Recent Posts

Amish Families Find New Home in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Amish Families Find New Home in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom

Amish Families Find New Home in Vermont

In a surprising twist of fate, Vermont’s efforts to attract new residents have been unexpectedly bolstered by the quiet arrival of Amish families in the state’s Northeast Kingdom. Since 2015, a group of about 10 closely related Amish families has been steadily settling in the area, bringing with them a traditional way of life that seems to blend seamlessly with Vermont’s rural landscape[1].

These newcomers, originally from Ohio and Pennsylvania, have purchased farms and land in the region, constructing large barns and houses. Their presence is now a familiar sight in the community, with horse-drawn buggies traversing the dirt roads and draft horses plowing fields[1]. The Vermont Agency of Transportation has even installed yellow road signs to alert drivers to the potential presence of slow-moving Amish carriages[1].

The Amish families have quickly become an integral part of the local economy and community. They operate farm stands, run community-supported agriculture programs, and have even started an independent Amish elementary school in Brownington[1]. Their carpentry skills have been put to good use on several local projects, including repair work on historic buildings at the Old Stone House Museum[1].

Andy Shetler, an Amish farmer who moved to Brownington, expressed the community’s desire to maintain their agricultural lifestyle. “We wanted to be farmers; I want my children to be farmers,” he said[1]. The move to Vermont was partly motivated by the need for high-quality, affordable farmland that could accommodate their large families[1].

Amish Farm Family

Local realtor Dan McClure has played a significant role in helping the Amish families find suitable properties. He noted that factors such as soil quality, water purity, and the need for space to expand their farming operations influenced their decision to settle in Vermont[1].

The Amish community in Vermont is affiliated with the conservative “Troyer Amish” subgroup, known for their traditional practices[1]. They maintain their distinctive dress and customs while interacting with their non-Amish neighbors, creating a unique cultural dynamic in the area[1].

As the Amish population in Vermont continues to grow, with new families looking to settle around North Troy and Lowell, it seems that these unexpected immigrants have found a welcoming home in the Green Mountain State. Their presence adds a new dimension to Vermont’s rural landscape, bridging the gap between the state’s agricultural past and its present[1].

The Amish families have integrated well into the local community in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom since their arrival around 2015. They have become an integral part of the rural landscape and economy in several ways:

  1. Agriculture: The Amish have revitalized local agriculture by establishing farms, raising produce and animals, and running farm stands and community-supported agriculture operations[1][4]. They’ve even successfully grown watermelons, which was initially surprising to local residents[4].
  2. Business and trade: Amish men have worked as skilled carpenters on several local projects, including repairing historic buildings[1]. Their carpentry skills have become highly valued in the community, with Amish craftsmen excelling at tasks from porch repairs to cabinetry[5].
  3. Community events: The Amish operate an annual fish fry as a fundraiser for medical costs, which hundreds of Vermonters attend[1]. This event has become a popular way for the Amish to connect with their non-Amish neighbors.
  4. Education: The Amish families have established an independent Amish elementary school in Brownington, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining their traditions while settling in Vermont[1].
  5. Economic contribution: Their presence has given a boost to the region’s agriculture and provided competition to local building contractors, contributing to the local economy[5].
  6. Collaboration with local institutions: The Old Stone House Museum has leased some of its land to an Amish farmer, showing a cooperative relationship between the Amish and local cultural institutions[5].
Amish Families Find New Home in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom

While the Amish maintain their distinct lifestyle and traditions, they have formed friendships with non-Amish neighbors and found ways to coexist and contribute to the community. Their horse-drawn buggies and traditional farming methods have become a familiar sight, adding a unique dimension to Vermont’s rural landscape[1][4].

Citations:
[1] https://www.vnews.com/Amish-families-quietly-take-up-residence-in-the-Northeast-Kingdom-21006115
[2] https://salomafurlong.com/aboutamish/2020/09/soul-restoring-trip-to-northeast/
[3] https://amishamerica.com/amish-moving-to-vermont/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/vermont/comments/4x311k/whats_up_with_the_amish_in_the_northeast_kingdom/
[5] https://www.vermontpublic.org/podcast/brave-little-state/2021-10-21/six-years-ago-amish-families-started-settling-in-vermont-how-are-they-doing
[6] https://www.vtfarmfund.org/borrowers/shetler-family-farm
[7] https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bostonglobe/Q3II445VF2CHIVCYQQ6V6GPT5E.JPG?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi5zbu336yKAxWSQjABHa7gCMMQ_B16BAgFEAI
[8] https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/12/26/metro/they-just-sort-showed-up-amish-find-home-vermonts-northeast-kingdom/

Amish Communities Seek New Frontier

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Why the Amish Relocate

Amish Communities Seek New Frontiers: A Study on Settlement Patterns

In an era of rapid urbanization and technological advancement, one group continues to carve out a unique path: the Amish. A recent study by researchers Cory Anderson and Loren Kenda sheds light on the factors influencing Amish settlement patterns, offering insights into this growing community’s expansion strategies and their potential impact on rural America.

