Cohousing is the modern equivalent of communal living, where large groups of people live together to share property and resources, which has been around since at least the 12th century.  Canada's first commune was built in 1829 near the shore of Lake Huron in Bright's Grove, Ontario, where 50 English settlers built a large log house with a shared kitchen and dining room, but separate rooms for each family. This historical plaque recognizing the commune is located on the grounds of the Bright's Grove Public School, which was built in 1873. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)