Shipyard is one of the Mennonite communities in Belize, and it is located in the Orange Walk District. Mennonites in Belize are known for their agricultural lifestyle, conservative values, and unique cultural practices. Here’s an overview of the Mennonite community in Shipyard:

1. Location:
   • Shipyard is situated in the Orange Walk District, which is in the northern part of Belize. It is surrounded by rural landscapes, and the community is characterized by large agricultural fields.
2. Mennonite Background:
   • Mennonites are a religious group with Anabaptist roots. They are known for their emphasis on pacifism, community living, and a traditional way of life.
   • Mennonites arrived in Belize in the 1950s and 1960s, seeking a peaceful and isolated environment where they could maintain their distinct lifestyle.
3. Agricultural Practices:
   • Mennonite communities in Shipyard are primarily engaged in agriculture. They are known for their successful farming practices, including the cultivation of crops such as corn, soybeans, and vegetables.
   • The use of traditional farming methods, horse-drawn plows, and manual labor is common among Mennonite farmers.
4. Conservative Lifestyle:
   • Mennonite communities, including Shipyard, maintain a conservative lifestyle with a focus on simplicity and community values.
   • Traditional clothing, adherence to plain dress codes, and the use of the Plautdietsch language (a Low German dialect) are part of Mennonite culture.
5. Technology and Modernization:
   • While Mennonites in Shipyard uphold traditional practices, some communities have adopted modern technology to varying degrees. This may include the use of tractors and limited access to electricity.
6. Community Living:
   • Shipyard is a close-knit community where residents often engage in communal activities and support each other.
   • Churches play a central role in the community, and religious practices are an integral part of daily life.
7. Products and Services:
   • Some Mennonite communities operate stores and businesses that offer products such as furniture, handmade crafts, and food items.
   • Visitors to Shipyard may have the opportunity to purchase goods produced by the Mennonite community.
8. Tourism:
   • Some Mennonite communities, including Shipyard, have become points of interest for tourists interested in learning about their unique lifestyle and practices.
   • Visitors are encouraged to be respectful and seek permission before taking photographs or entering private areas.
9. Cultural Exchange:
   • Interactions with the Mennonite community provide a chance for cultural exchange, allowing visitors to gain insights into their traditions, religious beliefs, and agricultural practices.

Please note that Mennonite communities in Belize, including Shipyard, may vary in their level of openness to outsiders and the extent to which they embrace modernization.