How inbred are Hutterites?

The social and cultural origins of the Hutterian Brethren, the most inbred population in North America, are described along with the characteristics that make the group useful for genetic studies. The Hutterites represent a closed population, with high levels of fertility and consanguinity.

What are the three types of Hutterites?

Three different branches of Hutterites live in the prairies of North America: the Schmiedeleut, the Dariusleut and the Lehrerleut. Though all three “leut” are Hutterites, there are some distinctive differences, including style of dress and organizational structure.

Do Hutterites have more than one wife?

The Hutterites invented a matching procedure during which once or twice a year the marriageable youth were assembled, and the preacher gave each male a choice of three females from which to select a wife. The man had to wait for the next time if he did not want to marry any of the three.

Why are Hutterites so clean?

The main reason for their success, I think, is they have a lot of peer pressure that keeps them accountable. Neighbors pop in unannounced daily. They see clean homes modeled for them by all of their neighbors. The culture is unified in their efforts to keep everything clean and tidy.

Are Mennonites and Hutterites the same?

The Hutterites differ from Mennonites in that they live communally. Today, there are over 450 Hutterite Colonies in the United States and Canada.

Can you convert to Hutterite?

Q: Is it possible to become a Hutterite if you’re not born one? A: Some people have joined the colony but left after a few years. While the colony has made some changes, it’s often difficult for outsiders to make the transition. “Believe me, it’s a life of submission,” Wipf said.

Why do Hutterites cover their hair?

Like several other Anabaptist groups, such as the Amish and some Mennonites, Hutterites take to heart St Paul’s admonition in his First Letter to the Corinthians (chapter 11:3-16). Therefore, baptized women must have their heads covered twenty-four hours a day.