Slab City – In Liberty.
I’d been hearing about this unique place, so placed it high on my list of places to go. You know you’ve arrived there when you see Salvation Mountain. Some of this is an adobe-like mixture of dirt and straw, but much of it is simply paint on compacted earth. I didn’t meet the artist, as people this dedicated to religion make me uncomfortable, but I understand that his work continues.
I’ve been trying to think how to describe Slab City. Freedom is the word that keeps coming to mind. Pull in and park where you like – its free. The year-round residents live as they wish, in whatever style of home they can manage. They are free to be what they will.
Winter visitors migrate here for fresh air, sunshine, inspiring sunrises and sunsets. Several traveling groups have established permanent presences here with club houses and meeting areas. I was invited to join one for their happy hour, a group called the Travel n Pals. Some in that group indicated they’ve been wintering here for 20 years!
Slab City offers some of the amenities of a city. On Saturday nights, at sunset The Range offers live music, welcoming anyone to sing or play. Sound system and lighting provided by Solar.
There is a library, internet café, and radio station. Art in many forms, is everywhere.
Before you visit, be aware that freedom has a price. Some of the people who choose to live here, may not fit your idea of ideal neighbors. There is a lot of trash around, which while considered property to some, would to many be unsightly garbage.
Go to Slab City with an open, non-judgmental mind. If you do, you will be welcomed openly and warmly, as I was.
Living here is free.
