Well, 'R' wrote back with some interesting and some disturbing facts about Tarutung. About 120 years ago some German missionaries successfully reached the Batak people (the people group around Tarutung). Not that long ago it was considered 100% reached. It is now 70-80% reached because of the building up of Islamic influences.
Tarutung is 4-5000 feet above sea level (not the 3300 I mentioned in the last post). It has less than 50,000 people (49,999?) : ) It is about 1 1/2 hours from the ocean.
The main landmark is Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake on earth. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Tarutung is southwest of Lake Toba. The area is extremely poor, hence the need for new business and industry to provide jobs. Most locals that get an education, go to the big city to get a job or start a business, and don't come back - unless it is for a visit to show family how 'successful' they are. 'R' and his helpers want to show that it doesn't have to be this way.
Indonesia comprises over 17,500 islands. It is the 4th most populous country with over 230 million! It contains the largest population of Muslims.
Now, the disturbing news. 20 years before the German missionaries had success, another German missionary arrived in Tarutung. The area is made up of mainly 3 family groups - Tobin, Hutabarat and one other that he couldn't remember. The Tobin family were head hunters and ate the German missionary. Yep, you read right! A family of meat-eaters! (A side note for those who don't know - my maiden name was Tobin). I have asked if I am still welcome and am awaiting a reply. Will let you know the outcome : )
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This cracks me up every time I think about it (well not the poor guy who "got et", just the name)! Hehe..... it explains so much!
ReplyDeleteHope you are still welcome and don't make "R" too nervous! LOL!!!