New Amish Settlement Blossoms in Rural Georgia, Sparking Local Interest and Economic Growth
Northeast Georgia’s rolling hills near Clayton in Rabun County have become home to a burgeoning Old Order Amish community, the first of its kind in the state since the 1990s. Founded by five families from Pennsylvania and Ohio, the settlement is revitalizing local agriculture, fostering cultural exchange, and drawing curious visitors eager to experience its traditional way of life12.
Roots in Rabun County
The settlers were drawn to Georgia’s fertile farmland, milder climate, and scenic isolation, which align with their values of simplicity and self-sufficiency. Eli Stoltzfus, a community leader, explains, “We sought land where our children could grow up close to nature and our traditions could thrive”1. The group has quickly established organic farms producing peaches, peanuts, sorghum, and corn, alongside small-scale dairy operations aiming to craft artisanal cheeses12.
Economic Ripple Effects
Local businesses are already benefiting from the influx of tourists and the Amish’s craftsmanship. The settlement’s store, offering handcrafted furniture, quilts, and fresh produce, has become a regional draw1. Nearby, Blue Ridge’s Taste of Amish & General Store reports increased foot traffic, while Homer’s David & Katie’s Amish Store anticipates collaborations on woodworking and farm goods2.
Key Ventures Driving Growth:
Organic Farming: Sustainable practices and crop diversity are inspiring neighboring farms1.
Artisanal Crafts: Furniture expos and quilting demos attract eco-conscious shoppers2.
Tourism: Buggy rides, farm tours, and homestays offer immersive cultural experiences2.
Cultural Exchange and Challenges
Locals have embraced the newcomers, with Rabun County schools planning educational programs on Amish traditions. “Their work ethic and commitment to family resonate deeply here,” says Clayton resident Linda Matthews12. However, Georgia’s humid summers pose hurdles: the Amish have modified home designs for better ventilation and adjusted work schedules to avoid peak heat1.
Expansion and Legacy
The community has purchased additional land for future families and aims to build a school and sawmill. Eli Stoltzfus notes, “We’re here to stay—to farm, build, and contribute”1. This revival echoes Georgia’s earlier Amish-Mennonite influences, such as Montezuma’s Beachy Amish Mennonite community, known for blending Southern and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions2.
Voices from the Community
“We’re not just preserving our way of life—we’re sharing it. Every quilt we stitch, every crop we grow, connects us to our neighbors.” — Mary Yoder, Amish settler1 “Their arrival has reminded us what’s possible when hard work meets humility.” — Tom Jenkins, Rabun County school board member2
As buggies traverse Rabun County’s backroads, the settlement embodies a partnership between tradition and progress, offering Georgia a model for rural renewal rooted in sustainability and mutual respect.
New Amish Community Brings Tradition and Growth to Rural Oklahoma
A quiet transformation is underway in rural Oklahoma, where a new Amish community has recently taken root, blending centuries-old traditions with the rhythms of modern local life. Nestled near the outskirts of Chouteau in Mayes County, this community marks a significant chapter in Oklahoma’s evolving cultural landscape, promising economic vitality, cultural exchange, and a renewed appreciation for simplicity.
A New Beginning in the Heartland
Oklahoma has long been home to small but deeply rooted Amish settlements, with Chouteau, Clarita, Welch, and Westville hosting the state’s four established communities1. The arrival of a new group, comprised largely of families from Ohio and Indiana, is seen by both locals and Amish members as a hopeful sign for the region’s future.
Jacob Yoder, a spokesman for the new settlement, explains, “We were drawn here by the open land, the welcoming spirit of the people, and the chance to build a life close to our values. Oklahoma offers us the space to farm, raise our families, and maintain our traditions.”
Tradition Meets Opportunity
The Amish are renowned for their commitment to community, humility, and a lifestyle governed by the Ordnung—a set of rules that shapes everything from technology use to dress and worship2. In Oklahoma, these traditions have adapted in practical ways. For instance, the use of tractors for fieldwork has been permitted, a decision made to help young families remain on the land and sustain their way of life2.
Raymond Miller, an Amish minister, notes, “Allowing tractors was a big step for us, but it means our children can stay and work the land. It keeps our families together, which is at the heart of our beliefs.”
Local Businesses Thrive
The arrival of the new Amish community has already begun to invigorate the local economy. Chouteau and its surroundings are no strangers to Amish entrepreneurship, with businesses like the Amish Cheese House, Dutch Pantry, and Nettie Ann’s Bakery drawing both locals and tourists alike358. These establishments offer everything from homemade cheeses and baked goods to handcrafted furniture and preserves.
