New Amish Settlement Takes Root in South Carolina’s Lowcountry
A quiet revolution is unfolding in the small town of Ridgeland, South Carolina, as the state’s first Old Order Amish community establishes itself among the live oaks and Spanish moss. The settlement, which began with just three families in early 2024, has now grown to over a dozen households, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and entrepreneurial spirit.
Local resident Sarah Thompson, 62, expressed her surprise and delight at the new neighbors. “I never thought I’d see horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping down our streets, but it’s become a charming part of our daily life here,” she said.
The Amish families, primarily from Ohio and Pennsylvania, were drawn to the area’s affordable farmland and mild climate. They’ve quickly made their mark on the local economy, opening several businesses that have become popular with both residents and tourists.
Amish horse and wagon
One such enterprise is the Palmetto Buggy Works, run by Eli Yoder. “We saw a need for quality, handcrafted furniture in the area,” Yoder explained. “Our pieces combine Amish craftsmanship with a touch of Lowcountry style.”
Another hit with locals is the Sweetgrass Bakery, operated by the Miller family. Their pies, breads, and famous shoofly cake have become sought-after treats. “I never knew what I was missing until I tasted their peach pie,” raved local teacher John Davis. “It’s simply heavenly.”
The settlement has also opened a small schoolhouse and plans are underway for a community-run general store. While some residents initially expressed concerns about the cultural differences, most have embraced their new neighbors.
Town Mayor Rebecca Collins sees the Amish arrival as a positive development. “They’ve brought a renewed focus on community and simple living that’s refreshing in today’s fast-paced world,” she noted. “Plus, their businesses are attracting visitors from all over, which is great for our local economy.”
As the sun sets over the newly-plowed fields, it’s clear that this unique blending of cultures is just beginning. The Amish of Ridgeland are writing a new chapter in South Carolina’s rich history, one buggy ride at a time.
A New Chapter Unfolds: Amish Community Takes Root in Northern Minnesota
In the quiet, forested landscape of Itasca County, Minnesota, a new Amish settlement is quietly taking shape, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and agricultural expertise. The community, nestled near the small town of Bigfork, has grown from just three families in 2022 to a thriving group of 15 families today. This expansion represents not only a demographic shift for the area but also a testament to the enduring appeal of the Amish way of life in an increasingly modernized world.
Eli Yoder, one of the settlement’s founders, reflects on the early days with a mixture of nostalgia and pride. “When we first arrived, it was just my family and two others. We had to start from scratch, building our farms and our community in a place that was completely new to us.” The challenges were immense, particularly during that first winter, which saw temperatures plummet to -30°F – a test of resolve for even the most seasoned Itasca County residents[1].
Despite the harsh conditions, the Yoders and their fellow settlers persevered. “That first fall, a group of Amish from Wisconsin made the journey to help us raise our first barn,” Eli recalls. “It was a blessing to have that support as we established ourselves here.” This display of community support, characteristic of Amish culture, helped the fledgling settlement gain its footing[2].
As word spread through the Amish network, more families were drawn to the promise of affordable land and the opportunity to establish a new community. Sarah Miller, who moved her family from Ohio in 2023, admits the decision wasn’t without its uncertainties. “Coming here was a leap of faith,” she says. “We didn’t know exactly how things would turn out, but we trusted in God’s plan for us.”
Today, the Bigfork Amish settlement is a growing community of around 90 people. The population skews young, with only two individuals over the age of 50. This youthful energy has contributed to the rapid growth of the settlement, which now boasts five expanding farms, a schoolhouse, and several small businesses including a furniture workshop and a bakery[3].
The integration of Amish families into the local economy has not been without its challenges, particularly in adapting their traditional farming methods to the northern Minnesota climate. The Amish prohibition on electricity use initially posed a problem for crop storage during the long winters. However, an innovative solution was found through the use of root cellars and ice houses.
“We’ve had to learn new techniques for preserving our harvests,” explains Jacob Hochstetler, one of the settlement’s farmers. “But in many ways, our methods are well-suited to this environment. We’re able to work the land without relying on modern machinery, just as we’ve always done.”
