Homestead Heritage

A self-sustaining intentional Christian community known for its agrarian lifestyle, craftsmanship, and rich educational culture.


Nestled near Waco, Texas, Homestead Heritage stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of intentional Christian communities in the modern world. Founded in the 1970s, this agrarian- and craft-based community has grown to encompass approximately 1,000 members across 510 acres of land. Homestead Heritage’s commitment to simplicity, sustainability, self-sufficiency, cooperation, service, and quality craftsmanship sets it apart from mainstream society, offering a unique blend of spiritual practice and practical living.

Origins and Development

The roots of Homestead Heritage can be traced back to New York City in the 1970s. A group of Christians, dissatisfied with the materialism and individualism prevalent in modern society, sought a more authentic and direct engagement with life’s essential activities. This desire led them to explore agriculture and self-sufficiency as means of expressing their faith and values.

The founding members’ journey took them from the bustling streets of New York to the open spaces of Colorado. Initially renting land for farming, they eventually purchased a larger farm, marking a significant step towards realizing their vision of a self-sustaining community. This move allowed them to begin implementing their ideas about teaching their own children, practicing home birthing, and caring for the elderly and disabled within a familial setting.

As the community grew and evolved, it eventually found its permanent home near Waco, Texas. The 510-acre property now encompasses a craft village, farming land, pastures, and housing, providing a comprehensive environment for members to live out their beliefs and values.

Community Life and Beliefs

While Homestead Heritage is not officially affiliated with any larger denomination, it acknowledges its Anabaptist roots and incorporates beliefs and practices that resonate with various Christian groups, including Baptists, Mennonites, and Methodists. This unique theological foundation emphasizes personal piety, communal worship, and a commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus in everyday life.

The community’s religious practices include regular worship services, Bible study, and communal meals. Members are known for their conservative dress and lifestyle, reflecting their desire to live simply and separate themselves from the influences of mainstream culture. This approach to faith is deeply intertwined with their daily activities, from farming to craftsmanship.

Homestead Heritage places a strong emphasis on the importance of agrarian life and seasonal cycles. The community practices sustainable farming methods, focusing on organic cultivation and biodiversity. They grow a wide range of crops, raise livestock, and maintain orchards and gardens. This agricultural focus not only provides for the community’s needs but also aligns with their spiritual beliefs about stewardship of the earth and living in harmony with nature.

Educational and Craft Endeavors

One of the most distinctive aspects of Homestead Heritage is its dedication to traditional crafts and trades. The community is internationally recognized for its quality craftsmanship, offering a context in which both adults and children can learn essential skills passed down through generations.

Homestead Craft Village, a significant part of the community, serves as a hub for these activities. It offers tours, activities, learning opportunities, and craft shops where visitors can explore and purchase handcrafted items and organic products. The village also hosts classes on various crafts and homesteading skills, allowing the community to share its knowledge and traditions with the wider public.

The community operates an apprenticeship program that teaches various trades and skills to young people, ensuring the preservation and continuation of these crafts. Workshops and studios dedicated to skills such as blacksmithing, woodworking, pottery, and weaving not only serve the practical needs of the community but also function as educational centers.

Education extends beyond craftsmanship to include a homeschool cooperative for children. The educational philosophy at Homestead Heritage emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and the integration of faith and practice. This approach aims to equip the next generation with the knowledge and values necessary to sustain the community’s way of life and principles.

Controversies and Challenges

Despite its peaceful and productive ethos, Homestead Heritage has not been without its share of controversies and challenges. Some former members have described the community’s environment as controlling, citing strict rules governing dress, technology use, and public conduct. Practices such as public reprimands, disciplining, and shunning of those who leave the group have been points of contention and criticism.

The community’s stance on technology is selective, with usage limited to educational or work-related purposes. This approach is intended to prevent technology from detracting from personal relationships and connection with nature. However, this selective use of modern conveniences has been a source of both praise and criticism from outside observers.

Moreover, Homestead Heritage has been the subject of scrutiny by organizations like Watchman Fellowship, which has labeled it a cult based on theological disagreements. These accusations have led to ongoing debates about the nature of religious freedom, community autonomy, and the balance between individual rights and communal responsibilities.

Homestead Heritage maintains that its practices and beliefs are in pursuit of a genuine Christian life, emphasizing unity, simplicity, and a return to fundamental Christian teachings. The community leadership asserts that their way of life offers a meaningful alternative to the materialism and individualism of mainstream society, providing members with a sense of purpose and belonging.

Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency

A cornerstone of Homestead Heritage’s philosophy is its commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency. The community’s agricultural practices go beyond organic farming to encompass a holistic approach to land management. Members employ techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and natural pest control to maintain soil health and biodiversity.

The community’s self-sufficiency extends to energy production and resource management. Homestead Heritage has implemented various renewable energy systems, including solar panels and small-scale hydroelectric generators, to reduce its reliance on external power sources. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems further demonstrate the community’s dedication to responsible resource use.

This focus on sustainability is not just a practical consideration but is deeply rooted in the community’s spiritual beliefs about stewardship and respect for creation. Members view their efforts to live sustainably as an expression of their faith and a way to honor their Creator.

Community Outreach and Engagement

While Homestead Heritage maintains a distinct identity separate from mainstream society, it is not entirely isolated. The community engages with the wider world through various outreach programs and events. Annual festivals, such as the Homestead Fair, attract thousands of visitors, providing an opportunity for the community to showcase its crafts, agricultural products, and way of life.

These events serve multiple purposes: they generate income for the community, educate the public about sustainable living and traditional crafts, and provide a platform for dialogue between community members and outsiders. Through these interactions, Homestead Heritage seeks to share its values and practices while also learning from and adapting to the changing world around it.

The community also offers workshops and seminars on topics ranging from sustainable agriculture to traditional craftsmanship. These educational programs attract participants from across the country and even internationally, further expanding the community’s influence and reach.

Conclusion

Homestead Heritage represents a unique fusion of Christian spirituality, agrarian lifestyle, and community craftsmanship. Its commitment to living according to the rhythms of nature, teaching traditional crafts, and fostering a strong community spirit stands in contrast to modern societal norms. The community’s emphasis on sustainability, self-sufficiency, and quality craftsmanship offers valuable lessons and alternatives in an increasingly industrialized and digitized world.

However, the community’s practices and beliefs, particularly around discipline and membership, have led to external criticism and internal challenges, highlighting the complex dynamics at play within this distinct group. These controversies serve as a reminder of the delicate balance required in maintaining a cohesive community while respecting individual freedoms and differing perspectives.

As Homestead Heritage continues to evolve and navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it remains a fascinating case study in intentional living, sustainable practices, and the preservation of traditional skills. Whether viewed as an inspiring example of alternative living or a controversial religious community, Homestead Heritage undeniably offers a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, community, and craftsmanship in the modern world.