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New Amish Settlement Takes Root in West Virginia’s Rugged Hills

Written by Dennis Regling in Other States

New-Amish-Settlement-Takes-Root-in-West-Virginias-Rugged-Hills

New Amish Settlement Takes Root in West Virginia’s Rugged Hills

In a surprising turn of events, a group of Amish families has established a new settlement in the remote hills of Tucker County, West Virginia. The community, which arrived last month, marks the tenth Amish settlement in the state.

The group, consisting of 15 families from Ohio, has purchased several hundred acres of land near the small town of Davis. Local residents have been both curious and welcoming of their new neighbors.

“We’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Sarah Thompson, 62, a lifelong Davis resident. “It’s like stepping back in time, watching them set up their farms with horse-drawn plows.”

The Amish families, led by Bishop Eli Miller, chose West Virginia for its affordable land and relative isolation. “We sought a place where we could practice our faith and way of life without too much interference from the modern world,” Miller explained[1].

west virginia amish

Despite the challenging terrain, which is not typically conducive to large-scale farming, the Amish are adapting their agricultural practices. They plan to focus on small-scale vegetable farming, animal husbandry, and craft-based businesses[5].

Local officials are cautiously optimistic about the economic impact of the new settlement. County Commissioner John Baker stated, “We hope their presence will boost our local economy, particularly through tourism and the sale of handmade goods.”

The Amish have already opened a small bakery and variety store, reminiscent of similar establishments in other West Virginia Amish communities[4]. Local resident Mike Johnson, 45, commented, “Their baked goods are out of this world. I never knew I needed Amish donuts in my life until now.”

As with other Amish settlements in West Virginia, this community faces challenges, including adapting to the mountainous terrain and establishing relationships with their “English” neighbors[3]. However, their determination and strong work ethic have impressed many locals.

WV Amish

“They’re up at dawn every day, working hard to build their homes and businesses,” observed Tom Wilson, a nearby farmer. “It’s inspiring to see such dedication.”

While it’s too early to predict the long-term success of this new settlement, the arrival of the Amish has certainly brought a unique change to Tucker County. As West Virginia continues to diversify, this latest addition to the state’s cultural tapestry offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life amidst the complexities of the modern world.

The Amish presence in West Virginia has evolved significantly over the years, with recent growth contrasting earlier limited settlement attempts:

  1. Historical presence: The first Amish settlement in West Virginia was established in 1850 in Preston County, before West Virginia became a state[2]. This community lasted for 93 years but eventually dwindled and ended in 1943.
  2. Slow initial growth: For many decades, West Virginia had very few Amish residents despite bordering Pennsylvania and Ohio, the two most Amish-populated states.
  3. Recent expansion: Since 2010, West Virginia has experienced a significant increase in its Amish population:
Amish WV store
  • The number of Amish communities has grown from 3 to 9 since 2017, averaging one new settlement per year.
  • The Amish population has tripled from around 200 to over 600 people since 2010.
  • This growth rate outpaces typical Amish population increases, mainly due to Amish families moving in from other states.
  1. Current settlements: As of 2024, there are nine Amish communities in West Virginia. The oldest existing settlement, founded in 1996, is located near Letart in Mason County.
  2. Economic initiatives: Some West Virginia communities have actively encouraged Amish settlement. For example, Barbour County officials have been courting young Amish families from Pennsylvania and Ohio to establish businesses in the area, hoping to boost the local economy and potentially attract tourism.
  3. Challenges and adaptations: Amish settlers in West Virginia have had to adapt to the state’s mountainous terrain, which is less conducive to traditional large-scale farming. Some communities have focused on small-scale vegetable farming, animal husbandry, and craft-based businesses.

This evolution shows that while Amish settlement in West Virginia was historically limited, recent years have seen a significant increase in Amish presence, driven by both internal growth and migration from other states.

Citations:
[1] https://amishamerica.com/west-virginia-amish/
[2] https://www.ipl.org/essay/The-Amish-Community-A-Short-Story-F3WGALQBGXPV
[3] https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/experiences/virginia/amish-va
[4] https://amishamerica.com/amish-summers-county-west-virginia/
[5] https://www.amish365.com/where-are-the-amish-in-west-virginia/
[6] https://www.idaillinois.org/digital/custom/bySubject
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AcH5dwUoRw

Preserving Tradition: Amish Food Preservation Techniques Stand the Test of Time: Includes 3 Authentic Recipes

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish cooking

Amish Food Preservation Techniques

Preserving Tradition: Amish Food Preservation Techniques Stand the Test of Time

In an era of modern conveniences and technological advancements, the Amish community continues to embrace time-honored methods of food preservation. These traditional techniques not only ensure a steady food supply throughout the year but also maintain the rich flavors and nutritional value of their homegrown produce. As more people seek sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyles, there’s much to learn from the Amish approach to food preservation.

