Chicago street gang collection

Archival materials were preserved by a street gang member active in the North Side of Chicago in the 1970s and early 1980s, likely a member of the Gaylords (1953- ), one of Chicago's oldest and largest street gangs, founded by World War II veterans in the 1950s. Most of the original members were of Italian, Irish, or Greek ancestry. The Gaylords Street gang had its beginnings on Chicago's North Side, gradually expanding its territory into the South Side. In the late 1970s to early 1980s, the group was located north and south with several sections, such as Lawndale and Altgeld streets (Logan Square), Moffat & Campbell streets (Humboldt Park), and more. Colors featured in the clothing and patches provide information about a member’s affiliation and, in some cases, their activities. Gaylords symbols, such as the Celtic Cross, can be found as tags in murals, clothing patches, and business cards. Slogans included “Cross is the boss.” Numbers 7 and 12 are used because, per the name "GayLords”, the letters G and L are the 7th and 12th letters of the alphabet. Each set/section had its leader (or leaders). It was divided mainly into five groups: seniors, juniors, peewees, midget, and SlyLords/Puds.