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Lovely quilts, charming handicrafts, and fine oak furniture. Stunning flower gardens, colorful laundry on outdoor lines, and horses plowing across the landscape.
For anyone traveling in Amish Country, such images may harken back to life in colonial America, when people read by candlelight, washed clothing by hand, and traveled by horseback. With their distinctive dress, language, and lifestyle, the Amish are one of North America’s most fascinating communities. They have stubbornly refused to be swallowed up by contemporary culture. Yet idyllic images of Amish made deceive us into thinking the Amish are social antiques, frozen in time. How, we wonder, do they resist modern encroachment from creeping into the communities and tearing them asunder?
If quizzed about Amish life, most people might know that the Amish travel by horse and buggy and wear peculiar dress. But beyond the beard, bonnet, and buggies, many people know little. Do the Amish pay taxes? Do they pre-arrange marriages? Do they live in cloistered communities, use modern medicine, Worship in church buildings, speak English, and attend high school?
Where do they find a Bible verse that forbids Motor Vehicles? Do they really shun all modern technology? Do Amish youth really run wild during Rumspringa? Are Amish communities holding their own or dying out?
What are the secrets of Amish success, and sources of their wisdom? Why do these stubborn traditionalists enchant us? Perhaps their sense of place, their social stability, and their audacity to buck modern culture intrigued us. Amid the stress and pressed of contemporary life, we are curious about how they retain stable communities and strong social bonds. Their sense of simplicity, frugality, and apparent contentment with fewer things and a slower pace of life also. How do they find satisfaction without televisions, video games, social media,?
The purpose of this website is to explore these questions, debunk some myths, and pose some provocative questions about our relationship with our Amish Neighbors.
I have researched and written about the Amish for the past 24 years. I attend church with the Beachy Amish Mennonites and I have friends among the Old Order Amish, the New Order Amish, and a few other groups. This does not make me an expert but I do have knowledge and experiences to share that few outside of the Amish would have.
Perhaps our enchantment with the Amish belies our own discontent with Modern Life. We may not always agree with them, yet we admire their courage to practice their faith in the face of high-tech life, driven by relentless change. The Amish may be good for stirring warm, nostalgic feelings about an imagined American past. but do they offer any wisdom for the rest of us living a modern life?
Buggies and Barns: Inside Maine’s Thriving Amish Frontier
In the far reaches of northern Maine, where the rolling hills of Aroostook County meet the Canadian border, an unexpected revival is taking place. The Amish community in Fort Fairfield and neighboring Easton, once a tentative experiment, has blossomed into a thriving settlement that’s breathing new life into the region’s agricultural heritage.
As the sun rises over the frost-kissed fields on a crisp December morning, the clip-clop of horse hooves echoes along Forest Avenue. Noah Yoder, 49, adjusts his wide-brimmed hat as he guides his buggy towards the family’s dairy barn. It’s been over 16 years since Noah, his wife Lovina, and their 11 children first arrived in this corner of Maine, pioneers in what would become a transformative Amish migration.
“When we came here in August 2007, it was just us,” Noah recalls, his eyes crinkling with a mixture of pride and nostalgia. “Some communities start and fail. We still could. But by God’s grace, we’ve grown.”
Grown indeed. What began with the Yoders has expanded to include over 30 families, totaling approximately 140 people. The settlement now boasts seven dairy farms, two schoolhouses, an Amish-run store, and a successful sheet metal business. It’s a far cry from the abandoned Johnson farm the Yoders first settled, where they planted plum trees from Noah’s father’s orchard in Ohio – a symbolic bridge between their past and future.
The journey to Fort Fairfield wasn’t a decision made lightly. Noah spent two years searching for the ideal location to establish a new community. “What drew us to the area was the beautiful scenery, availability of farmland, and some of the nicest people we’ve ever met,” he explains. “We’ve been well-accepted here and appreciate that.”
