Colonia Juarez: Commemorating 125 Years of the Mormon Colonies in Mexico

Colonia Juarez, one of the two remaining Mormon Colonies in Mexico, has existed and prospered for one hundred and twenty-five years. During that time many interesting and important things have occurred which have had far reaching effects on the lives of thousands of people scattered throughout the world. These have included revolutionary upheavals, the founding and growth of the Juarez Stake Academy (Academia Juarez), the coming of the paved highway to the colony, three centennial celebrations within a period of twelve years, and two visits within two years from the Lord's Prophet and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, even Gordon B. Hinckley. His second visit was for the dedication of the Colonia Juarez Chihuahua Temple. Although there are currently fewer than 200 descendents of the original colonists living in Colonia Juarez, literally thousands still refer to it as "down home." The last complete history of Colonia Juarez, written by Nelle Spilsbury Hatch, was released in 1954. The time is right for an up-date of the history of this loved community. This is especially true in light of the uncertainty which currently exists due to the brutal drug cartel-related acts committed almost daily throughout the state of Chihuahua, including the region where Colonia Juarez and Colonia Dublan are situated. Can the lessons of the past help us deal with the realities of today? And, what of the future?