Amish Pioneers: A New Frontier in the Land of Enchantment
In a surprising turn of events, the Amish community has found an unexpected new home in the arid landscapes of New Mexico. This development marks a significant milestone as New Mexico becomes the 32nd state to host an Amish population, adding a unique chapter to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity in the American Southwest.
The settlement, which straddles the New Mexico-Colorado border, has its heart predominantly in New Mexico but adopts the Ortiz, CO designation as a reference point[1]. This curious geographical quirk reflects the community’s adaptability and resourcefulness in establishing themselves in a region that, at first glance, seems worlds apart from their traditional strongholds in the Midwest and Northeast.
The genesis of this community dates back to 2020 when the first intrepid family made the bold move to this southwestern frontier. However, it wasn’t until 2021 and 2022 that the settlement truly began to take shape, as more families joined the pioneers, creating a community that now meets the criteria for an official Amish settlement[3].
Edsel Burdge of the Young Center for Anabaptist & Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown College, one of the foremost experts on Amish demographics, provides insight into the community’s growth. “The settlement started with just one family in 2020,” Burdge explains. “Several more arrived in 2021, and two additional families joined in 2022. It’s a small but growing community, with strong ties to the Westcliffe, Colorado Amish settlement.”
The new settlement now boasts approximately 30 residents, spread across about half a dozen households[3]. This may seem modest, but for the Amish, it represents a significant foothold in a new state and a testament to their expanding presence across the United States.
Local resident Maria Sanchez, who lives near the Amish settlement, shared her initial surprise at seeing horse-drawn buggies on the dusty New Mexico roads. “At first, I thought I was seeing things,” Sanchez chuckles. “But then I realized we had new neighbors. They’re quiet, hardworking folks. It’s been interesting watching them adapt to our climate and way of life.”
The Amish are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in various environments, but the New Mexico landscape presents unique challenges. John Miller, a local agricultural expert, notes, “The arid climate and different soil conditions here are a far cry from the lush farmlands of Pennsylvania or Ohio. It’s impressive to see how the Amish are adapting their farming techniques to suit this environment.”
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time the Amish have attempted to settle in New Mexico. A previous settlement existed in the 1920s, lasting about eight years before drought forced many families to return to their home community in Kansas[1]. This historical precedent adds an intriguing layer to the current settlement’s story, raising questions about the community’s long-term prospects in the face of environmental challenges.
Despite the obstacles, the Amish community appears to be laying down roots. They’ve already established a school, a crucial component of any Amish settlement[5]. This commitment to education suggests a long-term vision for their presence in New Mexico.
The arrival of the Amish has not gone unnoticed by local officials. County Commissioner Sarah Thompson remarks, “We welcome the diversity and strong work ethic the Amish bring to our community. Their presence here is a reminder of the enduring appeal of our state to people from all walks of life.”
As news of the settlement spreads, it has piqued the curiosity of both locals and outsiders. Tom Jackson, who runs a small tourism business in the area, sees potential benefits. “People are fascinated by Amish culture,” he says. “I’ve already had inquiries from tourists interested in respectfully observing and learning about our new neighbors. It could bring a unique dimension to our local tourism industry.”
However, the integration of the Amish community into New Mexico’s cultural landscape is not without its challenges. The state’s building codes and regulations, which have caused friction between Amish communities and local governments in other states, could potentially become an issue[4]. While there have been no reported conflicts so far, it remains to be seen how the Amish community’s traditional practices will align with state regulations.
Environmental concerns also loom large. With New Mexico frequently facing drought conditions, water management will be crucial for the agricultural success of the Amish settlement. Local environmentalist Clara Rodriguez emphasizes, “Sustainable water use is critical in our state. It will be interesting to see how the Amish adapt their farming practices to our water-scarce environment.”
As the Amish community in New Mexico grows, it joins a broader trend of Amish expansion across the United States. The latest census from the Young Center for Anabaptist & Pietist Studies reveals that the Amish population continues to thrive, surpassing 373,620 individuals and marking an increase of over 12,000 in just a year[1]. This growth rate suggests that the Amish community could reach 400,000 members as early as 2024 or 2025.
The establishment of this settlement in New Mexico is more than just a demographic milestone; it’s a testament to the Amish community’s adaptability and the enduring appeal of their way of life. As they face the challenges of a new environment, from the arid climate to potential regulatory hurdles, the Amish of New Mexico are writing a new chapter in their long history of resilience and faith.
Local historian Robert Chavez sees parallels between the Amish arrival and New Mexico’s rich history of cultural encounters. “New Mexico has always been a crossroads of cultures,” Chavez observes. “From Native American tribes to Spanish colonists, to Anglo settlers, our state has a long history of diverse groups finding a home here. The Amish are now part of that ongoing story.”
As the sun sets over the New Mexico desert, casting long shadows across the newly tilled Amish fields, one can’t help but wonder what the future holds for this fledgling community. Will they flourish in this unexpected corner of America, as they have in so many other states? Or will the unique challenges of the Southwest prove too daunting?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the arrival of the Amish in New Mexico adds yet another fascinating layer to the complex cultural tapestry of the American Southwest. As horse-drawn buggies make their way along roads more accustomed to pickup trucks, and traditional Amish barns rise alongside adobe houses, New Mexico is witnessing the birth of a truly unique cultural synthesis.
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Citations:
[1] https://visittheamish.com/where-are-the-amish-in-new-mexico/
[2] https://www.anabaptistwitness.org/journal_entry/land-conflict-in-mexico-between-mennonite-colonies-and-their-neighbors/
[3] https://amishamerica.com/amish-population-2022-new-mexico/
[4] https://981thehawk.com/how-amish-live/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZlHALbGWcA
[6] https://www.jstor.org/stable/2562217
[7] https://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/files/2022/07/Growth_2013-2022.pdf
[8] https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/unlikely-feud-beekeepers-mennonites-simmers-mexico