The Yoders’ story is not unique. Families have migrated from across the Midwest, including Ohio, Iowa, and Missouri, each bringing their own skills and determination. Uri Hochstetler, 35, moved from Kentucky with dreams of starting a dairy farm. “In Kentucky, I was a farrier who’d never driven a buggy through a blizzard or cut ice from a frozen pond,” Uri chuckles. “Now, I’m milking twenty cows by hand every day.”
The Amish settlers in Fort Fairfield are known as Swartzentruber Amish, one of the most traditional groups. Their commitment to simplicity is evident in every aspect of their lives. Homes are lit by oil lamps instead of propane, and businesses that require power use diesel engines driving line shafts and belts, as electricity from the grid is not permitted.
This adherence to tradition, however, hasn’t hindered their economic impact. In fact, it’s become a draw for tourists and locals alike. Sarah Thompson, who runs the general store in nearby Chesterhill, has noticed the change. “It’s been quite a sight to see horse-drawn buggies on our roads again,” she remarks. “They’re breathing new life into some of the old farms around here.”
The Amish influence extends beyond agriculture. Several families have opened woodworking shops, producing handcrafted furniture that’s gaining popularity in nearby towns and even as far as Bangor. Others have established produce stands along Route 377, offering fresh vegetables, homemade jams, and baked goods that have become local favorites.
Perhaps most significantly, six Amish farms have joined the Agri-Mark dairy cooperative, makers of Cabot cheese. Twice a day, Amish farmers like Uri Hochstetler milk their cows by hand into stainless steel buckets, which are then strained and delivered by buggy to one of two milking houses. This integration into the broader agricultural economy has helped stabilize milk prices for all local dairy farmers.
The settlement’s growth hasn’t been without challenges. The county has had to install new road signs warning drivers about slow-moving vehicles, and some residents are still adjusting to sharing the roads with horse-drawn buggies. Local authorities have also navigated zoning issues to accommodate the Amish’s traditional building practices.
Education, a cornerstone of Amish life, has also taken root in Fort Fairfield. The community has established two one-room schoolhouses, currently educating a total of 47 children. Mary Hochstetler, 22, one of the community’s teachers, emphasizes their educational philosophy: “We’re teaching our children the importance of hard work and simplicity, while also ensuring they have the skills to interact with the outside world when necessary.”
What sets the Fort Fairfield settlement apart is its youthful energy. Only three residents are over 50 years old, giving the community a dynamic and forward-looking perspective. This youth-driven vitality has been a boon for the local area, revitalizing agricultural lands that had long lain fallow.
County Commissioner John Hawkins sees the Amish influx as a positive development. “These families bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to rural living. It’s exactly what our community needs,” he states. “We’ve seen a 15% increase in agricultural output in just the past six months.”
The Amish settlement’s success has not gone unnoticed. It’s part of a broader trend of Amish expansion in Maine, which began with the state’s first Amish community in Smyrna in 1996. That settlement has since spun off “sister” communities in Unity and Hodgdon. The Fort Fairfield Amish, while maintaining connections with these other settlements, have carved out their own unique niche in Aroostook County.
As the sun sets over the Aroostook River, casting long shadows across the patchwork of fields and forests, Noah Yoder reflects on the past decade. “We came here seeking a place where our children could continue our way of life, with room for farms and small businesses,” he says. “What we’ve found is not just land, but a true home.”
The Amish revival in Fort Fairfield is more than just a demographic shift; it’s a living experiment in community building, rural preservation, and maintaining a traditional way of life in the 21st century. As Noah puts it, “We’re not just preserving our past, we’re cultivating a future – one that honors God, family, and the land.”
Looking ahead, the community has plans for further expansion. Eli Yoder, Noah’s nephew who arrived from Geauga County, Ohio, with his wife and seven children, is optimistic about the future. “We’re planning to open a harness shop next spring, which will serve both Amish and English customers,” he shares. There are also discussions about establishing a sawmill and a bulk food store, further cementing the Amish presence in the local economy.