“We’ve seen an uptick in visitors since the new families arrived,” says Linda Foster, owner of a nearby antique shop. “People come for the Amish goods, but they stay to explore the town. It’s been wonderful for business.”
The Amish Country Store & Restaurant in Muskogee, a short drive from the new settlement, has also benefited. “Our shelves are filled with Amish-made jams, noodles, and candies,” says manager Tom Reynolds. “Customers love the authenticity and the connection to local producers. The new community brings even more variety and quality to what we offer.”4
A Welcoming Spirit
Local residents have largely embraced their new neighbors, drawn by the Amish reputation for hard work, honesty, and neighborliness. “It’s refreshing to see people so dedicated to their families and their faith,” says Chouteau resident Mary Ellen Brooks. “They’ve brought a sense of peace and purpose to our area.”
The annual Black Buggy Day festival, a celebration of Amish culture in Chouteau, has become an even more vibrant event with the addition of new families38. Visitors enjoy homemade ice cream, buggy rides, and the chance to learn about Amish customs firsthand. “It’s a wonderful way to bring the community together,” says festival organizer Bill Harris. “We’re proud to showcase the Amish way of life and share it with everyone.”
Challenges and Adaptation
While the new community has been welcomed, it has also faced challenges familiar to Amish settlers across the country. Making a living from the land is difficult, especially in Oklahoma’s sometimes unforgiving climate12. The decision to allow certain technologies, such as steel-wheeled tractors, reflects a pragmatic approach to survival and sustainability27.
“Our goal is not to reject the world, but to live simply and faithfully,” explains Anna Miller, a member of the new settlement. “We adapt where we must, but we hold fast to what matters most—our faith, our families, and our community.”
A Distinctive Presence
The Amish presence is unmistakable: black buggies on country roads, plain dress, and the gentle cadence of Pennsylvania German spoken among families2. Their schools, limited to the eighth grade, emphasize practical skills and moral instruction, preparing children for lives of service and self-sufficiency.
The Clarita Greenhouse, operated by the Eli Schrock family, is just one example of Amish enterprise in the region, offering flowers, plants, and seasonal produce to the wider community6. “We’re grateful for the support of our neighbors,” says Eli Schrock. “It’s a partnership that benefits us all.”
Looking Ahead
Oklahoma’s Amish population remains modest—about 700 people as of 2024—but the stability and growth of its communities signal a promising future19. As the new settlement finds its footing, both Amish and local residents are optimistic about what lies ahead.
“It’s not just about tradition,” says Jacob Yoder. “It’s about building something lasting, together with our neighbors. We hope to be a blessing to this land and to everyone who calls it home.”
Local Businesses Highlight
Business Name
Specialty
Location
Amish Cheese House
Cheeses, deli, baked goods, ice cream
Chouteau
Dutch Pantry Restaurant
Amish cuisine, fresh-baked pies
Chouteau
Nettie Ann’s Bakery
Breads, pastries, whoopie pies
Chouteau
Amish Country Store
Jams, candies, noodles, comfort foods
Muskogee
Clarita Greenhouse
Flowers, plants, seasonal produce
Clarita
Voices from the Community
“We’re excited to see new faces and fresh energy in our town. The Amish have a way of reminding us what’s important—family, faith, and hard work.” — Linda Foster, local business owner
“We welcome the Amish with open arms. They bring a unique perspective and a sense of stability that’s good for everyone.” — Bill Harris, festival organizer
“Our hope is to live quietly, work hard, and be good neighbors. Oklahoma has given us a warm welcome, and we are grateful.” — Anna Miller, Amish community member
The Road Ahead
As the new Amish community settles into the Oklahoma landscape, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition, the value of community, and the possibilities that arise when cultures meet with mutual respect. For the residents of Chouteau and beyond, the arrival of their new neighbors is more than a curiosity—it’s a partnership for the future.
1 deep-dish 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup molasses (unsulphured preferred)
3/4 cup hot water
1 egg, beaten (optional, some recipes omit for a more traditional texture)
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter or shortening, softened
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust: Place your deep-dish pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate. For best results, chill or freeze the crust for 30 minutes before baking. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Blind Bake the Crust (Optional but recommended): Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and paper, and bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool.
Make the Crumb Mixture: In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in the butter or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix the Molasses Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together molasses, hot water, baking soda, and egg (if using).
Assemble the Pie:
Sprinkle half the crumb mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust (this helps prevent sogginess).
