Chicago Escorts: A Forgotten Culture in a Familiar Place

… Bughouse Square’ long revered as a sanctuary of that great American tradition, freedom of speech, recently has, for all practical purposes, become completely dominated by the Communist Party. The Communists in the last few months have monopolized the choice speaking places and hours…” before closing with, “…one hopes the influence of the National Socialists’ street preaching in Germany will not soon be forgotten.”
Soon the speakers dwindled. In time, they were replaced by winos and bums and Washington Square earned a reputation as a dangerous area and a place not to be visited after dark. The park also became a meeting point for homosexuals and also garnered the distinction as one of the city’s centers for prostitution. Adult movie theaters and book shops moved into the area. But in accordance to its liberal atmosphere and it’s acceptance of free speech, Chicago’s first ever Gay Pride Parade originated in the park 1970.

See the full article from “Gapers Block (blog)”