Nestled atop Fairmount Hill, Muddy Creek Farm Library (MCFL) serves as an archive, research library, and museum dedicated to preserving the rich Christian faith and history of Anabaptism. Alongside Fairmount and Home Messenger Library and Bookstore, the library shares ties with the Weaverland Mennonite Conference and a commitment to passing faith and heritage from one generation to the next.
The library’s mission is “to preserve the rich Christian faith and history of Anabaptism and to help the Old Order Mennonites and related groups retain and appreciate their heritage.” Inspired by Psalm 78:6—”That the generation to come might know them”—MCFL seeks not only to preserve historical records, but also to inspire faithful Christian living through education and understanding.
The name Muddy Creek Farm Library traces back to its beginnings on the farm of Amos B. Hoover along Muddy Creek Road. Hoover recognized the importance of preserving Mennonite history and felt called to “stand in the gap” (Ezekiel 22:30) so that future generations would know the stories and convictions that shaped their faith.
Today, visitors to the library can enjoy sweeping views of the valleys surrounding Fairmount Hill while exploring collections that tell the stories of those who came before. The landscapes visible from the hill are intertwined with the history documented inside the library’s walls.
Muddy Creek Farm Library preserves the past with an eye toward the future. Its collections include historical documents, books, photographs, artifacts, and publications from conservative Mennonite organizations, including Weaverland Publications, Christian Aid Ministries, Grace Press, and others. Volumes in Russian, Romanian, and additional languages now stand alongside older German and Dutch works, reflecting the continuing growth and reach of the Anabaptist community.
More than a repository of information, the library serves as a place where history, faith, and culture are thoughtfully preserved so that future generations may know, appreciate, and carry these values forward.
Guided by a nine-member board, Muddy Creek Farm Library continues its work of preserving and sharing Anabaptist heritage. The board meets quarterly, and interested visitors are welcome to attend and participate in a “show and tell” time, where attendees share books, discoveries, and experiences.
A verse that has become a motto for the library comes from 2 Timothy 4:13: “Bring…the books, but especially the parchments.” Like the Apostle Paul, who valued these writings and their enduring truths, Muddy Creek Farm Library remains committed to preserving and passing on the faith and history entrusted to its care for generations yet to come.
Throughout the years, various family and school groups have visited Muddy Creek Farm Library. In 2020, the library began more intentionally inviting schools to experience its collections and mission firsthand. Since then, visits have grown significantly, especially from parochial and conservative Mennonite schools as well as homeschool groups.
Many students are especially fascinated when they receive a printed five-generation ancestor chart generated from the genealogy database—a memorable connection to their own family history.
A typical visit includes an optional slide presentation followed by guided exploration of the library and archives, a special exhibit area, and the museum. The museum is organized into three sections: Domestic Life, Agriculture and Shop, and Church Life.
For those who prefer a self-guided experience, descriptive panels throughout the exhibits provide context and explanation. Visitors may also use the 68-page Catalog of Museum Exhibit (published in 2009) as a guide.
In addition to student groups, the library also welcomes scholarly visitors and individuals seeking to learn more about Anabaptist and Mennonite life and faith. Many arrive with specific questions or areas of interest, and staff are glad to assist in connecting them with relevant resources.
