A New Amish Community Thrives in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom
In the picturesque town of Brownington, nestled in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, a new Amish community is quietly making its mark. This rural area, known for its rolling hills and historic charm, has welcomed several Amish families from Pennsylvania who are seeking affordable farmland and a simpler way of life. Their arrival marks a significant milestone, as Vermont becomes one of only two New England states to host an Amish settlement.
Locals and Amish families alike are embracing the cultural exchange, with the community already contributing to the region’s agricultural revival and local economy.
Planting Roots in Vermont
The Amish began settling in Brownington in 2015, with three families purchasing farmland. Today, the community has grown to include around 30 families. The decision to move to Vermont was driven by the availability of affordable land, a slower pace of life, and the state’s suitability for farming and maple syrup production.
Lovina Miller, who moved with her husband Levi and their children from Albion, Pennsylvania, shared: “We were drawn to Vermont because it reminds us of what home used to feel like—peaceful and close to nature. The people here have been so welcoming.”
Local resident Jane Greenwood echoed this sentiment: “The Amish have brought new life to our town. Their values of hard work and community fit perfectly with what we cherish here in Brownington.”
Economic Contributions and Local Businesses
The Amish community has quickly become an integral part of the local economy. On Saturdays during the warmer months, Miller’s Baked Goods on Schoolhouse Road is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. The stand offers fresh donuts, pies, cookies, jams, and handmade quilts.
A visitor to Miller’s shared their experience: “I stopped by last summer and was amazed by the quality of their baked goods. The donuts were incredible, and I loved chatting with Lovina about their quilting group.”
In addition to baked goods, the Amish have introduced other ventures such as furniture-making and maple syrup production. Maple syrup is a natural fit for Vermont’s climate and is quickly becoming a profitable side business for many Amish families.
At The Market Wagon in nearby Bennington, customers can find a variety of Amish-made products alongside locally sourced groceries. Chris Evans, a store manager, noted: “The Amish products have been flying off the shelves. People love the authenticity and craftsmanship they bring to everything they make.”
Cultural Exchange and Community Impact
The arrival of the Amish has sparked curiosity among locals eager to learn about their traditions and way of life. The community recently opened the Brownington Parochial School—the only Amish school in Vermont—where children receive an education rooted in practical skills and religious teachings.
Isaac Kauffman, a young father in the community, explained: “Our school is small but growing. We want our children to learn not just academics but also how to work with their hands and live according to our faith.”
Locals have also been inspired by the Amish commitment to sustainability. Many families farm using traditional methods with horse-drawn plows and raise livestock without modern machinery. This approach has resonated with Vermonters who value environmental stewardship.
Brownington resident Mark Maclure shared his admiration: “I’ve seen them working on their farms—it’s incredible how much they can accomplish without modern technology. It’s a reminder that hard work can still be done the old-fashioned way.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite their positive reception, the Amish community faces challenges as they adapt to Vermont’s unique regulations and climate. Building codes differ significantly from those in Pennsylvania, requiring adjustments to construction practices for homes and barns. Additionally, Vermont winters are harsher than what many families are accustomed to, presenting new obstacles for farming and daily life.
Levi Miller commented: “We’re learning as we go. The winters here are colder than back home, but we’ve found ways to adapt with help from our neighbors.”
Local officials have worked closely with the Amish to ensure compliance with state regulations while respecting their religious beliefs. This cooperation has fostered mutual understanding between the two groups.
A Bright Future for Brownington
As more families join the settlement in Brownington, both locals and Amish residents are optimistic about what lies ahead. The community is already planning to expand its offerings at markets and explore additional opportunities such as hosting monthly dinners featuring traditional Amish cuisine.
Jane Greenwood summed up the sentiment of many locals: “The Amish have brought something special to our town—a sense of tradition that we were starting to lose. I’m excited to see how their presence will continue to shape our community.”
For now, visitors can enjoy a taste of Amish life by visiting local markets or simply driving through Brownington’s scenic backroads where horse-drawn buggies are becoming a common sight.
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