early nudist history

Ninety years of Mountain Air

A look back as one of North America's oldest nudist clubs marks a milestone

Jul 11 •

The first “clothing-optional” event in America

A newsletter and community exploring nudity in history, culture, politics, and art. Daily articles, essays, webcomics, and podcasts right in your inbox.

Jun 10 •

El Portús without the nudists

As the iconic Spanish naturist campsite prepares to relaunch, a small group of residents fights eviction, intimidation, and the loss of their homes

May 10 •

Land trust buys iconic nude beach

A $10 million conservation deal safeguards San Gregorio—but the fate of its nude tradition is unclear

Apr 25 •

Nudist or naturist: An age-old question

Can naked sages in ancient times help us work out the difference between naturism and nudism?

Mar 3 •

Nick Mayhew-Smith

Pettibone Park affair

How a nude bathing scandal redrew the Minnesota-Wisconsin border—America’s last great state line shuffle

Jan 20 •

The first three years: A founding father’s account

By Kurt Barthel, originally written in 1932

Dec 22, 2024

Lee Miller, growing up nude along the Hudson River

How Lee Miller’s progressive upbringing shaped her understanding of art, the body, and freedom

Dec 16, 2024 •

Africa: The continuing tradition

A journey through Africa’s naked heritage and artistic expression

Oct 3, 2024 •

Harry Kemp: The first physical culturist

Exploring the life and legacy of Harry Kemp, the pioneering 'vagabond poet' and early advocate of social nudity

Aug 27, 2024 •

Targeted nudist advertising

Exploring the unique history of advertising in nudist publications

Aug 5, 2024 •

Hobeiche’s nudist revolution

How Sheikh Fouad Hobeiche bridged cultures to foster Arab nudism in 1930s Lebanon

Jul 12, 2024 •

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