feature

feature









Mark Storey









W

hat is The Naturist Society? Defining Those Labels— often choose to describe themselves as

How, why, and where did it Naturism & Nudism “naturists” instead of “nudists” for a variety

begin? What does it hope to of reasons. Europeans who practice social

accomplish? And why is it headquartered, nudity have historically referred to their set

Perhaps for those new to social nudity, we of beliefs and practices as “naturism,” and

of all places, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin?

can begin with a brief understanding of the the word connotes a connectedness with

This outline history of TNS hopes

terms “naturism” and “nudism.” Both refer nature TNS seeks to foster.

to answer the above and other commonly

to the belief that non-sexualized, family- In America, from early in the twen-

posed questions about the premier advo-

friendly social nudity is a good thing. The tieth century until the formation of TNS

cacy group for family-friendly nude rec-

sense of “good” may differ, depending on in 1980, groups of people who banded

reation on North American public lands.

the individual using the term. Some will together in one form or another to recreate

This account is intended for those naturists

talk about the benefits to physical health. nude generally called themselves “nudists.”

and nudists who wish to know more about

Others will praise the feelings of free- Often, these nudists would be members

their ideological roots, for those in media

dom and relaxation that come from being of a formal organization that functioned

who need to follow up on a story about

nude outdoors. Others say they receive a rather like a rustic country club. Many of

skinny-dipping at a local beach, and for

spiritual benefit from being naked in the these clubs still exist today; others have

students of American history looking for

midst of nature. Some claim they derive developed into upscale resorts.

a summary of one strand of advocacy for

psychological or social benefits from full Naturists, to the degree they think

rational acceptance of social nudity. It’s

body acceptance. about it at all, often distinguish themselves

even for those who are not at all happy

The people who founded and pres- from nudists by stressing the value and joy

that so many people delight in total body

ently make up The Naturist Society (TNS) of social nudity in as many aspects of their

freedom.



Spring 2009 | 19

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lives as possible. Their social nudity reach- being selected in 1951 to accompany a masterpiece now hangs in the Zeughaus

es beyond securely walled club grounds 12-member delegation of scouts to meet Museum in Berlin, Germany.

and their own homes. In 1997, TNS President Harry S. Truman at the White His first experience with free beach

defined naturism as “A way of living in House. naturism was in 1968, when he and

greater fidelity to nature, with a norm After receiving a master’s degree his wife at that time first visited Truro

of full nudity in social life, the genitals in Comparative Literature from the Beach on Cape Cod. “To our surprise,”

included, when possible and appropriate. University of Wisconsin at Madison in Baxandall says, “we found people doing

We aim to enhance acceptance and respect 1958, Baxandall moved to New York, what I had done at scout camp. We found

for one’s self, other persons, and the bio- where he became active throughout the that they were the nicest people we’d

sphere.” 1960s writing, translating, and critiquing met on the Cape. We brought our child

In line with TNS’ definition is that plays in periodicals such as The Drama along, and other people brought their

of the International children. It was a family

Naturist Federation: thing. It was no obses-

“Naturism is a way of sive thing—it was just the

life in harmony with Lee probably never had any idea just how many people’s pleasant way of being on

nature characterized by lives he touched - folks who never knew him. His recogni- the beach.”

the practice of com- tion and incorporation as a Massage SIG of the late David Although Baxandall

munal nudity, with the Linton’s “Stroking Community Network” led to an accep- lived in New York, begin-

intention of encourag- tance of sensual non-sexual holistic nude touch ‘way ahead ning in 1970 when his

ing self-respect, respect of his time. Lee and I even got to laugh at the irony of “body father passed away, Lee

for others, and for the (non)acceptance” as his body shook with tremors on my usually spent one week

environment.” massage table at Eastover one year - our days of running in a month traveling back

Without claim- to his hometown of

the sun on Cape Cod long over, we could nonetheless still

ing to settle the issue Oshkosh, to help run

of how best to use appreciate how far his Naturist journey had taken each of us the family business: The

the terms “naturism” into healthier attitudes and ways of being. Phinny had it right Baxandall Company. This

and “nudism,” for - I’ll be among the many who’ll miss Lee’s presence. business produced flyers,

the purposes of this pamphlets, videos, and

history “nudism” will Laurene Bradford other educational mate-

refer to the practice rials for trade schools

of being nude in a and businesses. It was in

pleasant, non-erotic, part a publishing firm.

mixed-gender setting. Baxandall made his living,

“Naturism” will refer to the practice of Review, Partisan Review, The Village Voice, then, running his father’s business and, to a

nudism along with a considered respect Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism, lesser degree, from his writing in New York.

and acceptance for the integrity of and Science and Society. He also applied He supported himself during his years with

one’s whole person, other persons, and the his writing skills to producing books TNS through this non-naturist business.

environment. on art, psychology, and politics.1 His His work in naturism was primarily a labor

political activism at this time prepared him of love.

TNS Pre-History: for his interest in naturism to come. One of Baxandall’s Wisconsin-based

Baxandall not only wrote about art, projects was publishing and editing the

Lee Baxandall

but supported, collected, and preserved it. Green Mountain Quarterly. Its purpose,

He has been most proud, perhaps, of his as its masthead declared, was “to present

A history of TNS could not be set forth promotion of the long-ignored works of outstanding analyses on issues of social

without discussion of its founder, Lee Robert Koehler, a 19th Century German- urgency.” Topics addressed pertained to

Baxandall. Born on January 26, 1935 American artist who’s most significant the environment, social justice, and

in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Baxandall’s painting, The Strike, Baxandall found politics. The fourth edition—the famous

first skinny-dipping experiences were stored and unrecognized in a museum. The “Skinny Dipper Issue” of August 1976—

as a young Boy Scout camping in Twin Strike depicts a unique moment in the his- gave free beach advocates a clear, profes-

Lakes Reservation in Wisconsin. Lee loved tory of the labor movement in Wisconsin, sional-sounding voice in articulating the

scouting, and remained proud of earning a moment that resonated with Baxandall’s issues that would attract Baxandall the rest

the rank of Eagle Scout, and in so doing, emerging sense of justice for naturists. This of his life.



20 | Nude & Natural 28.3

Lee Baxandall: The Man and his Legacy

The passing of Lee Baxandall was Researching the Naturist Society to attack the nude nightclubs and the

a loss to me personally as well as a loss at the time, I soon learned that Lee non-related pornography industries.

to the Naturist Community. I first met was the founder. More than that, he The promotion of anti-nudity leg-

Lee during the 1980s at a Mid-winter was its moral leader. Lee, for the soci- islation, nationally, soon followed and

Naturist Gathering. My wife Shirley ety, had established ethics. A code. has consumed the time and money

and I were new to the nudist/Naturist That code is incorporated into the of the Naturist movement ever since.

experience at that time. document, Beach Etiquette. Simple, Lee has left us too soon. His pass-

We were trying to find our way in and yet powerful. ing, one would hope, would re-ener-

this new choice of recreation. Having Lee’s clear mission statement on gize Naturists and would inspire new

both skinny-dipped in our youth, she what American Naturism was and Naturist beach users to get involved

in Duluth, MN and me in Boston, MA. wasn’t. Policy! No discrimination, peri- in representing our Naturists issues and

We were not ashamed of the choice. od. Nude recreation! No sexual activity. protecting our existing beach loca-

We had by this time joined South Pure. No compromise, no nonsense. tions. We need to enter our beaches,

Florida Free Beaches, attended sev- Lee invested his time, his educa- justified.

eral private home events, and visited tion, his family name and his wealth, Lee’s death led to me searching

a few nudist parks and resorts. unselfishly, to establish The Naturist for a poem that would express his

We were accidental Naturists Society as the focal point for American passing with words that only another

having joined the movement due to Naturists. He contacted, on a national wordsmith could write. I found those

my psoriasis, for which the doctor pre- basis, what were known as Free Beach words in a poem by Stephen Spender

scribed natural sunlight. groups and brought them under the (1930), “I Think Continually of Those

However, nude sunbathing on umbrella of The Naturist Society using Who Were Truly Great”

public land presented a whole new the society’s magazine as the commu-

“I think continually of those who were

bunch of questions and issues. Was it nication vehicle for a national network. truly great.

legal? Was it a Constitutional Right? All agreeing to TNS’ policies.

Was it a civil faux pas or a criminal law Lee also financed a few individuals Who, from the womb, remembered

violation? I was at the time a national to go out into the country and find and the soul’s history

director of marketing for a Fortune 200 share the word that TNS was there to Through corridors of light where the

company and an arrest would result help. Get organized was the goal. hours are suns,

in my losing my job. And, the possible Looking back, the history is remark-

Endless singing. Whose lovely ambition

loss of a college scholarship for our able, substantial and successful.

daughter. Lee’s Naturist Society is respon- Was that their lips, still touched with

Discussions with Lee at the Mid- sible for the forming of an organization fire,

winter Gathering were informational. named South Florida Free Beaches Should tell of the spirit clothed from

Lee followed up my questions by send- in 1980. SFFB then, in 1991 founded head to toe in song….

ing me past articles from TNS’ Clothed the designated Naturist beach at

with the Sun and Nude & Natural Haulover Beach Park, on the Gold …Near the snow, near the sun, in the

magazines. Lee also referred me to Coast of South Florida at Haulover highest fields….

Naturists that were learned in different Beach Park. Lee Baxandall, by found- ….The names of those who in lives

segments of the American culture and ing The Naturist Society, encouraging fought for life,

its relationship to Naturism. the organization of South Florida Free

Who wore at their hearts the fire’s

During this time I learned of Lee’s Beaches had, indirectly, showed the

centre,

forward thinking when he informed way for the leaders of SFFB to establish

me that the TNS magazines were Haulover’s designated Naturist Free Born of the sun they traveled a short

intended to be the recorded history Beach. while towards the sun,

of the Naturist Free Beach movement It was Lee’s and The Naturist And left the vivid air signed with their

in North America. Society’s Beach Etiquette that con- honour.”

