As we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month this February, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the often-overlooked stories of queer lives throughout history. One researcher at the forefront of uncovering these hidden narratives is Dr Leanne McCormick, a historian specializing in gender, sexuality, and untold histories.
Working alongside Dr Tom Hulme from Queen’s University Belfast on the Queer Northern Ireland: Sexuality Before Liberation project, Leanne is shedding light on the vibrant, yet largely undocumented, experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in Northern Ireland.
Unearthing Hidden Histories
Leanne’s research focuses on the lived experiences of those who identified as LGBTQ+ in a time before activism and liberation movements took hold. While contemporary narratives often start with the gay rights campaigns of the late 20th century, Queer Northern Ireland delves deeper, uncovering the rich tapestry of queer lives that existed quietly but resiliently in the shadows.
"Our project has uncovered a vibrant world of same-sex and queer desire which is rarely discussed in academic literature," Leanne explains. "These stories matter—they remind us that LGBTQ+ history didn’t begin with Pride marches or political victories. It was lived quietly, in private spaces, long before it was celebrated publicly."
The Diaries That Added to the Narrative
A real find of the Queer Northern Ireland project is the discovery and analysis of the diaries of David Strain, a Belfast resident who meticulously documented his life between 1921 and 1941. These diaries, held in the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), reveal an intimate and previously unknown world of queer community and connection in mid-20th-century Belfast.
One of the most captivating aspects of Strain’s life was his “shed” in Oughley, on the outskirts of Belfast. Far more than a simple retreat, this space became a hub for social gatherings, friendship, and romantic encounters—a haven in an era when living openly was fraught with risk. The shed’s significance inspired not only academic exploration but also creative storytelling.
From Pen and Paper to Radio Waves
The Queer Northern Ireland project’s impact extends beyond archives and academic circles. Using Strain’s diaries as a foundation, the project has inspired a BBC Radio Play that brings these hidden histories to life. With fictionalized subplots interwoven with real historical details, the play traces a journey from isolation and societal ignorance to the discovery of friendship, community, and self-acceptance.
This creative approach has allowed Leanne and her collaborators to share their findings with wider audiences, making queer history more accessible and engaging. The recreation of David Strain’s shed as part of the project further bridges the gap between past and present, allowing visitors to step into a space that once served as a sanctuary.
A Legacy of Visibility
Beyond the Queer Northern Ireland project, Leanne’s work continues to shine a light on marginalized histories. As Co-Chair of the Truth Recovery Independent Panel on Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries, and Workhouses, as well as Co-Lead of the Bad Bridget project, she remains committed to uncovering stories that challenge dominant historical narratives.
For Leanne, history is not just about what happened—it is about who was remembered and who was forgotten. Through her dedication, the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Northern Ireland—once hidden—are now being reclaimed, celebrated, and preserved for future generations.
As we honour LGBTQ+ History Month, Leanne’s work reminds us of the power of storytelling—not just to understand the past but to inspire a more inclusive future.