New Amish Settlement Brings Traditional Charm to Southeast Pennsylvania
In the rolling hills of southeast Pennsylvania, a new Amish community has taken root, bringing with it a blend of time-honored traditions and entrepreneurial spirit. Since early 2024, approximately 40 Amish families have settled in the area surrounding the small town of Oxford in Chester County, transforming the local landscape and economy.
The new settlement, which spans parts of Chester and Lancaster counties, has quickly become a draw for both locals and tourists seeking a glimpse into a simpler way of life. As the community grows, so too does its impact on the region, with a variety of Amish-owned businesses springing up to serve both their own needs and those of their “English” neighbors.
One of the most popular new establishments is the Oxford Amish Market, a bustling hub of activity where visitors can find an array of handcrafted furniture, quilts, and home goods. Eli Yoder, one of the market’s founding members, spoke about the community’s reception in their new home.
“We’ve been blessed with a warm welcome from our English neighbors,” Yoder said. “They seem to appreciate the quality of our work and the values we bring to the area. It’s been a good fit for us.”
The market has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and out-of-state visitors. On any given day, one can find a diverse array of products, from intricately carved wooden furniture to hand-stitched quilts that tell stories in fabric and thread.
Adjacent to the market, the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts from the Sunrise Bakery, where Sarah Miller and her family work tirelessly to produce an assortment of breads, pies, and pastries that have already gained a devoted following.
“Our cinnamon rolls seem to be a particular favorite,” Miller said with a shy smile. “We use recipes that have been passed down through generations, and I think people can taste the love and care that goes into each item.”
Indeed, the bakery has become so popular that it’s not uncommon to see a line forming before dawn, as locals queue up to secure their favorite treats before they sell out for the day.
Another thriving business in the new community is Stoltzfus Furniture, owned and operated by Jacob Stoltzfus and his sons. The shop specializes in handcrafted, solid wood furniture known for its durability and timeless design.
“We take pride in creating pieces that will last for generations,” Jacob Stoltzfus explained. “In a world of mass-produced, disposable furniture, we offer something that stands the test of time.”
The furniture shop has attracted customers from as far away as Philadelphia and Wilmington, with many praising the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each piece.
The influx of Amish businesses has had a ripple effect on the local economy. Oxford Mayor Linda Thompson noted that tourism has seen a significant uptick since the community’s arrival.
“We’ve seen a 20% increase in visitors to our town over the past year,” Thompson stated. “The Amish community has become a real draw for people looking to experience something different, something authentic. It’s been a boon for our local hotels and other businesses as well.”
However, the integration of the Amish community hasn’t been without its challenges. The increase in horse-and-buggy traffic has necessitated some road improvements and safety measures. Local authorities have worked closely with Amish leaders to ensure the safety of all road users while respecting the community’s traditional modes of transportation.
Despite these minor hurdles, the overall sentiment towards the new settlers remains overwhelmingly positive. Many locals speak of a renewed sense of community and a return to values that some felt had been lost in the rush of modern life.
Tom Johnson, a lifelong Oxford resident, shared his thoughts on the changes in his hometown. “It’s been fascinating to watch this area transform. The Amish have brought a sense of simplicity and authenticity that I think many of us were craving without even realizing it. Plus, the food is just out of this world.”
The Amish community’s impact extends beyond commerce and tourism. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices has inspired some local farmers to adopt similar methods. Samuel Lapp, who runs a small organic farm on the outskirts of the settlement, has been sharing his knowledge with interested neighbors.
“We believe in working with the land, not against it,” Lapp explained. “It’s gratifying to see others taking an interest in these time-tested methods. We’re not here to change anyone, but if our ways can help others, we’re happy to share what we know.”
The new settlement has also brought a revival of traditional crafts to the area. The Amish Country Store, run by Anna Beiler, showcases a variety of handmade items, from quilts and rugs to candles and soaps.
“Each piece tells a story,” Beiler said. “Whether it’s a quilt pattern passed down through generations or a basket woven using techniques our ancestors brought from Europe, these crafts are a way of preserving our heritage.”
The shop has become a favorite among tourists looking for authentic souvenirs and locals seeking unique, high-quality gifts.
As the community continues to grow and establish itself, there’s a sense of excitement about what the future might hold. Plans are already underway for an annual Amish festival, which organizers hope will further strengthen ties between the Amish and their English neighbors while showcasing the best of Amish culture and craftsmanship.
The settlement’s growth has not gone unnoticed by scholars of Amish culture. Dr. Emily Roberts, a sociologist from the University of Pennsylvania who specializes in Amish studies, has been observing the community’s development with interest.
“What we’re seeing in Oxford is a fascinating example of how Amish communities can adapt to new environments while maintaining their core values and traditions,” Dr. Roberts noted. “It’s a testament to the resilience and flexibility of Amish culture.”
The new Amish settlement in southeast Pennsylvania stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a simpler way of life. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and rapid change, this community offers a glimpse into a different path – one that values tradition, hard work, and the bonds of community above all else.
Local resident Mary Thompson, who frequently shops at the Amish market, shared her perspective on the community’s impact. “There’s something special about buying food and goods directly from the people who made them. It’s not just about the quality, which is excellent, but also about the connection you feel to the community and the land.”
The Amish presence has also sparked interest in traditional skills among the local population. The Oxford Community Center now offers classes in quilting, canning, and woodworking, taught by both Amish and non-Amish instructors.
“We’ve seen a surge of interest in these traditional crafts,” said center director John Smith. “People are rediscovering the joy of creating things with their own hands, and it’s bringing our community closer together.”
As the sun sets over the rolling Pennsylvania fields, casting long shadows across the newly tilled Amish farms, there’s a sense that this is just the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s rich cultural tapestry. For the Amish of Oxford, and for the community that has welcomed them, the future looks bright indeed.
Citations:
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[2] https://www.discoverlancaster.com/blog/amish-owned-businesses/
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[4] https://www.discoverlancaster.com/blog/shopping-in-amish-country-pa/
[5] https://www.visitlawrencecounty.com/explore/amish-countryside/
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