The Amish Expansion

The Amish population is experiencing a remarkable growth rate, doubling every 20.5 years. This rapid expansion has led to a constant search for new lands to accommodate their burgeoning communities. Unlike many other groups in modern society, the Amish maintain a strong preference for rural living, often moving in groups of families to establish new farming settlements.

Anderson and Kenda’s research focused on three primary factors affecting Amish settlement choices:

  1. Location
  2. Agricultural considerations
  3. Population concerns

Their study aimed to identify the characteristics that make certain areas attractive for new Amish settlements and to assess the long-term viability of these new communities.

Factors Influencing Settlement Choices

Location and Proximity to Towns

The researchers found that Amish settlements typically maintain a delicate balance between rural isolation and access to necessary services. New settlements are generally established between 7 to 15 miles from the nearest town, with 20 miles being the usual maximum distance. This range allows for comfortable travel by horse and buggy while maintaining a degree of separation from urban centers.

Interestingly, the Amish tend to avoid settling within 5 miles of a town, preferring to have access to urban amenities without being immersed in them. This pattern reflects their desire to preserve their distinct way of life while still benefiting from certain aspects of modern society.

Amish market

Agricultural Considerations

The Amish maintain a strong agricultural tradition, even as they diversify into other occupations. When seeking new settlement areas, they prioritize:

  1. Moderate topography (neither too mountainous nor too flat)
  2. Affordable farmland
  3. Suitability for small-scale farming

The ideal Amish farm size ranges from just under 200 acres to slightly above 300 acres. This preference for smaller farms aligns with their traditional horse-powered farming methods and emphasis on crop diversity over cash crops.

Population and Community Dynamics

The study revealed that the spacing between new settlements and established ones plays a crucial role in their long-term success. Settlements established far from existing Amish communities tended to fail, while those located within about 20 miles of established settlements had higher survival rates.

This pattern suggests that proximity to other Amish communities provides important social, economic, and cultural support for new settlements. It also facilitates the maintenance of familial and community ties across settlements.

Impact on Rural America

The expansion of Amish communities into new areas can have significant effects on rural landscapes and economies. Some potential impacts include:

Amish farmers
  1. Revitalization of depressed rural economies
  2. Utilization of vacant or underused lands
  3. Development of new farming operations
  4. Creation of tourism opportunities benefiting local businesses

However, the Amish presence also presents challenges for rural planning and infrastructure. Their rejection of automobile culture necessitates transportation systems that can accommodate horse-drawn vehicles, walkers, bicycles, and scooters.

The Amish Approach to Relocation

The process of establishing a new Amish settlement is methodical and community-driven. It often begins with scouting parties sent out to explore potential areas. Once a consensus is reached on a desirable location, different households purchase land in close proximity to create a new community.

These relocations are frequently initiated by residents of older, well-established settlements facing land shortages. For landless families wishing to farm, the choice often comes down to resettling in a new area or seeking non-farming occupations.

Interestingly, migration to new settlements can also serve as a means of conflict resolution within the Amish community. By providing an opportunity for a fresh start, these moves can help prevent local schisms and foster peace among church districts with differing customs.

Preserving Tradition in a Changing World

Despite their expansion into new areas, the Amish continue to maintain their traditional way of life. Even in settlements caught up in development, such as Lancaster County, they strive to preserve their cultural practices and values.

The Amish self-image as farmers remains strong, even as economic realities push some into non-agricultural occupations. Their approach to farming emphasizes:

  1. Crop diversity over cash crops
  2. Use of horse-powered equipment
  3. Transfer of farms to children to keep land within the community

This commitment to tradition extends beyond farming practices. New Amish settlements continue to maintain facilities for horses, home-based production economies, and in-home fabrication of goods for sale.

