Episode Details

The history of organized nudism and naturism in Tennessee began much earlier than one might imagine.  Nudists familiar with the state can likely identify Tennessee’s trio of lodges: Timberline Lodge (1964 to 2003), Rock Haven Lodge (1969 to present), and Cherokee Lodge (1993-2014).  But several nudist groups, some with unimproved camping areas, were operating in the state long before Timberline opened. This three-part written history, the first of its kind to our knowledge, explores the under-appreciated realm of Tennessee nudism, and uncovers the pioneering figures and significant groups that have decisively influenced the national nudism narrative, shedding new light on an often-overlooked aspect of American social history. 🪐

Read the original articles:

Part 1 - “They were made of stern stuff, fired with determination”

Part 2 - “All those Tennessee people will be heroes”

Part 3 - “The good old summertime is almost over”