Fruitlands

This is a definitive account of Fruitlands, one of history's most unsuccessful, but most significant, utopian experiments. It was established in Massachusetts in 1843 by Bronson Alcott (whose ten year old daughter Louisa May, future author of Little Women, was among the members) and an Englishman called Charles Lane, under the watchful gaze of Emerson, Thoreau, and other New England intellectuals. Alcott and Lane developed their own version of the doctrine known as Transcendentalism, hoping to transform society and redeem the environment through a strict regime of veganism and celibacy. But physical suffering and emotional conflict, particularly between Lane and Alcott's wife, Abigail, made the community unsustainable. Drawing on the letters and diaries of those involved, the author explores the relationship between the complex philosophical beliefs held by Alcott, Lane, and their fellow idealists and their day to day lives. The result is a vivid and often very funny narrative of their travails, demonstrating the dilemmas and conflicts inherent to any utopian experiment and shedding light on a fascinating period of American history.

In June of 1843, Bronson Alcott and Charles Lane, both reformers involved in the Transcendentalist movement, founded Fruitlands in an attempt to strengthen their spirituality through self-reliant, simple living. Joinmed by their families and about a dozen other individuals, the Con-Sociate family (as they called themselves) was to bring about a new Eden by cultivating a mystical and scetic way of life in a rural retreat. Compiling, in their own words, from letters, diaries, and books, and from the comments of friends and associates such as Emerson and Thoreau, Clara Endicott Sears, founder of Fruitlands Museum, tells the story of this famous encounter of transcendental philosophy with the realities of the New England soil and climate and the vagaries of human nature. Louisa May Alcott's classic satire based on her father's experiment, "Transcendental Wild Oats," completes the picture of a noble failure.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating history of Bronson Alcott's utopian experiment with "Fruitlands" by Louisa May Alcott and Clara Endicott Sears. Journey to a communal farm where idealism clashed with reality, leaving an indelible mark on American history. As Alcott and Sears unfold the tale of Fruitlands, witness the aspirations of transcendentalists striving to create a society rooted in simplicity, equality, and harmony with nature. Explore the challenges they faced, the ideals they championed, and the legacy they left behind. But amidst the idyllic vision, a haunting question lingers: Can humanity truly transcend its inherent flaws and build a paradise on earth, or are utopian dreams destined to crumble in the face of human nature? Delve into the intricacies of Fruitlands, where every failure and triumph serves as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the complexities of communal living. Join the journey to Fruitlands and ponder the timeless quest for a better world. Are we doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past, or can we learn from history and forge a path to a more equitable and sustainable future? Experience the rich tapestry of history woven by Alcott and Sears, offering insights into the triumphs and tragedies of a bold social experiment. Their narrative transcends time, inviting reflection on the enduring pursuit of utopia. Embark on a voyage of discovery and rediscover the forgotten chapters of American history. Let the story of Fruitlands inspire you to reevaluate your own ideals and aspirations, igniting a passion for creating a better world. Don't miss your chance to uncover the secrets of Fruitlands and explore its profound impact on American society. Order your copy of "Fruitlands" today and delve into a compelling narrative of hope, idealism, and the pursuit of a better tomorrow.

We are all going to be made perfect . . . In 1843, with all their possessions loaded onto a single wagon, ten-year-old Louisa May Alcott and her family bravely set out into the wilderness to make a new home for themselves on a farm called Fruitlands. Louisa's father has a dream of living a perfect, simple life. It won't be easy, but the family has vowed to uphold his high ideals. In her diary -- one she shares with her parents -- Louisa records her efforts to become the girl her parents would like her to be. But in another, secret diary, she reveals the hardships of this new life, and pours out her real hopes and worries. Can Louisa live up to her father's expectations? Or will trying to be perfect tear the family apart?

This study analyzes the amount, nature, rate, and location ofland-use change in Okanagan fruitlands between 1958 and 1981 andexamines the role of federal activities in these changes. Theresults indicate a decline of land in fruit production andexpansion of built-up land uses.

He set out to make his utopian dream come true-Bronson Alcott, his wife and four daughters, and an odd assortment of friends who knew more about philosophy than they did about farming. Would their experience at Fruitlands last through the hard New England winter? Transcendentalist commune is for readers of all ages who love Alcott, history, or just a good story told with humor and sensitivity.