Nudism, also known as naturism, is a lifestyle and movement advocating for social nudity in appropriate settings. While it may seem like a modern phenomenon, the practice of nudism has been around for centuries. In North Carolina, the history of nudism dates back to the early 20th century.
The first nudist organization in the United States was the American League for Physical Culture, founded by Bernarr Macfadden in 1929. This organization promoted nudity as a way to improve physical and mental health. In the 1930s, a group of like-minded individuals in North Carolina formed the Carolina Sun Club, which was one of the earliest nudist clubs in the country.
The Carolina Sun Club was founded in 1933 by a group of university professors, doctors, and other professionals who believed in the benefits of social nudity. The club was located on a 10-acre site near Gastonia, North Carolina, and had a clubhouse, a swimming pool, and a tennis court. Members were required to follow a strict code of conduct, which included respect for others and the environment.
In the years following World War II, nudism began to gain popularity in North Carolina and across the country. By the 1960s, there were several nudist clubs in the state, including the White Tail Resort in Ivor, Virginia, which is just over the North Carolina border. This resort was founded in 1946 and is still in operation today.
One of the most significant events in the history of nudism in North Carolina occurred in 1985, when the state's Supreme Court ruled that nudity was not illegal as long as it was not intended to arouse sexual desires. This ruling paved the way for the growth of nudist clubs and resorts in the state.
Today, North Carolina is home to several nudist resorts, including the aforementioned White Tail Resort, as well as Carolina's Foothills Resort in SC, Cedar Creek Nudist Resort in Leesville and Whispering Pines Nudist Resort in Ocean Isle Beach. These resorts offer a range of activities, including swimming, hiking, volleyball, and social events.
In conclusion, the history of nudism in North Carolina dates back to the early 20th century, when a group of like-minded individuals founded the Carolina Sun Club. Since then, nudism has gained popularity in the state, and today, there are several nudist resorts that offer a range of activities and promote the benefits of social nudity. While nudism may not be for everyone, it has a long and rich history in North Carolina and continues to thrive today.
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