Followed were dozens of phone vinced local officials that Naturists

calls, meetings at gatherings and were serious about appropriate Lee, we are all stronger for know-

ing you. You will be missed. Thanks, for

advise and constant conversations behavior and mentoring their own

the memories.

with Lee. Direction, encouragement beach section

and motivation always laced into his During the 1980s, Lee Baxandall Writer’s note: Lee believed that the word

wordsmithing. My writings he gently was at the forefront, sounding the Naturist should be capitalized for the pur-

edited and offered grammar lessons. alarm, to alert Naturists that the newly pose of giving Naturism standing. I agree

I soon realized that I was associat- forming Christian religious right orga- and did that here…. Richard

ed with a compassionate genius. An nizations were going to target nudists Richard Mason,

American Leader. and Naturists as part of their strategy South Florida Free Beaches

Spring 2009 | 21

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The “Free the Free Beach to him to be the public spokesperson for The weather had turned cold and

Committee” is Formed in 1975 the group. With his ties in publishing in stormy at the Head Of The Meadow

Oshkosh, he was also the obvious choice Beach on Cape Cod, where the Free the

In the summer of 1974, Lawrence Hadley, to direct any activist writing projects that Free Beach Committee had planned its

superintendent of the Cape Cod National came up. second “celebration.” But an alternate “rain

Seashore, had proposed a ban on nudity On August 23, 1975, the Free the Free day” had been pre-announced, and the

to include the traditionally clothing- Beach Committee organized a nude beach Cape Cod event took place on a cloudy but

optional Truro beaches on the Atlantic “celebration” (the National Park Service warm August 14.

would not allow a “demonstration”) that Eugene Callen (d. 1978) and Lee

drew thousands of law-abiding free beach Baxandall agreed that a continuation

supporters. The police cited no one for of these beach events should take place

Lee was a very special person to nudity, and the event was deemed a success, nationwide. Both realized that to make

me, not only for being a vision- as it drew attention to the strong public steady inroads on the American public’s

ary leader of the free beach support for maintaining Truro’s unofficial view of beach nudity, public relations

movement, but also for the clothing-optional status. and the media must be used to good effect.

little things he did. When I was Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Eugene To that end, the two men developed the

President of South Florida Free Callen, founder of the free beach support idea for a National Nude Weekend to be

Beaches, Lee would always find group Beachfront U.S.A.,2 took notice held each year in July by all interested

of the success of the Truro beach celebra- groups.3

time to send notes of encour-

tion, and called Baxandall to congratulate Initially word about National Nude

agement, which always meant him on a job well done. The two men Weekend was spread through indepen-

so much. decided to meet to discuss combining the dent youth publications. In the 1970s,

efforts of East and West coast nude beach these periodicals were common, and if

—Bruce Frendahl activists. they received a press release telling about

South Florida Free Beaches a large, public nude event, they were

National Nude Weekend & sure to print it. By the 1980s, such pub-

Nude Recreation Week lications were less common, and news of

the Weekend had to be issued through

side of Cape Cod. Hadley argued that the In May 1976, Baxandall met with mainstream news agencies like the AP

nude use was attracting too large a crowd Beachfront USA in Los Angeles to discuss and UPI. This still worked, but now

for the site. ways of combining their efforts and to fur- the news was transmitted by the press as

Baxandall and some other free beach ther advance the free beach movement. titillating reading for a more conservative

enthusiasts developed a support group— They agreed to designate August 7, readership.

the Free the Free Beach Committee—to 1976 as National Nude Beach Day. The By the time The Naturist Society was

protest the ban. Since he was the only mem- West Coast group developed its own prepa- established in 1980 it was the de facto

ber of the group who was self-employed, rations to attract media attention for the organizer and primary promoter of this

and thus had job security, the task fell event. annual event. In 1992, TNS oversaw the

26.1 The Oasis Resort 1/6 Horizontal Color expansion of the Weekend into a seven day

Nude Recreation Week.

Located In Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Other major naturist and nudist

organizations in the 1990s and since have

The Oasis Resort has new fully benefited by taking part in this public

equipped air-conditioned suites calendar acceptance of social nudity. Each

in a private wooded and land- July, TNS and other naturist organiza-

scaped setting. Kitchen, living tions receive hundreds of phone calls from

inquisitive media representatives trying to

room, deck, and three-way 50

figure out what is going on. It gives TNS

amp electrical campsites also available. Located the chance to explain the principles of

just minutes from great seafood in addition naturism, and to alert members of the pub-

to awesome golf. lic to the clothing-optional opportunities

in their regions.

Check Us Out At: www.theoasisresort.com or Phone: 902-963-3874

22 | Nude & Natural 28.3

The Free Beaches

Documentation Center



In addition to establishing National

Nude Weekend, Baxandall and Callen

agreed that a center to store the primary

materials of the clothing-optional move-

ment was needed. Baxandall volunteered

to use his Oshkosh facilities to house these

documents and to have Oshkosh be the

physical location for a new Free Beaches

Documentation Center.

Initially, the FBDC concentrated

on collecting information pertaining to

nude swimming areas (i.e., free beach-

es), but soon expanded to concern itself

with all elements of clothing-free use

of public lands. It intended to preserve LEE ALWAYS LOVED a t-shirt with a message.

documents such as posters, flyers, manifes-

tos, news items, photographs, legal docu-

ments, and publicity paraphernalia for America.” After the slide show Baxandall for a broader-ranging, centralized naturist

use by students and writers with serious successfully debated Lawrence Hadley organization. The American Sunbathing

interest. (now retired from Cape Cod) and two Association was serving the needs of nud-

The FBDC quickly expanded its origi- other park director panelists on the merits ist clubs that owned property, but did

nal goals to include publishing and dis- of nude use of Truro beach. virtually nothing for nude use on public

tributing a newspaper. In June 1976 the In March 1981, Baxandall, Durand lands. Defenders and promoters of cloth-

first issue of Free Beaches was distributed. Steiger, and Jake Satin Jacobs offered ing-optional beaches, hot springs, or natur-

Copies were available for the price of a a similar workshop at the regional Calif- ism in general were isolated at best, and in

donation to the FBDC. Subsequent issues, ornia and Pacific Northwest Recreation many regions non-existent.

produced once a year through 1980 and and Park Conference held in San Diego, Baxandall called for an organizing

undergoing name changes, were titled Free California. John Fitz-Gerald gave yet conference to be held in San Francisco in

Beaches Sun and finally Sun. a third workshop on October 5, 1983 May, 1980. Most beach leaders, coming

The tabloid provided updates on at the National Recreation and Park from both sides of the nation, met to agree

where readers could recreate nude, and it Association’s annual convention. After on how to proceed effectively and effi-

kept them abreast of challenges to their 1985, the American Sunbathing Association ciently to promote and defend clothes-free

naturist freedoms. Sun included short arti- (now the American Association for Nude use of beaches.

cles describing the pleasure of social nudity, Recreation) would sanction an interest in Attendees agreed at that meeting

offered informal surveys about social atti- nude recreation on public lands and has that the unifying organization’s business

tudes about the body, and alerted readers participated in similar conventions ever office should be called The Naturists, Inc.

to special events that naturists would likely since. and that the organizational membership

be interested in. should be called The Naturist Society.

In October 1979, the FBDC orga- 1980-1981: A “Naturist Art Andreatte from Santa Barbara is cred-

nized a workshop for the annual conven- Society” is formed, Naturist ited with suggesting the European terms

tion of the National Recreation and Parks Gatherings are organized, and “naturists” and “naturism” to describe the

Association held in New Orleans.4 This the first edition of the World group and its philosophy.

was the first time a naturist or nudist group Guide To Nude Beaches & “The Naturists” and “The Naturist

had participated in this national event. Society” were often used interchangeably

Recreation is sold in the early years. The former word would

About 150 alert middle and top-level

park managers attended the workshop. also denote, from 1982, the business that

Baxandall and Jan Smith opened with a By the end of the 1970s, Lee Baxandall produced the magazines, books, and other

23-minute, professionally produced slide and other free beach leaders on both the paraphernalia of outreach. In that year,

and audio show titled “Nude Recreation In East and the West coasts saw the need at the suggestion of TNS’ attorney, The



Spring 2009 | 23

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Naturists, Inc was officially incorporated. last issue of FBDC’s Sun and the West as “Gatherings.” TNS’ first Gathering was

Most people today informally use “The Coast nudist club and free beach monthly held on October 24-26, 1980 at Elysium

Naturist Society” to refer to all aspects of newspaper Bare In Mind to announce the in Topanga Canyon, California.6 TNS

the organization. opportunity for membership in the new accepted club owner Ed Lange’s gracious

The year 1980 was pivotal for natur- organization. By the time TNS issued its invitation to use his club grounds to host

ism in America. TNS was proposed and first set of membership cards in September this convention of free beach, hot spring,

established, as a unifying organization to 1980 it had 879 paying members, as well as and naturist club leaders, as well as any

promote and defend nude recreation on dozens of contributors. TNS member who cared to join the discus-

appropriate public and private lands; mem- Jan Smith designed the TNS member- sions.

bership in TNS was first solicited (in July ship number system, and she has the first Lange, who played a prominent role

and August); TNS held its first “Gathering” number, Baxandall the second, and Case in raising the level of competitive volleyball

of nudist leaders and TNS among naturists, was

members; and Baxandall a renowned photog-

completed the first edition rapher and publisher

of the World Guide To Nude Lucile Hansen said “Naturism is nudism with a social of naturist pho-

Beaches and Recreation.5 conscious.” Lee Baxandall moved U.S. naturism from tography and had

Bonnie Ziegenhagen developed Elysium

(now Bonnie Case) recalls

merely a casual naked experience, to a civic move- into a facility highly

the hectic early days of ment raising awareness and changing laws and policies regarded for its alter-

FBDC and then TNS. She for the benefit of the public through understanding the native approaches to

was the first employee of the body and expanding freedom of expression. We are body acceptance and

FBDC, hired in June 1976, greatly indebted. clothes-free living.

shortly after the first edition The October

of the Free Beaches Sun was 1980 Naturist

published and distributed. Naturally, Gathering ushered

Working four days a week Carl and Vicki Hild in a fresher and

for FBDC, and part-time more dynamic form

in the mail room of the of naturist activism.

Baxandall Company next Foregoing any strict

door, Ziegenhagen did the typing, label- the third. Smith was also instrumental in order of parliamentary procedure, the doz-

ing, and distribution of the FBDC mer- compiling the site information for the first ens of attendees, compromising a “Who’s

chandise (T-shirts, books, bumper stickers, edition of the World Guide to Nude Beaches Who” list of cutting edge nude activists,

buttons, copies of the Sun), editions of the and Recreation (in the 1995 edition TNS threw themselves into the task of setting

Green Mountain Quarterly, postcards and changed “Recreation” to “Resorts”). With the tone for TNS and naturism for years

art prints, and general office administra- all of the information coming into the to come.

tion. FBDC and now to TNS, Baxandall and Representatives from free beaches and

In the beginning Investments

2 8 . 3 G r a s s a n o months of its exis- Smith were able to update their extensive landed clubs all over the country expressed

tence, TNS used what was to be the lists and descriptions of the world’s cloth- their hopes and apprehensions regarding

ing-optional areas. the advancement and defense of naturism.

FOR SALE They wanted the World Guide to be Jim Hadley and Hap Hathaway (leaders

7 RO O M N U D I S T H O T E L — F . W . I . accurate, complete, and up-to-date. They from the Western Sunbathing Association

also wanted the book’s physical presenta- and the ASA) conferred with TNS to lay

tion to include beautiful photography and out strategies for working together for

a sturdy binding. Its coverage of North common purposes. Members offered anal-

American clothes-free opportunities was ysis of specific legislative problems found at

unmatched by any other printed guide of the state and county levels. Irene Shannon

the time. It covers more clothing-optional addressed the isolationist philosophy

clubs, resorts, beaches and hot springs than of landed clubs and the irrational fear

U S $ 2 , 2 25,000 any other American publication. many nudist club leaders had of being

PERF E C T F O R R E T I R E D C O U P L E One of the central features of TNS inundated by unknown miscreants from

from its first year in existence was its free beaches. Baxandall, Bob Page, Jim

973-600-7226 member-driven regional meetings, known Williams, and others made suggestions

24 | Nude & Natural 28.3

Dear “N” People:



In 1973, I answered an advertisement in The Village Voice in

which Lee Baxandall asked people who were interested in

the Free Beach Movement to get in touch with him; I was, so Perhaps this Thanksgiving day was a

I did. To me, nakedness was (and is) an ambivalent aspect blessing for him—finally free from a

of prayer, sport, combat and art. It is an offering which body that was no longer his friend.

each of us has an obligation to use for good. We agreed As you know, we go back a long

that it is art in which nakedness is most fully acceptable to way. Lee has shaped my life’s mis-

society; so he welcomed me to be part of the association, sion and I still do it gladly. Throughout

primarily through doing and writing about art and related the years, he has been my mentor,

matters. This is the chief work I have done ever since; I am friend, and often my harshest critic.

very grateful to Lee, and wish him a happy eternal life.

He was a fine leader, ideal-

Hugh Kilmer ist, and man of action. He will

long be remembered.