The impact of the Amish settlement on the local community has been largely positive. Bigfork town manager Lisa Johnson notes, “The Amish have brought a renewed focus on small-scale agriculture and craftsmanship to our area. Their presence has also attracted visitors interested in experiencing a simpler way of life.”
Local residents have generally welcomed their new neighbors. “They’re hardworking folks who keep to themselves but are always willing to lend a hand when needed,” says longtime Bigfork resident Tom Anderson. “It’s been interesting to see how they’ve adapted to life here in northern Minnesota.”
The Amish, for their part, have found the people of Itasca County to be welcoming and respectful of their way of life. Eli Yoder notes, “We’ve been blessed with good neighbors who understand and appreciate our beliefs, even if they don’t share them.”
Education is a crucial aspect of Amish life, and the settlement has established a one-room schoolhouse to serve their growing population. The school, staffed by an Amish teacher, provides instruction in reading, writing, arithmetic, and other basic subjects, typically up to the eighth grade. The curriculum also includes lessons on Amish history, values, and practical skills needed for life within the community[4].
The Amish approach to education reflects their broader philosophy of living simply and prioritizing community over individual achievement. As one Amish saying goes, “We live simply so that others may simply live.” This ethos is evident in every aspect of their lives, from their plain dress to their rejection of modern conveniences like cars and televisions.
However, the Amish are not entirely isolated from the broader world. Their businesses often require interaction with non-Amish customers and suppliers. The furniture workshop, in particular, has found success by providing high-quality, handcrafted products to a market that increasingly values artisanal goods.
The settlement’s growth has not been without its growing pains. As Eli Yoder points out, “Some communities start and fail. We still could.” The challenges of maintaining their way of life while adapting to local conditions and regulations require constant negotiation and occasional compromise.
One such challenge has been navigating healthcare issues. While the Amish generally prefer natural remedies and often avoid modern medical interventions, they have had to find ways to work with local healthcare providers for more serious conditions. This has led to some creative solutions, such as arranging transportation for Amish patients to medical facilities in ways that respect their beliefs while ensuring they receive necessary care.
The future of the Bigfork Amish settlement looks promising, but its members remain humble about their prospects. As another Amish saying reminds them, “The best way to prepare for tomorrow is to live today well.” This focus on the present moment, combined with their strong work ethic and faith, has served them well in establishing their new home in Minnesota.
As the sun sets over the Itasca County forests, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the distant sound of children playing serve as a reminder of the unique culture that has taken root here. The Bigfork Amish settlement stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a simpler life, even in our fast-paced modern world.
For Eli Yoder and his fellow settlers, the journey continues. “We’re still writing our story here in Minnesota,” he says with a smile. “Every day brings new challenges and blessings. We’re grateful for the opportunity to build our community and share our faith in this beautiful place.”
As the Amish of Bigfork look to the future, they do so with the quiet confidence that comes from facing adversity and thriving. Their presence enriches the cultural tapestry of rural Minnesota, offering a living example of an alternative way of life that prioritizes community, simplicity, and faith.
In a world that often seems to be moving too fast, the Amish of Bigfork remind us of the value of slowing down, of cherishing our connections to the land and to each other. As they continue to build their lives in Itasca County, they invite us all to reflect on what truly matters in life – a lesson as relevant today as it was when their ancestors first arrived in America centuries ago[5].
New Amish Settlement Takes Root in Rural Maine: A Story of Faith, Resilience, and Community
In the rolling hills of Aroostook County, Maine, a new Amish settlement is quietly taking shape, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and agricultural expertise. The community, nestled in the small town of Fort Fairfield, has grown from just two families in 2007 to a thriving group of 20 families today. This expansion represents not only a demographic shift for the area but also a testament to the enduring appeal of the Amish way of life in an increasingly modernized world.
Noah Yoder, one of the settlement’s founders, reflects on the early days with a mixture of nostalgia and pride. “When we first arrived, it was just my family and my sister’s. We had to start from scratch, building our farms and our community in a place that was completely new to us[3].” The challenges were immense, particularly during that first winter, which saw nearly 200 inches of snowfall – a record-breaking amount that tested the resolve of even the most seasoned Aroostook County residents.
