David Lester Straight

Cynthia May

2 min read

·

16-01-2025

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David Lester Straight. The name itself evokes images of youthful rebellion and counter-cultural ideals. But who was this young man who, at the tender age of 17, led a group of teenagers to establish a self-sufficient commune in the wilds of Idaho? His story is a complex blend of idealism, naivete, and ultimately, a clash with the realities of survival and the law.

From Suburban Life to Rural Revolution

Straight, born into a relatively affluent suburban family in California, grew disillusioned with the perceived hypocrisy and materialism of mainstream American society. He found solace in the burgeoning counter-culture movement of the late 1960s, embracing its ideals of communal living, self-reliance, and rejection of societal norms. His rejection wasn't simply philosophical; it was a dramatic, physical act.

He left home, not for college or a conventional job, but to build a new life based on his own principles. He gathered a small band of like-minded teenagers, many similarly disenchanted with their upbringing and seeking a different path. Their destination? A remote section of Idaho, where they aimed to create a utopian society, free from the constraints of the established order.

The Straight Commune: Idealism Meets Reality

The commune, which took on its founder's name, was a fascinating, if ultimately unsustainable, experiment in self-governance. The teenagers faced numerous challenges. The harsh Idaho climate, the difficulties of acquiring food and shelter, and the inevitable interpersonal conflicts tested their commitment and resolve. Their attempts at self-sufficiency – farming, hunting, and bartering – were met with varying degrees of success, highlighting the complexities of survival outside the established system.

While the commune aimed for complete autonomy, they did not operate in complete isolation. News of their existence reached the authorities and local communities, leading to increased scrutiny and intervention. The commune’s existence, fuelled by idealistic motivations, became a focal point for debate surrounding youth rebellion, parental authority, and the limitations of utopian dreams.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The Straight commune ultimately met its demise. The group eventually dispersed, its members returning to their previous lives or forging new paths. The reasons for the commune’s disintegration were multifaceted, likely involving the inherent difficulties of sustaining a self-sufficient community in a challenging environment, coupled with external pressures.

While its utopian aspirations remained unfulfilled, the Straight commune continues to fascinate. It serves as a reminder of the passionate idealism of a generation and the complexities of forging an alternative path outside the dominant cultural framework. David Straight's story is more than just a tale of teenage rebellion; it's a study in the tension between youthful idealism and the pragmatic realities of life, and the lasting impact of counter-cultural movements on society. The tale is a nuanced and compelling look into a pivotal moment in American history. It remains a subject worthy of continued examination and discussion.