All the best,

Bern









LeeBee and I go way back, nearly 33

years, actually, to when he flew into

L.A. to address a BFUSA meeting. While

we’ve had our differences concern-

ing the path American nud-

ism ought to be taking, they

were minor, and we always

enjoyed a respectful and ami-

Lee possessed a courage able personal relationship. As

unlike any others—he would an octogenarian, I’m getting

take on park and public used to seeing old comrades

officials to champion his slip away, but that doesn’t

core belief—that people make the losses any easier.

are fine and noble just as Ave atque vale, Lee, you were

they are, naked as when a dynamic force for progress in

born. His enduring legacy is our activist world.

that many others now carry

on his lifetime goal of body Cec Cinder

acceptance.



Frederick Gerty





Spring 2009 | 25

feature



varied as fitness, photography, parenting,

sex equality, gay awareness, and spirituality.

Presently TNS SIGs include groups inter-

ested in poetry, opera, massage, scuba, and

Christianity. Some are quite active and par-

ticipate at Gatherings; others simply have a

newsletter to let others with similar inter-

ests know what their peers are doing. Today

Network coordinator Debbie Jungwirth

assists TNS members in the easy process of

developing and maintaining a SIG.

In 1981, TNS held its first Eastern

Naturist Gathering at Pine Tree Association

in Maryland, one of the East Coast’s oldest

and best-established nudist clubs. Every

year since then, TNS has had at least

Lee and Jan Smith. one Gathering on both the East and the

West coasts. In the 1990s, the calendar

on how best to respond to anti-nudity openly and without shame. There may be was expanded to include Gatherings in

legislative pressure. constraints laid upon them by society, but almost every region of the U.S., including

Perhaps most telling was the attendees’ whenever possible (and not just at a club Florida, Washington, Texas, Michigan, and

desire to define themselves as distinct from on a weekend) they enjoy the body free- Massachusetts.

the club nudists of the past. Naturists, as dom nature intended. In addition to the two or three gather-

Ron McDonald would emphasize at the Attendees of that first Gathering may ings organized directly by the TNS staff,

meeting, do not limit their social nudity recall discussions about the contemporary regional naturist groups have taken on

culture of nudist clubs. For example, one the organization of similarly formatted

topic was the nude beauty pageants popular naturist festivals. For example, Morley

with many nudist clubs at that time. Such Schloss of Florida’s Sunsport Gardens plans

The best tribute any Naturist could

events were thought by many naturists to

give Lee Baxandall would be to objectify women as sexual objects for the

think: “What would Lee do?” delight of males, fixating too heavily on

and then act accordingly. With the sexual connotations of nudity. This

his considerable theatrical back- grated against the TNS members’ sense

ground, Lee knowingly brought of gender equality. It would be better, the

the Opera/MusicalTheatre SIG group thought, to develop ways to express

to the ENG every year he could, and take joy in human beauty without

overcoming any obstacles, ami- demeaning and objectifying women.

cably solving any problems. Another innovation announced at the

first Gathering was the formulation of

That’s what Lee did.

Naturist Special Interest Groups, or SIGs.7

Baxandall got the idea of SIGs from the

Leonard J. Lehrman Mensa group. The idea was to provide

Founder/Director, The Opera/ a common meeting point on topics and

Musical Theatre Special Interest activities of interest to TNS members. Each

Group of SIG would encourage active participation

The Naturist Society in social interaction and communication.

The result would be a more dynamic and

socially cohesive group of people who had

a love for social nudity and body accep-

to their homes or the perceived security tance as common denominators.

of club walls. True naturists embrace body SIGs did not have to relate directly

freedom throughout their lives and do so to nudity. Early SIGs addressed topics as



26 | Nude & Natural 28.3

an annual Northeast Naturist Festival at acceptance and social nudity important to Some readers of the Sun tabloids

Empire Haven Nudist Park in New York naturists. had complained about the low newspaper

State, and TNS-member Mark Storey has quality of that publication’s materials, so

run Northwest Naturist Festivals at Lake Baxandall chose a more resilient and archi-

Associates Recreation Club in Washington val quality for CWS. Also, TNS wanted

and Sun Meadow Resort in Idaho. “As a first time nudist and to present the growing trend of clothing-

The gatherings and festivals bring photographer, Lee welcomed optional beach use to recreation managers

together naturists from around the coun- me and paid me the best and law enforcement officials as being

try for educational seminars, legislative compliment. A full color insert led by people who were organized, well

updates, sports and games, and the chance of my photos of the old Avalon. informed, and able to articulate a coher-

to meet, support and learn from one Thank you Lee, rest in peace.” ent mission. A professional journal, it was

another. Some events have as few as 50 thought, would aid this effort.

attendees; others have attracted nearly 800. Victor Blandburg The first issue of CWS focused heavily

Each is successful due to the volunteer on updates about existing clothing-optional

efforts of TNS members. It is the mem- sites. Many were, in effect, supplements to

bership who decides what kind of events the World Guide. One issue might address

to have, and it is the members who host Of additional interest to Baxandall sites in North America; the next might

the majority of the seminars, workshops, was the subtle reminder inherent to the focus on Europe; this might be followed

displays, performances, and demonstra- title that grassroots, communal, and pub- by one on the Caribbean; and another

tions. It’s at the gatherings and festivals licly articulated naturism was alive and well might publish articles on an array of topics

that the grassroots volunteer spirit of TNS in America long before the German influ- relevant to naturism. Issue 1.2 for instance,

members is most clearly manifested. It is ence in the 1920s and 1930s which led covered topics as diverse as nude runners in

to TNS’ satisfaction that other naturist and to the corporate nudism of the American San Francisco; sunbathing on urban roof-

nudist organizations have recently imitated Sunbathing Association. tops; a nude demonstration in Wisconsin;

the style and format of these events.



A New Era for TNS

Publications: Clothed with

the Sun



After Baxandall and others at the 1980

San Francisco conference established The

Naturist Society, Baxandall and Jan Smith Weekend Entertainment & Activities

decided that it was time to move the Sun Swimming Pools, Spas, Sports and Recreation

tabloid to the next level of production. Fun-Filled Holidays and Long Weekends

Using the Green Mountain Quarterly’s for- Tantalizing Restaurant and Bars –

mat as a guide, Baxandall and Smith spent Unique Nudsino

that latter part of 1980 and the beginning Comfortable Lodging, Condos and Camping

of 1981 producing the first issue of Clothed

with the Sun.8

Baxandall described the quarterly

magazine’s purpose in the premier issue

of CWS. He took the journal’s name from Resort and Community

the utopian Home Colony of Tacoma, Reservations Call 304-947-5600

Washington. Home existed as an alterna- Email: vacation@avalon-resort.com

Website: Avalon-Resort.com

tive living arrangement (local opponents

PO Box 369, Paw Paw, West Virginia 25434

labeled them “anarchists”) from 1896 to

1914. They advocated liberal views on mar-

riage and the benefits of mixed-sex bathing

and skinny-dipping. Their journal was

called Clothed with the Sun, and seemed

to Baxandall to speak to the issues of body

Spring 2009 | 27

feature



a handful of writers who are willing to pro- bathing should be able to do so without inter-

vide regular features for TNS’ journal, the ference from officials as long as they do so at a

vast majority of the magazine’s photos and beach that is accepted for that purpose? (71.6

articles are contributed by TNS members % said yes) (2) Local and state governments

and supporters from around the world. now set aside public land for special types of

recreation such as snowmobiling, surfing, and

Acceptance of Naturism: hunting. Do you think special and secluded

The 1983 Gallup Poll areas should be set aside by the government

for people to enjoy nude sunbathing? (39.1%

From 1980 through 1983, TNS was able said yes) and (3) Have you personally ever

to direct most of its energy to updating its gone skinny-dipping or nude sunbathing in

World Guide, to establishing CWS as the a mixed group of men or women either at a

journal of record for naturism in America, beach, at a pool, or somewhere else? (14.7%

and to developing its schedule of gather- said yes). (From the Gallup Organization,

ings. As TNS established itself in the non- Inc., “Attitudes Toward Nude Sunbathing:

naturist community as an informed and A Custom Survey Conducted For The

articulate voice for free beach use across Naturists” June 1983.)

the country, Baxandall found that he had It was particularly gratifying to TNS

increased access to the media. Often he to have reliable evidence documenting that

could write articles for mainstream news- nearly three fourths of Americans favored

Lee and North Swanson papers or magazines about a particular allowing naturists to use beaches clothes-

clothing-optional beach and they would free as long as the beach was known and

the clothing-optional city of Cap d’Agde print them. If the media wanted informa- accepted for that purpose. Clearly, there

in France; a New York naturist’s success in tion on a particular skinny-dipping issue, was little call for a rising number of leg-

converting his basement into a nude swim- they began to call Oshkosh for a naturist islative attacks on traditional nudity at

ming pool; gardening naked; the living slant on it. free beaches. With the growth of social

“sculpture” of Alice Beberman; and movie In 1983, TNS commissioned the conservatism fostered in the 1980s, how-

and book reviews. respected Gallup Organization to survey ever, TNS found itself confronting an

The first few years were relatively calm Americans on three questions pertaining to unexpected anti-nudity bias in the media,

for TNS. The office staff found production nude recreation. The Gallup Organization in politics, and in the population at large.

and distribution of the magazine much polled a representative sample of 1,037

easier than that of Sun’s newspaper format. Changing Social Attitudes

Unlike Sun, which was sent out to every- Bring New Challenges to

one who made a contribution to FBDC, Body & Nudity Acceptance

CWS was mailed to the TNS membership. It’s a sad time for all of us. But

Surprisingly few problems arose from we know that Lee is in a better By the mid-1980s the young activists and

nudist organizations that might have per- place and far from the pain of hippies attuned to the benefits of body

ceived CWS as competition to their publi- acceptance in the late 1960s and early

this world. He’s probably danc-

cations. TNS and the American Sunbathing 1970s began to feel their age. Quite a few

ing naked with the angels right appreciated that the Reagan years were

Association had mutually beneficial agree-

ments in advertising each other’s publica- now. We will hold him in the kind to their pocketbooks. Many natur-

tions. Lee Baxandall wrote most of the Light. ists began to enjoy the more sedentary life

material for the journal, but had the ready found at nudist clubs. With increasing

Amy (Foote) Cerreto

assistance of Smith in writing articles for incomes, they were accepted by nud-

the first four issues of CWS. Later, Nikki ist club owners who might earlier have

Craft would assist him in Oshkosh in a viewed them as free-beach riffraff.

similar fashion. Later still, managing editor Meanwhile, many of the youth in

Pat O’Brien wrote many of the magazine’s men and women over the age of 18. the 1980s, who might have been expected

features. Interviews were conducted by telephone to take up the naturist lifestyle and inter-

A large portion of the articles and between May 13 and May 30, 1983. ests bought into the mass-marketing ploys

reviews were provided however, by the TNS The three questions asked were: (1) Do of Madison Avenue—internalizing the

membership. Although at present TNS has you believe that people who enjoy nude sun- advertising message that to be acceptable

28 | Nude & Natural 28.2

28.3

Dedicated to the Memory of Lee Baxandall

It is with affection and respect that rience, and I will forever remain interwoven with complex patterns

we remember Lee Baxandall, and grateful to Lee for giving me that of joy and sorrow that can only be

extend our heartfelt condolences opportunity. He was a superb busi- viewed and fully appreciated from

to his family and other loved ones. nessman, and a great mentor to above. I feel that the best way