Pour the molasses mixture over the crumbs.
Top with the remaining crumb mixture.
Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips). Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Shoofly pie is often served at room temperature and pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Article: The Tradition and Lore of Amish Shoofly Pie
Shoofly pie is one of the most iconic desserts of Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish cuisine, known for its rich molasses flavor and crumbly, cake-like texture. Its origins trace back to German-speaking immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania in the 18th century, bringing with them a tradition of resourceful baking using shelf-stable ingredients like flour, molasses, and brown sugar
A Pie of Necessity and Celebration
The pie’s creation is rooted in practicality. Early settlers relied on nonperishable ingredients that could survive long journeys and harsh winters. Shoofly pie was born out of necessity, using what was on hand to create something sweet and satisfying7. Over time, it became a staple at church events, family gatherings, and community celebrations throughout Amish and Mennonite communities in Lancaster County and beyond.
Wet-Bottom vs. Dry-Bottom Shoofly Pie
There are two main styles of shoofly pie: wet-bottom and dry-bottom. The wet-bottom version, favored by many Amish bakers, features a gooey, almost pudding-like molasses layer that soaks into the crust, while the dry-bottom style is more cake-like throughout. Both are topped with a buttery, spiced crumb mixture that adds texture and sweetness.
The Name: Shoofly
The name “shoofly pie” has inspired much curiosity and folklore. One popular explanation is that the sticky molasses filling attracts flies, prompting bakers to “shoo” them away as the pie cools. Another theory links the name to Shoofly, a famous boxing mule from a 19th-century circus, and to a brand of molasses named after the mule. Regardless of its true origin, the whimsical name has helped cement the pie’s place in American culinary lore.
Cultural Legacy
Shoofly pie remains a beloved symbol of Pennsylvania Dutch culture. Its sweet aroma and distinctive flavor evoke nostalgia for many who grew up in the region or visited Amish country. Today, it is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, often served with coffee as a breakfast treat or as a comforting dessert
Amish deviled eggs are a beloved staple at gatherings, potlucks, and family meals in Amish communities. Known for their creamy, tangy filling and simple, wholesome ingredients, these deviled eggs often feature subtle twists like a touch of sugar, vinegar, or even pickle juice, setting them apart from the standard versions. The abundance of fresh eggs on Amish farms makes this dish both practical and popular, and the recipe is easily adaptable to suit personal tastes or what’s on hand in the kitchen.
Below is a classic Amish deviled eggs recipe, followed by an article exploring their cultural significance and common variations.
Ingredients
6 hard-boiled eggs
3 Tbsp. mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
1 ½ tsp. sugar
1 tsp. white vinegar
2 tsp. dill pickle juice (optional, but traditional)
½ tsp. yellow mustard
¼ tsp. salt
⅛ tsp. paprika (plus more for garnish)
Dill weed, chopped chives, or paprika for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Eggs: Hard-boil the eggs, then cool and peel them. Cut each egg in half lengthwise and gently remove the yolks, placing them in a small bowl.
Make the Filling: Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth. Add mayonnaise or Miracle Whip, sugar, vinegar, pickle juice, mustard, salt, and paprika. Mix until creamy. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more mayo or Miracle Whip.
Fill the Eggs: Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
Garnish: Sprinkle with paprika, dill weed, or chopped chives as desired.
Serve: Chill until ready to serve. For best results, refrigerate the whites and yolk mixture separately and fill just before serving.
Amish Deviled Eggs: A Tradition of Simplicity and Flavor
Deviled eggs hold a special place in Amish culinary tradition. With eggs being a plentiful resource on Amish farms, these creamy stuffed eggs are a practical way to use up excess eggs and provide a protein-rich snack or appetizer for large gatherings. Amish deviled eggs are especially popular at picnics, church socials, and family meals, where their familiar flavor and easy preparation make them a crowd favorite.
What Sets Amish Deviled Eggs Apart?
Amish recipes often include a few unique touches:
Sweetness: A small amount of sugar is commonly added to balance the tang from vinegar and mustard, giving the filling a subtle sweetness.
Tangy Notes: White vinegar and sometimes dill pickle juice are used to brighten the flavor, making the filling more complex and refreshing.
Creaminess: Some versions include a splash of cream for extra richness, though mayonnaise or Miracle Whip is the standard base.
Simple Garnishes: While paprika is a classic topping, Amish cooks might also use black pepper, dill, or even crispy bacon bits for added flavor and color.
Variations and Tips
Pickle Relish: Some Amish cooks add sweet or dill pickle relish for extra texture and tang.
