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Housing issues affect everyone in Connecticut, from those who are searching for a safe place to live, to those who may find it increasingly difficult to afford a place they already call home.WNPR is covering Connecticut's housing and homelessness issues in a series that examines how residents are handling the challenges they face. We look at the trends that matter most right now, and tell stories that help bring the issues to light.

Open To All: A 20th-Century Crusade For Connecticut Beach Access

Bob Adelman
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Free the Beaches: The Story of Ned Coll and the Battle for America’s Most Exclusive Shoreline
Hartford children enjoy themselves at Madison Beach Club in Madison, Connecticut.

This Independence Day, Connecticut residents will flock to the shoreline, raising umbrellas and spreading towels along the state's beaches.

Yet, behind this sunny imagery hides a somber history -- a story of coastal ownership and exclusivity.

This hour, University of Virginia professor and Free the Beachesauthor Andrew Kahrl joins us. We reflect on the impact of Connecticut’s private and restricted beaches and learn about a 20th-century crusade to unlock the state’s coast. 

Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Book Excerpt: Free The Beaches by Andrew Kahrl

GUESTS:

READING LIST:

Kirkus: Kirkus Review: Free the Beaches- "The push for beach access spawned a nationwide movement: between 1964 and 1974, Kahrl discovered, 'federal and state courts decided at least twenty-six cases involving disputes over public rights on beaches' in which white communities argued vociferously for their entitlement. "

Chion Wolf contributed to this show, which originally aired on May 24, 2018.

Lucy leads Connecticut Public's strategies to deeply connect and build collaborations with community-focused organizations across the state.

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