Lee, if there is an afterlife, may those in the fields of naturism, busi- to memorialize Lee is by sharing

it be clothes-free! How appropri- ness publications, journalism, and our personal memories of him, and

ate that Lee should pass away on academics. by adding these thoughts to the

Thanksgiving Day. Lee Baxandall Lee encouraged the free already rich and varied fabric of

had many things to be thankful for, exchange of ideas and solutions tapestry of his life. It is as follows:

and many people are thankful for to problems that plagued the

having known Lee. He was a good movement. It is Lee Baxandall who Life’s Weaving /

person. He was intelligent and inno- helped form the naturist move- The Master Weaver

vative, creative and complex, and ment we know today from many

underneath it all, he was a true scattered free beach groups. My life is but a weaving

humanitarian. He encouraged small groups to Between my Lord and me

Years ago, I wrote a poem meet with others and band togeth- I may not choose the colours –

called “Free Beach” that I sent er for strength. He gave them the He knows what they should be

to Lee, and which he later pub- knowledge and power to act in For He can view the pattern

lished in his magazine, Clothed with ways that gradually began to Upon the upper side

the Sun. At the end of the poem change the way America, Canada, While I can see it only

I had written: “We shall mold our and other countries thought about From this, the underside.

future with a pen, and unlock men’s body acceptance. In South

minds with reason, ink, and words. Florida, that struggle culminated Sometimes He weaveth sorrow,

And all shall be free, clothed with in its first legalized free beach at Which seemeth strange to me;

the sun.” I feel that Lee opened Haulover. But I will trust His judgement,

people’s minds, and for this we Lee helped familiarize us with And work on faithfully;

owe him a depth of gratitude. laws and statutes that threatened ‘Tis He who fills the shuttle,

I also remember Lee as a the movement, and helped us find And He knows what is best,

man who encouraged scholarship those who would challenge and So I shall weave in earnest,

by hiring young writers and giv- change the existing laws. He ar- Leaving to Him the rest.

ing them many opportunities to be ranged for the free beach lead-

published. Lee gave many of us the ers to hold meetings at places Not ‘til the loom is silent,

opportunity to become active in like Cypress Cove. With the sup- And the shuttles cease to fly

naturist literature and arts. Although port and encouragement of Lee Shall God unroll the canvas

I had written a series of children’s and of Cypress Cove owner Jim And explain the reason why;

stories that had been published Hadley, we attended meetings to The dark threads are as needed,

in a children’s magazine in the learn how to change anti-nudity In the Weaver’s skillful hand,

early seventies, Lee encouraged laws, to strengthen the free beach As the threads of gold and silver

me to write about other subjects. movement, and to form a clos- In the pattern He has planned.

During those early years, I wrote po- er alliance between naturists and

ems, articles, and book reviews for nudists. Lee was at times, leader, fa- —Author Unknown

Clothed with the Sun, under my ther, role model, and mentor to us

former name, JoAn Easton. He all.

also encouraged me to write for When I was 13 I received a copy Naturally,

one of his business publications, so of a poem by an unknown author. It JoAn Easton

that I could gain more notice as a is called “God’s Weaving,” but it is

writer and scholar. Writing for Lee also known under other names. This

was a tremendous learning expe- poem compares a life to a tapestry



Spring 2009 | 29

feature

I refuse to believe that Lee has passed. He is too

stubborn to let something like a human lifespan

get in his way. He is way too busy for death. I

remember him convincing me, over a quarter

century ago, that indeed there were interesting

stories to be told (in video) at “free beaches”

thats what we called them then. I had told

him that I loved going to them but that it was

basically just a bunch of nude people sitting

around taking in the sun. He was right. It was

much more than that.



Eight documentaries later, there were still many

untold stories. I always looked forward to Lee’s

visits to NYC when we would chat about every-

thing. I was always surprised at his knowledge

of “obscure” subjects. Plus he was always

encouraging me to go to new places, cover

new stories.



He could be stubborn and want his way many

times and boy did we have fights. But we never

lost the respect and love we had for each

other.

Marion Hagans, Keath Graham, and Nicky Hoffmann-Lee at a Texas

naturist gathering.

Lee was a force of nature to be reckoned

with and I have already missed him for a while

when his body decided to engage him in a

stubborness contest.

All of us associated with the Club Orient Family

Johanna, it must not have been easy these are saddened by the loss of Lee Baxandall. For

past years and I send you my love and admira- many of us Lee was naturism in North America!

tion. Lee, you son of a bitch! I know your spirit is Over the last few decades, he stood as an

now making waves in the bigger universe and uncompromising pillar in his determination to

I want you to know that you are still very much move the naturist movement forward. Lee’s

alive in my heart next to my dad and mom contributions are far too numerous to list, but

who have also passed on in recent times and his gifts to us of his intellect, perseverance

whom I talk with every day. and unfailing generosity will likely never be

equaled. We, at Club Orient, join with natur-

ists throughout the world in extending our con-

Big Hugs dolences to his wife Johanna in mourning his

Edin Velez passing. But we also celebrate his life and the

http://edinvelez.com joy his presence brought to so many.

Associate Professor, Video Production

Visual and Performing Arts Department The Club Orient Family

Rutgers University, Newark









30 | Nude & Natural 28.3

in a techno-hip society, they must dress Responding to the

the part. Any body covering that could Anti-Nudity Threat: The First

be sold for profit (and preferably with the Naturist Leadership Council My deepest condolences to

company logo on it for additional free you and your crew on your loss.

advertising) was foisted on to this new

At the 1985 Eastern Gathering TNS was The profound impact that Lee

generation. determined to find out what naturists were

made can never be measured.

As populations grew and more people

most concerned with as they saw many

sought the solace of the natural environ-

May the rest of us measure up

of their cherished clothing-optional sites

ment, secluded beaches and hot springs,

under attack. The concern most often to what he started for us.

once free of the intrusion from authorities,

voiced was the perceived lack of commu-

became crowded with people who either did

nication among naturist and nudist leaders. Wayne

not know that the site had been used nude

To meet this need, TNS invited representa-

for decades, or who were antagonistic to its

tives from all naturist and nudist groups to

continuing to be used that way. Complaints

meet at Blackstock, a “neutral” non-natur-

to the police produced citations and arrests

ist site in South Carolina. NLC also was to bring together dif-

in numbers seldom seen before. On September 21-23, 1985, represen- ferent groups who shared similar problems,

tatives from eight naturist groups, primar- so that they could combine efforts to

The TNS office in Oshkosh received

a rising number of calls for informa-ily from the East Coast, met and formed their mutual benefit. For example, John

the Naturist Leadership Council.9 The Kyff of the National Capital Naturists in

tion about existing sites whose clothing-

purpose was to help develop grassroots Washington, D.C. began a file of all legal

optional status was under attack. Advice

leaders in clubs and beach support groups. documents available to him pertaining to

was sought by naturists who had been cited,

NLC hoped to provide a clearinghouse social nudity. This information would then

often without warning, merely for being

nude at a beach. TNS recognized that for information useful to participating be made available to lawyers representing

naturists’ interests.

The first chair of NLC was John Fitz-

Gerald of the National Capital Naturists.

Lee built up a marvelous community that thousands of us are Other early leaders included Beth Glatt,

Michelle Handler, and John Mills. By

grateful for the privilege of enjoying. We have a lot to thank and

April 1988, however, TNS acknowledged

honor Lee for. We should also, at this time, pay tribute to Nicky in CWS that NLC had not lived up to its

Hoffman and the rest of the TNS staff for the happiness they gave potential. Kyff had been able to amass a

Lee after he retired, because it clearly gave Lee great satisfaction, sizeable collection of legal documents, but

in the years that he could not be at the gatherings with us, to know aside from meeting at a few TNS gather-

that what he worked so hard to build was still being sustained and ings, NLC had not attracted the attention

expanded by the people he had enjoyed working closely with in of other clubs or naturist groups.

his younger and healthier years. As we continue to have fun at Meanwhile, NLC leader Michelle

naturist gatherings, we should never stop reminding ourselves that Handler had decided that one goal of the

Lee is with us, and we should never stop thanking the people who naturist movement should be to actively

oppose the pornography industry. She also

are keeping Lee’s fond creation alive.

was unsatisfied with what appeared to her

to be an emphasis on attractive women in

Ben Alexander the pages of CWS. She became disruptive

Baltimore, MD to NLC, and the group found itself spend-

ing what little time it had together trying

to respond to her personal agenda.



it must develop a means of meeting these naturist individuals and groups who need- NLC Becomes NNLC

challenges while continuing the mission ed assistance in battling anti-nudity poli-

of promoting naturism through the cies and legislation. The goal was to bring In June 1988, at the Eastern Gathering

journal, gatherings, and the network of as many naturist groups into NLC as at Camp Akiba in Pennsylvania, lead-

beach support groups, naturist clubs, possible and to keep the organization’s ers from TNS and ASA met to form the

and SIGs. grassroots spirit. Naturist/Nudist Leadership Council.10



Spring 2009 | 31

feature



Loosely based on the defunct NLC, NNLC of Rhode Island, the conference allowed In many people’s minds however, the

planned to focus on legal challenges and NNLC and lawyers involved in nudi- most useful function of ACFRI was that,

lobbying efforts. Membership would be ty cases the opportunity to share advice for a while, it bridged the gap between

open to individuals rather than to organi- and to plan cooperative strategies for TNS and the ASA. In the late 1980s

zations. defending naturist freedoms across North the ASA remained firmly aligned with

A steering committee was formed to America. the specific interests of its affiliated nud-

make sure NNLC did not fall prey to the ist clubs. It understood its role to be an

same internal inefficiencies as NLC had. umbrella organization that would protect

The committee members responsible for and foster the business interests of ASA

the startup of NNLC were Lee Beverage, I first met Lee on Virginia Key clubs (and not necessarily the many non-

Cec Cinder, Ron Burich (the first chair), in 1980 when I was organizing ASA clubs, and certainly not the free

George McCormick, Mary Lou Schloss, the birth of South Florida Free beaches).

Durand Steiger, and Turner Stokes. To Beaches. His enthusiasm to pro- TNS had emerged as the only effective

NNLC’s advantage, it had the backing mote the clothing-optional life- voice for clothing-optional use of public

of both TNS and ASA. Never before had style inspired me to travel cross lands. Although ASA at the time claimed

these two organizations worked this closely country meeting officials and it could take care of everyone’s needs who

together on a project of this magnitude other naturists to help pursue the wished to enjoy social nudity, that goal

and importance. was obviously not within the organization’s

legalization of nude beaches

Probably the most important achieve- ability or desire. TNS on the other hand,

ment of NNLC was its sponsorship

thus changing my entire life. did wish to make naturism inclusive, but

of the February 25, 1989 Legal Conference was not in a position to offer that kind of

on Nude Recreation held at the Dulles Barbara Khan Peterson legal assistance or business advice to the

Airport Holiday Inn in northern Virginia. landed clubs that ASA was experienced

Suggested initially by Robert Ellis Smith in providing. ACFRI, therefore, was sup-

posed to be a link for the two organizations,

NNLC struggled, however, to turn itself with complete allegiance to neither.

into a cohesive and effective political force. ACFRI was to be a membership-based

Its leadership structure never quite solidi- and membership-controlled group. It

fied and funding was always a problem. expected to receive its funding from major

Without sufficient funds, NNLC was contributors and individual memberships.

unable to fulfill its goals of mounting Its initial nine-member board was chosen

court challenges to anti-nudity policies or from experienced naturist leaders across

of acquiring lobbyists when needed. the U.S. and Canada. They included Lee

Baxandall, Toni Egbert, Lee Beverage, Larry

ACFRI Landrum, George McCormick, David

Southall, Turner Stokes, Judy Williams,

The Association for Clothes Free Rights, and Walt Zadanoff.