Herbs: Chopped chives, dill weed, or even thinly sliced green onions can be sprinkled on top for a fresh finish3.
Bacon: For a heartier version, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the filled eggs.
Serving: Deviled eggs are best served chilled and can be made ahead, though filling them just before serving helps keep them fresh and prevents the whites from drying out.
Why Are They Called “Deviled” Eggs?
The term “deviled” refers to the addition of spicy or highly seasoned ingredients, such as mustard and pepper, which was a common culinary term in the 18th century. Despite the name, Amish deviled eggs are rarely spicy, focusing instead on a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Amish deviled eggs are more than just a picnic favorite—they’re a testament to the resourcefulness, hospitality, and culinary heritage of Amish communities. Whether served at a holiday meal or a simple family lunch, these eggs are sure to delight with their timeless appeal and comforting taste.
Millersburg, Ohio: A Haven of Handcrafted Treasures and Timeless Traditions
Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, Millersburg is a town where horse-drawn buggies share the road with modern vehicles, and the rhythms of 19th-century craftsmanship still thrive. As the second-largest Amish community in the U.S., after Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County, Millersburg offers visitors a rare blend of pastoral beauty, artisanal excellence, and historical depth. Whether you’re browsing handcrafted furniture, savoring homemade pies, or exploring Victorian-era landmarks, this Ohio gem promises an escape to a simpler, more intentional way of life.
The Heart of Amish Craftsmanship
Millersburg’s identity is deeply rooted in its Amish and Mennonite communities, who have preserved traditional skills like woodworking, quilting, and cheesemaking for generations. Key stops for handmade goods include:
Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery: A family-friendly destination featuring an Amish bakery, petting zoo, and seasonal produce market1. Their freshly baked pies and jams are local legends.
Coblentz Collar Leather Shop: Specializing in hand-stitched leather goods, from belts to horse harnesses, crafted by Amish artisans2.
Yoder’s Amish Home: Tour authentic Amish homes, a one-room schoolhouse, and enjoy a buggy ride while learning about Amish customs2.
For unique antiques, Village Antique Emporium sprawls across multiple floors with vintage furniture, collectibles, and Americana1. Meanwhile, Baskets and Blooms offers handwoven baskets and floral arrangements that reflect Amish gardening traditions3.
Historical Gems: Museums and Architecture
Holmes County Historical Society & Victorian House Museum
This 28-room mansion, built in 1901, showcases Victorian opulence with stained-glass windows, hand-carved woodwork, and period furnishings. Self-guided tours reveal artifacts from Millersburg’s early days, including Civil War memorabilia1.
Millersburg Glass Museum
A hidden treasure for collectors, this museum displays rare glassware from the short-lived Millersburg Glass Company (1909–1912). Its vibrant “carnival glass” pieces, known for iridescent finishes, are highly sought after1.
Holmes County Courthouse
Built in 1880, this Second Empire-style courthouse remains a functioning government building. Its clock tower and ornate facade make it a photogenic centerpiece of downtown1.
Scenic Adventures and Outdoor Escapes
Holmes County Trail: A 15-mile paved rail-trail perfect for biking, walking, or even Amish buggy rides. The trail connects Millersburg to Fredericksburg, offering pastoral views of farms and forests1.
Deer Run Park: A quiet retreat with picnic areas, fishing ponds, and walking paths1.
Golfing: The rolling hills of Amish Country provide a serene backdrop for courses like Fire Ridge Golf Club3.
Culinary Delights: From Farm to Table
Amish Country’s culinary scene emphasizes simplicity and freshness:
Hershberger’s Bakery: Try their famous fry pies or cinnamon rolls baked in a wood-fired oven4.
Broad Run Cheesehouse: Sample award-winning Swiss and Gouda cheeses paired with local wines5.
Der Dutchman Restaurant: A staple for family-style meals featuring fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and shoofly pie4.
Where to Stay: Cozy Retreats
Inns and B&Bs: The Hotel Millersburg blends historic charm with modern comforts, while Garden Gate Getaway offers cottage stays amid flower gardens3.
Cabins and RV Parks: Scenic Hill RV Park provides full hookups near hiking trails, while The Barn Inn features rustic-chic cabins with fireplaces5.
Airbnbs: Rent a farmhouse or converted barn for an immersive Amish Country experience.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Berlin, Ohio: Just 10 miles away, this village boasts Schrock’s Heritage Village, a collection of artisan shops and a petting farm5.
Sugarcreek: Known as “Little Switzerland,” it hosts the Ohio Swiss Festival each September4.
