An Arrest at the Arlington
A man is taken into custody for violating city morals ordinances while dressed in feminine attire.
On March 5, 1894, Thomas M. Gibson, aged 32 years, was arrested at the Arlington Hotel for masquerading in woman's clothing. Gibson was apprehended by local authorities following reports of his conduct, which violated public decency ordinances. He is currently held in the city jail awaiting further legal action regarding the morals charge.
“Arrest of a man for masquerading in woman's clothing in violation of morals ordinance.”
This arrest reflects the rigid gender policing of the late 19th century in Seattle, where laws against 'masquerading' were frequently used to criminalize gender non-conformity. Today, these historical records serve as a reminder of the evolving and often hostile civic climate that LGBTQ+ individuals have navigated in the city for over a century.
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