Incorporated, was formed at the Eastern So far in the development of uni-

Gathering in June 1989, again with the goal fied, or at least unifying, naturist/nudist

of meeting legal challenges.11 Replacing coordination, TNS and Lee Baxandall had

the NNLC, ACFRI was deemed “all-inclu- been playing dual roles. On the one hand

sive.” It was to look after the interests not Baxandall used TNS to press for an effec-

only of naturists and nudists, but also of tive force to meet anti-nudity challenges,

any other group who was sympathetic to and he clearly wanted to have a guiding

clothes-free lifestyles. hand in each of their manifestations. At the

ACFRI hoped to identify specific, win- same time he hoped to see a capable group

nable legal cases that would have a positive of grassroots-oriented naturists emerge and

effect on clothes-free living. It also planned take the reins themselves. TNS continu-

to become more effective in public rela- ingly provided a comfortable location in

tions and in controlling how the media and its gatherings for formative meetings, and

thus the general population would perceive CWS was always available to report on the

clothes-free rights. groups’ efforts and successes.



32 | Nude & Natural 28.3

NLC, NNLC, and ACFRI each were

independent of TNS, yet clearly had their

roots in and primary support from the

Oshkosh-based group. Meanwhile, those

members of ACFRI who were primarily

associated with ASA were trying to steer the

group in an ASA direction, and thus kept

ACFRI from fulfilling its mission as acting

as an autonomous bridge between TNS and

ASA. Some TNS members, like Durand

Steiger, began to ask why TNS did not just

develop a political task force of its own.

Throughout the 1980s, Steiger argued,

TNS had proved itself to be a successful

naturist organization. Only TNS and ASA

were by then, considered “major players” in

the American clothing-optional movement.

TNS had a respectable vehicle in CWS that

could be used to get the task force’s mes-

sage out to a wide group of people. And

with TNS in control—up front as well

as behind the scenes—its political action

group would avoid the pitfalls of internal

disagreement brought about by having

leaders from two occasionally disparate

groups.



The Naturist Action

Committee



At the June 14-17, 1990 TNS Eastern Lee and Barbara Khan Peterson.

Gathering, once again in Pennsylvania,

TNS finally decided to press its members

into forming a dynamic, effective political selected with Toni Egbert as Chair. NAC 8-page publication, and it’s now more com-

action group of their own. By 1990, TNS was to be known as the political adjunct monly known as the “NAC Newsletter.”

had enough members, enough respect of TNS, but retain enough autonomy to NAC’s stated goals were threefold:

among the naturist and non-naturist com- move in the directions the elected commit- legal action, lobbying, and public relations.

munities, enough useful ties with other tee wished. Lee Baxandall would serve in On August 20, 1991, the first elected com-

naturist organizations, enough experienced a largely advisory capacity as a permanent mittee convened at Empire Haven, New

and battle-seasoned leaders, and a journal but non-voting member. York. Those elected by the TNS member-

of sufficient and consistent quality to take The board was set up to be demo- ship were Lee Beverage, John Boteler, Toni

on the task of forming—finally—a model cratically elected by and from the TNS Egbert, John Kyff, Johanna Moore, Mollie

naturist action group. membership, with each TNS member get- Moore-Sullivan, Morley Schloss, Durand

Responding in part to Steiger’s remarks, ting one equal vote. Any qualified TNS Steiger, and Brian Wright. Lee Baxandall

TNS took the summer to decide how best member may run for one of the nine board was a member ex officio and Kevin Kearney

to organize this new group. In a second positions, and stand for re-election after was hired as NAC’s lobbyist and Public

Eastern gathering that year, held at Camp three years. TNS’ magazine was designated Affairs Council.

Akiba in Pennsylvania on August 16-19, the official organ of NAC. In 1992, TNS NAC has succeeded where the earlier

1990, TNS officially formed the Naturist would create the separate, monthly N activist groups failed. Today, NAC is the

Action Committee, and soon after regis- Newsletter for timely political and legal most effective naturist or nudist activist

tered it as a 501(c)4 nonprofit corpora- updates. Soon after its inception, NAC group in North America. Although the

tion.12 A Board of Directors pro term was took on editorial responsibilities for the 4- names among the board members have



Spring 2009 | 33

feature

Much will surely be written about his

I DREAMED I SAW LEE BAXANDALL organizing thousands of naturists across

By Keath and Cindy Graham the continent, and bringing previously

shunned groups into the movement--

I dreamed I saw Lee Baxandall, as well as leading the way into politi-

As naked as can be cal activism. I want to add that Lee

Said some to Lee, ‘You should feel shame’ brought a new intellectual dimension to

Said Lee, ‘I disagree’ the mindless chatter of nudist publica-

Said Lee, ‘I dis-a-gree.’ tions. He was not afraid to wrestle with

deep and important ideas. He accom-

‘In many places, Lee,” said I, plished much. We will not see his like

Him standing strong and tall again during our lifetimes.

‘Our cause was challenged in the courts,

Said Lee, ‘we fought them all,’ Paul LeValley

Said Lee, ‘We fought them one and all.’



‘The opposition hurt us, Lee,

They shot our causes down.’

‘Takes more than lies to steal our rights’

Besides, ‘We’re still around.’

Thanks to Lee, We’re still around. My partners John and

Nancy Dulle and I had

And speaking there as big as life the pleasure of hosting the

On grounds where all did play, Western Naturist Gathering

‘Body acceptance, the idea at Silver Valley Sun Club in

Nude recreation is the way. 1988, where I discovered

Nude recreation is the way.’ that Lee was, indeed a

remarkable man. He was

Where Naturists with loved ones gather, dedicated to a fault in the

Clothed with but the sun support

Lee Baxandall is in their midst. and promotion

But he’s not the only one of the nudist

He’s not the only one. lifestyle. He will

truly be missed.

From snowy Oshkosh, everywhere,

On every beach that’s free, Walt Zadanoff

Where Naturists play and organize V.P. AANR –

It’s there you’ll find our Lee Florida Region

It’s there you’ll find our Lee



I dreamed I saw Lee Baxandall,

As naked as can be,

Said some to Lee, ‘You should feel shame,’

Said Lee, ‘I disagree.’

Said Lee, ‘I dis-a-gree.’”









Lee and Shirley Mason at

34 | Nude & Natural 28.3 Haulover.

A Tribute to Lee Baxandall





Lee Baxandall will always be The Naturist Society, then writ- creation was inspired by two

the irrefutable “Father of the ing and publishing two maga- of his children – the Masons

Free Beach Movement,” a time- zines to document the history – who became members, then

less visionary and a quintessen- of the free beach movement presidents of South Florida Free

tial leader. I feel fortunate and and nude recreation. That Beaches, a free beach group

blessed to be one of his naturist lead him write the World Guide Lee helped organize.

“children” who knew him per- to Nude Beaches and Resorts These institutions are the

sonally, had hi s council, trust, – considered the naturists travel silver bells and cockled shells.

and encouragement. bible. He organized dozens of We are the first generation of

When I think of Lee and free beach groups and started Lee’s “pretty maids” -- his chil-

his legacy, I think of the nurs- naturist “Gatherings” throughout dren, infused with his passion,

ery rhyme: “Mary, Mary, quite the U.S. so naturists could meet, love for free beaches, and con-

contrary, how does your gar- share ideas, socialize, and form trary. Let’s continue to honor

den grow? With silver bells, and special interest groups (SIG’s) him by keeping his vision alive

cockled shells, and pretty maids – which lead to two successful and through our deeds, be an

all in a row.” national Gay naturist organiza- inspiration for the next season of

Lee’s deep love for the tions – Gay Naturist International the garden he started.

simple pleasure of skinny-dipping (GNI) and International Men There have been several

and his belief in a person’s natu- Enjoying Naturism (IMEN). He people that have inspired me

ral right to enjoy this innocent was the creator of “National to stay involved with Haulover

activity on public lands sparked Nude Weekend” (now known Beach and nude recreation, but

in him a passion. Lee became as “Nude Recreation Week”) without a doubt, Lee Baxandall

quite contrary – for good reason and seeing the need for peo- has been my greatest teach-

– when he organized a protest ple in the business of organized er for understanding how very

and stood against the closure of nude recreation, Lee started precious our clothing optional

the traditional clothing option- the Trade Association for Nude beaches are and why they must

al beach by the National Park Recreation (TANR). When anti- be preserved. That is why I formed

Service at Truro Beach on Cape nudity laws threaten our very Beach Education Advocates for

Cod. Losing that beach and existence, he helped form Culture, Health, Environment

that fight, lit a torch in him that and fund the Naturist Action and Safety Foundation Institute

he carried for the remainder of Committee (NAC) and its (B.E.A.C.H.E.S.), created a

his life. But out of something adjunct, the Naturist Education beach concession at Haulover

bad came something good. Committee (NEF). to help fund its mission, and a

The vision Lee had to There’s no doubt that Board of Governors made up of

secure our traditional “free Lee’s life body of naturist work some of Lee’s best free beach-

beaches” started as a hobby but has directly touched tens of activist children. You worked to

quickly became his avocation. thousands of organized natur- pass on the vision. I see it and it

Like gardening, he enriched the ist-nudists. But his vision has will live.

soil with his personal income, touched million of skinny-dip-

talent, hard work, tireless dedi- pers many times over. Just con- Shirley Mason

cation and passion. He planted sider Haulover Beach as just one

his visions and ideas by starting of the free beach sites whose



Spring 2009 | 35

feature



changed (only Morley Schloss remains

from the original board), the unity found

in TNS’ distinctly naturist philosophy, and

the dedication to defending and promoting

clothing-optional freedoms on public and

private lands, keeps the board of directors

and the many TNS members with whom

they work on track.



The Naturist Education

Foundation

In February 1993, after three years of

planning and submitting applications

to the Internal Revenue Service, TNS

announced the official formation of NAC’s

sister organization, the Naturist Education

Foundation. With designated 501(c)3 sta-

tus from the IRS, NEF is a charitable insti-

tution. Naturists can make contributions

to NEF to support its mission and use the

donations as a tax write-off. NEF’s goal The NAC/NEF board enjoying a hay ride at Turtle Lake Resort in Michigan.

is to educate politicians, business owners,

and the general public about naturism.

changed in the years since the 1983 Gallup ing, the percent who said the government

The board members of NAC are automati-

poll, NEF commissioned a similar poll should do so had risen again, this time to

cally also the board members of NEF.

in 2000, this time with the nationally 54%. And for the third question asking

Over the years NEF has produced infor-

respected Roper Starch Organization. The how many had gone skinny-dipping in

mative videos and booklets, and has helped

2000 Roper poll showed that the number mixed company, the number remained

sponsor the Legal Symposium (October

of people who believed that those “who steady at 25%. These polls—stretching

9-11, 1998, organized by South Florida

enjoy nude sunbathing should be able to from 1983 to 2006—show a firm U.S.