A Legacy of Self-Sufficiency

The Amish, known for their simple living and rejection of many modern technologies, have perfected the art of food preservation over generations. Their methods, deeply rooted in tradition and practicality, allow them to maintain a consistent food supply even during harsh winters and lean times[1].

“Canning is a method of food preservation that is very popular among the Amish community. It plays an important role in providing nourishment over the winter,” explains Sarah Miller, an Amish culture expert[5].

Traditional Preservation Techniques

Canning: A Cornerstone of Amish Food Storage

Canning remains one of the most widely used preservation methods in Amish households. This technique involves sealing food in jars and heating them to a temperature that destroys harmful microorganisms, creating a vacuum seal that prevents new bacteria from entering[3].

Water Bath Canning

The boiling water bath method is primarily used for high-acid foods like fruits, tomatoes, pickles, jams, and jellies. This process involves submerging sealed jars in boiling water[4].

Pressure Canning

For low-acid foods such as vegetables and meats, pressure canning is the method of choice. This technique uses a pressure canner to remove all oxygen, effectively killing harmful bacteria[1].

Fermentation: Enhancing Flavor and Nutrition

Fermentation is another crucial technique in the Amish kitchen. This process not only preserves food but also enhances its flavor and nutritional profile. The acidic environment created during fermentation inhibits the growth of spoilage organisms[3].

Drying: A Simple Yet Effective Method

Drying is a time-tested technique that removes moisture from food, preventing the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeasts. The Amish commonly dry beans, herbs, fruits, and meats[3].

Root Cellaring: Nature’s Refrigerator

Root cellaring involves storing root vegetables and other produce in a cool, dark, and humid environment. This natural preservation method can keep produce fresh for several months[3].

Unique Amish Preservation Methods

Cold Stream Storage

Some Amish families utilize a unique method called cold stream storage. A stream of running water from a nearby lake or river is channeled under the house, maintaining optimal temperatures for storing food[1].

Ice Houses

In more conservative Amish communities, ice houses are still used for food preservation. These structures, filled with ice harvested during winter, provide a cool environment for food storage throughout the year[7].

Amish Canning Recipes

Amish Red Beet Eggs

A popular Amish preserved food, red beet eggs are a delightful combination of pickled eggs and beets.

Amish red beet eggs

Ingredients:

  • 1 dozen hard-boiled eggs, peeled
  • 1 can (15 oz) sliced beets with juice
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine beet juice, vinegar, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
  2. Place peeled eggs and beet slices in a large jar.
  3. Pour the hot liquid over the eggs and beets.
  4. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 48 hours before serving.

Shelf life: 3-4 months when properly canned[1].

More about this delicacy HERE

Amish Chow Chow

Chow chow, often called “end of the season relish,” is a versatile condiment made from a variety of vegetables. Buy authentic Pennsylvania Dutch Chow Chow HERE

Ingredients:

Amish Chow Chow
  • 2 cups each: green tomatoes, cabbage, onions, green peppers (all chopped)
  • 1 cup each: carrots, green beans (chopped)
  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp each: celery seed, mustard seed, turmeric

Instructions:

  1. Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
  2. In a saucepan, mix vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices. Bring to a boil.
  3. Add vegetables to the liquid and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Pack the hot mixture into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
  5. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Shelf life: 1-2 years when properly canned[1][4].

Amish Christmas Jam

This festive jam is a staple in many Amish households during the holiday season.

Buy Christmas Jam HERE

Ingredients:

Christmas jam
  • 2 cups crushed strawberries
  • 2 cups crushed cranberries
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 package powdered pectin
  • 5 cups sugar

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine fruits, lemon juice, and pectin.
  2. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
  3. Add sugar, return to a boil, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Remove from heat, skim off foam.
  5. Ladle into hot, sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
  6. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Shelf life: Up to 1 year when properly canned[1][4].

The Future of Amish Food Preservation

As the world grapples with issues of food security and sustainability, the Amish methods of food preservation offer valuable lessons. These techniques not only ensure a steady food supply but also promote a connection to the land and the seasons.

“The biggest benefit of canning is that it allows seasonal and locally grown produce to be preserved and eaten year-round. It also helps reduce food waste,” notes John Lapp, an Amish farmer[5].

While some Amish communities are adapting to modern preservation methods, many still hold fast to traditional techniques. The Schwartzentruber, one of the most conservative Amish orders, preserve food by canning, smoking, using ice houses, or simply letting food sit out on the porch[7].

As interest in sustainable living grows, more “English” (non-Amish) people are turning to these time-tested methods. The simplicity and effectiveness of Amish food preservation techniques offer a blueprint for those seeking to reduce their reliance on modern conveniences and live more sustainably.

