| Pensacola's historic red light district spanned four city blocks and was in operation from the 1890s until it was permanently shut down in 1941. One block of the district was previously the location that the Panton Leslie and Company headquarters had occupied from 1785 to 1848. The Panton Leslie site (8ES34) was excavated three times, in 1964, 1975, and 2000 to salvage remains of the trade headquarters. This study re-examines the archaeological collections resulting from the 1975 and 2000 excavations to interpret the daily lives and community interactions of red light district workers and their customers. Items such as medical paraphernalia, contraceptives, cosmetics, and personal items are examined. Results from this study indicate that Pensacola prostitutes suffered from a variety of diseases, used multiple means to avoid pregnancy, and interacted with the greater community more than previously imagined. Evidence from customers indicates that men from various backgrounds traveled both locally and from great distances to enjoy themselves in Pensacola's brothels. |
