Tucked away in the rolling hills of rural Virginia lies Twin Oaks, an intentional community that has been a beacon of sustainable living and social experimentation for over five decades. Founded in 1967, Twin Oaks is home to approximately 100 members who live and work together on a 450-acre property in Louisa County.

Founding and Philosophy

Twin Oaks was established by a group inspired by B.F. Skinner's novel Walden Two, which describes a fictional behaviorist utopia. While the community's initial structure drew from Skinner's ideas, it soon evolved to emphasize egalitarian principles, cooperation, and sustainability. Today, Twin Oaks operates without formal leaders, making decisions through a consensus-based process.

Sustainable Living and Self-Sufficiency

A cornerstone of life at Twin Oaks is self-sufficiency. Members engage in organic farming, raising livestock, and producing various goods, including tofu, hammocks, and seeds. These enterprises not only support the community's needs but also generate income. The community's commitment to sustainability is evident in its resource-sharing practices, leading to significantly lower per capita consumption of gasoline, electricity, and natural gas compared to national averages.

Community Businesses

Twin Oaks operates several community-owned businesses that contribute to its financial sustainability:

  • Twin Oaks Tofu: Produces tofu for local markets.
  • Twin Oaks Hammocks: Crafts hammocks sold nationwide.
  • Twin Oaks Book Indexing: Provides book indexing services.
  • Twin Oaks Seed Farm: Grows seeds for the Southern Exposure Seed Exchange.

These ventures collectively generate around $600,000 annually, funding community upkeep and providing members with a monthly stipend for personal use.

Social Structure and Daily Life

Life at Twin Oaks is characterized by shared responsibilities and communal living. Members contribute approximately 38 hours of work per week, encompassing both income-generating tasks and domestic duties such as cooking, maintenance, and childcare. Housing is communal, with individuals having private bedrooms within shared residences. The community fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, embracing various religious beliefs and interpersonal relationships.

Legacy and Influence

Over the years, Twin Oaks has played a pivotal role in the intentional communities movement. It has helped establish sister communities, including Acorn Community Farm, which focuses on sustainable agriculture and operates the Southern Exposure Seed Exchange.

Twin Oaks also hosts annual gatherings, such as the Communities Conference and the Women's Gathering, promoting dialogue and collaboration among like-minded communities.

As Twin Oaks reflects on over 50 years of communal living, it continues to serve as a model for those seeking alternative lifestyles centered on cooperation, equality, and environmental consciousness.

Note: The information provided is based on sources available up to February 2025.