A New Amish Community Takes Root in Hazleton, PA: Tradition Meets Coal Country
HAZLETON, PA — Nestled in the rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania, Hazleton—a city historically shaped by coal mining and immigrant communities—is now home to a growing Amish settlement. This emerging community, blending traditional Amish values with the region’s industrial heritage, is fostering collaboration with local businesses and offering visitors a unique glimpse into simpler living.
The Arrival of the Amish in Hazleton
The Amish families, relocating from established settlements in Lancaster and Ohio, began settling in rural Luzerne County near Hazleton in early 2025. Drawn by affordable farmland and a slower pace of life, the group has already established two working farms, a woodworking shop, and a roadside produce stand.
Samuel Yoder, a community elder, explained their decision: “We sought land where our children could grow up close to the earth. Hazleton’s countryside reminded us of home, and the people here have welcomed us warmly.”
The community’s growth aligns with Pennsylvania’s broader efforts to revitalize rural economies. Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025 budget emphasized streamlined permitting for small businesses, including a “Permit Fast Track” for projects like Hazleton’s new Amish-owned enterprises[3].
Local Businesses Embrace Collaboration
Hazleton’s small businesses are already forging partnerships with the Amish:
- Hazleton Food Market (📍 North Wyoming Street): This grocery now stocks Amish-made jams, quilts, and hand-carved wooden toys. Owner Maria Gonzalez noted: “Their goods bring customers seeking authenticity—it’s a win for everyone.”
- Hazleton Kitchen Incubator (📍 Hayden Family Center for the Arts): Amish bakers have used this shared commercial kitchen to test recipes like shoofly pie and whoopie pies, later sold at local markets[2].
- Yoder’s Crafted Furniture (📍 Rural Luzerne County): Specializing in hand-built tables and chairs, this Amish workshop supplies pieces to downtown Hazleton’s revitalized storefronts[6].
The Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce is also facilitating connections. President Mary Malone stated: “Their craftsmanship complements our goal of boosting local entrepreneurship—it’s about preserving tradition while growing together.”[4][6]
What Visitors Can Experience
While still developing public-facing operations, the community offers:
- Farm Tours: By appointment, guests can learn about sustainable practices like horse-drawn plowing and windmill-powered irrigation.
- Roadside Stands: Seasonal produce, fresh eggs, and baked goods are sold at stands along Route 309.
- Handmade Goods: Quilts, candles, and furniture are available at pop-up markets during events like Hazleton’s Harvest Fest (October 12–14, 2025).
Voices from the Community
Amish Perspective:
Anna Byler, a mother of four, shared: “We hope to live quietly but contribute—whether through farming or teaching others about simplicity.”
Local Reactions:
- Andrew Baranko (📍 Baranko’s Cold Pizza): “I source their honey for my recipes—it’s about supporting neighbors.”[2]
- Mayor Jeff Cusat: “Their arrival enriches Hazleton’s diverse fabric, much like the immigrants who built this city.”[8]
Challenges and Adaptations
The community faces hurdles typical of new settlements:
- Zoning Laws: Hazleton’s urban-edge regulations required compromises on barn designs.
- Road Safety: Sharing routes like Route 93 with cars has prompted discussions about buggy lanes.
Luzerne County Commissioner Matthew Vough confirmed: “We’re exploring solutions used in Lancaster County to ensure safety.”[3][8]
Looking Ahead
Plans include a schoolhouse, expanded workshops, and collaborations with Hazleton Art League for craft demonstrations. As Yoder noted: “We’re here to stay—and to share.”[5][6]
Final Thought: As Hazleton’s Amish community grows, it bridges the city’s industrial past with a sustainable future—proving that tradition and progress can thrive side by side. Whether you come for the apple butter or the handcrafted furniture, this settlement invites you to slow down and savor the art of simple living.
Citations:
[1] https://hazletonia.com/hazleton-amish-businesses/
[2] https://www.wvia.org/news/local/2024-05-03/050324luz-businesses
[3] https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/governor-shapiro-2025-26-budget-address-as-prepared.html
[4] https://www.hazletonchamber.org
[5] https://visittheamish.com/new-amish-community-takes-root-in-hazleton-pa-tradition-meets-coal-country/
[6] https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Small+Businesses&find_loc=Hazleton%2C+PA
[7] https://x.com/Charles02339637/status/1902432106560553455
[8] https://www.hazletoncity.org/departments/comm-econ-development