In conclusion, Amish food preservation methods stand as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the importance of self-sufficiency. As we look to the future, these age-old techniques may well hold the key to more sustainable and resilient food systems.

Citations:
[1] https://amishrules.com/how-do-the-amish-keep-food-cold/
[2] https://4db5c81d1b84afd66014-6ecb39ce880ce1ce8c8b23076b063f40.ssl.cf1.rackcdn.com/3157-672b7a1819d65.jpg?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi8ruy0sq2KAxW3LtAFHcTlAGQQ_B16BAgFEAI
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ao4BTQeTzKk
[4] https://www.marketsatshrewsbury.com/in-the-kitchen/amish-canning-recipes/
[5] https://www.amishvillage.com/blog/discover-the-delightful-rich-tradition-of-amish-food-canning/
[6] https://www.amishvillage.com/blog/an-authentic-look-at-canning-in-the-amish-community/
[7] https://boards.straightdope.com/t/amish-food-preservation/819539
[8] https://4db5c81d1b84afd66014-6ecb39ce880ce1ce8c8b23076b063f40.ssl.cf1.rackcdn.com/3157-672b7a1819d65.jpg?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9qOy0sq2KAxXVSzABHUJQNJkQ_B16BAgCEAI

Preserving Tradition: Amish Food Preservation Techniques Stand the Test of Time

Cheesy Bliss: Authentic Amish Cheese and Bacon Rolls

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish cooking

Authentic Amish Cheese and Bacon Rolls

Cheesy Bliss: Authentic Amish Cheese and Bacon Rolls

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Amish Cheese and Bacon Rolls, a delightful treat that brings together the rich taste of cheese and the savory crunch of bacon, all enveloped in soft, fluffy bread. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, offering a taste of traditional Amish cooking that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ½ cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour (I use bread flour)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • ½ tablespoon dried parsley
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 8 strips cooked bacon (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sea salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, vegetable oil, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until well combined and bubbly.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, stirring frequently.
  3. Remove from heat and add grated cheddar cheese; stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
  2. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the dough.
  3. Sprinkle chopped bacon over the filling and add more grated cheese if desired.
  4. Roll up the dough tightly into a log shape and cut it into 12 equal pieces using unflavored dental floss or string.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

  1. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving some space between them for rising.
  2. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake rolls for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Once baked, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with additional parsley or chives if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Amish Cheese and Bacon Rolls warm from the oven as an appetizer or side dish at your next family gathering or holiday meal. They pair wonderfully with soups or salads and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Enjoy this authentic recipe that captures the essence of Amish comfort food—perfectly cheesy, delightfully savory, and irresistibly fluffy!

Amish Buggy Styles You May Have Not Seen

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Amish Buggy Styles You May Have Not Seen.

Buggy styles can vary across the hundreds of Amish settlements in North America. Here are a few that you may not have seen.

This is not an Amish Taxi, it is an unmissable Byler Amish buggy. 

The Byler Amish are located northeast of Altoona, in Kishacoquillas Valley, Pennsylvania.

Big Valley Amish

The Nebraska Amish buggy is also seen in Kishacoquillas Valley.  Unlike most Amish buggies, the Nebraska buggy has no protective front. No “windshield”, just open air. 

Nebraska Amish are among the most conservative of all Amish groups. Nebraska Amish live in just a few places, Kishacoquillas Valley and in a small community in northeastern Ohio.

Renno Amish Buggy

A Renno Amish buggy, also in Kishacoquillas Valley aka Big Valley.  Amish in Juniata County drive buggies of a similar style. The Renno Amish are a minority group found in just four settlements.

You may have seen black buggies in other communities, in Ohio or Indiana. Typically those buggies have tapered sides, distinguishing them from the Renno buggies.

Lancaster Amish Buggy

The classic Lancaster grey-top buggy.  Amish in two other communities, Cecil County, Maryland, and Charlotte County, Virginia, also drive this style.

Dover Amish Buggy

The Dover, Delaware Amish buggy.  Notice the difference between this and the black Renno buggy above.  The Dover buggy is bulkier, with curved-in sides.

Amish in the Dover settlement at Halifax County, Virginia also drive this style. Dover-affiliated Amish are found in 16 locations across America.

When we think of Pennsylvania Amish, we typically think of the Lancaster County gray buggy.  The Amish at New Wilmington, Pennsylvania use a distinctive brown-topped vehicle.  New Wilmington Amish and their spin-off groups are the only ones to use this color.

Swartzentruber Amish buggy

A Swartzentruber Amish buggy passes by in Wayne County, Ohio. 

Swartzentruber buggies lack both an SMV triangle and a storm front.