Despite the harsh conditions, the Yoders persevered. “That fall, a busload of New York Amish made a whirlwind trip to The County to help us raise our first barn,” Noah recalls. “They bussed to Maine overnight, erected the barn during the day, then caught the night bus home in time for the next morning’s milking[3].” This display of community support, characteristic of Amish culture, helped the fledgling settlement gain its footing.
As word spread through the Amish grapevine, more families were drawn to the promise of affordable land and the opportunity to establish a new community. Uri Miller, who moved his family from Kentucky in 2008, admits the decision wasn’t without its uncertainties. “Coming here was kind of a shot in the dark,” he says. “We didn’t know at first how things were going to work out[3].”
Today, the Fort Fairfield Amish settlement (which also extends into neighboring Easton) is a vibrant community of around 140 people. The population skews young, with only three individuals over the age of 50. This youthful energy has contributed to the rapid growth of the settlement, which now boasts seven expanding dairy farms, two schoolhouses, an Amish-run store, and a successful sheet metal business[3].
The integration of Amish families into the local economy has not been without its challenges, particularly in the dairy industry. The Amish prohibition on electricity use initially posed a problem for milk storage and refrigeration. However, an innovative solution was found through a partnership with Agri-Mark, a dairy cooperative.
“Agri-Mark leases the buildings from the Amish, owns the equipment, and pays the electric bill, deducting the cost from Amish profits,” explains local agricultural extension agent Mark Johnson. “An English milk-truck driver interacts with the machinery, picking up six or seven thousand pounds of milk from Fort Fairfield every other day[3].” This arrangement allows the Amish to participate in the modern dairy market without compromising their religious principles.
The impact of the Amish settlement on the local community has been largely positive. Fort Fairfield town manager Sarah Dubay notes, “The Amish have brought a renewed focus on agriculture and craftsmanship to our area. Their presence has also attracted tourists interested in experiencing a simpler way of life.”
Local residents have generally welcomed their new neighbors. “They’re hardworking folks who keep to themselves but are always willing to lend a hand when needed,” says longtime Fort Fairfield resident Mary Bouchard. “It’s been interesting to see how they’ve adapted to life here in The County.”
The Amish, for their part, have found the people of Aroostook County to be welcoming and respectful of their way of life. Noah Yoder notes, “We’ve been blessed with good neighbors who understand and appreciate our beliefs, even if they don’t share them[3].”
Education is a crucial aspect of Amish life, and the settlement has established two schoolhouses to serve their growing population. These schools, staffed by Amish teachers, provide instruction in reading, writing, arithmetic, and other basic subjects, typically up to the eighth grade. The curriculum also includes lessons on Amish history, values, and practical skills needed for life within the community.
The Amish approach to education reflects their broader philosophy of living simply and prioritizing community over individual achievement. As one Amish saying goes, “We live simply so that others may simply live[5].” This ethos is evident in every aspect of their lives, from their plain dress to their rejection of modern conveniences like cars and televisions.
However, the Amish are not entirely isolated from the broader world. Their businesses often require interaction with non-Amish customers and suppliers. The sheet metal business, in particular, has found success by providing high-quality, handcrafted products to a market that increasingly values artisanal goods.
The settlement’s growth has not been without its growing pains. As Noah Yoder points out, “Some communities start and fail. We still could[3].” The challenges of maintaining their way of life while adapting to local conditions and regulations require constant negotiation and occasional compromise.
One such challenge has been navigating healthcare issues. While the Amish generally prefer natural remedies and often avoid modern medical interventions, they have had to find ways to work with local healthcare providers for more serious conditions. This has led to some creative solutions, such as arranging transportation for Amish patients to medical facilities in ways that respect their beliefs while ensuring they receive necessary care.
The future of the Fort Fairfield Amish settlement looks promising, but its members remain humble about their prospects. As another Amish saying reminds them, “The best way to prepare for tomorrow is to live today well[2].” This focus on the present moment, combined with their strong work ethic and faith, has served them well in establishing their new home in Maine.
As the sun sets over the Aroostook County farmlands, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the distant sound of children playing serve as a reminder of the unique culture that has taken root here. The Fort Fairfield Amish settlement stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a simpler life, even in our fast-paced modern world.
For Noah Yoder and his fellow settlers, the journey continues. “We’re still writing our story here in Maine,” he says with a smile. “Every day brings new challenges and blessings. We’re grateful for the opportunity to build our community and share our faith in this beautiful place[3].”
