David Lidstone, or “River Dave” as he’s more commonly known in his community of Canterbury New Hampshire, has been living alone in the woods for 27 years.
Army veteran and father of four, he now spends his time living completely off the land and looking after his cat and chickens. However, his peaceful Thoreauvian existence is under threat. After nearly three decades, on July 15th David Lidstone was arrested on a civil contempt sanction and accused of squatting on private property.
According to Lidstone had a verbal agreement with the previous owner of the property to allow him to live on the land and promised not to force him out. The current owner, Leonard Giles, did not realize Lidstone lived there until 2015. Lidstone was asked to vacate the property but had resisted all attempts until his recent arrest. He will only be freed if one of the following occur: Giles knocks down the cabin; Lidstone agrees to leave, or 30 days pass without any sort of action.
Fire has destroyed a small, solar-powered cabin in the woods of New Hampshire where 81-year-old David Lidstone has lived – off the grid – for nearly three decades. Lidstone was jailed last month, accused of squatting. https://t.co/v5OMcObg69
— The Associated Press (@AP) August 5, 2021
A strong outcry arose from the community. Upon hearing about his arrest, a Change.org petition was started to raise money for property taxes to save this local legend and his home. The petition has accrued over 1300 thus far and is filled with comments describing Lidstone as ‘just a really, really, big caring guy, … he’s not hurting anybody.’ He’s been known to help anyone near the river and provides fresh produce and eggs for campers in the area.
David is determined to return. In an interview with AP News, he states that “I will sit here until my body rots, but you will not beat me, sire,” Lidstone said. “I will sit here until I rot, or I will go home.”
Wanting that off-the-grid escape like River Dave? Check out this article for isolated vacation destinations.
