New Amish Community Takes Root in Stroudsburg: Tradition Meets the Poconos
In an unexpected turn of events, a new Amish community has established itself on the outskirts of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, bringing a touch of simplicity and tradition to this bustling Pocono Mountain town. The settlement, which began forming in early 2025, now consists of approximately 20 families who have relocated primarily from more established Amish communities in Lancaster County.
Jacob Miller, one of the community’s founding members, explains the motivation behind the move: “We were seeking new opportunities and affordable farmland. Stroudsburg offered us a chance to start fresh while maintaining our way of life.”
Despite the challenges of adapting to the Pocono region’s landscape and tourism-driven economy, the Amish settlers have quickly established several thriving businesses that are attracting attention from locals and visitors alike.
One of the most popular new establishments is the Sunrise Bakery, run by Sarah Yoder and her family. Located just off Route 611, the bakery has become known for its fresh-baked goods, particularly its shoofly pies and homemade bread. “We use recipes passed down through generations,” Yoder shares. “People seem to appreciate the simplicity and quality of our baked goods.”
The bakery has become a favorite stop for both locals and tourists exploring the Pocono Mountains. Emily Thompson, a resident of Stroudsburg, explains, “The Sunrise Bakery has become my go-to place for fresh bread and pies. There’s something special about knowing it was made that morning using traditional methods.”
Another thriving enterprise is Miller’s Handcrafted Furniture, where master craftsman Eli Miller creates stunning pieces that blend traditional Amish woodworking techniques with designs suited to local tastes. “We’re adapting our styles to complement the rustic charm of Pocono homes,” Miller notes. “People here appreciate the durability of our furniture and its connection to nature.”
The furniture shop has garnered attention not only for its quality but also for its sustainable practices. All wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests in the region, and the shop operates entirely off-grid, powered by solar panels.
The Monroe Farmers Market, a long-standing institution in Stroudsburg, has seen a boost since the arrival of the Amish community. Every Saturday, Amish farmers set up stalls offering fresh produce, homemade jams, and handcrafted items. John Stoltzfus, who runs one of the most popular produce stands, shares, “We’re finding that people in Stroudsburg have a real appreciation for farm-fresh goods. It’s been a joy to share our harvests with the community.”
The impact of the Amish settlement extends beyond retail. Local restaurants have begun sourcing ingredients from Amish farms, leading to a growing farm-to-table movement in the area. Chef Michael Rodriguez of The Pocono Table, a popular restaurant in downtown Stroudsburg, shares, “Working with the Amish farmers has transformed our menu. The quality and freshness of their produce is unmatched.”
While the Amish are known for their traditional ways, this new community has found innovative ways to adapt to their new home while maintaining their core values. For instance, some businesses have partnered with non-Amish locals to handle online orders and electronic payments, allowing them to reach a wider customer base without compromising their beliefs.
The arrival of the Amish has not been without challenges. The community has had to navigate local regulations regarding their horse-and-buggy transportation on busy roads, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, local officials have been largely supportive of the new settlers.
Mayor Susan Clark comments, “The Amish community has brought a unique dimension to our area. We’re committed to working with them to ensure they can maintain their traditional lifestyle while contributing to our local economy and enriching our cultural diversity.”
The Amish community has also found ways to integrate with existing local events and attractions. Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, a popular tourist destination in Stroudsburg, has partnered with the Amish community to offer authentic demonstrations of traditional crafts and farming techniques. This collaboration has added a new layer of authenticity to the historical farm’s offerings.
Looking ahead, the Amish community has plans for further expansion. A small schoolhouse is under construction, and there are discussions about opening a dedicated Amish market to showcase their various goods and crafts. Additionally, some community members are exploring the possibility of offering guided tours of their farms and workshops, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Amish life.
As the sun sets over the Pocono Mountains, casting long shadows across newly tilled Amish fields, it’s clear that this community is here to stay. Jacob Miller reflects on their journey so far: “We may be far from our original homes, but we’ve found a new one here in Stroudsburg. The land is different, the surroundings are more diverse, but the spirit of hard work and community is the same.”
For visitors to the Pocono region, the opportunity to experience both the area’s natural beauty and the simplicity of Amish life offers a truly unique experience. As Eli Miller puts it, “We may not have electricity in our homes, but we have something just as powerful – a connection to the land and to our traditions. That’s what people are really looking for when they come here.”
This new Amish settlement in Stroudsburg represents a fascinating blend of old and new, tradition and adaptation. As it continues to grow and evolve, it promises to become an integral part of the rich cultural tapestry that is the Pocono Mountains region.
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