As the Amish of Fort Fairfield look to the future, they do so with the quiet confidence that comes from facing adversity and thriving. Their presence enriches the cultural tapestry of rural Maine, offering a living example of an alternative way of life that prioritizes community, simplicity, and faith.
In a world that often seems to be moving too fast, the Amish of Fort Fairfield remind us of the value of slowing down, of cherishing our connections to the land and to each other. As they continue to build their lives in The County, they invite us all to reflect on what truly matters in life – a lesson as relevant today as it was when their ancestors first arrived in America centuries ago.
The Amish Community of Somerset County, Pennsylvania: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Adaptation
Nestled in the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, Somerset County is home to one of the oldest and most distinctive Amish communities in North America. Founded in 1772, this settlement stands out for its rich history, unique practices, and enduring presence in the region[1][4]. Despite its age, the Somerset Amish community remains relatively small, with approximately 1,565 Amish residents spread across 11 congregations as of 2024[6].
Historical Significance
The Somerset Amish Settlement holds a special place in Amish history as the second-oldest continuously existing Amish community in North America[1]. It was established by Amish families from the Northkill Amish Settlement in Berks County, Pennsylvania, who were seeking better farmland and a more isolated location to practice their faith[1]. This migration was part of a larger movement that also led to the formation of the well-known Lancaster Amish Settlement.
What makes Somerset County particularly significant in Amish history is its role as a “vanguard” for Amish settlement in the Midwest[1]. Many Amish families from Somerset County went on to establish new communities in Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, and Illinois, effectively spreading the Amish way of life across the American heartland.
Unique Practices
One of the most distinctive features of the Somerset Amish community is their use of meetinghouses for Sunday services[1][6]. This practice sets them apart from nearly all other Old Order Amish groups, who typically hold worship services in members’ homes. The adoption of meetinghouses in Somerset County dates back to the late 1800s, making it a long-standing tradition rather than a recent innovation[8].
The Summit Mills meetinghouse, one of the oldest in the community, was built in 1881 and continues to serve the Amish population today[10]. This unique practice has its roots in local history, with one story suggesting that meetinghouses were built to discourage coal miners from showing up at Amish homes on Sundays seeking free meals[9].
Amish Businesses in Somerset County
Despite its small size, the Somerset Amish community boasts a variety of businesses that cater to both the local population and visitors. Here are some notable Amish-run establishments in the area:
Peachey’s Country Store Address: 3319 Rockdale Rd., Meyersdale, PA 15552 This store offers a wide selection of baked goods, including pies, cookies, dessert bars, and homemade chocolate items[8].
Valley Brook Dry Goods Address: 6518 Mt. Davis Rd., Meyersdale, PA 15552 This store specializes in fabrics and also carries books, including the community church directory[8].
Hidden Valley Variety Store & Greenhouse Address: 169 Hidden Valley Dr., Meyersdale, PA 15552 This business combines a variety store focusing on food items and books with a greenhouse[8].
Rosy Dawn Greenhouse Address: 6748 Mt. Davis Rd., Meyersdale, PA 15552 One of several greenhouses in the area, Rosy Dawn is part of a network of Amish-run plant nurseries[8].
Rustic Woods LLC While not an address-specific listing, this business offers a large selection of Amish-made furniture in various styles, focusing on custom items and unique home decor[5].
These businesses, along with others in the community, typically observe a specific holiday schedule that visitors should be aware of when planning their trips[8].
Community Characteristics
The Somerset Amish community is characterized by a blend of traditional Pennsylvania Amish and Midwestern Amish influences. This is reflected in the mix of surnames found in the settlement, which include both typically Pennsylvania names like Zook and Beiler, and Midwestern names such as Hochstetler and Slabaugh[8].
The community maintains strong ties to its heritage while adapting to modern necessities. For example, while preserving traditional crafts and agricultural practices, some businesses have embraced limited modern conveniences to serve their customers better.
Visiting the Somerset Amish Community
For those interested in experiencing this unique Amish settlement, it’s important to note that Somerset County is not a tourist-oriented community like Lancaster County. However, visitors can still enjoy authentic Amish goods and services by patronizing local businesses.