The impact of the Amish settlement extends beyond its immediate borders. Local real estate agent Tom Brennan reports increased interest in properties near the Amish community. “People are drawn to the idea of living near a community that values simplicity and hard work,” he explains. “It’s creating a unique cultural dynamic in our area.”
This cultural exchange goes both ways. While the Amish maintain their distinct lifestyle, they’ve also embraced certain aspects of their new home. Many families have taken up maple syrup production, a quintessential Maine tradition, integrating it into their agricultural practices.
The settlement’s success has also attracted attention from other Amish communities across the country. “We’ve had visitors from Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, all curious about our experience here,” Noah Yoder notes. “Some are considering starting their own settlements in Maine.”
As the Fort Fairfield Amish community celebrates its 16th year, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a simpler way of life. In an age of rapid technological change and urban sprawl, this corner of Maine offers a glimpse into an alternative path – one that values community, tradition, and a deep connection to the land.
The plum trees Noah Yoder planted when he first arrived are now bearing fruit, both literally and metaphorically. As he looks out over the thriving farms and bustling workshops, he sees not just the fulfillment of a personal dream, but the birth of a legacy. “We came here to build something that would last,” he says, a smile crinkling the corners of his eyes. “God willing, our grandchildren and great-grandchildren will still be farming this land long after we’re gone.”
In the quiet farmlands of Aroostook County, amidst the clip-clop of horse hooves and the lowing of cattle, a remarkable transformation continues. The Amish settlement in Fort Fairfield and Easton stands as a living bridge between past and future, a community that has not just survived, but thrived, bringing with it a renewed sense of purpose and possibility to this far-flung corner of Maine.
New Amish Settlement Takes Root in Rural Ohio, Revitalizing Local Economy
In the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, a new Amish community is quietly establishing itself, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and economic revitalization. The settlement, located in Morgan County, has grown from just three families in January 2024 to nearly 20 households today, comprising over 100 individuals.
The newcomers, primarily from overcrowded settlements in Holmes and Geauga Counties, were drawn to the area’s affordable farmland and ample space for expansion. Noah Miller, 42, one of the first to arrive with his wife and eight children, explains their motivation: “We were seeking a place where our children could continue our way of life, with room for farms and small businesses. In Holmes County, land prices had become prohibitive for young families.”
The influx has transformed previously abandoned farmsteads into bustling homesteads. Local residents have noticed the changes. Sarah Thompson, 58, who runs the general store in nearby Chesterhill, remarks, “It’s been quite a sight to see horse-drawn buggies on our roads again. They’re breathing new life into some of the old farms around here. Just last week, I saw the Millers’ children helping to raise a new barn – it was like stepping back in time.”
The Amish families have already made their mark on the local economy. Several have opened small woodworking shops, producing handcrafted furniture that’s gaining popularity in nearby Columbus. Others have established produce stands along Route 377, offering fresh vegetables, homemade jams, and baked goods. The Yoder family has even started a small dairy operation, supplying raw milk to local cheese makers.
County Commissioner John Hawkins sees the influx as a positive development. “These families bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to rural living. It’s exactly what our community needs. We’ve seen a 15% increase in agricultural output in just the past six months.”
However, the transition hasn’t been without challenges. The county has had to install new road signs warning drivers about slow-moving vehicles, and some residents are still adjusting to sharing the roads with horse-drawn buggies. Local authorities have also had to navigate zoning issues to accommodate the Amish’s traditional building practices.
Despite these hurdles, the new settlers remain optimistic. Eli Yoder, 35, who moved from Geauga County with his wife and seven children, says, “We feel welcomed here. There’s a sense of opportunity that we didn’t have back home. We’re planning to open a harness shop next spring, which will serve both Amish and English customers.”
The community has also established its own one-room schoolhouse, currently educating 27 children. Mary Hochstetler, 22, the community’s teacher, notes, “We’re teaching our children the importance of hard work and simplicity, while also ensuring they have the skills to interact with the outside world when necessary.”
