So how after all did the Mennonites, in their varieties of communes come to the small out-of-the-way country of Belize – or British Honduras, as it was know then? And how have they kept so unique and intrinsically distinct religiously and culturally, despite certain societal modifications?
The current settlement of Spanish Lookout just only a few miles north and east of our campus here began with sixteen venture dairy farmers and families (mostly from Canada or Pennsylvania) coming to the Cayo District with intentions to plant a business for commercial agriculture in addition to finding adequate space to practice their Christian faith.
Among those was a gentleman by the name of Heinrich (pronounced Henry) H. Dueck who took the active role as manager for their newly created entrepreneur enterprise simply named “Western Dairy”. It has always been an important part of Mennonite farming history. Farmers in Spanish Lookout, a now Progressive-Order, got more and more the idea, that dairying should be tried here in Belize as well. But how is that possible in this tropical country?
Interestingly enough, their company evolved, expanded and adjusted fittingly to the demand and economic pace of western Belize and beyond. This progressiveness was found dissatisfactory to some though, as persons such as Henry Friesian left the Lookout heading south to found the community of Barton Creek Mennonites, who practice a more traditional ascetic, simpler and socialistic commune.
Heinrich and his “modern Mennonite” entourage nonetheless kept growing not only in health of community but also in prosperity. They acquired used machinery from the U.S for increasing efficiency and productivity of farming, began and develop a cheese and ice cream factory, among other business-enhancing methods. To this day, Spanish Lookout is seen for its westernized techniques and appearances, if not slightly eccentric albeit respectful practices in lifestyle and religion.
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