Free Beaches and then NEF board member

do so without interference from officials acceptance of at least some forms of skinny-

Shirley Mason), as well as smaller events like

as long as they do so at a beach that is dipping and nude sunbathing on public

the NEF Naturism/Christianity Conference

accepted for that purpose” had risen from lands. All three polls were reliable enough

(April 17-18, 1998) and the NEF Writers

71.6% to 80%. It showed that those to draw the attention of the media, legisla-

Workshop (January 15-17, 1999).

believing that “special and secluded areas tors, and business communities around the

Wanting to know if the acceptance

should be set aside by the government for world.14

of skinny-dipping among U.S. adults had

27.4 Oaklake Trails 1/12 Color Display Ad people who enjoy nude sunbathing” had The 2000s have been busy years

risen from 39.1% to 48%. And it showed for NEF. In 2003 NEF published Mark



Oaklake Trails that the number of people who had “gone

‘skinny-dipping’ or nude sunbathing in a

mixed group of men and women either

Storey’s Cinema au Naturel: A History

of Nudist Film, the first fully developed

study of nudism as presented since

400 beautiful acres of clothing-optional

family recreation. at the beach, at a pool, or somewhere else” the 1930s in film and video. That same

Facilities Include: had risen from 14.7% to 25%.13 year, NEF produced an 18-minute VHS

• Large Swimming Pool In 2006, NEF commissioned Roper video (released on DVD in 2007) called

• Hot Tub • Horseshoes Public Affairs (the company had changed Chasing the Sun. Directed by respected

• Lighted Volleyball Court • Shuffleboard its name since 2000) to ask the three filmmaker and videographer Edin Velez,

• RV Sites & Shady Tent Camping • Children's Playground questions yet again. For the first question NEF intended the video as an intro-

• Hiking Trails • Spacious Air Conditioned Clubhouse

• Cabin & Tents For Rent (advance reservations required)

regarding interference of nude sunbathing, duction to naturism for legislators. Velez

the number had dipped to 74%—higher had produced nearly a dozen naturist

~ For Additional Information ~

than in 1983, but a bit lower than in 2000. videos in partnership with TNS in the

Phone: (918) 324-5999 Affiliated with For the second question asking about set- 1980s, while TNS staff photographer

Web: www.oaklaketrails.com AANR-SW

ting aside public land for nude sunbath- Michael Cooney continued TNS’ video

36 | Nude & Natural 28.3

production through the later 1990s and rate percentile in the 90s in challeng- NAC’s leadership remains firmly root-

into the 2000s. ing state anti-nudity legislation. There is ed in the TNS membership. The NAC

today a reliable core of committee mem- board takes as its responsibility to assist

Expanding Grassroots bers, NACARS, professional volunteers, individuals, clubs, and other naturist

and financial contributors. In 1994 NAC groups as they submit ideas for defending

Activism: NACAR & NEFAR

retained Washington lobbyist Scootch or advancing naturist freedoms. In a new

Programs Pankonin to assist the board on federal and millennium, when business and corporate

state nudity policy and legislation issues. paradigms are taken as axiomatic, a vol-

By the mid-1990s NAC had become an effi- She served in that capacity until 2001. In unteer grassroots organization may seem

cient political action group whose profes- 1997, NAC hired Bob Morton of Central anachronistic. But so far it has worked

sionalism and effectiveness had engendered Texas Nudists as Executive Director, and surprisingly well.

respect from naturist and non-naturists he has served as chair of both NAC and

groups alike. Soon however, the board NEF from then until today.

had to acknowledge its need for some Clothed with the Sun

To make itself even more effective in

assistance. Having become quite adept at Becomes

getting information out to naturists and

finding anti-nudity legislation even before to direct letters, phone calls, faxes, and e- N: Nude & Natural

it became known to the general public, and mails to key legislators considering impor-

learning techniques to defeat it in legisla- tant bills pertaining to nudity, NAC has In the spring of 1989 (to back up a

tive committees, NAC wanted to expand established an online NAC Alert System bit), TNS sent its members their first

on its own success. 15

delivered by a variety of naturist list serv- copy of Nude & Natural magazine.

In 1995, NAC established the Naturist ers. Coupled with the NAC Newsletter, TNS chose a new title for its official jour-

Action Committee Area Representative the NAC Alerts have proven invaluable in nal for a number of reasons. First, some

program. NAC Area Reps, or NACARs, marshaling immediate grassroots naturist people new to the magazine had trouble

are TNS members who are willing and able support when the need arises. understanding the name; they were hear-

to oversee a specified geographical region

as an assistant to the NAC board member

covering that area. For instance, someone

from a beach support group in California

might become a NACAR to track action

at that specific beach for the NAC board

member covering California. The NACAR

would also be in a position locally to watch

for any city, county, or state anti-nudity

legislation. If bills, ordinances, or changes

in law enforcement arise, the NACAR

would be in a good position to garner

support from local naturists to help NAC

defend the area’s naturist freedoms.

In 1996 NEF established an analogous

program of Naturist Education Foundation

Area Representatives (i.e. NEFARs) who

wish to assist NEF in promoting naturism,

but who are not particularly interested in

doing the political or legislative work on

which NAC tends to focus much of its

energy.

After going through the learning pro-

cess of creating and dissolving the NLC,

NNLC, and ACFRI, The Naturist Society

seems to have hit upon a recipe for success

with NAC. The premier activist group

for naturism continues to boast a success



Spring 2009 | 37

feature

I was sorry to hear about Lee Baxandall’s passing. He was a

great man, and I imagine a great friend to you. He very posi-

tively impacted my life too. I was blessed to attend the

memorial service. I wanted to

It was because of Lee that I did my first workshop. At the know the man who, though

Pocono Picnic Company I asked him about a workshop I we never met, had a profound

wanted to attend. And being the leader he was, he said “Why impact on my life. My first expo-

don’t you lead it?” Which I did a few weeks later at the Turtle sure to social nudism was via

Lake Gathering, that very same summer. ‘Clothed With The Sun’. After

the untimely death of my wife

Doing that workshop and the many that have followed, the 3 years ago, I joined TNS and

friendships made, and the openness and connections experi- have found great comfort, sup-

enced have been a big part of my healing and growth. So I port and acceptance in the

feel deeply indebted for the part he played in my life. community. This has been instru-

mental in my grief recovery.

I am sorry I wasn’t closer to him to get to know him better. I Lee’s work has given a voice to

will miss him. Thank you for all your efforts to continue what he my feelings when I did not know

started. how to express myself. Thank

All the Best Naturally, you and God bless you all.

Bryon

Fred Pings







I was saddened to hear of the recent passing

of Lee Baxandall. For many generations, Mr.

Baxandall was instrumental in promoting natur-

ism, and opening up many venues for people to

learn about naturism. His successful efforts have

given all of us the ability to enjoy naturism as a

part of our lifestyle.



Everyday at Desert Sun Resort, we get the privi-

lege of looking at the “Lee Baxandall Bridge”,

which was dedicated, and named after Lee,

on February 13, 2003. This bridge proudly towers

over Indian Avenue and connects the Desert

Sun Resort to the DSIII condominiums on the

other side of the street. We will always

look at this bridge with great appreciation

for all that Mr. Baxandall has done for the

naturist community. He will be missed very

much.



Elizabeth Young

President

Desert Sun Resort -

Palm Springs, California





40 | Nude & Natural 28.3

My remembrance of Lee is very simple. Without him I’d have

known NOTHING about the naturist movement. When I first

became interested (in 1988) I was able to find in the Kansas City

library exactly THREE articles that dealt with naturism and nude

recreation - two in a periodical called Parks and Recreation

and one in a magazine called Trailer Life.



One of these gave Lee’s name and The Naturist Society’s

address. Without this connection I seriously doubt that I’d have

had the resources I needed to continue as an advocate. But

Lee made it clear from the outset that I was not alone.



He also was very good at recruiting people. He answered all

of my early inquiries with terse, to-the-point comments and, at

one point published in “N” a rambling essay I’d really intended

only for a local club newsletter. Like it or not, from that point on

I was committed (and hooked). The rest, for what it’s worth, is

history.



I regret that Lee wasn’t able to survive for a few more years.

With a more pragmatic and hospitable administration in

Washington, I have the feeling that the quest for public access

and acceptance of nude recreation will make major gains. Lee and Mark Orpen in deep discussion.

Unquestionably, Lee’s enduring influence will have been (and

will continue to be) the most important catalyst.



Dave Bitters In the early days, Lee and I spent

a lot of time on the phone—no

e-mail in those days. Long letters

as well—not all were placed in

the file cabinet either. I don’t have any here—long

gone.



We were both a couple of bottles of wine into the

after-dinner hour when we came up with the idea

of the first naturist whale watch which we did in

‘83. That was the first year Lee moved the Eastern

Naturist Gathering from June to August in order to

accommodate the boating event.

Early NAC/NEF board at Empire Haven.

I was also helping to facilitate the Eastern Gathering

that year and could not be in two places at once.

We didn’t always see eye to eye and had some heated conversations - read volcanic - but

we always maintained our friendship and commitment to the cause of naturism.



In latter years we drifted apart as can happen over time, but that is natural progression. He

will be missed. At the same time I think everyone has faith in the leadership you have given us

in the ensuing years since he stepped down.



DMK



Spring 2009 | 41

feature



ing “Closed with the Sun” when “Clothed In addition to a name change, TNS adopt-

with the Sun” was spoken. Even after the ed a new logo. TNS member Carl Hild

title was clarified, most people still did not My sincere condolences to suggested early on that a simple, cryptic

catch the historical reference to the Home the family of Lee Baxandall logo was needed, one that would allow

Colony. fellow naturists to recognize one another

at this time of his passing. He

Second, although TNS recognized without the need to blatantly advertise

made a great contribution

that altering names and logos is always a one’s preference for nudity. Hild provided

risky move, it decided that a change would to many people who were some rough sketches from which designer

offer the opportunity to reinforce the better able to accept them- Jack White adapted the slanted capital N

biological value of social nudity by linking selves and their fellow humans for TNS. Today the “N,” standing foremost

the words “nude” and “natural.” The words because of what he did. for “nude,” “naked,” and “natural,” Lee

are neutral regarding issues peripheral to Baxandall has pointed out, may also be

naturism, and focus attention on two of Sincerely, associated with other affirming words like

the core values of naturists: social nudity Jack Thro “nice” or “nurturing.”

and a sympathetic relationship to the natu- Nude & Natural magazine has contin-

ral environment. ued the tradition of journalistic excellence

The new name correctly downplayed established by Clothed with the Sun. No

any misperception that naturism was shy of evoking a sun-related metaphor. other magazine, newspaper, or newsletter

merely a sun-oriented activity. After all, (Note the similar and later change from printed in English comes close to N in its

people can enjoy naturism indoors, in the the “American Sunbathing Association” depth and breadth of coverage of news-

shade, or at night; and with the mid-1980s to the “American Association for Nude worthy events relating to non-lewd social

panic over skin cancer, TNS was justifiably Recreation.”) nudity. N in size alone nearly doubles most

other naturist publications around the

world. TNS is proud to be the leader in

covering naturist history, social commen-

tary, arts coverage, travel reports, and other

naturist-related topics.



Skinny-Dipper Shop



In January 1990, TNS decided to make use

of its Oshkosh office storefront on Main

Street by opening the Skinny-Dipper Shop.

The store sells magazines, T-shirts, DVDs,

books, and other TNS merchandise. It was

also a walk-in source for people looking for

information about local skinny-dipping

opportunities.

The public was generally accepting

of the store’s very visible naturist presence

in the heart of Oshkosh. City ordinances

prohibited displaying nude photos within

sight of people walking by outside of the

store, so one had to come inside the store

to find a copy of N magazine and other

TNS merchandise. Still, the prominent

signs and displays in the window let every-

one know that skinny-dipping was a part of

Oshkosh.

In 2002 the TNS office moved to

a newer building a few blocks off Main

Street, and though there is far less foot

42 | Nude & Natural 28.3

Lee Baxandall… Naturist Hero



From the time I first met Lee Baxandall in 1979, he took me

under his naked “wing,” so to speak, and mentored me in all

things naturist. I admired his fiery and determined free spirit

and multi-faceted life. From his love of art, theatre, and lit-

erature to his belief in freedom from censorship and govern-

ment domination, Lee faced life headlong, fighting bigotry

and close-mindedness every step of the way. Throughout the

very beginning of the original naturist movement Lee fought

for student and societal rights. Eventually, he founded the Free

Beaches Documentation Center in his hometown of Oshkosh,

Wisconsin. Its inaugural publication was called Clothed with the

Sun, which is how I first discovered TNS. Lee and TNS became

a source of great strength in the early years of our 40-year-plus

battle to keep Wreck Beach in British Columbia both undevel-

oped and free.

