Homesteading’s Legacy Grows as Nearings’ Influence Endures

The legacy of homesteading icons Helen and Scott Nearing continues to thrive at the Good Life Center in Brooksville, Maine, where their philosophies attract thousands of visitors annually. Even decades after their deaths—Scott passed away in 1983 at the age of 100, and Helen followed in 1995 at 91—the couple’s teachings on “living sanely and simply in a troubled world” resonate strongly with contemporary audiences. This year, the center welcomed new stewards, Jordan Humphrey and Lucy Marcus, who are committed to upholding the Nearings’ ideals during a time of increasing societal stress and rising interest in self-sufficiency.

The Nearings’ influence has burgeoned in recent years, coinciding with a renewed interest in homesteading spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. As individuals seek to reclaim their food sources amid economic uncertainty, the traditional image of homesteading has also shifted politically. The movement has seen an influx of more libertarian and conservative viewpoints, challenging the stereotype that homesteading is predominantly a left-leaning endeavor.

Adapting to Change While Honoring Tradition

According to Rachael M Rollson, chair of the center’s board, today’s societal upheaval echoes historical responses to crises, compelling individuals to cultivate self-reliance and community. “We’re still in a troubled world,” she stated, alluding to the subtitle of the Nearings’ influential book, “How to Live Sanely and Simply in a Troubled World.”

The couple’s seminal work, “Living the Good Life,” originally published in 1954, played a pivotal role in launching the back-to-the-land movement. The Good Life Center, which has been dedicated to preserving their legacy, has witnessed a surge in visitors eager to learn about gardening, sustainable living, and the Nearings’ philosophies. This year alone, more than a thousand people visited the center, including a notable number from South Korea, where the Nearings’ teachings have gained traction among a religious group advocating for self-discipline and simplicity.

Despite the growing conservative faction within the homesteading community, the Nearings’ principles of pacifism, vegetarianism, and social justice remain central to the center’s mission. The board and staff emphasize that the couple’s vision of self-reliance does not equate to isolation but rather promotes personal responsibility within a communal context. “They were courageous, and I think it took a lot of guts to do what they did when they did it,” remarked Lucy Marcus about the Nearings.

Current Trends and Future Directions

The landscape of homesteading has evolved significantly, particularly regarding land accessibility. Increasingly, land ownership is becoming unattainable for many aspiring homesteaders, prompting discussions around collaborative models in Maine. As Jordan Humphrey and Lucy Marcus noted, the notion of self-sufficiency is now often overshadowed by concerns over affordability and accessibility in today’s economic climate.

The Good Life Center is actively working to adapt its outreach and educational programs to better reflect current realities. Plans are underway to expand Scott Nearing’s extensive reference library, making it more accessible for researchers and school groups, and to foster partnerships with local organizations. The center aims to reconnect with the community in ways that honor the Nearings’ commitment to engagement and activism.

Additionally, the center’s nomination for the National Register of Historic Places highlights its social significance, with a review by the National Park Service expected in early 2024. This recognition underscores the enduring impact of the Nearings’ teachings and their relevance in addressing contemporary challenges, including climate change and technological advancements.

As the philosophy of self-reliance continues to evolve, those involved with the Good Life Center see a growing need to adapt while remaining true to the Nearings’ original ideals. The vision of a community-oriented approach to homesteading is becoming increasingly important, reflecting a shift away from the rugged individualism often associated with the movement.

“Scott always said they didn’t write their book to dictate how others should live,” Warren Berkowitz noted. “They discussed ‘a’ good life, not ‘the’ good life.” This perspective reinforces the notion that the Nearings’ legacy is not merely about self-sufficiency, but about building a supportive community that fosters resilience and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances.

As interest in homesteading persists, the Good Life Center stands as a beacon of the Nearings’ enduring philosophy, inviting new generations to explore the principles of sustainable living and community engagement.