Future Prospects for Amish Settlements

Anderson and Kenda predict that the Amish will continue to maintain an agrarian society, with new settlements infilling around existing ones, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, the Midwest, and the Upper South. Both new and well-established settlements are expected to continue growing.

Intriguingly, the researchers note that the Amish are often attracted to areas that might be considered less desirable by others. Counties with lower wages and fewer amenities that appeal to the general population can be particularly attractive to Amish settlers. This trend could potentially lead to a revitalization of some of America’s most economically challenged rural areas.

The Amish balance their need for rural land with the availability of affordable farms through several strategies:

  1. They seek out areas with moderate topography and inexpensive farmland that can support small farms suitable for their horse-powered farming methods[1].
  2. Amish settlers look for locations that are rural but still within a comfortable buggy ride (7-15 miles) of small commercial centers, allowing access to essential services while maintaining their rural lifestyle[1].
  3. They prefer to establish new settlements in proximity to existing Amish communities, typically around 20 miles away, which has proven to be the most successful distance for long-term viability[1].
  4. The Amish are often attracted to counties with lower wages and fewer amenities that might be less desirable to others, making land more affordable and available[1].
  5. When faced with land shortages in established settlements, Amish families either relocate to new areas or diversify into non-farming occupations such as woodworking, small shops, or factory work[1].
  6. The ideal Amish farm size ranges from slightly under 200 acres to just above 300 acres, allowing them to maintain their agricultural traditions while adapting to land availability[1].
  7. They avoid settling in counties dominated by large, industrial farming enterprises, focusing instead on areas suitable for their small-scale, diverse farming practices[1].

By employing these strategies, the Amish are able to continue expanding their communities while preserving their rural, agrarian way of life, even as they adapt to changing economic realities.

Citations:
[1] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/1202624/c471dad7-f89b-4ee4-8478-00d53b82cc79/paste.txt

Conclusion

The expansion of Amish communities presents a unique counterpoint to broader trends of urbanization and technological advancement in American society. As they continue to grow and establish new settlements, the Amish demonstrate the enduring appeal and viability of a traditional, agrarian way of life.

Their settlement patterns, driven by a complex interplay of geographical, agricultural, and social factors, offer valuable insights into the dynamics of community formation and rural development. As rural America continues to evolve, the presence of Amish communities may play an increasingly significant role in shaping the landscape, economy, and culture of these areas.

The study by Anderson and Kenda not only sheds light on Amish settlement patterns but also raises important questions about the future of rural America and the coexistence of traditional and modern ways of life. As the Amish population continues to grow and expand into new areas, their impact on rural communities and economies will undoubtedly be a subject of ongoing interest and research.

Are the Amish Planning To Leave New York?

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life,New York

Are the Amish Planning To Leave New York?

Amish Communities Consider Mass Exodus from New York Amid Regulatory Pressures

Reports are emerging of a potential mass exodus of Amish communities from New York State, with many families considering relocating to Pennsylvania and Ohio as early as this spring. The move comes as a response to what some Amish perceive as religious persecution from state authorities[1].

The primary catalysts for this potential migration are stricter building codes and vaccination requirements. Many Amish have faced fines for not obtaining state-mandated building permits or installing smoke detectors, practices that conflict with their religious beliefs[1].

Are the Amish Planning To Leave New York?

In 2009, eleven Amish families in Watertown filed a lawsuit claiming religious discrimination regarding building codes. More recently, the state’s removal of religious exemptions for vaccinations has further strained relations[1].

A 2019 lawsuit filed by an Amish family in Rochester challenged the state’s vaccination law, arguing that it infringed on their religious freedoms. However, the New York Supreme Court rejected the claim, with Justice Daniel Doyle stating that religious beliefs cannot be grounds for refusing medical care for children[1].

Adding to these concerns is a proposal by the New York State Education Department requiring nonpublic schools to prove they offer education equivalent to public schools. This move could potentially impact Amish-run schools[1].

Are the Amish Planning To Leave New York?

The situation marks a significant shift from 2011 when Amish families were reportedly moving to New York in large numbers from Pennsylvania and Ohio. Now, the tide appears to be turning[1].

As of 2024, New York is home to over 23,000 Amish residents across 58 settlements, making it the state with the fifth-largest Amish population[9]. The potential exodus could have significant implications for these communities and the areas they inhabit.

While the full extent of this migration remains to be seen, it’s clear that many Amish families are grappling with the challenge of maintaining their traditional way of life in the face of modern regulations.