An Old Order Mennonite carriage for zipping around the neighborhood.  Old Order Mennonite communities can be found in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ontario, and other places.

The Ashland Amish use grey reflector tape to outline a safety triangle.  An orange reflector is located in the center of the tape triangle.

Swiss Amish Buggy

Amish in certain so-called “Swiss” communities use a distinct style of buggy.  Swiss carriages are always open-top.

Amish cargo Buggy

Buggies come in a variety of styles and designs, with different names depending on the community.  The vehicle above, which we might think of as an “Amish pick-up truck”, is designed for hauling bulky items.

Amish Church Buggy

This large wagon is used to transport church benches between Amish homes.  Amish do not hold church services in separate buildings, but rather in the basement, shop, or barn of a member’s home.  

The church wagon hauls both pews and hymnals. Church services are held every other week.

Amish adults sometimes ride in pony carts as well.  Since no driver’s license is required, sometimes very young Amish children pilot pony carts.

Discover Amish Life: Explore the ‘Visit The Amish’ YouTube Channel!

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

https://visittheamish.com/discover-amish-life-explore-the-visit-the-amish-youtube-channel/

“Visit The Amish” has become a prominent name in the online community, particularly among those interested in Amish culture and lifestyle. The largest Amish fan group on Facebook has expanded its reach with a dedicated YouTube channel, providing viewers with an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the Amish. Visit the Facebook group HERE.

The “Visit The Amish” YouTube channel features a variety of content that showcases the simplicity and richness of Amish traditions. From cooking demonstrations of traditional recipes to tours of Amish communities, the channel aims to educate and engage viewers about this unique way of life. Each video is crafted to highlight the values of hard work, family, and faith that are central to Amish culture.

Subscribers can expect to see videos that cover a wide range of topics.

    The channel not only serves as an educational resource but also as a platform for fostering appreciation and understanding of the Amish way of life. With engaging visuals and heartfelt storytelling, “Visit The Amish” invites viewers to step into a world that values simplicity and connection over modern distractions.

    For those interested in exploring this unique culture further, you can visit the “Visit The Amish” YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSRMiY1o5F69pwTpKuIWlvA. Whether you are an avid follower of Amish traditions or just curious about their way of life, this channel offers a welcoming space to learn and connect.

    Citations:
    [1] https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSRMiY1o5F69pwTpKuIWlvA

    Amish Population Boom: A Silent Migration Reshapes Rural America

    Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

    expansion of Amish communities

    Amish Population Boom: A Silent Migration Reshapes Rural America

    In a remarkable demographic shift, the Old Order Amish population in North America has nearly doubled in the past two decades, surpassing 350,000 members. This rapid growth, driven by large families and high retention rates, is reshaping rural communities across the United States and beyond.

    According to recent estimates from the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown College, the horse-and-buggy Amish population has increased by 97% since 2000. This trend suggests the community could double again in the coming decades, potentially reaching over 700,000 by 2040[5].

    While Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana remain the heartland of Amish America, new settlements are sprouting up across the country. States like Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Wisconsin have seen significant growth, with New York’s Amish population quadrupling since 2000 to over 21,000[5].

    “There are continually more Amish in areas they haven’t been before,” explains Steve Nolt, senior scholar at the Young Center. “This means new relationships are opening up, from buggies on the road to health-care providers meeting Amish patients for the first time”[5].

    The Amish population boom is primarily attributed to two factors: large families and high retention rates. On average, Amish families have five or more children, and approximately 85% of Amish youth choose to be baptized into the faith as adults[5][7].

    This growth has led to a rapid increase in Amish settlements and church districts. Since 1992, the number of Amish settlements has more than doubled, growing from 227 to 469 in 2013. Similarly, the number of church districts has increased from 930 to 2,056 in the same period[7].

    The expansion of Amish communities is not limited to the United States. Small but growing populations have been established in Canada, Bolivia, and Argentina, reflecting the global reach of this traditionally insular group[5].

    As Amish communities continue to grow and spread, they bring with them unique challenges and opportunities for their new neighbors. From adapting local infrastructure to accommodate horse-drawn buggies to navigating cultural differences in healthcare and education, the silent Amish migration is quietly reshaping rural America, one settlement at a time.

    expansion of Amish communities

    Citations:
    [1] https://plainanabaptistjournal.org/index.php/JPAC/article/download/7953/5927
    [2] https://www.ohiosamishcountry.com/articles/the-changing-face-of-the-amish
    [3] https://www.reddit.com/r/actuary/comments/10cnxmk/amish_population_growth/
    [4] https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1047&context=amishstudies
    [5] https://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/statistics/amish-population-profile-2022/
    [6] https://paa2005.populationassociation.org/papers/51593
    [7] https://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/statistics/population-trends-1992-2013/