New Amish Community Blossoms in Oklahoma, Bringing Traditional Craftsmanship and Culinary Delights
A new Amish settlement has taken root in the rolling hills of eastern Oklahoma, bringing with it a rich tapestry of traditional craftsmanship, culinary expertise, and a simpler way of life. The community, which began forming in early 2024, has quickly become a draw for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into a world that eschews modern technology in favor of time-honored traditions.
Located just outside the small town of Sallisaw, the fledgling Amish community has already made its mark on the local economy and culture. With approximately 50 families having settled in the area over the past year, the impact of their arrival is being felt far beyond the boundaries of their farms and workshops.
One of the most visible signs of the new Amish presence is the proliferation of small businesses that have sprung up along the main road leading into town. These enterprises showcase the community’s renowned work ethic and skill in traditional crafts and foods.
At the heart of this burgeoning commercial district is the Sallisaw 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, using the term the Amish often employ for non-Amish people. “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.”[1]
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.”[2]
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.
Further down the road, the Amish influence on the local food scene continues with the opening of the Heartland Restaurant, a family-style eatery that serves up hearty, home-cooked meals using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has quickly become a gathering place for both Amish and English alike, fostering a sense of community that transcends cultural differences.
Local resident Tom Johnson, a regular at the Heartland, shared his thoughts on the new additions to the community. “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.”[4]
The influx of Amish businesses has had a ripple effect on the local economy. Sallisaw Mayor Linda Nichols noted that tourism has seen a significant uptick since the community’s arrival.
“We’ve seen a 30% increase in visitors to our town over the past six months,” Nichols 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.”[5]
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.
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. Jacob Stoltzfus, 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,” Stoltzfus 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.”[3]
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.
For now, the new Amish settlement in Sallisaw 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.
As the sun sets over the rolling Oklahoma hills, casting long shadows across the newly tilled Amish fields, 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 Sallisaw, and for the community that has welcomed them, the future looks bright indeed.
Citations:
[1] https://www.405magazine.com/oklahomas-amish-festivals/
[2] https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/oklahoma/scenic-country-road-trip-ok
[3] https://money.cnn.com/2010/05/04/smallbusiness/amish_business_success/
[4] https://theannareich.substack.com/p/what-the-amish-can-teach-us-about
[5] https://www.amish365.com/where-are-the-amish-in-oklahoma/
[6] https://www.amishcountrystoreok.com
[7] https://amishamerica.com/amish-chouteau-oklahoma/
[8] http://collections.americanjewisharchives.org/ms/ms0603/ms0603.043.017.pdf
[9] https://www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.19390