Casa Susanna was a unique and significant haven in the 1950s and 60s. Located in the small Upstate New York town of Jewett, it served as a safe retreat for crossdressing men and transgender women during a time when public expression of gender nonconformity was often met with severe social and legal repercussions.Founded by Susanna Valenti and her wife Maria, Casa Susanna provided a welcoming environment where guests could freely express their gender identity. The Valentis offered not only lodging, but also makeup lessons and photography services, ensuring guests could capture and cherish their experiences.
The site gained broader recognition in the mid-2000s when a collection of photographs from Casa Susanna was discovered at a flea market and later published in a book. This discovery led to increased awareness and documentation of the resort's history, including a documentary featured on PBS’s American Experience.
Guests at Casa Susanna often described their experiences as liberating and transformative. The retreat provided a rare opportunity for crossdressing men and transgender women to express their true selves without fear of judgment or persecution. Here are some key aspects of their experiences:
Freedom of Expression – Many guests felt a profound sense of relief and joy at being able to dress and present themselves in a way that aligned with their gender identity. This freedom was a stark contrast to the restrictive norms of the time.
Community and Support – Casa Susanna fostered a strong sense of community. Guests formed deep bonds with one another, sharing stories, advice and support. This camaraderie was crucial for many, as they often felt isolated in their everyday lives.
Learning and Growth – The Valentis provided makeup lessons, styling tips and photography services, helping guests refine their appearance and build confidence. These skills were invaluable for many who were exploring their gender identity.
Safe Haven – The secluded location of Casa Susanna offered a safe and private environment. Guests could relax and be themselves without the fear of being discovered or harassed.
Memorable Moments – Many guests cherished the photographs taken during their stay, which captured their transformation and the joy of being their authentic selves. These images became treasured keepsakes and a testament to their experiences.
Overall, Casa Susanna was a sanctuary where guests could experience acceptance, understanding, and the freedom to be who they truly were. It played a vital role in the lives of many during a time when such spaces were exceedingly rare.
However, running Casa Susanna came with several significant challenges for Susanna and Maria Valenti.
Legal Risks – During the 1950s and 60s, crossdressing and gender nonconformity were often criminalized. The Valentis risked legal repercussions for providing a space where guests could freely express their gender identity.
Social Stigma – The societal attitudes of the time were largely intolerant towards LGBTQ+ individuals. The Valentis had to navigate this pervasive stigma, ensuring the retreat remained discreet and protected from public scrutiny.
Secrecy and Privacy – Maintaining the privacy and safety of their guests was paramount. The Valentis had to be vigilant about who they allowed into Casa Susanna and ensure that the retreat’s location and activities remained confidential.
Financial Strain – Operating a retreat like Casa Susanna required financial resources. The Valentis had to manage the costs of maintaining the property, providing services and ensuring the comfort and safety of their guests.
Emotional Toll – Supporting their guests, many of whom faced significant personal struggles, could be emotionally taxing. The Valentis provided not just a physical space, but also emotional support, which required considerable empathy and resilience.
Despite these challenges, Susanna and Maria Valenti successfully created a sanctuary that had a profound and lasting impact on many lives. Their dedication and courage in the face of adversity are a testament to their commitment to providing a safe and accepting space for their guests.
Casa Susanna's rediscovery and subsequent documentation is a fascinating story.
Photograph Discovery – In the early 2000s, a collection of photographs from Casa Susanna was found at a flea market by collectors Robert Swope and Michel Hurst. These photographs depicted guests dressed in women’s clothing, capturing moments of joy and self-expression.
Publication – Swope and Hurst compiled these photographs into a book titled Casa Susanna, published in 2005. The book brought significant attention to the retreat, highlighting its historical and cultural importance.
Media Coverage – The publication of the book led to increased media interest. Articles, interviews and features in various media outlets helped to spread the story of Casa Susanna, shedding light on this unique haven.
Documentary – In 2020, PBS’s American Experience aired a documentary titled Casa Susanna, which delved deeper into the history and significance of the retreat. The documentary included interviews with former guests and historians, providing a comprehensive look at the impact of Casa Susanna.
Exhibitions – The photographs and artifacts from Casa Susanna have also been featured in exhibitions, further preserving and sharing the history of this important place.
These efforts have ensured that Casa Susanna's legacy is remembered and celebrated, offering insight into a pivotal part of LGBTQ+ history symbolizing a place of acceptance and self-expression during a challenging era.
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