I accepted Lee’s invitation to my first TNS naturist gathering

in the mid-80’s at Lupin Lodge, outside of Los Gatos, California.

Thus began many years of friendship as Lee, through the

Naturist Society, mentored us through a multitude of Wreck

Beach battles. And buttressing his support always, was his tower

of strength, his beloved Johanna. Lee presenting Judy Williams a Lifetime TNS

membership.

A kaleidoscope of images come to mind of Lee: The

wonderful photo of him, Phineas and Johanna frolicking in a

lush tropical pool, the one from a past World Guide…he and

Johanna on the cover of N Magazine while they were at the Lee Baxandall attended the

INF Congress in Europe…his amazing sense of humor and great second Camping Bares Deep

intelligence (he was so bemused by the fact that I raised 1500 Creek campout in February 1977

crickets in my float home, that he gifted me with a solid sil- three years before he founded

ver cricket belt buckle which I still cherish.)…his impassioned the Naturist Society. It had to

speeches at TNS Gatherings, and his unyielding defense of be the spectacle of large num-

naturism…Lee on the TNS naked bus tour of Europe (but par- bers of nudists dancing around a

ticularly his naked grocery shopping in Cap d’Agde). It was my raging campfire in freezing

great honor to have been awarded the 2006 Baxandall Naturist winter weather that sold him on

Leadership Award “in recognition of exceptional volunteer ser- the plan for a national nudist

vice on behalf of naturism.” organization.

Lee has left us an unparalleled naturist legacy, but above

all, his love and loyalty made him our great friend. Bob Holden

Lucky us!



We are forever indebted, Lee. We salute you with love,

Judy and Your Wreck Beach Family

He was a visionary

For what it’s worth, you and the others at Naturist and an inspiration to

Society headquarters are in my thoughts. I am us all.

sorry to hear of Lee Baxandall’s passing.

Mike Abramson

Christopher Dyer





Spring 2009 | 43

feature



traffic or public awareness of the store, the

Skinny-Dipper Shop is still open for walk-

in customers. Approximately once a year Separately Lee Baxandall and I came to realize the link between

an undercover police officer steps into the the right to privacy, my specialty, and naturism, his specialty.

store to see if the public outside can see Luckily for me, he tracked me down in the early 80s, and together

any photos containing nudity. So far, these we informed each others’ work and philosophies. I saw his social

visits have not resulted in any problems for

activism as a model for mine, but I knew that I did not have the

TNS.

bold courage that he did. In addition, Lee’s activism enhanced

TNS & Nude my personal joy in skinny-dipping and made more opportunities

Networking in Europe available.



TNS began in the early 1980s as what In the early stages of his illness, he rose before a group of attorneys

seemed to many to be the younger—and defending naturists rights. His shoulders slumped a little and he had

perhaps estranged—sister to the older and a few tremors. He was naked. “I always said, ‘It’s all about body

larger American Sunbathing Association acceptance. And so here I am. I never said it was about body

(now AANR). In its first decade however, acceptance only when your body is exactly how you want it to

TNS matured to take the leading role in be!”

America on the issue of nudity on public

lands. As AANR and TNS enter the year

Robert Ellis Smith, Publisher, PRIVACY JOURNAL

2009, both acknowledge that they and

other naturist organizations need to work

together if they are to continue to grow

and be effective.

TNS has, from the earliest years, opportunity has presented itself, actively The Naturist Society Network:

sought out opportunities to work with sought ties with naturist groups outside of Policies Support Inclusion

other like-minded groups. The attempts the United States. of Singles, Gays, Families,

to form inter-organizational coalitions like On June 14-18,1986, TNS repre- Women

the Naturist/Nudist Leadership Council sentatives and two dozen others from the

are an example. TNS has also, when the U.S., Greece, Chile, the Netherlands, the

United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, What distinguishes TNS from other natur-

Finland, and India met for the first ist groups in many people’s minds is the

International Conference on Nude Beaches, organization’s commitment to inclusion.

held at Antiparos, Greece.16 Angelos Freely acknowledging that its members are

Mimikopoulos of Greece suggested the diverse in opinion, interests, and lifestyle,

idea to TNS in 1983, but it took three and that many of them will not agree with

years to bring the conference to fruition. everything they see reported on or praised

Attendees offered position papers on a in N, TNS nevertheless has a distinctive

variety of topics relating to free beach phi- leaning on certain issues that are some-

losophy and history. Lee Baxandall chaired times only obliquely related to naturism.

the series of meetings. Many of these issues have to do with the

The following year, Mimikopoulos, acceptance of others.

Baxandall, and Johanna Moore respond- TNS established the Naturist Network

ed to the suggestion of photo-journalist as a way to promote those naturist clubs,

Leif Heilberg, organized a second resorts, and beach-support groups that

International Conference on Nude Beaches, adhere to TNS’ basic philosophy. These

which took place in Hungary from June 27 groups agree to support TNS and allow

to July 5, 1987.17 This again drew natur- TNS members to take part in their activi-

ist leaders from around the world. A third ties; and their policies and activities must

such event was organized by TNS for June not be in conflict with the TNS Statement

31-July 7, 1990 in the Provence region of of Naturist Values, which says, in part:

France.18 “The Naturist Society does not recognize

Clara Bailey playfully painting Lee.

44 | Nude & Natural 28.3

groups or clubs which promise or intend of access to club or group activities. Singles TNS has also led other naturist (or

primarily to promote sexual activity, or contribute as many valuable resources nudist) organizations in its demand for

which practice a policy of exclusion based to a group as do married people. They acceptance of gays at naturist functions.

on race, religion, age, sexual preference, or offer help in volunteer projects; they This does not mean that TNS accepts pub-

gender.” provide needed income for the group; lic sexual behavior from anyone in naturist

TNS acknowledges that a private club and they help the group more closely match contexts such as clubs or free beaches, as

or group has every right to choose its the demographics of society. some critics of the policy have implied.

associates. A club could limit its member- The population outside the boundar- What it means is that it does not matter to

ship to left-handed, middle-aged, Chinese ies of the club walls or group functions TNS whether naturists are straight or gay;

astronomers if it wanted to. However, to is not 100 percent married. There are sin- and as long as a visitor at a naturist setting

be part of the Naturist Network, clubs gles and married people, young and old, behaves in a family-friendly manner, he or

and groups must practice a high degree of black and white, rich and poor. Since TNS she should be welcome.

inclusiveness. claims vigorously that naturism is natural The phrase “family-friendly” is chosen

As the 1983 TNS-commissioned for all people, unless there is good reason carefully here, in lieu of the more com-

Gallup poll showed, and as any naturist to suspect that an individual will cause monly used “family-oriented.” TNS wishes

club operator can verify, men tend to be problems to the health and integrity of the to promote and be associated only with

more comfortable trying out naturism for group, he or she should not be excluded naturist groups that provide an atmosphere

the first time than are women. Anecdotal for being single. TNS’ Naturist Network that would be appropriate for families with

studies indicate that once people become Participating Agreement specifically states: children (and grandparents) of a variety of

“It is acknowledged that single male visitors ages. The groups need not be oriented to

may be subject to a quota if Club deems families to the extent that all activities must

this unavoidable. If Club does limit the be designed to appeal to the interests of

Our son Sean who was con-

admission of males without accompany- young children and their parents. No group

ceived at Eastover, and who ing females according to a ‘quota’ system, is likely to plan activities that are of interest

has attended the TNS Eastern this must be clearly published and fairly to families with youngsters at all times. TNS

Naturists Gathering at Eastover administered…clubs or groups whose quota does ask however, that its clubs and groups

each year since he was born, policies are so strict as to create a de facto demand etiquette, behavior, and activities

was given “Eastover” as his legal exclusion of singles may be removed from that would be comfortable for most fami-

middle name. Upon news of the Network.” lies, should families be there. Some groups

Lee’s passing, it was explained

to Sean, the link between him-

self and Lee, and he under-

stand’s that if it were not for Lee

Baxandall’s tireless efforts with

his staff to bring his naturist flock

to Eastover, he would not bear

the middle name of Eastover

today.



Peter, Maureen, Sean E.







involved in social nudity, women enjoy

it more and feel they derive more benefit

from it than men.19 Still, in some cases

clubs and groups find themselves with

what seems to be a gender imbalance of

men over women.

TNS does not accept this as suffi-

cient to warrant systematic denial to singles Lee was delighted to meet high school classmate Joy Ellen Ryan at a naturist gathering.

Spring 2009 | 45

feature

No surprise....but no less a sense of loss, now that

he’s gone. Lee will always be my Renaissance

Man............we only clicked when we realized

we were in NYC in the glory days of The Living

Theatre. There was a time when he participated

in grooming me for the inevitable wrongful arrest;

he began the education of naturists to first know

their history and glean from case law every glim-

mer of light that could make our case.



His finding the Florida Supreme Court’s pro-

nouncement that “mere innocent nudity” is NOT

indecent.........gave birth to the movement in

Florida------just as we lost our network of clothing-

optional beaches to the State park system.



He further found in that case that the State

Supreme Court saw that “nudity, when combined

with another form of protected speech may itself

be protected” gave foundation to Theatre on

the Beach initiated with our wearing of the Bill of

Rights and a series of plays which included nudity

as well as the nude peace sign.



Only because we two Living Theatre die-hards came

together with a few good ACLU attorneys did we/Florida

Naturists successfully make our case not only in defense Naturists have a lot to

of skinny-dippers wrongfully arrested, but as we learned be thankful for. Lee‘s

from experience, we put ourselves on the offensive and vision and enthusiasm

successfully challenged the State to make their case and molded us into a unit

most often they failed -------------even to enact a Fl statute of awareness, which

to criminalize mere innocent nudity. helped naturists all over

the U.S., and most likely

there’s so much more.................. and now he’s gone........ spread far beyond that.

I think of him always and always will and I know, the way I He urged me to get

do the things I do are often as his student and often even involved with San Onofre

without his knowing, wanting to make him smile and be and was there with

proud of my actions and intent. advice, encouragement

and help when I needed

I loved him as the term Namaste’ defines............the god in it. He convinced me that

me saw and was fortunate to know the god in him...... one person could make

a difference!

peace, hope & love

ta Marianna Handler,

The “Beachmom” of San

Onofre









46 | Nude & Natural 28.3

rights groups like the Topfree Equality saw that it could be done, and perhaps

Rights Association, led by Canada’s Paul should be done, in a slightly different way.

Rapoport,20 and has funded challenges in Over the course of the next two or three

court to give women the same right as men years, CWS, and then N, would present a

to bare their chests in public. Perhaps the much more complete picture of the natur-

most dramatic example was TNS’ involve- ist population.

ment with the Rochester Topfree Seven, a Today N shows naturists in all their

Johanna, Lee, and past AANR president group who successfully challenged a dis- assorted shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities. As

Leonita Moore. criminatory law in New York State to gain America has gained weight, so too have the

topfreedom for women there in 1992.21 people in N. As naturists have aged, so too

associated with TNS skirt the edges of this In the mid-1980s, Michelle Handler have those depicted in its premier journal.

admittedly vague request, but TNS contin- and some other activist women in TNS No naturist organization and no naturist

ues to do what it can to promote inclusive began to attack what they believed to be magazine can claim to more accurately dis-

yet healthy naturist environments. sexist depictions of women in magazines. play the beauty and vitality, as well as the

Pointing to the disproportionate coverage warts and scars, of naturism as TNS and N

of women in CWS, Handler claimed that magazine.

