Halloween Marks 50th Anniversary of “Boys of Boise” Morals Cases.
October 26, 2005 (Press Release) --
BOISE, IDAHO – October 31st, 2005 marks the 50th anniversary of the so-called “Boys of Boise” morals drive, considered by some to be one of America’s most notorious homosexual scandals. The investigation started with a private eye and juvenile probation officer, working together to uncover homosexual activity in Boise’s youth. On Halloween night, 1955, the duo arrested three men, and charged them for having sex with teenage boys. The private eye and probation officer pointed to this as evidence of a teenage “sex ring.”
The investigation spread rapidly, fueled by public anxiety and widespread news coverage. Boise’s mayor claimed more than 1,400 people were questioned. Eventually, 16 men were prosecuted. Some of the accusers were as old as 21.
A documentary film now in post-production called “The Fall of ‘55” profiles the morals cases, and shares first-hand accounts of people whose lives were changed forever by the scandal. The film examines the consequences of the investigation. It is the result of five years’ worth of research throughout the Western United States. The film incorporates new stories not included in previous accounts of the prosecutions, including John Gerassi’s book, “The Boys of Boise.” The documentary is independently researched.
Members of the crew are available for interviews leading up to the anniversary. For instance, the film’s Director can talk about the filmmaking and research process. Historical Advisor Alan Virta, can discuss the 1955 prosecutions in more detail. Award-winning musician Randy Coryell can talk about composing the original orchestral score. Or Executive Producer Louise Luster can talk about her efforts to promote filmmaking in Idaho.
To arrange for interviews, or more information, please contact Louise Luster at 208/859-5123. You can also obtain more information such as fact sheets and crew biographies by visiting our website at www.FALLof55.com
The investigation spread rapidly, fueled by public anxiety and widespread news coverage. Boise’s mayor claimed more than 1,400 people were questioned. Eventually, 16 men were prosecuted. Some of the accusers were as old as 21.
A documentary film now in post-production called “The Fall of ‘55” profiles the morals cases, and shares first-hand accounts of people whose lives were changed forever by the scandal. The film examines the consequences of the investigation. It is the result of five years’ worth of research throughout the Western United States. The film incorporates new stories not included in previous accounts of the prosecutions, including John Gerassi’s book, “The Boys of Boise.” The documentary is independently researched.
Members of the crew are available for interviews leading up to the anniversary. For instance, the film’s Director can talk about the filmmaking and research process. Historical Advisor Alan Virta, can discuss the 1955 prosecutions in more detail. Award-winning musician Randy Coryell can talk about composing the original orchestral score. Or Executive Producer Louise Luster can talk about her efforts to promote filmmaking in Idaho.
To arrange for interviews, or more information, please contact Louise Luster at 208/859-5123. You can also obtain more information such as fact sheets and crew biographies by visiting our website at www.FALLof55.com
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