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Deep Dive: American Commune (2013)

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American Commune
In 1970, Stephen Gaskin led hundreds of hippies from San Francisco to Tennessee to establish the Farm, a commune focused on non-violence, vegetarianism, and environmental respect. The community was self-sustaining, with members living in converted buses, growing their own food, and practicing home births. The film follows sisters Rena and Nadine as they return to the Farm for the first time since leaving in 1985, reflecting on their upbringing in this unique environment. The documentary examines the rise and fall of America’s largest utopian socialist experiment, revealing the impact on family dynamics and the challenges faced by the commune. It captures the tension between idealism and the realities of success, while also showing how the communal values continue to resonate with the next generation. The film presents a complex view of family ties and the legacy of an alternative lifestyle.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Stephen Gaskin, the leader of the Farm commune.
  • •Find out how the commune affected family dynamics.
  • •See the unique lifestyle of living in converted buses.

Did You Know

•The Farm was established in 1970 by Stephen Gaskin and hundreds of hippies.
•Rena and Nadine returned to the Farm in 2013, 28 years after leaving.
•Members of the Farm practiced home births as part of their lifestyle.
•The Farm was known for its vow of poverty and self-sustainability.

Perfect For

Utopian communities1970s countercultureFamily dynamics