As the community grows, it’s clear that this new Amish settlement is not just preserving a traditional way of life, but also contributing to the renewal of rural Ohio. Local real estate agent Tom Brennan reports increased interest in properties near the Amish settlement. “People are drawn to the idea of living near a community that values simplicity and hard work. It’s creating a unique cultural dynamic in our area.”
With plans for a sawmill and a bulk food store in the works, the Amish settlement in Morgan County seems poised for continued growth, offering a glimpse into how traditional communities can play a role in revitalizing rural America.
Holmes County Offers Festive Holiday Attractions for All Ages
As the holiday season approaches, Holmes County, Ohio, transforms into a winter wonderland, offering visitors a unique blend of Amish culture, festive cheer, and historical charm. From animal encounters to chocolate delights, and from dazzling light displays to Victorian elegance, here are five must-see stops that capture the essence of the season.
Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery: A Taste of Authentic Amish Life
Nestled along the scenic State Route 557, Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery provides an immersive Amish Country experience[1][6]. Visitors can indulge in homemade fry pies, apple fritters, and freshly baked bread while browsing an array of canned goods and seasonal produce[2]. The farm’s petting zoo is a highlight, featuring over 100 animals, including goats, sheep, and the famous Big Ben, Holmes County’s largest Belgian horse[4][8].
Tis the Season: Christmas All Year Round
For those seeking holiday spirit regardless of the calendar, Tis the Season in Berlin is a three-story wonderland of Christmas decor[10]. Open year-round, this magical store offers an extensive collection of ornaments, garlands, and festive collectibles. Visitors can explore dazzling displays of decorated trees and even satisfy their sweet tooth with homemade fudge.
Coblentz Chocolates: A Sweet Tradition
No visit to Holmes County is complete without stopping at Coblentz Chocolates in Walnut Creek[10]. Since 1987, this family-owned business has been crafting premium chocolates and confections. Visitors can watch the chocolate-making process and indulge in a wide variety of sweet treats, perfect for gifts or personal indulgence.
Spring Walk Farm: A Dazzling Light Display
For over 60 years, the Wachtel family has been transforming their Spring Walk Farm into a spectacular holiday light display[10]. Located near Nashville, this annual tradition has become a multi-generational attraction, drawing visitors who first came as children and now return with their own grandchildren.
Victorian House Museum: Elegance of Christmas Past
Step back in time at the Victorian House Museum in Millersburg[3][10]. This 28-room Queen Anne style mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers holiday tours through December 31st. Visitors can experience the warmth and beauty of a 19th-century Christmas, complete with period decorations and a vintage clothing collection.
As the holiday season unfolds, these five attractions offer a perfect blend of tradition, charm, and festive cheer, making Holmes County a must-visit destination for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.
Amish Community Blossoms in Rural Wales, Maine: A New Chapter in Simple Living
In a quiet corner of Androscoggin County, a new Amish settlement is taking root, marking the latest expansion of this traditional Christian sect in Maine. Established in 2020, the community in Wales, Maine, is breathing new life into the rural landscape and local economy[6].
A dozen Amish families have moved onto a large farm off Leeds Junction Road, purchasing the 350-acre property from longtime farmer Roger Fortin[1]. The farm, once known as Little Alaska Farm due to its chilly winds, is now set to become a hub of traditional agricultural practices and craftsmanship[1].
Paul Burgess, the town’s first selectman, expressed enthusiasm for the new arrivals. “It’s going to be great for our town,” he said, noting that the Amish plan to grow vegetables and produce cheese for sale[1]. This influx of “honest, hardworking families” is seen as a boon for the aging community of about 1,600 people[1].
Neighbor Nancy Blaisdell, who has lived across the street for over four decades, welcomed the change. “They’re terrific people who work together,” she said, anticipating a renewal of the farm lifestyle that was once common in the area[1].
The Amish are known for their simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many modern technologies. Their arrival in Wales adds to Maine’s growing Amish population, which has more than doubled in the past decade to an estimated 850 individuals[2].