Citations:
[1] https://981thehawk.com/how-amish-live/
[2] https://www.alabamaag.gov/attorney-general-marshall-leads-brief-protecting-amish-schools-from-new-yorks-vaccine-mandates/
[3] https://pabook.libraries.psu.edu/literary-cultural-heritage-map-pa/feature-articles/persecution-division-and-opportunity-origins-old
[4] https://www.bedlamfarm.com/2021/06/14/the-amish-and-their-long-struggle-with-the-modern-world/
[5] https://wrrv.com/are-the-amish-planning-a-mass-exodus-from-new-york/
[6] https://www.becketlaw.org/case/yoder-v-morristown/
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amish
[8] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Amish
[9] https://amishamerica.com/new-york-amish/
[10] http://thedeliberateagrarian.blogspot.com/2007/12/fuscos-law-amish-upstate-ny-in-2050.html
[11] https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Amish-enclave-moves-to-Washington-County-16411219.php

Slowly But Surely: The Old Order Amish Duo Captivating the Internet: Ben & Rose

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Slowly But Surely The Old Order Amish Duo Captivating the Internet.

Imagine stumbling upon a YouTube video that stops you in your tracks. You’re not just witnessing another viral country cover; you’re experiencing a cultural phenomenon. An Old Order Amish couple, Ben & Rose, have broken tradition and captured the internet’s attention with their rendition of “Slowly But Surely”[1].

You might be familiar with the occasional unknown artist gaining traction online, but this is different. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill cover; it’s a glimpse into a world rarely seen. The Old Order Amish, known for their horse-and-buggy lifestyle and strict adherence to tradition, have typically shied away from the internet and modern technology[1].

As you watch Ben & Rose’s performance, you can’t help but wonder about the journey that led them to this moment. Picture them reaching out to Conrad Fisher, a singer/songwriter with Mennonite roots, who operates Ragamuffin Hall in McCoysville, Pennsylvania. This old church, built in 1871, now serves as a performance venue and recording studio[1].

You can almost see the scene unfold: Ben & Rose arriving at Ragamuffin Hall, driven by their brother, ready to record their version of a classic country song. Conrad Fisher, with his understanding of both the music industry and Amish/Mennonite culture, guides them through the process[1].

As you listen to Rose’s voice, you might find yourself agreeing with Conrad Fisher’s assessment: “She sounds like Dolly”[1]. You might even be tempted to seek out her other performances with Third Fret Harmony, covering songs like “Circle of Love” and Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors”[1].

While you watch this unlikely viral sensation, you might ponder the complexities of Amish culture. Contrary to popular belief, the Amish can engage with music, as long as it’s “uplifting and culturally appropriate”[1]. And as you tap your foot to the rhythm of “Slowly But Surely,” you’ll likely agree that Ben & Rose’s performance fits that description perfectly.

As the video ends, you might find yourself wondering about the future of this Amish duo. Could they become country music’s next sensation? Only time will tell. For now, you can simply sit back, hit replay, and enjoy this unique blend of tradition and modernity, one that’s slowly but surely capturing hearts across the digital landscape[1].

Citations:
[1] https://savingcountrymusic.com/young-old-order-amish-couple-goes-viral-with-country-song/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGeGCAgREdM
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKAU4rYNNSE
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsspmbIHLtk
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boriRfzpN6s
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhvDbv9Jqt4
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfuX1rc_f3s

Drone Fever Sweeps Through Amish Country: Lancaster County Abuzz with Mysterious Sightings

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Drone-Fever-Sweeps-Through-Amish-Country-Lancaster-County-Abuzz-with-Mysterious

Drone Fever Sweeps Through Amish Country: Lancaster County Abuzz with Mysterious Sightings

The peaceful farmlands of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, known for their horse-drawn buggies and traditional Amish lifestyle, are now at the center of a modern mystery. Residents across the county are reporting strange lights in the night sky, sparking a wave of speculation and excitement about unidentified flying objects.

Joshua Muffley, a 46-year-old Paradise Township resident, captured video footage of an unusual object hovering near Strasburg. “It wasn’t actually flying — sort of like hovering, and it wasn’t a star and it was moving,” Muffley recounted. His curiosity led him to drive to a hilltop for a better view, where he recorded the mysterious object on his iPhone[4].

