Sky Farm NJ
Sky Farm is the oldest continuously operated naturist venue in the United States. It was established by Kurt Barthel for members of the American League for Physical Culture in 1932. Members were arrested for holding naturist events in a rented New York City gymnasium and sought a place to continue to met without harassment for law enforcement. Located in the Liberty Corners area of Basking Ridge N.J. the property was purchased for $3,440. Sky Farm still operates today as a member owned cooperative. 1Sky Farm History
history
As founder of the American League For Physical Culture, Barthel first started organizing nudist gatherings and outing in 1929 placing newspaper advertising to reach interested parties. He established the landed club (now called Sky Farm) 2 Sky Farm – The Oldest Clothing-Optional Retreat in the United States Right Here in Liberty Corner that still exists today in New Jersey was established a few years later, on May 15, in the spring of 1932. 3Vintage Naturist
In 1932, the (ALPC), set up a nudist “summer camp” in the Liberty Corner section of Basking Ridge Families, local residents and those from nearby states spent their summers at ALPC camp which later became known as Sky Farm. Mothers and children like other families in the summer, resided at the camp full-time, while husbands arriving by train from New York City on weekends. 2)
Members set up tenting platforms and then cottages. The original cottages had no electricity, or running water. Physical fitness activities were encouraged and morning exercise was mandatory. 4 Sky Farm – The Oldest Clothing-Optional Retreat in the United States Right Here in Liberty Corner
membership
Sky farm is a members only nudist club which does not allow day visitors. Visitors exploring membership may visit by appointment. After a probationary period of at least a year members become a part of the cooperative. Meaning they cooperatively own the property. Members are expected to contribute skills to the maintenance of the property. 5 Sky Farm – The Oldest Clothing-Optional Retreat in the United States Right Here in Liberty Corner
Notable past members include Charles Webb, author of The book turned hit movie The Graduate, who was once care taker and noted horticulturalist John Caspar Wister who has a street named for him at Sky Farm. 6 Sky Farm – The Oldest Clothing-Optional Retreat in the United States Right Here in Liberty Corner
facilities
Sky Farm is located on 35 acres with accommodations that include 57 cabins and cottages, tent platforms and tenting area for camping, and a lodge. 7 Sky Farm – The Oldest Clothing-Optional Retreat in the United States Right Here in Liberty Corner
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