A Journey into Simplicity: Exploring the Amish Community on Prince Edward Island
Nestled amid the rolling hills, red soil, and tranquil fields of eastern Prince Edward Island, a unique community quietly thrives—a group of Amish families who have brought their centuries-old traditions to Canada’s smallest province. For tourists seeking an authentic and enriching experience, a visit to the Amish settlement near Montague offers a rare window into a way of life rooted in faith, family, and the land.
The Arrival of the Amish on PEI
The Amish began settling on Prince Edward Island in 2016, with families drawn from southern Ontario and the United States. Attracted by affordable farmland and the promise of a peaceful rural life, the community has grown steadily, now numbering over a dozen families. Their presence has added a new dimension to the island’s already vibrant tapestry of cultures, and their influence is felt far beyond the boundaries of their farms.
“We came here because the land is good and the people are friendly,” says Jacob Miller, one of the community’s elders. “It reminds us of our home in Ontario, but with the sea so close and the air so fresh. It’s a good place to raise our children.”
A Day in Amish Country
The heart of the Amish community lies just outside Montague, where neat white farmhouses dot the countryside and horse-drawn buggies are a common sight on rural roads. Visitors are welcomed—though with the gentle reminder to respect Amish customs, such as refraining from taking photographs of people.
At the heart of the settlement is Miller’s Country Store, a hub for both locals and tourists. Here, you’ll find shelves lined with homemade jams, pickles, fresh-baked bread, and handcrafted wooden toys. The store is a testament to the Amish commitment to quality and simplicity. “Everything we sell is made by hand, by our families or our neighbours,” explains Anna Miller, who runs the store with her daughters. “People come from all over the island for our bread and pies.”
Local Businesses and Island Connections
The Amish community has quickly become an integral part of the local economy. Island farmers supply produce and dairy to Amish shops, while Amish carpenters and builders are in high demand for their craftsmanship. “We’ve had the Millers build a new barn for us,” says local farmer Peter MacDonald. “Their work is second to none—no shortcuts, just honest, solid construction.”
Restaurants and cafes in Montague and nearby Georgetown have also embraced the Amish connection. The Harbourview Café, for instance, features daily specials made with Amish cheese and fresh eggs. “Our customers love knowing where their food comes from,” says owner Marie Gallant. “The Amish bring something special to the table—literally!”
Voices from the Community
Despite their reputation for privacy, the Amish on PEI are known for their friendliness and willingness to share their way of life with respectful visitors. “We like to keep things simple, but we also enjoy meeting new people,” says Eli Stoltzfus, who operates a roadside produce stand. “People are curious about how we live, and we’re happy to answer questions.”
Local residents have welcomed their new neighbours with open arms. “They’ve brought new life to the area,” says Montague shopkeeper Linda MacPhee. “Their children go to the same library programs as ours, and they’re always the first to help out if someone needs a hand.”
What to See and Do: Amish Experiences on PEI
A visit to the Amish community near Montague offers a host of unique experiences for curious travelers:
- Shop at Miller’s Country Store: Stock up on fresh bread, pies, jams, and handmade gifts.
- Tour Amish Farms: Several families offer informal tours of their gardens, greenhouses, and barns—just ask at the store.
- Visit Roadside Stands: In summer and fall, Amish stands overflow with organic vegetables, eggs, and flowers.
- Commission Custom Woodwork: Amish carpenters are renowned for their furniture, sheds, and barns.
- Enjoy Local Cafés: Try dishes made with Amish ingredients at Montague’s Harbourview Café or the Georgetown Bakery.
- Attend a Community Market: The Montague Farmers’ Market often features Amish vendors selling produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, respect the Amish preference for privacy, and avoid visiting on Sundays, which are reserved for worship and family.
Preserving Tradition, Embracing the Island
While the Amish of PEI are committed to preserving their heritage, they have also adapted to island life in small but meaningful ways. “We’ve learned to grow potatoes and carrots the PEI way,” says Jacob Miller with a smile. “And we’ve made good friends among our neighbours.”
The community’s children attend a small Amish schoolhouse, and families gather weekly for worship in their homes. Horse-drawn buggies share the roads with islanders’ cars, and the sight of laundry flapping on long lines is a common one.
The Impact on Prince Edward Island
The arrival of the Amish has brought a renewed sense of community and cooperation to the Montague area. Local businesses have benefited from new partnerships, and the region’s farmers’ markets are livelier than ever. “They’ve helped put Montague on the map,” says Mayor Sharon Stewart. “Tourists come for the beaches, but they stay for the bread!”
The Amish, for their part, are grateful for the warm welcome. “We are thankful to be here,” says Anna Miller. “We hope to be good neighbours and to share what we have with others.”
Planning Your Visit
The best time to visit the Amish community on Prince Edward Island is from late spring through early fall, when the fields are green and the markets are full. Most Amish businesses are open Monday through Saturday, with extended hours during the summer months. Maps and information are available at the Montague Visitor Centre.
Whether you’re seeking handmade treasures, farm-fresh flavors, or simply a peaceful escape, the Amish of Prince Edward Island offer a warm welcome and a chance to experience a way of life rooted in tradition, community, and the land.