This new settlement joins other Amish communities in Maine, including those in Smyrna, Fort Fairfield, Unity, and Whitefield[5][6]. Each of these settlements brings its own unique characteristics, ranging from conservative to more progressive interpretations of Amish life.
As the Wales settlement establishes itself, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The harsh Maine winters and the need to build a self-sufficient community from the ground up will test the resilience of these pioneers. However, if the success of other Amish settlements in Maine is any indication, the Wales community has a promising future ahead.
The arrival of the Amish in Wales not only diversifies the local population but also promises to contribute to the preservation of traditional farming methods and craftsmanship. As Maine continues to attract Amish settlers, it’s clear that the state’s rural character and available farmland make it an appealing destination for those seeking to maintain their traditional way of life.
The new Amish settlement in Wales, Maine, established in 2020, is one of the youngest and smallest Amish communities in the state. It differs from other Maine Amish settlements in several ways:
Size: The Wales settlement is still relatively small, with only a handful of Amish residences. This contrasts with larger communities like Fort Fairfield, which has around 20 families and 140 people.
Age: As a recent settlement, Wales is in its early stages of development compared to more established communities like Smyrna, which dates back to 1996 and is the oldest in Maine.
Economic development: While the Wales settlement is just beginning to establish businesses, older communities like Unity have developed multiple enterprises, including popular stores that attract outside visitors.
Conservative nature: The level of conservatism varies among Maine’s Amish communities. For instance, Fort Fairfield is described as one of the most conservative, while Unity is known for being more progressive and open to outsiders.
Origin: Unlike some other Maine settlements that were founded by Amish from various states, the Wales community’s specific origin is not mentioned in the search results.
Public profile: The Wales settlement has not yet gained the public attention that some other Maine Amish communities have received. For example, Unity is described as the state’s best-known and most “public” Amish settlement.
As the Wales settlement continues to grow and develop, it may evolve to have more distinct characteristics or similarities with other Maine Amish communities[3][4].
From Prairie to Promise: The Amish Journey to Hutchinson County, South Dakota
In the spring of 2010, a small group of Amish families embarked on a journey that would mark a significant milestone in their community’s history. Leaving behind the familiar landscapes of Wisconsin, they set their sights on the open prairies of South Dakota, specifically Hutchinson County near the town of Tripp. This move represented not just a change in geography, but a bold step into uncharted territory for the Amish in South Dakota.
The decision to relocate was driven by a combination of factors. As Eli J. Bontreger, an Amish bishop who had previously moved to Wisconsin, once wrote about a similar relocation, “The novelty of farming these prairie lands […] wore off after a number of years, and a desire for farming on a smaller scale grew more or less on some of us”[2]. This sentiment echoed in the hearts of the Wisconsin Amish who chose to make South Dakota their new home.
The primary motivation behind the move was the search for more space and affordable farmland. Wisconsin, while beautiful and home to a significant Amish population, was becoming increasingly crowded for some community members. The wide-open spaces of South Dakota offered a chance to establish farms on a larger scale and continue their traditional agricultural practices without the constraints of more densely populated areas.
Initially, three families made the move in April 2010, settling in rural Hutchinson County[1]. The community grew quickly, with two more families arriving shortly after, and a sixth family expected by August of the same year. By then, they anticipated having about 50 people living on the farms they were purchasing[1].
The arrival of the Amish in Hutchinson County was met with curiosity and warmth from their non-Amish neighbors. Phyllis Dewald, a rural resident of the county, expressed admiration for the green thumb of one of the Amish women, Ida Borntreger, noting her skill in growing asparagus[1]. This interaction highlighted the beginning of what would become a positive relationship between the Amish and their new community.
Establishing Roots in South Dakota
As the Amish settled into their new home, they began the process of establishing their community infrastructure. One of the first priorities was to set up their own school for their children. Unlike the nearby Tripp-Delmont school district or the Hutterite schools, the Amish planned to build and operate their own educational facility, in line with their traditional practices[1].
