films. Based in San Francisco, this nonprofit organization hosts regular art exhibits, in-person/online film screenings, and lectures by experts in male physique culture. Learn more and donate at www.bobmizer.org.