When visiting, respect the Amish way of life by refraining from taking photographs of Amish individuals and being mindful of their privacy. The best way to experience the community is through respectful interactions at local businesses and by appreciating the scenic rural landscape that the Amish have helped preserve.
Challenges and Preservation
Like many Amish communities, Somerset County faces challenges in preserving its way of life in the face of modernization and external pressures. However, the community’s long history and unique practices have helped it maintain its identity over the centuries.
The use of meetinghouses, while unusual for Amish groups, has become an integral part of the Somerset Amish identity. This adaptation demonstrates the community’s ability to find innovative solutions to local challenges while still adhering to core Amish values.
Conclusion
The Somerset County Amish settlement stands as a testament to the enduring nature of Amish culture and its ability to adapt while maintaining core traditions. As the second-oldest Amish community in North America, it offers a unique glimpse into Amish history and the evolution of their practices over time. While small in size, its impact on the broader Amish world has been significant, and it continues to be a vibrant and distinctive part of Pennsylvania’s cultural landscape.
For those seeking to understand the diversity within Amish society, Somerset County provides a fascinating case study of how local conditions and historical circumstances can shape a community’s development. As it moves forward into its third century of existence, the Somerset Amish settlement remains a living link to the past and a unique expression of Amish faith and culture in the modern world.
The Amish Boom: How America’s Horse-and-Buggy Community is Thriving in the 21st Century
In the rolling hills of Ethridge, Tennessee, about 75 miles southwest of Nashville, a unique community is experiencing unprecedented growth. The Swartzentruber Amish, known for their strict adherence to traditional ways, have become the largest Amish settlement in the South and one of the top 20 in the nation[1][2].
This growth in Ethridge is not an isolated phenomenon. Across the United States, the Amish population is expanding at a remarkable rate, doubling approximately every 20 years[1]. In 1989, there were about 100,000 Amish living in 179 settlements in the United States and Canada. By 2010, that number had climbed to about 251,000 in 456 settlements. Fast forward to 2024, and the Amish population in North America has reached an estimated 400,910[1].
The Driving Forces Behind Amish Population Growth
The rapid expansion of the Amish community can be attributed to two primary factors:
High Birth Rates: Amish families typically have between six and seven children on average, significantly higher than the general U.S. population[2].
High Retention Rates: Approximately 85% or more of Amish children join the church as young adults, maintaining the community’s traditions and values[1].
Professor Joe Donnermeyer, director of the Amish census at Ohio State University, explains, “If current trends continue, the Amish population could reach a million by 2050.”
The Ethridge Experience: A Microcosm of Amish Growth
The Amish community in Ethridge, established in the mid-1940s, has grown to about 15,000 members. This growth has led to some unique challenges:
Land Scarcity: Available farmland in Ethridge has become increasingly scarce as Amish families have bought up most of the farms.
Market Saturation: The tourist market is flooded with Amish-made products like baskets, food, and furniture.
A local Amish leader, who preferred to remain anonymous due to religious reasons, stated, “It’s getting harder and harder to find land and get a good start.”
Expanding Horizons: New Settlements
As a result of this growth, the Amish are expanding to new areas. Three years ago, 100 members from Ethridge established a new settlement in Stantonville, about 75 miles away. This is one of three new settlements founded in the last 12 years.
Stantonville Mayor David Leckner welcomed the new Amish neighbors, saying, “It really is one of those ‘You’ve got to see this’ moments.” The only issue that arose was managing horse-and-buggy traffic, which was resolved through cooperation between the town and Amish officials.
Preserving Tradition in a Changing World
The Swartzentruber Amish of Ethridge are known for their particularly conservative lifestyle:
They don’t use electricity, indoor plumbing, or telephones.
Their buggies are all black and don’t have windshields or reflective orange triangles.
This adherence to tradition has sometimes led to conflicts with modern regulations. In Kentucky, for example, Swartzentruber men were arrested for not having state-required orange triangles on their buggies, leading to legal challenges and eventual legislative accommodation.
Economic Adaptation and Cooperation
Despite their traditional lifestyle, the Amish in Ethridge have found ways to thrive economically while working closely with their non-Amish neighbors:
Ploughboy Produce Auction: A group of Amish farmers helped fund this Amish-friendly open-air auction barn. Lynn Ward, the auction house manager, works closely with a board of five Amish farmers to run the facility.
