Sex, Communalism, and Utopia: How a 70s Commune Took Oneida into the Future
A Communities In Conversation Program
From the beginning of the American experiment, communalism and challenges to the status quo have formed a significant movement within American society. The Oneida Community receives more attention than many of those groups, partly because of its business success and longevity, but also because of the dramatic ways it rethought marriage, sex, and the family.
In the late twentieth century the Kerista Commune looked back to Oneida and incorporated some of its ideas into their community, updating them for the countercultural shift that began in the 1960s.
Join us for this insightful lecture that will examine the similarities and differences between these two radical communities—both notorious in their times—and consider the lessons they offer for modern America.
About the Speaker
Cheryl Coulthard received her PhD in History from Texas A & M University, College Station. After graduating, Cheryl and her family left Texas for Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley where she is enjoying small-town living. In 2024, Cambridge University Press published her book, Communal Societies and New Religious Movements, as part of the Elements series. Her newest book, tentatively titled, In the Shadow of Father Rapp: The Untold Story of Women in the Harmony Society is almost finished. Cheryl serves as the Vice President of the Communal Studies Association and Associate Editor for the journal Communal Societies.
Secure your virtual seat today for this program or save over 20% by locking in the entire series today and be part of the conversation!
The Communities In Conversation Series - Sponsored by the Central New York Library Resources Council
This program offers both in-person and virtual (Zoom) attendance options. Regardless of your choice, all registered participants will receive the Zoom link. Additionally, a recording of the event will be emailed to everyone a few days after the program.
All proceeds support the preservation of the Oneida Community Mansion House and its educational programs.