The families quickly set about purchasing farms and building their homes and barns. Dan Borntreger, one of the Amish men, spoke proudly of the barn-building work they were undertaking, despite the challenging heat. He expressed a sense of freedom in their work ethic, saying, “We can quit any time we want, we can start any time we want. And we take Sundays off”[1]. This approach to labor reflected the Amish values of hard work, simplicity, and religious observance.
Integration and Challenges
The Amish families found ways to integrate into the local economy while maintaining their traditional lifestyle. They began shopping in Tripp, visiting the local dentist, and doing their banking in the community. They also purchased livestock at the local sale barn and continued their practice of butchering their own meat[1].
However, the transition was not without its challenges. The open landscape of South Dakota, while offering the space they sought, was quite different from the more wooded areas they were accustomed to in Wisconsin. Rudy Borntreger, who would later become the community’s bishop, noted, “We wanted there to be an Amish community here, but seems like everybody Amish is more from Ohio or Pennsylvania, where there are more trees”[4]. This geographical difference would later prove to be a factor in the community’s struggle to attract new families.
Growth and Community Relations
Despite the challenges, the Amish community in Hutchinson County continued to grow. By 2014, the settlement had expanded to nine families[7]. The bishop at the time reported that the group was “pretty well welcomed to the community,” with only minor issues such as some locals expressing concern about horse droppings on the roads[7].
The Amish’s presence in the area left a lasting impression on their neighbors. Marion Ymker, the owner of Ymker Greenhouse and Landscaping in Armour, where some of the Amish had worked for about a decade, expressed disappointment when learning of their eventual decision to move, saying, “We love ’em here”[4].
Economic Pursuits and Adaptations
Initially, many of the Amish families in Hutchinson County pursued dairy farming, continuing a tradition they had brought with them from Wisconsin. However, they faced several challenges in this endeavor. The difficulties in maintaining dairy operations in South Dakota led to a shift in their agricultural focus.
Adapting to the local conditions and market demands, the Amish community transitioned to raising bottle calves imported from out of state. This became the main occupation among the settlers, demonstrating their ability to adjust their economic activities to the realities of their new environment[4].
The Amish also engaged in other trades and services, as is common in many of their communities. Some found work in nearby towns, such as at the greenhouse in Armour, contributing to the local economy while maintaining their distinct lifestyle.
Challenges and Decisions
As the years passed, the Hutchinson County Amish settlement faced ongoing challenges. The difficulty in attracting new Amish families to join them in South Dakota became increasingly apparent. The open, treeless landscape that had initially offered the space they sought now seemed to be a deterrent for potential newcomers more accustomed to the wooded areas of Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin.
Water scarcity was another significant issue. The area where they had settled had limited groundwater resources, forcing the community to rely on the rural water line. This necessity created an interesting juxtaposition with their traditional avoidance of modern utilities, as noted by a local observer: “Apparently their inhibitions to electricity as being unequally yoked with nonbelievers does not extend to the water pipe that they are also connected to non Amish with”[7].
Economic challenges also played a role in the community’s struggles. South Dakota’s economy, which had seen a significant exodus of “English” (non-Amish) residents, proved to be a difficult environment for the Amish to thrive in as well.
The Decision to Relocate
By the early 2020s, after more than a decade in South Dakota, the Amish community in Hutchinson County made the difficult decision to relocate. Rudy Borntreger, who had become the community’s bishop, explained the reasoning behind this move: “Now more people decided to move back to Iowa and Minnesota, so kind of for unity’s sake”[4].
The decision to leave was not taken lightly. Borntreger, who had spent around half of his adult life in South Dakota, expressed a bittersweet sentiment about their time there: “Good country. Good area. Good friends,” he said, noting the changes that had occurred over their 13-year stay, including the passing of old friends and changes in local businesses[4].
Legacy and Future Prospects
As the Amish prepared to leave Hutchinson County, they left behind a legacy of hard work, community spirit, and cultural exchange. The vacant farms they had built up from nothing stood as testament to their efforts and as potential opportunities for others who might wish to live in the area.
