Changes
At its peak, the Farm claimed somewhere between 1200 and 1600 members living on the main property, along with many small "satellite" communities located in the U.S. and internationally. However, the Tennessee community lacked the infrastructure and income to properly support its growing numbers and grew increasingly in debt. Furthering the Farms growing pains was a "baby boom" shortly after the commune's establishment resulting from its beliefs being put into actual practice. As the Farm's population peaked, the proportion of the population that could not significantly contribute to the work required to maintain the commune increased.
In 1983, due to financial difficulties and also a challenge to Gaskin's leadership and direction, the Farm changed its agreement and began requiring members to support themselves with their own income rather than donate all income to the central bank.
This decollectivization was called the 'Changeover,' or 'the exodus.' The local area provided few possibilities for employment. The nearest large city, Nashville, was a 1.5-hour drive and 75 miles (121 km) away.. Disillusioned, many people left to start over, and eventually the population settled down to its current (2009) level of about 175 adults and children. Those that stayed made the choice to continue living in community for its freedom and peaceful atmosphere, and the safety and security it provided for the children. It is also argued, however, that the members who stayed were close to Gaskin and had been benefiting from a disproportionate distribution of wealth for years. Many of the members were upset with an inequitable distribution of wealth, favoritism and a lack of plumbing despite large giardia outbreaks.
The $400,000 plus debt was paid off after several years and the community has remained debt-free to this day. An entrepreneurial spirit took hold, and numerous small businesses were established to provide support for the residents. Many members went back to school to get degrees in the medical field, and many now work at clinics and hospitals throughout Middle Tennessee.
In the nineties, with the community back on solid ground, The Farm returned to its original purpose of initiating social change through outreach and example. The Ecovillage Training Center was established as an educational facility in new technologies such as solar energy, bio fuels, and construction techniques based on locally available, eco-friendly materials.
In 2004, the Wholeo Dome (a geodesic dome fourteen feet in diameter and seven feet tall, covered with curved stained glass panels) was installed at The Farm. It was created in 1974 by artist Caroling Geary. In May 2010 repairs were completed on the Wholeo Dome.
The Farm maintains contact with its over 4000 former members through listserves, an annual reunion, and through the work of its nonprofit organizations. Former members have gone on to become leaders in many different fields and endeavors, maintaining a sense of right livelihood and a commitment to the betterment of the world.
Read more about this topic: The Farm School