The Amish Exodus: A Community’s Struggle in Springdale, Washington
In the picturesque valley between Springdale and Hunters, Washington, a small Amish community faces a bittersweet farewell. Vernon Yoder, patriarch of four Amish families, describes the area as “paradise,” but the lack of a thriving Amish population has forced a difficult decision. This Saturday, these families will conduct a massive farm auction before returning to their roots in Wisconsin, leaving behind a dwindling settlement and cherished neighbors12.
The Challenges of Sustaining an Amish Community
The primary reason for the exodus is the community’s inability to grow. With only nine families at its peak, three of which have already departed, the settlement falls short of the estimated 15 families Yoder believes are necessary for sustainability. The most pressing concern is the lack of suitable marriage partners for their growing children, a crucial aspect of maintaining their faith and traditions2.
A Glimpse into Amish Life in Springdale
During their time in Springdale, the Amish families established a self-sufficient community. They cultivated hay and grain, and operated various shops including leather, machine, wheelwright, and furniture. These enterprises showcased their commitment to traditional craftsmanship and agrarian lifestyle. The upcoming auction will liquidate much of their remaining inventory, marking the end of an era for this small settlement2.
Hope Amidst Departure
While Yoder’s extended family prepares to leave, two families, led by brothers Christy and Moses Shrock, have decided to stay. They hold onto hope that the auction might attract new Amish settlers to the area. “We’d be very happy if others would join us here, but that’s all in a higher power’s hands,” Christy Shrock expressed, demonstrating their faith-driven approach to community building2.
The Amish Way of Life
The Amish, known for their pacifist beliefs and rejection of modern technology, trace their roots back to a 17th-century split from the Mennonites. Their distinctive lifestyle, characterized by horse-drawn equipment and limited use of electricity, sets them apart from their “English” neighbors. Despite these differences, the Amish have formed strong bonds with the local community, often engaging in cooperative efforts while maintaining their unique traditions2.
A Bittersweet Farewell
As the Amish prepare to depart, their non-Amish neighbors express a mixture of admiration and sadness. John Bauman describes them as “the best neighbors you’ll ever have,” highlighting the strong sense of community that has developed. The Bradfords note the mutual support and cooperation that has characterized their relationship with the Amish families2.
The impending departure of the Yoder families will reduce the Amish population from about 40 to just 16, comprising only the Shrock brothers’ immediate families. This significant decrease underscores the challenges faced by small Amish settlements in maintaining their communities and traditions in areas with limited Amish presence2.
As Springdale bids farewell to most of its Amish residents, the community reflects on the unique cultural exchange and lasting friendships formed over the past five years. The auction on Saturday will not only mark the end of this chapter but also serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance required to sustain such distinctive communities in modern America.
Citations:
- https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-may-23-na-amish23-story.html
- https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2004/may/21/washington-amish-settlement-dwindles-as-four/
- https://suindependent.com/discover-springdale-2025-festivals-markets-and-the-heart-of-zion/
- https://amishamerica.com/states-without-amish/
- https://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/files/2020/10/Amish_Pop_by_state_and_county_2020.pdf
- https://www.eventeny.com/events/preseason2025-14853/
- https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Amish&find_loc=Springdale%2C+AR
- https://www.springdalear.gov