Written and photographed by Tom HastingsAmerican Indians thrived in tent cities on this land for over 12,000 years. There have been many tent cities over the centuries. Nickelsville is essential for survival, just as Hoovervilles were essential for survival in the 1930’s.“Nickelsville costs taxpayers not one penny,” one resident boasts: “We live on donations and pay for everything ourselves. Prisons cost a fortune, but Nickelsville uses not a single penny of tax funds!” Nickelsville is asso