Since their arrival at the beginning of the 20th century, the Mennonite community has become a key player in the agricultural, economic, and cultural development of the state of Chihuahua. With a history of migration marked by the search for religious freedom and a simple life, these groups—originally from Europe and Canada—found the lands of Chihuahua the ideal place to settle.
Their main activity is agriculture. Women and young children tend the animals. They plant corn, beans, barley, rye, wheat, sorghum, flax, and primarily oats. They have also ventured into the planting of fruit trees and cotton. They raise their livestock together, and use part of their dairy and meat production for family consumption.
Currently, they are found mainly in the municipality of Cuauhtémoc, formerly San Antonio de los Arenales, west of Chihuahua City. Thanks to them, Chihuahua has positioned itself as one of the leading producers of apples, walnuts, and artisanal cheeses—especially the famous Mennonite cheese—an icon of the state, recognized for its flavor and quality nationally and internationally.
Learning about their history is understanding an essential part of the state’s soul: a history of hard work, peaceful integration, and respect for traditions. An excellent option is to visit the Mennonite Museum and Cultural Center, a civil association founded on June 6, 2000, which decided to open its doors in 2001 to welcome tourists and locals curious to learn more about its history.
The museum is located on the Commercial Corridor. It is important to schedule a visit through an official Chihuahua tour operator, as there is no public transportation in this area. Along the way, you can see the large fields of apple trees. Upon arriving at the Museum, you’ll be greeted by a tractor and a large courtyard with immaculate green grass. At the back, you’ll find a replica of a Mennonite house. A member of the community will help you tour the rooms while explaining each one in detail. You’ll learn about their farming activities, the kitchen, the daughters’ and sons’ rooms, and the husband and wife’s master bedroom. You’ll end the tour with an interesting souvenir shop where you can buy their signature clothing—a long skirt, blouse, and scarf for women, while men and children will find traditional overalls—as well as homemade jams and, of course, traditional Mennonite cheese, which can last up to three months without refrigeration (as long as it’s kept sealed).
Don’t forget to savor the delicious pizzas made with local ingredients, as the recipe has been passed down from generation to generation. You can try them at Pizzeria Los Arcos and Pizzeria La Sierra.
Chihuahua is undoubtedly a destination steeped in tradition, culture, and respect that awaits you with open arms to discover “the Mexico you don’t know.”
Source: cionoticias
