Discover the Charm of Conewango Valley’s Amish Community
As you venture into the picturesque Conewango Valley in western New York, you’ll find yourself transported to a simpler time. This area is home to one of the oldest and largest Amish settlements in the state, offering you a unique glimpse into a traditional way of life.
The Conewango Valley Amish
The Amish community in Conewango Valley was established in 1949 by members of the conservative Troyer Amish group. As you explore, you’ll notice their commitment to a simpler lifestyle, evident in their horse-drawn buggies, plain dress, and lack of modern conveniences[1].
Points of Interest
Amish Businesses
As you drive through the countryside, keep an eye out for hand-painted signs directing you to Amish-owned businesses. Many of these are located in their homes and offer a variety of handcrafted goods:
- Miller’s Furniture: You’ll find beautifully crafted wooden furniture at 12042 Youngs Rd, Conewango Valley, NY 14726.
- Byler’s Baskets: Stop by 12228 Flat Iron Rd, Conewango Valley, NY 14726 for handwoven baskets of all sizes.
- Yoder’s Baked Goods: Treat yourself to fresh bread and pies at 12456 Seager Hill Rd, Conewango Valley, NY 14726.
The Amish Trail
For a more structured experience, follow the self-guided Amish Trail. You can pick up a map at the Cattaraugus County building (303 Court Street, Little Valley, NY 14755) or download one online[3]. This trail will lead you through the heart of Amish country, allowing you to discover hidden gems along the way.
Here are some must-visit places along the Amish Trail in the Conewango Valley area:
- Valley View Cheese Factory: Located at 6016 Route 62, Conewango Valley. This is described as “the center hub of the local Amish community” featuring many varieties of cheese, Amish furniture, quilts, and various other Amish-made gifts[3].
- Malinda’s Candy Shop: Found at 2656 Youngs Road, Conewango Valley. Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, this shop offers Amish-made sweet treats including fudge, jams, jellies, and candy[3].
- Amish furniture shops: While specific addresses aren’t provided, the area is known for Amish-made furniture. Look for hand-painted signs directing you to these businesses[1][4].
- Basket-making shops: The Conewango Valley Amish are known for their basket-making, so keep an eye out for these specialty shops[1].
- Baked goods stands: Many Amish families sell homemade baked goods. Watch for signs advertising fresh bread, pies, and other treats[1][4].
- Sawmills and woodworking shops: The Amish in this area are involved in small industry, including sawmills and woodworking[1].
- Leon Historical Society Museum: While not an Amish business, this museum can provide deeper insight into the area’s history, including the Amish settlement. Contact Pat Bromley, the Town Historian, at (716) 296-5709 for guided tours[2].
There are several dining options along the Amish Trail in Conewango Valley that offer a taste of local cuisine, though they may not be traditional Amish restaurants. Here are some notable places to consider:
Racers Restaurant
Address: 8403 Route 62, South Dayton, NY 14138
Description: Open from April to mid-October, Racers offers a variety of affordable food options including pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, and ice cream. It’s conveniently located near fishing spots, making it a great stop for a meal after a day of exploring.
Old Tool Tavern
- Address: 14 School Street, Randolph, NY 14772
- Description: This newly renovated bar and restaurant features a pub menu available daily, with special dinners on Fridays and Saturdays. The decor includes historical tools used by the Amish, providing a unique atmosphere.
Randolph Peaches & Cream
- Address: 19 Main Street, Randolph, NY 14772
- Description: This shop offers fresh produce and ice cream, along with a selection of local products including Cuba Cheese, Amish jams, and canned goods.
South Dayton Supermarket
- Address: 303 Pine Street, South Dayton, NY 14138
- Description: A local grocery store that has been operating since 1968, it offers a full menu of takeout food and is known for its “Duper Donuts,” a local favorite.
While these establishments may not be strictly Amish, they reflect the local culture and provide a variety of dining options for visitors along the Amish Trail. Be sure to check their hours, as many businesses in the area may have limited operating times, especially on Sundays.
Cultural Experiences
Leon Historical Society Museum
To gain a deeper understanding of the area’s history, including the Amish settlement, visit the Leon Historical Society Museum. Contact Pat Bromley, the Town Historian, at (716) 296-5709 for guided tours and more information[2].
Etiquette and Respect
As you explore, remember that you’re visiting a community with different cultural norms:
- Drive cautiously and watch for horse-drawn buggies on the roads.
- Respect private property and only visit businesses that are clearly open to the public.
- Shops are typically closed on Sundays, as this is a day of rest for the Amish.
Where to Stay
While the Amish don’t offer lodging, you can find comfortable accommodations nearby:
- Randolph Inn & Suites: Located at 186 Main St, Randolph, NY 14772, this hotel offers modern amenities while being close to Amish country.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring, but fall brings stunning foliage to the valley, making it an ideal time for a scenic drive through Amish country.
As you immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Conewango Valley’s Amish community, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for their simple yet rich way of life. Remember to bring cash, as most Amish businesses don’t accept credit cards, and prepare to step back in time for a truly memorable experience.
Citations:
[1] https://amishamerica.com/new-york-amish/
[2] https://enchantedmountains.com/arts-culture-history/amish
[3] https://amishtrail.com/amish-trail-brochure-map
[4] https://solotravelgirl.com/up-close-and-personal-with-the-amish-on-new-yorks-amish-trail/
[5] https://www.amish365.com/amish-lemon-pie/
[6] https://groups.io/g/DailyRecipes/topic/amish_lemon_pie/55144159
[7] https://www.amish365.com/mrs-millers-prize-winning-lemon-meringue-pie/
[8] https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/shoofly-pie-the-sweet-stuff-of-memories/2013/11/22/9ce297a2-5214-11e3-9fe0-fd2ca728e67c_story.html