Two Paths to Utopia: The Hutterites and the Llano Colony

by Paul K. Conkin

This 1964 detailed history presents two contrasting monographs, each devoted to the practice of a distinctive and enduring experiment in communal living. The Llano movement was founded by American socialists, who were seeking in cooperation a more equitable economic and social system. Truly utopian, they believed in reform instead of obedience to God, rapid progress instead of static revealed order, and above all in the possibility of a heaven on earth. Their colony at New Llano, Louisiana was the longest-lived & most successful venture of its kind in twentieth-century America. “...The move to Louisiana began in October 1917. The equipment and supplies came by train. Most of the industries were moved from California, including the valuable printing equipment. A courageous group of about thirty moved in a calvacade of five automobiles. Finally, the mass of colonists came in a chartered train of six coaches.” “...Llano never neglected activities of a cultural nature. Sunday afternoon was reserved for an open forum on various intellectual or controversial subjects, many connected with the theories behind cooperation. Sunday evening was reserved for a cultural program in the colony theater.”

212 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1964

About the author

Paul K. Conkin is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of History at Vanderbilt University.