Our History

What is now Landis Communities began in the early 1960s when Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities (now EMM) began exploring how they might develop a community for retired mission workers, pastors and others.  Frank Enck, the chair of the program planning committee, challenged the founders to “Keep in mind our vision of creating a community rather than a traditional old people’s home facility.” This vision of becoming a Christ-centered community has guided our growth these 50 plus years.  On this page you will find the 30 year and 50 year histories of Landis Homes, the largest part of Landis Communities.  In the 50 year history, there is a good bit of information about the beginnings of Landis Communities as well.  In addition, there is a scanned version of the 100 years history of what is now Welsh Mountain Home, which is the first existing organization to affiliate with the newly formed Landis Communities. 

Click on the cover to download and read each book.