Diverse Agricultural Production: Local Amish farmers grow a variety of crops, including tobacco and sugar cane for molasses.
Home-Based Businesses: Many Amish households sell goods directly from their homes, offering everything from homemade food products to handcrafted furniture.
Challenges and Considerations for the Future
As the Amish population continues to grow, several challenges and considerations emerge:
Land Availability: Finding affordable farmland for new families and settlements is becoming increasingly difficult.
Economic Diversification: Many Amish are turning to non-agricultural businesses to support their families.
Interaction with Modern Society: Balancing traditional values with the need to interact with the outside world presents ongoing challenges.
Environmental Impact: The expansion of Amish communities may have implications for land use and conservation efforts.
Cultural Preservation: Maintaining Amish traditions and values in the face of rapid growth and changing surroundings remains a priority.
The Road Ahead
As the Amish population in North America approaches half a million, the community faces both opportunities and challenges. Their ability to adapt while maintaining their core values will be crucial in the coming decades.
Danny, an older Amish resident of Ethridge, summed up the community’s outlook: “We can’t know the future, but we hope most of our grandchildren will keep the faith and remain Amish.”
As America becomes increasingly urbanized and technologically dependent, the growing Amish population serves as a reminder of alternative ways of life. Their success in maintaining their traditions while adapting to economic realities offers valuable insights into community resilience and cultural preservation in the 21st century.
Amish Families Seek New Beginnings in Tennessee’s Rolling Hills
A group of 10 Amish families from Ohio has recently settled in the picturesque countryside of Giles County, Tennessee, establishing a new community that locals are calling “New Hope Settlement.” The families, comprising about 60 individuals, arrived last month ready to start a new chapter in their lives[1][3].
The decision to move was driven by a combination of factors, including the desire for affordable farmland and a simpler lifestyle. John Yoder, one of the community leaders, explained, “We were drawn to Tennessee’s beautiful landscape and the opportunity to build a community that aligns with our values[2].”
The new settlement has been warmly welcomed by local residents. Sarah Thompson, who owns a general store in the nearby town, said, “It’s exciting to see new faces in our area. The Amish bring with them a wealth of farming knowledge and craftsmanship that we can all learn from[6].”
The Amish families have already begun setting up their farms and workshops. They plan to focus on dairy farming, furniture making, and traditional crafts. Local authorities have been working with the community to ensure a smooth transition, particularly regarding road safety for horse-drawn buggies[7].
Giles County Mayor Tom Benson expressed his support for the new residents: “We’re thrilled to welcome the Amish to our county. Their presence adds to our cultural diversity and brings new economic opportunities to the region[3].”
Establishing a New Community
When the Amish settled in Ethridge, Tennessee, they faced challenges similar to those experienced by other Amish communities:
Land Acquisition: Finding affordable farmland suitable for their traditional agricultural practices would have been crucial[4].
Infrastructure Development: The Amish would have needed to build their homes, barns, and one-room schoolhouses from scratch[1][5].
Maintaining Traditional Lifestyle
The Swartzentruber Amish in Ethridge, Tennessee, adhere to a strict old-world order:
They do not use electricity, computers, phones, cars, or modern farm equipment[4].
This commitment to traditional ways likely posed challenges in adapting to a new environment while preserving their cultural practices.
Relationship with Local Authorities
Based on experiences in other states, the Amish in Tennessee may have faced:
Educational Concerns: Potential conflicts with local education authorities regarding their preference for one-room schoolhouses and education only through the eighth grade[1][3].
Legal and Regulatory Issues: Possible challenges related to building codes, road safety for horse-drawn buggies, and other regulations that might conflict with their traditional practices[1][3].
Economic Adaptation
The Amish in Ethridge have developed strategies to thrive economically:
They focus on farming, craftsmanship, and selling goods to visitors[4].
Adapting their skills and products to meet local market demands while maintaining their traditional methods likely presented initial challenges.
While these challenges are not specifically documented for Tennessee, they represent common issues faced by Amish communities establishing new settlements across America.
As the New Hope Settlement takes root, it joins the growing number of Amish communities in Tennessee, further enriching the state’s cultural tapestry[3][6].
