A New Frontier: Amish Community Blossoms in McVeytown, Pennsylvania
In the heart of Mifflin County’s Big Valley, a new Amish settlement is taking root, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and entrepreneurial spirit. The McVeytown Amish community, established in early 2024, has quickly become a hub of activity, drawing both curious locals and out-of-town visitors eager to experience a slice of Amish culture and cuisine.
Located near the small town of McVeytown, the settlement has grown to include over 20 families in just over a year. The community’s rapid expansion builds upon a long history of Amish presence in the region, with the first Amish settlers arriving in Mifflin County as early as 17917.
John Stoltzfus, one of the first settlers in the new McVeytown Amish community, explains the appeal: “We were looking for a place where we could maintain our way of life while also having opportunities for our young people. This area, with its rich history and beautiful landscapes, has provided that perfect balance.”
The new settlement has brought an economic boost to the region, with several Amish-owned businesses quickly becoming local favorites. Mountain Road Structures, located at 522 S McVeytown, PA 17051, has become renowned for its high-quality, Amish-crafted lawn furniture5.
“We never expected such enthusiasm for our traditional craftsmanship,” says Samuel Miller, co-owner of Mountain Road Structures. “On weekends, we often have customers driving from as far as Harrisburg to browse our selection of custom-built outdoor furniture. It’s a blessing to share our work with so many people.”
Another popular spot is Peight’s Country Store, where visitors can find a wide array of homemade goods and traditional Amish products8. “Each item in our store tells a story of our community’s dedication to quality and simplicity,” says Sarah Peight, the store’s owner. “It’s gratifying to see how much our English customers appreciate the flavors and craftsmanship of our tradition.”
The influx of Amish families has also revitalized local agriculture. The McVeytown Produce Auction, held twice weekly, has become a bustling marketplace where Amish farmers sell their fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers to both local residents and restaurant owners from as far away as State College.
Rebecca Hershberger, who runs a small dairy farm with her husband, notes the community’s impact on local food systems: “We’re bringing back small-scale farming to an area that has a long history of agriculture. People appreciate knowing where their food comes from and how it’s produced.”
For many visitors, the Amish businesses offer more than just shopping – they’re an experience. Emily Thompson, a McVeytown resident and regular customer, shares her thoughts: “Coming to these stores is like stepping back in time. The quality of the products is outstanding, and there’s something special about buying directly from the people who made or grew what you’re purchasing.”
The community has also become a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Amish culture. Tom Jenkins, visiting from Pittsburgh, was impressed by his first visit: “I’ve never seen anything quite like this. The attention to detail in everything from the hand-stitched quilts to the homemade root beer is remarkable. It’s well worth the drive to McVeytown.”
In addition to the Amish businesses, visitors to McVeytown can explore a range of attractions in the surrounding area. The nearby Greenwood Furnace State Park offers hiking trails and a glimpse into the region’s iron-making history. For those interested in Amish history, the Mifflin County Mennonite Heritage Center in Belleville provides insights into the long-standing Amish presence in the Big Valley7.
However, the community’s growth hasn’t come without challenges. The influx of visitors has led to increased traffic in the area, and local officials have had to work closely with the Amish community to ensure safety, particularly for horse-drawn buggies sharing the roads with cars.
County Commissioner Mark Thompson acknowledges the adjustments: “It’s been a learning process for everyone, but the Amish have been great partners in finding solutions. Their presence has added a unique character to our community and has been a significant boost to our local economy.”
The Amish settlers have also had to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining their traditional lifestyle and meeting the demands of a modern marketplace. Many have embraced solar power for refrigeration and wind energy for cash registers, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to technology.
Samuel Lapp, who runs a small engine repair shop in the community, explains: “We’re not against all technology. We simply try to use it in ways that don’t disrupt our family and community life. It’s about being intentional with our choices.”
As the community continues to grow, there are plans for expansion. Bishop Amos Stoltzfus reflects on the future: “Our goal is to create a sustainable community that stays true to our faith and values while contributing positively to the wider McVeytown area.”
The McVeytown Amish settlement represents more than just a new shopping destination – it’s a bridge between cultures, a celebration of traditional craftsmanship, and a reminder of the enduring appeal of simple, authentic experiences in our fast-paced world.
Local historian Susan Huba sees the Amish settlement as a continuation of Mifflin County’s rich history: “From its origins as an early Amish settlement in the late 18th century to its current status as a thriving community, the Big Valley has always been a place of cultural preservation and exchange. The new McVeytown Amish community is writing a new chapter in that story.”
As the sun sets over the rolling farmland of the Big Valley, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the laughter of children playing serve as a gentle reminder that sometimes, moving forward means taking a step back – to a simpler, more connected way of life.
The McVeytown Amish settlement is just one example of the growing Amish presence in Pennsylvania, which boasts the largest Amish population in the United States. As this new community continues to grow and evolve, it offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the Amish and their “English” neighbors. In a world that often seems to be moving too fast, the McVeytown settlement serves as a reminder of the value of tradition, craftsmanship, and community – values that resonate with many, regardless of their background or beliefs.nesses, heritage preservation, farm-to-table, handcrafted goods, culinary tourism, simple living.
Citations:
- https://richardmammana.wordpress.com/2022/04/23/pennsylvania-amish-communities-that-failed-maurice-a-mook-1954/
- https://amishamerica.com/somerset-county-pennsylvania/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/centralpa/comments/uqz3hd/things_to_do_in_central_pa_megathread/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amish
- https://mountainroadstructures.com/lawn/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g53152-McVeytown_Pennsylvania-Vacations.html
- https://pabook.libraries.psu.edu/literary-cultural-heritage-map-pa/feature-articles/amish-and-mennonite-groups-big-valley
- https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Amish&find_loc=McVeytown%2C+PA