Florida real estate is facing an unusual challenge: a nudist colony that once thrived is now up for sale. The Florida Naturist Park, located about an hour northwest of Tampa, spans 220 acres. Founded in 1959 by Thomas Ward Gulvin, it was an “anything-goes” community. Unfortunately, Gulvin’s history as a controversial figure, including being a convicted bigamist and having troubling racial views, has cast a long shadow over the property. He passed away in 1994, leaving his six children to handle the estate.
Today, the family is asking for $2.5 million for the remaining 58 acres. This area consists of lakes, a clubhouse, residential lots, and RV spots. Many of the current residents are older and hesitant to leave, complicating the sale. The park’s zoning specifically allows nudism, which limits the types of development that can happen there. Dayton Johnson, the listing broker, emphasizes this issue. “Most developers focus on specific projects, like subdivisions. This property doesn’t fit that mold,” he explained.
This unique zoning has made attracting potential buyers challenging. In 2007, there was a serious attempt to sell the land to a Quaker nudist who envisioned creating a Christian nudist retreat. However, that deal fell through.
The nudist lifestyle has been controversial yet fascinating in American culture. While it began as a countercultural movement, today its followers celebrate body positivity and freedom. According to a 2022 survey from the American Association for Nude Recreation, around 8 million Americans identify as nudists.
Social media has played a significant role in spreading awareness about nudism. Platforms like Instagram often showcase nudist events, fostering a community that embraces naturalism. This reflects changing social attitudes towards nudism and body image.
As real estate trends continue to shift, properties like the Florida Naturist Park remind us of the diverse ways people choose to live. Whether the park finds a buyer willing to embrace its unique character remains to be seen. For more details on this intriguing story, check out the full article from the New York Times.
Source link
nudism,Tampa,python
