Let’s explore five of the most unusual Amish businesses you can find in Wisconsin. These unique establishments offer a glimpse into the Amish way of life while providing exceptional products and services.
The Wood Shed: Furniture and Tours
When you visit The Wood Shed near Augusta, you’ll find more than just exquisitely handcrafted furniture. This Amish-owned business offers a rare opportunity to experience the Amish community up close[1]. As you browse through their collection of meticulously crafted wooden pieces and colorful quilts, you can also arrange for a guided tour of the surrounding Amish countryside.
Imagine riding in your own vehicle with an experienced guide, winding through the picturesque landscape for 90 minutes to two hours. You’ll have the chance to visit an Amish home and farm, giving you unprecedented access to their daily lives. The tour might also include stops at a “scratch and dent” store selling imperfect produce, various food stands, and even an exclusive Amish store open only to tour customers[1]. This combination of furniture showroom and immersive tour experience makes The Wood Shed a truly unique Amish business in Wisconsin.
Old Country Cheese: From Farm to Factory
As you drive along Highway D in the Cashton area, you’ll come across Old Country Cheese, an extraordinary Amish-run business that bridges traditional farming with modern cheese production[1]. This cheese factory stands out because it exclusively uses milk from local Amish farms to create over 20 varieties of cheese.
When you step into their on-site factory outlet store, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly made cheese. But that’s not all – you can also purchase an array of other Amish-made goods. From sweet and tangy jams to pure maple syrup tapped from local trees, and from handmade candies to intricate crafts and trinkets, this store offers a comprehensive taste of Amish culinary and artistic talents[1].
Mast Buggy Shop: Horse-Drawn Transportation
Located on Barry Road in Pardeeville, the Mast Buggy Shop offers a glimpse into a world where horse-drawn transportation is still a daily reality[3]. As you approach the shop, you might see the craftsmen at work, meticulously constructing and repairing buggies used by the local Amish community.
Inside, you’ll find an array of buggy parts, harnesses, and other equipment essential for equine transportation. The shop might also offer custom buggy building services, allowing you to witness the intricate process of creating these iconic vehicles. This business not only serves the Amish community but also provides a fascinating look into a mode of transportation that has largely disappeared from modern life.
M&M Pet Supply: Amish Animal Care
When you visit M&M Pet Supply on Barry Road in Dalton, you’ll discover an unexpected side of Amish entrepreneurship[3]. This shop specializes in pet supplies, catering to the needs of both Amish and non-Amish animal owners in the area.
As you browse the store, you’ll find a variety of pet foods, grooming supplies, and accessories. The business might also offer natural remedies and homemade pet treats, reflecting the Amish preference for traditional and holistic approaches. Operating Monday through Wednesday and Friday through Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm, this shop provides a unique intersection of Amish values and modern pet care[3].
Nature Trails Bakery: Seasonal Delights
Hidden away on 12th Road in Montello, Nature Trails Bakery offers a truly seasonal Amish culinary experience[3]. Unlike many other Amish businesses, this bakery operates on a limited schedule, open only on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 am to 5 pm, and closes entirely from mid-December until mid-March. Nature Trails bakery, N531 12th Ave, Montello, WI 53949
When you visit during their operating season, you’ll be treated to an array of freshly baked goods. The air will be filled with the enticing aromas of just-out-of-the-oven bread, pies, and pastries. The seasonal nature of this business not only aligns with traditional Amish values but also ensures that you’re getting the freshest, most in-season ingredients in every bite. The limited availability adds an element of exclusivity to your visit, making each trip to Nature Trails Bakery a special occasion[3].
These five unusual Amish businesses in Wisconsin offer you a unique opportunity to engage with Amish culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship. From guided tours to seasonal bakeries, each establishment provides a distinct window into the Amish way of life while offering high-quality products and services.
Citations:
[1] https://www.travelwisconsin.com/article/tours/wisconsins-amish-communities-experience-shop-and-learn
[2] https://adelineshouseofcool.com/amish-settlements-wisconsin/
[3] https://www.travelmarquettecounty.com/things_to_do_categories/amish-shops/
[4] https://www.downacountryroad.com
[5] https://roadstraveled.com/shopping-within-wisconsins-amish-landscapes/