The Hog Farm
The Hog Farm is one of the most enduring symbols of the hippie era, blending activism, communal living, and a unique brand of countercultural whimsy.
Founded by Hugh Romney, who later became known as Wavy Gravy, the Hog Farm's history is intertwined with key moments and movements of the 1960s and beyond, embodying the spirit of peace, love, and communal effort.
Formation and Early Days
The origins of the Hog Farm can be traced back to 1966 in North Hollywood, California. Initially, it was literally a hog farm, where a group of friends began living communally under the informal leadership of Hugh Romney. Romney, a former beatnik and stand-up comedian turned hippie poet and activist, became the de facto leader of this evolving commune. The name "Hog Farm" stuck even as the group's focus shifted from raising pigs to exploring new ways of communal living and social activism.
Expansion and Philosophy
The Hog Farm quickly evolved from its humble beginnings into a mobile, psychedelic commune, known for its open-door policy, where anyone willing to work and contribute to the community was welcome. Their philosophy was rooted in peace, environmentalism, and social justice, values that resonated with the broader countercultural movements of the time.
Woodstock and Public Recognition
The Hog Farm's journey into the annals of counterculture history was cemented at the Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 1969. They were hired to provide security, but in a manner befitting their ethos, they rebranded themselves as the "Please Force," using humor, empathy, and non-violence to manage the crowd. They also set up a free kitchen, feeding thousands, and established a makeshift hospital, embodying the festival's ideals of peace and communal support. Wavy Gravy's famous announcement, "What we have in mind is breakfast in bed for 400,000," perfectly captured their spirit of service and became one of the memorable moments of the festival.
Post-Woodstock Years
After Woodstock, the Hog Farm continued their journey, traveling in a caravan of buses to various festivals and events, spreading their message of peace and community. They participated in anti-war protests, environmental campaigns, and humanitarian missions, including relief efforts in Bangladesh in the early 1970s.
In the mid-1970s, part of the commune settled in a 600-acre ranch in Laytonville, California, which became known as Black Oak Ranch. This site has hosted numerous events, workshops, and festivals, including the annual Hog Farm Hangout, further cementing the Hog Farm's place in the legacy of communal living experiments.
Wavy Gravy and the Legacy of the Hog Farm
Wavy Gravy became a symbol of the peace and love ethos, not just for his role with the Hog Farm but also as a dedicated activist. He co-founded the Seva Foundation, an organization focused on health and wellness initiatives in indigenous communities and developing countries. His commitment to social causes and his unique blend of humor and activism have made him an enduring figure in American culture.
Conclusion
The history of the Hog Farm is more than just the story of a hippie commune; it's a testament to the impact of collective action, the power of non-traditional approaches to social issues, and the enduring appeal of the counterculture ethos. From their origins as a small commune to their role in one of the most iconic music festivals of all time, and their ongoing work in activism and community building, the Hog Farm exemplifies the possibilities and challenges of communal living and the pursuit of a more just and joyful world.