Frostburg Embraces New Amish Community: Tradition Meets Mountain Charm
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Western Maryland, Frostburg is witnessing a quiet cultural revival. A newly established Amish community, linked to Garrett County’s historic Oakland settlement, has begun putting down roots in the area, bringing with it a blend of tradition and economic opportunity. This emerging group, while small, is already making waves through partnerships with local businesses and a focus on sustainable craftsmanship.
A Legacy Expands: Amish Roots in Western Maryland
Maryland’s Amish population has grown slowly but steadily, with Garrett County’s Oakland community—founded in 1850—serving as the state’s oldest and most unique settlement. Known for their “electric New Order” practices, Oakland’s Amish permit limited use of public electricity while maintaining traditional values. Now, a satellite group has begun settling near Frostburg, drawn by affordable land and a collaborative spirit among locals.
“We’ve always admired the beauty of this region,” said Miriam Yoder, a community leader whose family recently relocated from Oakland. “Frostburg’s mix of small-town warmth and mountain resilience aligns with our way of life.”
The new arrivals, numbering around six families, are focusing on woodworking, baked goods, and seasonal produce. Their presence complements nearby Amish hubs like Oakland and Grantsville, where Amish-Mennonite ties date back generations.
Local Businesses Forge New Partnerships
Frostburg’s existing businesses have eagerly welcomed the Amish. B&B Country Meats, a family-owned butcher shop and deli since 1981, now sources herbs and seasonal vegetables from Amish gardens.
“Their produce is fresher than anything I’ve seen,” said Bernie Broadwater, owner of B&B Country Meats. “We’ve started offering sandwiches with their homemade bread—it’s become a customer favorite.”
The Wholesome Harvest Food Co-op, a community-owned grocery on West Main Street, has also begun stocking Amish-made jams, quilts, and hand-carved kitchenware. “Their craftsmanship elevates what we can offer,” said Suzy Miller, a co-op board member. “It’s a perfect match for our farm-to-table mission.”
Meanwhile, Frostburg residents are discovering Amish-built sheds and furniture through regional dealers like Barkman Furniture, which partners with Ohio-based Amish artisans. While not locally made, these pieces reflect the growing demand for heirloom-quality goods tied to Amish traditions.
Cultural Exchange and Challenges
Integration has required adjustments on both sides. The Amish primarily use horse-drawn buggies for local travel but face challenges on Frostburg’s winding roads. “We’ve added reflective tape to our buggies and avoid peak traffic hours,” explained Samuel Beiler, a furniture maker. “The police have been very supportive.”
Frostburg’s residents, in turn, are learning about Amish customs through events like the Allegany County Fair, where the community recently showcased hand-stitched quilts and apple butter. “I bought a quilt for my granddaughter’s wedding,” said local teacher Emily Carter. “The care they put into every stitch is breathtaking.”
Sustainable Practices and Economic Impact
The Amish emphasize sustainable farming, rotating crops and avoiding synthetic fertilizers—a practice that has impressed neighboring farmers. “They’ve shown me how to improve soil health naturally,” said soybean grower Tom Wilkins.
Economically, the community’s arrival has injected vitality into Frostburg’s rural economy. A new Amish auction barn is planned for 2025, modeled after Oakland’s successful produce auctions. “This will draw buyers from across the state,” said Mary Johnson, a county agricultural coordinator.
Voices from the Community
- Linda King, Frostburg resident: “Their bakery’s cinnamon rolls remind me of my grandmother’s. I stop by every Saturday morning.”
- Bishop Eli Stoltzfus, Oakland community: “We see Frostburg as an extension of our mission. Their warmth makes it easy to collaborate.”
- Michael Davis, local carpenter: “I traded tools with an Amish builder last week. We’re learning from each other.”
Key Businesses & Addresses:
- B&B Country Meats: 101 East Main St, Frostburg (butcher shop & deli)
- Wholesome Harvest Food Co-op: 30 West Main St, Frostburg (local produce & Amish goods)
- Barkman Furniture Dealers: Available through Maryland partners (Amish-made furniture)
- Amish Auction Barn (planned): Near Frostburg Industrial Park, 2025 opening
- Yoder Woodworks: Seasonal pop-up shop at Frostburg Farmers’ Market (handcrafted items)
Note: Amish businesses operate Monday–Saturday; closed Sundays. Hours vary by season.
With their emphasis on faith, family, and self-reliance, Frostburg’s Amish newcomers are weaving their traditions into the fabric of Western Maryland—one loaf of bread, one quilt, and one hand-planed board at a time.
Citations:
[1] https://www.amish365.com/where-are-the-amish-communities-in-maryland/
[2] https://bandbfrostburg.com
[3] https://amishamerica.com/maryland-amish/
[4] https://www.yelp.com/biz/wholesome-harvest-food-co-op-frostburg
[5] https://alleganymuseum.org/tag/amish-mennonite-community/
[6] https://www.barkmanfurniture.com/maryland/
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amish_in_Maryland
[8] https://shedhub.com/shed-for-sale-search/Frostburg_MD/Amish_Built