Interestingly, while the Hutchinson County settlement was coming to an end, there were indications of Amish establishing themselves in another part of South Dakota, specifically in the area of Burke in Gregory County[4]. This development suggested that while one chapter was closing, another might be opening for the Amish in South Dakota.
Reflections on the Amish Experience in South Dakota
The story of the Amish in Hutchinson County, South Dakota, offers valuable insights into the challenges and adaptations faced by traditional communities in new environments. Their experience highlights the delicate balance between maintaining cultural and religious traditions and adapting to new geographic and economic realities.
The warm welcome they received from their neighbors and the lasting impressions they left demonstrate the potential for positive cultural exchange and community building. At the same time, their struggles with attracting new families and adapting to the landscape underscore the importance of familiar environments in sustaining close-knit communities.
As the Amish of Hutchinson County prepare to write the next chapter of their story in other states, their brief but impactful presence in South Dakota serves as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of America’s cultural and religious landscape. It also highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Amish people, who continue to seek out ways to preserve their traditional way of life in a rapidly changing world.
The journey of these families from Wisconsin to South Dakota and back again is more than just a tale of migration. It’s a story of hope, perseverance, and the enduring strength of community bonds. As they move on to new horizons, the lessons learned and the friendships forged in the prairies of South Dakota will undoubtedly inform their future endeavors and remain a unique chapter in the rich history of Amish settlements in America.
Tags: Amish, South Dakota, Hutchinson County, Wisconsin, migration, farming, community, rural life, cultural adaptation, traditional lifestyle, agriculture, bottle calves, education, religious freedom, economic challenges, water scarcity, community relations, cultural exchange, resilience, Amish settlements
Amish Exodus: How America’s Heartland is Transforming with Unexpected Settlers
In a remarkable shift that’s reshaping rural America, Amish communities are expanding at an unprecedented rate, venturing far beyond their traditional eastern strongholds. This population boom is not only changing the demographic landscape but also revitalizing struggling agricultural regions across the country.
According to recent data from the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown College, the North American Amish population has surged to an estimated 384,290 in 2023, marking a staggering 116% increase since 2000[2]. This growth is primarily driven by large families and high retention rates within Amish communities.
Professor Steven Nolt, Director and Senior Scholar at the Young Center, explains, “There are two explanatory factors: one is large families, and the second is high retention rates”[2]. Unlike many religious groups, the Amish rarely seek converts, making their expansion even more remarkable.
This population explosion has led to a quest for new farmlands, pushing Amish families into previously unexpected territories. Since 2000, Amish settlements have emerged in six new states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming[2]. The impact is particularly noticeable in states like New York, where the Amish population has more than quadrupled, growing from 4,505 to an estimated 21,230 people[2].
One striking example of this expansion is the new settlement in Kilgore, Nebraska. Led by 46-year-old Bishop Reuben Miller, a group of Amish families has established a community in the heart of the Sandhills, purchasing a 5,038-acre ranch for $9.65 million[1]. This move represents a significant departure from traditional Amish territories, showcasing their adaptability and pioneering spirit.
“I’ve had itchy feet for a long time, and I like the West,” Miller said, explaining his decision to relocate[1]. The Kilgore settlement, currently home to Miller’s family of 13, aims to grow to 15-20 families, potentially rivaling the population of nearby towns.
The influx of Amish settlers is bringing new life to rural areas facing population decline. In Brownington, Vermont, for instance, Amish families from Ohio and Pennsylvania have settled since 2013, contributing to the local economy through various trades and crafts[2].
As Amish communities continue to grow and spread across the country, they face challenges adapting to new environments while maintaining their traditional way of life. However, their presence is increasingly seen as a boon to rural economies, providing skilled labor in areas often short on contractors and revitalizing abandoned farmlands.
This Amish expansion represents more than just population growth; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of rural life and the resilience of traditional communities in modern America. As these settlements continue to flourish, they’re not just preserving their own culture but also breathing new life into the heartland of America.
