Initially composed mostly of Italians, it also included some Mexican Americans, reflecting the ethnic diversity of the area, which was recognized as one of Chicago's "Little Italies".
Their initial claimed street corners included Huron and Throop, where they frequented Angie's, Grand and Ogden, and Ohio and Noble.
The Gaylords quickly gained control over approximately half of the West Town area and all of Noble Square, establishing clubhouses and baseball teams.
In the 1960s, the Gaylords expanded their territory into the Pilsen neighborhood, particularly at 18th and Western, and notably in Logan Square, Lawndale, Altgeld, and Kilbourn Park.
Their South Side territory included Back of the Yards and West Englewood (around 55th and Ashland, Sherman Park), Pilsen (18th and Western), and Bridgeport (Throop Street).
In 2011, police and federal agents arrested nine members of suburban Gaylords factions on charges of drug dealing, gun trafficking, and violent intimidation.