The Oldest Commune In America Is Right Here In Tennessee And It's Amazing
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Located in Summertown, Tennessee, a small town in Lewis County, you can find the oldest inhabited commune in the United States. Many folks think that they should be looking at New York and California, but it’s actually right here in Tennessee. It’s a tiny place with a big heart and a whole lot of history.
Tennessee. A beautiful haven of rolling hills and southern hospitality, it's also home to the oldest "commune" in the United States.
The Farm is a cooperative community that lives within three square miles in southern Tennessee. The whole of the community has an outbound focus, hoping to serve as an example to those around them.
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Established in 1971, The Farm has since become the longest-running community settlement in the United States. The land was originally settled by 320 folks on a budget of $1 a day and no government aid. At its highest point, there were 1,200 people living on The Farm.
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It took roughly four years for it to become agriculturally self-sufficient, but the community has since continued its successful streak. Where did everyone come from, you wonder? The west coast hippie haven of California.
Many folks ask if The Farm is a religious community or church. Inhabitants consider themselves to be respectful free-thinkers who don't put down or count out different thoughts and ideas.
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All inhabitants contribute to the whole of the community, as it operates likes a small town. There are quite a few folks that work in nearby towns, with The Farm located about 35 miles from Pulaski. Most give between $75 and $125 per adult, per month.
The Farm also LOVES folks that come to visit. Visitors are encouraged and welcomed in true Tennessee fashion. The Farm Store also has quite a few food items and supplies for your stay. Groups can also have vegetarian lunches and take part in a tour of the community. The rustic eco-hostel has since been renovated, but was originally constructed from scrapped army tents and old, recycled building materials.
It has two dormitories that consist of three private bedrooms and a private cabin, plus a bunch of outdoor camping space.
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And two renovated school buses. Because who WOULDN'T want to stay in a renovated school bus suite?
If you're visiting, you'll want to check their nightly rates. There are weekly rates available as well, if you'd like to stay awhile.
What an interesting story, don’t you think? Here’s another quirky part of Tennessee that you should definitely check out if you’re hungry.
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