TNS and other naturist/nudist organiza- Arising from the ecologically aware

I am saddened by the news

tions needed to present more males in their youth of the 1970s, TNS continues its

of Lee’s passing. I remember at periodicals and advertisements. Moreover, emphasis on our natural connection to the

one of my first naturist gather- the critics charged, they needed to show a biosphere. Beach and hot spring support

ings, he walked up to me and greater array of body shapes, sizes, and col- groups in the Naturist Network often host

said “Welcome Mitzi.” This was ors. Handler’s message was worth careful clean-up days, assisting the local manage-

before I was a NACAR and I had consideration. TNS has wanted all along ment agency in caring for the site. This

no idea that he even knew my to support women in naturism, but now not only helps to foster good relationships

name. He was always person-









ONLINE

able like that. He wasn’t afraid INTERNATURALLY PRESENTS NATURALLY

to try new idea for naturism and

it was he that started making

naturists gatherings fun, not just a

bunch of meetings. I believe he

was the first to have a magazine

of nudist beaches and resorts

(The World Guide.) I’m glad that

America’s glossy nudist magazine since 1981

I got to know he and Johanna Now also enjoy NATURALLY ONLINE!

while he still owned TNS. No more high postage, customs, or other overseas

mailing hassles. Flip through the pages,

Mitzi just like the printed edition for only $5.95.

Plus, you get special photo highlights

from previous Naturally magazines.

Three other tendencies distinguish

TNS from other naturist organizations.

www.Internaturally.com

The philosophy of TNS, if not of every

one of its individual members, strongly IN PRINT

and publicly supports the development only $29.95 per year (4 issues).

of women’s rights; the preservation of the Overseas add $14. Canada & Mexico add $8.

natural environment; and the advancement Contains Internaturally Catalog Supplement

published by:

of the arts.

Since the 1980s, TNS has published

nearly 30 features on topfree equal- PO Box 317, Newfoundland, NJ 07435 USA

ity in CWS and N. The Naturist Action Phone: (973) 697-3552 • Fax: (973) 697-8313

Committee has worked with Topfree

Spring 2009 | 47

feature



Lee Baxandall was passionate about

life! He never undertook anything which

he wouldn’t commit to wholeheartedly.

When he was a young man he wasn’t just

a Boy Scout, he was an Eagle Scout. While

some successful young men met their

town’s mayor, Lee met the President.

Lee didn’t just speak German;

he would translate the works of one of

Germany’s great authors into English. He

didn’t just write for a newspaper, he wrote

for the New York Times and founded his

own publication.

When he retired he didn’t set up

a pension plan for his staff, he turned the

company over to them. When Lee was

committed to something he would let

nothing get in the way of his goal.

When he was introduced to natur-

ism he realized he simply had to share the

life affirming joy of being clothes-free and helping

to introduce others to the joy of nude recreation.

When those freedoms were threatened by those

We have just heard of the demise of

less enlightened, he would spare no effort to

Lee Baxandall. We Cunninghams, speak-

defend the rights of others.

ing both for ourselves and Naturist LIFE

Those of us who were privileged to know

International, offer our condolences to

him as I did for over twenty years, could not help

TNS and all who loved Lee.

but stand in awe of a larger than life man, who

We first became acquainted with him

would not compromise when it came to doing

in the early 80s, entering into what Lee

what he believed was right. To be around him

termed in a gift book inscription, a “dispu-

when he was consumed by an issue was akin to

tatious friendship.” Despite our

being next to a tornado.

many disagreements, our mutual respect

The mark he made not just on naturism,

was never diminished. Now that he

but on countless individuals who he challenged,

truly knows the naked Truth, he is, alas,

mentored and encouraged will be a lasting

unable to share it.

legacy for a man whose life was truly a gift to so

We knew Lee as possessing high per-

many people.

sonal integrity, ever honest, generous

and especially fair. He has been in our

Stephen Payne

prayers.

Club Orient

Requiescat in pacem ,

Jim & Linda (Maggie) Cunningham









48 | Nude & Natural 28.3

Though inevitably succumbing to the insidious disorder which caused his premature retirement

years ago, Lee Baxandall will long remain in my memory as the premier voice for wholesome

body acceptance in a 20th century American culture warped by religious extremism and com-

mercial misogyny. I am deeply saddened that he did not live to see greater progress from all his

insightful writings and strategic contributions over several decades towards advancing natural

nudity and human sanity.

Lee deserves eternal gratitude well beyond naturist circles for leading such a transforma-

tive social mission, for few have the fearless intellect and sheer talent to even attempt it, much

less courageously persevere as long as he did. Whenever challenged or engaged he never

suffered from a lack of self-confidence, and his personal integrity always allowed him to speak

from high ground. The Naturist Society provided him the ideal platform as well as a customized

vehicle for expansion of his concepts.

An inspirational, thoughtful leader, he became a good friend to Lupin beginning in the

mid-1980’s with a series of Western Gatherings, two generously held despite the problematic

aftermaths of a wildfire and an earthquake.

Ever a creative entrepreneur, he was also a fellow founder of TANR, the Trade Association

for Nude Recreation, and a co-developer of the cooperative web outreach program which

continues to inform a large mainstream audience of clothes-free getaway choices. He helped

shape coherent, valuable public standards, as he did with every organization he supported.

His naturist publications, the beautifully illustrated World Guides and the ever informative

N Magazine, uniquely qualified for vital shelf-space in progressive-mainstream bookstores long

before the Internet emerged in the mid-90’s. Until then that narrow window provided the only

credible public exposure to the very existence of naturist options, an otherwise too well kept

secret.

I greatly admire the way Lee has passed on the legacy of his life’s work, which is worth

building upon by all who admired it and him. I will forever remember and miss the special friend

he was to me in good times and bad.



Glyn Stout

Lupin Lodge









Paths laid and footmarks trod with

no shorts above,



Or wrappings below. Not on our

beaches or around our hearts



Thanks to him.

Glyn Stout and Lee Baxandall enjoy a moment at Lupin Lodge.

J. Decker









Spring 2009 | 49

feature



acceptance and social nudity. Articles have

appeared discussing paintings, sculpture,

opera, theater, performance art, literature,

and cinema. TNS has supported a number

of artists who have shown special talent in

developing naturist themes in an aestheti-

cally satisfying manner. TNS has sponsored

workshops in art modeling, figure drawing,

silk screening, watercolor painting, act-

ing, dance, photography, and music. In

1997 and 1998 TNS even hosted cloth-

ing-optional Northwest Jazz Festivals near

Seattle, Washington, featuring top jazz

musicians of the region.



Baxandall Passes the Torch



Although Lee Baxandall had for a long time

encouraged respect for one’s own body and

that of others, his own began to fail him. A

long-term battle with Parkinson’s Disease

left him mentally alert and vigorous, it

began to take its toll on him physically.

In 2002, Baxandall decided to sell The

Naturists, Inc. to three women who had







“Working as NAC’s lobbyist

in Washington, DC, required

that I look first and foremost to

Lee Baxandall as my mentor

and critic. This was challeng-

ing, frustrating...and a delightful

adventure. I learned to love

and respect Lee as a titan, a

bulldog, a relentless and joy-

ous leader. He’ll remain alive

in memory because our dignity

and freeom are the reward for

with the site authorities, it also manifests a latter opportunity may seem like a small having known Lee.”

naturist interest in maintaining the integ- point, but far too many naturists forget

rity and health of the land. the joys of being out in nature clothes-free,

TNS gatherings and festivals routinely surrounded by birds and animals, and

Scootch Pankonin

offer workshops and seminars inform- swimming in the living water of lakes and

ing attendees about their relationship to streams.

the natural world. Vegetarian choices are Lee Baxandall’s early work in theatri-

offered at gathering and festival meals, and cal and performance arts set the tone for worked with him as integral parts of TNS

each gathering offers the chance to get TNS’ support of aesthetic excellence. N for years: Nicky Hoffman, Judi Ditzler,

away from the developed club grounds for has covered many important art works and and Margaret Thornton. All three respect-

a day to a local beach or hot spring. This events that illustrate the themes of body ed Baxandall’s work in TNS, and wished

50 | Nude & Natural 28.3

to see his vision continued. Ditzler—with lightheartedness and intellectual rigor, to nization can provide. That said, NAC has

assistance from Mark Storey and others— the quest for body acceptance and naturist a rich Web site providing detailed informa-

would edit N magazine, Hoffman would freedoms. tion about U.S. state and Canadian provin-

manage the office and N Network, and cial laws as they pertain to nudity. Its Toni

Thornton would continue to keep track TNS & the Future Egbert Law Library is a valuable source

of the business and financial end of things. of information for lawyers looking for

Baxandall would continue to provide valu- Now well into 21st century, TNS acknowl- information on court cases of interest to

able consultation and occasional magazine edges that naturists and non-naturists are skinny-dippers. NAC’s blog is also of use

articles until his physical health limited his becoming cyber-literate and that more and for public discussion on matters pertaining

ability to do so. more people are looking to the Internet for to naturist activism in North America.

TNS’ largest project under the new their information and reading recreation. This is where TNS stands today. Its

reign was the co-publication of The World’s Although TNS remains a membership orga- members are loyal—retention rates stay

Best Nude Beaches and Resorts. Mike Charles nization expressing itself primarily through near 80 percent—and retain much of the

and Nick Mayhew-Smith of England’s the printed word and face-to-face personal volunteer, grassroots spirit that helped to

Lifestyle Press had successfully published interaction, TNS and N are responding to move issues of body-freedom out of the

three “coffee-table” quality guide books to the call for online access. mid-century dark ages of corporate nud-

nude beaches and resorts in Europe, and TNS has maintained a Web site since ism. It is established as the leading advo-

contacted TNS proposing that TNS and 1996, at www.naturistsociety.com. The site cate for nude use on appropriate public

Lifestyle Press team up to co-write and co- has been completely re-designed sever- lands. Its innovative magazine is a model

publish an updated version of Baxandall’s al times, featuring access to N articles, and benchmark for many naturist publica-

World Guide to Nude Beaches and Resorts. Network contacts, Gathering and Festival tions.

The latest edition of Baxandall’s famous information, NAC Alerts, and an online With all its diversity and idiosyncra-

guide was still good, but the develop- Skinny-Dipper Shop. sies, The Naturist Society moves ahead in

ment of new resorts and a change in Today new naturist Web sites and a largely unified front, proclaiming still

status of many beaches worldwide had blogs appear on a daily basis. The vast that “Body Acceptance is the Idea—Nude

produced a demand for a new edition. In majority of these are unedited and include Recreation is the Way.” Expect even more

2007, after a year of research and travel information and reports that are largely from TNS in the decades to come. N

by co-authors Nick Mayhew-Smith and unverified. TNS has decided to do what it

Mark Storey, along with editorial work does best—producing a reliable magazine

from Mike Charles, Nicky Hoffman (now while using new technologies to further

Hoffman Lee), and Judi Ditzler (who had people’s access to the information the orga-

at this point left TNS to work for another

firm, but continued to do editorial work

on special projects), TNS and Lifestyle

Press released The World’s Best Nude Beaches

and Resorts to show the world how much

fun could be had on a naturist vacation

in nearly any part of the globe. The guide

immediately became and remains the first

choice in print for those seeking informa-

tion about naturist travel.

Baxandall was happy to see the years

of work on the many editions of his World

Guide continued by those with his vision.

With Hoffman Lee now at the editorial

helm of N magazine, he continued to pro-

vide consultation, articles, and a valuable

historical perspective until his death on

November 28, 2008. His passing is a loss

to naturism around the world, as he, more

than anyone else, brought both aesthetic

appreciation and political savvy, along with



Spring 2009 | 51