In Lancaster city, Steve Schenker and his wife observed what they described as a dozen objects buzzing around on a cloudy night. “From what I saw, it’s either aliens or holograms,” Schenker said, struggling to explain the bizarre lights that seemed to defy conventional aircraft behavior[4].

Social media platforms are ablaze with theories ranging from Amazon’s experimental delivery drones to more ominous speculations about government surveillance or foreign adversaries. One Reddit user claimed to have sent their own drone up 400 feet to investigate, reporting sightings of “VERY large” drones unlike typical consumer models[4].

However, experts urge caution against jumping to conclusions. Jim Willson, a licensed commercial drone operator and former Navy pilot, suggests that many sightings might be misidentified commercial aircraft. He warns against any attempts to interfere with or shoot down suspected drones, citing safety concerns and legal implications[4].

Amish Drones

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established channels for reporting drone activity, but local authorities seem to be caught off guard. Cheryl Martin, finance and administration director at Lancaster Airport, reported no calls about the sightings as of Friday[4].

As the mystery deepens, Lancaster County finds itself at the intersection of tradition and technology, with Amish buggies sharing the roads—and now the skies—with potentially advanced aerial devices. Whether these sightings are part of legitimate drone operations, misidentified aircraft, or something more mysterious, one thing is clear: the once-quiet nights of Amish country are now filled with wonder and speculation, as residents keep their eyes on the skies.

Citations:
[1] https://www.wsoctv.com/unavailable-location/
[2] https://consent.youtube.com/ml?continue=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fc%2Ffox43%3Fcbrd%3D1&hl=en&cm=2&pc=yt&src=1
[3] https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-pennsylvania/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_hkliylYmE
[5] https://www.phmc.state.pa.us/portal/communities/agriculture/files/context/lancaster_plain.pdf
[6] https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/RulesAndRegulations/UnmannedAerialSystemsandDrones/Pages/default.aspx
[7] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/12/14/who-is-behind-nj-drone-sightings/76991754007/
[8] https://twitter.com/LancasterOnline/status/1867697977004798336
[9] https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/lancasteronline.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/0e/30ed9f02-7586-549f-90d7-50e8a090f4ec/675b1082c1a10.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiwsKCCxqiKAxW7lokEHXIUFT8Q_B16BAgIEAI
[10] https://pilotinstitute.com/drones/states/pennsylvania/
[11] https://thedronelifenj.com/places-to-fly-a-drone-in-pennsylvania/
[12] https://gawthrop.com/silver-bells-and-privacy-rights-what-to-know-about-pennsylvanias-new-drone-law-this-holiday-season/
[13] https://www.pa.gov/services/penndot/register-an-unmanned-aircraft-system-drone.html
[14] https://www.lancasterbar.org/Legal-and-Regulatory-Considerations-for-Drone-Operations-7-9791.html

Bring Joy to Your Holidays with Amish Christmas Cookies

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Bring Joy to Your Holidays with Amish Christmas Cookies

Bring Joy to Your Holidays with Amish Christmas Cookies

As the festive season draws near, nothing encapsulates the spirit of Christmas quite like homemade cookies. This year, why not try your hand at Amish Christmas Cookies? These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. With their soft texture and sweet frosting, they’re sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • ½ cup plain shortening
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 to 6 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cream the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  2. Mix in the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the eggs, followed by the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.
  3. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
  4. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
  5. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a well-greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Prepare the Frosting: While the cookies cool, prepare your frosting by beating together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk or cream to achieve a spreadable consistency.
  8. Decorate Your Cookies: Once cooled, frost each cookie with your prepared icing. If you’d like to add some festive flair, divide the frosting into bowls and mix in food coloring for different shades. Top with sprinkles if desired.

Share and Enjoy

These Amish Christmas Cookies are not just a treat; they are a way to share love and joy during the holiday season. Package them in decorative tins or plates and give them as gifts to neighbors, friends, or family members. The soft texture and sweet frosting will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Three more Christmas recipes:

Final Thoughts

Baking these cookies is more than just making a delicious dessert; it’s about creating memories with loved ones during this special time of year. So gather your family in the kitchen, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this delightful Amish recipe that will surely become a beloved tradition in your home!

Citations:
[1] https://www.twopinkpeonies.com/amish-christmas-cookies/
[2] https://bird-in-hand.com/blog/pennsylvania-dutch-recipes-for-delicious-christmas-treats/
[3] https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/amish-christmas-recipes/
[4] https://www.amish365.com/amish-christmas-cut-out-cookies/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkOEyYTZeBw