New Amish Community Brings Tradition and Growth to Rural Oklahoma
A quiet transformation is underway in rural Oklahoma, where a new Amish community has recently taken root, blending centuries-old traditions with the rhythms of modern local life. Nestled near the outskirts of Chouteau in Mayes County, this community marks a significant chapter in Oklahoma’s evolving cultural landscape, promising economic vitality, cultural exchange, and a renewed appreciation for simplicity.
A New Beginning in the Heartland
Oklahoma has long been home to small but deeply rooted Amish settlements, with Chouteau, Clarita, Welch, and Westville hosting the state’s four established communities1. The arrival of a new group, comprised largely of families from Ohio and Indiana, is seen by both locals and Amish members as a hopeful sign for the region’s future.
Jacob Yoder, a spokesman for the new settlement, explains, “We were drawn here by the open land, the welcoming spirit of the people, and the chance to build a life close to our values. Oklahoma offers us the space to farm, raise our families, and maintain our traditions.”
Tradition Meets Opportunity
The Amish are renowned for their commitment to community, humility, and a lifestyle governed by the Ordnung—a set of rules that shapes everything from technology use to dress and worship2. In Oklahoma, these traditions have adapted in practical ways. For instance, the use of tractors for fieldwork has been permitted, a decision made to help young families remain on the land and sustain their way of life2.
Raymond Miller, an Amish minister, notes, “Allowing tractors was a big step for us, but it means our children can stay and work the land. It keeps our families together, which is at the heart of our beliefs.”
Local Businesses Thrive
The arrival of the new Amish community has already begun to invigorate the local economy. Chouteau and its surroundings are no strangers to Amish entrepreneurship, with businesses like the Amish Cheese House, Dutch Pantry, and Nettie Ann’s Bakery drawing both locals and tourists alike358. These establishments offer everything from homemade cheeses and baked goods to handcrafted furniture and preserves.
“We’ve seen an uptick in visitors since the new families arrived,” says Linda Foster, owner of a nearby antique shop. “People come for the Amish goods, but they stay to explore the town. It’s been wonderful for business.”
The Amish Country Store & Restaurant in Muskogee, a short drive from the new settlement, has also benefited. “Our shelves are filled with Amish-made jams, noodles, and candies,” says manager Tom Reynolds. “Customers love the authenticity and the connection to local producers. The new community brings even more variety and quality to what we offer.”4
A Welcoming Spirit
Local residents have largely embraced their new neighbors, drawn by the Amish reputation for hard work, honesty, and neighborliness. “It’s refreshing to see people so dedicated to their families and their faith,” says Chouteau resident Mary Ellen Brooks. “They’ve brought a sense of peace and purpose to our area.”
The annual Black Buggy Day festival, a celebration of Amish culture in Chouteau, has become an even more vibrant event with the addition of new families38. Visitors enjoy homemade ice cream, buggy rides, and the chance to learn about Amish customs firsthand. “It’s a wonderful way to bring the community together,” says festival organizer Bill Harris. “We’re proud to showcase the Amish way of life and share it with everyone.”
Challenges and Adaptation
While the new community has been welcomed, it has also faced challenges familiar to Amish settlers across the country. Making a living from the land is difficult, especially in Oklahoma’s sometimes unforgiving climate12. The decision to allow certain technologies, such as steel-wheeled tractors, reflects a pragmatic approach to survival and sustainability27.
“Our goal is not to reject the world, but to live simply and faithfully,” explains Anna Miller, a member of the new settlement. “We adapt where we must, but we hold fast to what matters most—our faith, our families, and our community.”
A Distinctive Presence
The Amish presence is unmistakable: black buggies on country roads, plain dress, and the gentle cadence of Pennsylvania German spoken among families2. Their schools, limited to the eighth grade, emphasize practical skills and moral instruction, preparing children for lives of service and self-sufficiency.
The Clarita Greenhouse, operated by the Eli Schrock family, is just one example of Amish enterprise in the region, offering flowers, plants, and seasonal produce to the wider community6. “We’re grateful for the support of our neighbors,” says Eli Schrock. “It’s a partnership that benefits us all.”
Looking Ahead
Oklahoma’s Amish population remains modest—about 700 people as of 2024—but the stability and growth of its communities signal a promising future19. As the new settlement finds its footing, both Amish and local residents are optimistic about what lies ahead.
“It’s not just about tradition,” says Jacob Yoder. “It’s about building something lasting, together with our neighbors. We hope to be a blessing to this land and to everyone who calls it home.”
Local Businesses Highlight
| Business Name | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Amish Cheese House | Cheeses, deli, baked goods, ice cream | Chouteau |
| Dutch Pantry Restaurant | Amish cuisine, fresh-baked pies | Chouteau |
| Nettie Ann’s Bakery | Breads, pastries, whoopie pies | Chouteau |
| Amish Country Store | Jams, candies, noodles, comfort foods | Muskogee |
| Clarita Greenhouse | Flowers, plants, seasonal produce | Clarita |
Voices from the Community
“We’re excited to see new faces and fresh energy in our town. The Amish have a way of reminding us what’s important—family, faith, and hard work.”
— Linda Foster, local business owner
“We welcome the Amish with open arms. They bring a unique perspective and a sense of stability that’s good for everyone.”
— Bill Harris, festival organizer
“Our hope is to live quietly, work hard, and be good neighbors. Oklahoma has given us a warm welcome, and we are grateful.”
— Anna Miller, Amish community member
The Road Ahead
As the new Amish community settles into the Oklahoma landscape, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition, the value of community, and the possibilities that arise when cultures meet with mutual respect. For the residents of Chouteau and beyond, the arrival of their new neighbors is more than a curiosity—it’s a partnership for the future.
Citations:
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- http://bld-in-mt.blogspot.com/2012/07/amish-proverbs.html
- https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/11645898-amish-proverbs-words-of-wisdom-from-the-simple-life
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSP1B3ZMzgg