No Matter How Many Skies Have Fallen

This book chronicles the establishment of a unique community in wartime England. No Matter How Many Skies Have Fallen explores their legacy and ideals.

In March 1943, a group of Christian pacifists took over a vacant farm in Frating, Essex, marking the beginning of a unique community. This group sought to create a working environment inspired by the ideals shared in The Adelphi journal, where prominent thinkers like D.H. Lawrence and George Orwell discussed visions for a better future. Their efforts led to the establishment of Frating Hall Farm, which not only provided a sustainable livelihood for individuals and families but also served as a refuge for those affected by the war, including refugees and prisoners of war.

Initially met with skepticism from local residents due to their anti-war stance, the Frating community gradually earned respect through their agricultural success and cultural contributions. They established a touring theatre company and a choir that breathed new life into the surrounding villages and churches. The story of No Matter How Many Skies Have Fallen unfolds through the memories of those who lived on the farm, enriched by photographs, letters, and previously unpublished organizational records, offering a glimpse into this vibrant community.

This kaleidoscopic history spans the eleven years of the farm's occupation, delving into the passionate religious and political ideals that characterized the back-to-the-land movement during wartime and the subsequent post-war period in rural England. The legacy of Frating Hall Farm continues to resonate, reflecting the enduring spirit of those who sought peace and community amidst conflict.