A New Frontier: Amish Community Blossoms in Northwestern Pennsylvania
In the rolling hills of Crawford County, Pennsylvania, a new Amish settlement is taking root, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and entrepreneurial spirit. The Maple Creek 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 Conneautville, the settlement has grown to include over 25 families in just over a year. The community’s rapid expansion has been fueled by a combination of natural growth and families relocating from more established Amish areas in Lancaster County and Ohio.
John Stoltzfus, one of the first settlers in Maple Creek, 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 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. The Maple Creek Bakery, run by the Miller family, has become renowned for its fresh-baked goods and homemade ice cream.
“We never expected such enthusiasm for our traditional recipes,” says Sarah Miller, co-owner of the bakery. “On weekends, we often have lines out the door for our shoofly pie and whoopie pies. It’s a blessing to share our food with so many people.”
Another popular spot is Yoder’s Furniture Workshop, where master craftsman Eli Yoder creates bespoke pieces using traditional woodworking techniques. “Each piece tells a story,” Yoder says. “We use locally sourced wood and methods passed down through generations. It’s gratifying to see how much our English customers appreciate the craftsmanship.”
The influx of Amish families has also revitalized local agriculture. The Maple Creek 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 Erie.
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 had seen many family farms disappear. People appreciate knowing where their food comes from and how it’s produced.”
For many visitors, the market offers more than just shopping – it’s an experience. Emily Thompson, a Conneautville resident and regular customer, shares her thoughts: “Coming here 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 market has also become a popular destination for tourists. 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.”
However, the market’s success 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.”
The Amish vendors 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 market, 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 market continues to grow in popularity, there are plans for expansion. Bishop Amos Stoltzfus, a community leader, reflects on the future: “Our goal is to create a sustainable marketplace that stays true to our faith and values while contributing positively to the wider Crawford County community.”
The Maple Creek 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.
One of the most unique aspects of the Maple Creek community is its focus on sustainable practices. The Amish farmers here have embraced organic farming methods, which has attracted a growing number of health-conscious consumers from nearby urban areas.
“We’ve seen a significant increase in demand for our organic produce,” says Jacob Fisher, who runs a 40-acre organic farm. “People are willing to drive from Erie and even Cleveland to buy our chemical-free vegetables and fruits.”
The community has also become known for its high-quality handmade goods. At Sarah Yoder’s quilt shop, visitors can find intricate, handcrafted quilts at surprisingly affordable prices. “I charge $395 for my queen-sized quilts,” Sarah explains. “It’s less than half the price of many Lancaster County Amish quilts you’ll find online, and customers know they’re getting an authentic, handmade product.”
The settlement’s growth hasn’t been without its challenges, however. Some community members have expressed concerns about maintaining their traditional way of life in the face of increasing tourism and interaction with the outside world.
“We’re grateful for the opportunities this new settlement has brought,” says Daniel Miller, a community elder. “But we must also be vigilant in preserving our values and traditions. It’s a delicate balance.”
Local officials have been working closely with the Amish community to address these concerns while also capitalizing on the economic benefits the settlement brings to the region.
“The Amish presence has been a boon for our local economy,” says Mary Johnson, Crawford County’s economic development director. “We’re seeing increased tourism, new jobs, and a revitalization of our agricultural sector. Our goal is to support this growth while respecting the Amish community’s desire for privacy and adherence to their traditional way of life.”
As the sun sets over the rolling farmland of Maple Creek, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the laughter of children playing in the market’s courtyard serve as a gentle reminder that sometimes, moving forward means taking a step back – to a simpler, more connected way of life.
The Maple Creek Amish settlement in Crawford County is just one example of the growing Amish presence in Pennsylvania. With over 92,000 Amish now calling Pennsylvania home, spread across 63 settlements, the Keystone State continues to be a haven for those seeking to preserve a traditional, faith-centered way of life.
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 Maple Creek settlement serves as a reminder of the value of tradition, craftsmanship, and community – values that resonate with many, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Citations:
- https://amishamerica.com/pennsylvania-amish/
- https://www.discoverlancaster.com/blog/amish-owned-businesses/
- https://amishamerica.com/visit-amish-new-wilmington-pennsylvania/
- https://www.discoverlancaster.com/blog/shopping-in-amish-country-pa/
- https://www.visitlawrencecounty.com/explore/amish-countryside/
- https://amishamerica.com/5-amish-businesses-you-should-visit/
- https://www.karensaundersphotography.com/blog/amish-of-new-wilmington-pa/
- https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/pennsylvania/amish-pa