Lakewood, Ohio: An hour and a half away, this walkable suburb offers boutique shopping and lakefront parks3.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: Fall foliage (October) and spring planting season (May) are ideal. Avoid Sundays, as many Amish businesses close for worship.
Getting There: Fly into Cleveland Hopkins (CLE) or Columbus International (CMH). Rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive to Millersburg.
Local Etiquette: Always ask permission before photographing Amish individuals, and respect “No Trespassing” signs on private farms.
Preserving Tradition in a Modern World
Millersburg’s artisans face challenges balancing tradition with economic demands. Many now sell online or participate in fairs like the Ohio Amish Country Farmers Market, ensuring their crafts endure. As visitor interest grows, the community remains committed to sustainability, with initiatives like solar-powered workshops and organic farming cooperatives.
Millersburg is more than a destination—it’s a living testament to the enduring appeal of craftsmanship, community, and quiet country living. Whether you’re hunting for heirloom-quality quilts, savoring slow-cooked meals, or simply soaking in the rolling hills, this Ohio town invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the rhythms of a simpler time.
A Landmark Gathering: 1,600 Amish and Old Order Mennonites Unite in Shipshewana
On March 28–29, 2025, Shipshewana, Indiana, became the epicenter of a historic Anabaptist gathering as approximately 1,600 Amish and Old Order Mennonites from 15 U.S. states converged for a weekend of spiritual renewal, education, and communal worship. Held at the Shipshewana Auction—a venue typically bustling with livestock sales and flea markets—the event marked the first large-scale collaboration of its kind, blending traditional Anabaptist values with contemporary theological discourse.
The Vision Behind the Gathering
Organized by Amish leaders with support from Old Order Mennonite communities, the event aimed to address pressing spiritual and cultural challenges facing Anabaptist groups today. Topics ranged from theological debates like “Protestant vs. Anabaptist” to practical discussions on maintaining Gelassenheit (yieldedness), a core tenet emphasizing humility and submission to God’s will.
“This was a mostly Amish-directed event from start to finish,” said Chester Weaver, an Amish-Mennonite scholar who presented sessions on lesser-known Mennonite histories, including the Russian Mennonite migration and Mennonite experiences under Nazi rule. Weaver’s talks, described as “eye-opening” by attendees, highlighted the resilience of Anabaptist communities through centuries of persecution and adaptation.
A Weekend of Learning and Worship
The event’s bilingual approach—with sermons and lectures delivered in English to accommodate diverse attendees—reflected a deliberate effort to bridge cultural divides. Keynote sessions included:
“Anabaptist Faith: Past, Present, and Future”: A deep dive into the movement’s origins during the 16th-century Reformation and its evolution across continents.
“Two-Kingdom Separation”: A discussion on balancing spiritual commitments with civic responsibilities, a perennial challenge for communities that prioritize nonconformity.
“The Role of Women in Anabaptist Life”: Though not explicitly listed in the brochure, informal breakout groups addressed gender roles and education, themes that resonated deeply with attendees.
Singing played a central role, with traditional Ausbund hymns blending harmoniously with newer a cappella compositions. The communal meals—prepared by local Amish families—featured homemade bread, shoofly pie, and other staples of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, fostering camaraderie across regional affiliations.
Why Shipshewana?
Shipshewana’s significance as a cultural hub for Amish and Mennonite communities cannot be overstated. Nestled in Indiana’s LaGrange County, the town is home to:
Menno-Hof Museum: A visitor center chronicling Anabaptist history through immersive exhibits, including a replica 17th-century sailing ship and a tornado simulator illustrating Mennonite disaster relief efforts1.
The Shipshewana Trading Place: A year-round marketplace for Amish crafts, antiques, and seasonal events like the Midwest Tool Expo and Maple Syrup Days2.
The Amish & Mennonite Artist Gathering: An annual event showcasing woodworking, quilting, and other traditional crafts3.
The choice of venue also underscored practical considerations: the auction barn’s open layout accommodated large crowds, while its central location in the Midwest made it accessible for families traveling from as far as Florida and Oregon.
Voices from the Gathering
Attendees praised the event’s emphasis on unity and education. “It was a nice experience to meet others who share our values but come from different traditions,” remarked an Old Order Mennonite woman from Pennsylvania. For many younger participants, the gathering offered a rare opportunity to engage with broader theological debates while staying rooted in community traditions.
Chester Weaver noted that his sessions on Mennonite history under Nazism—a topic seldom discussed in conservative circles—sparked lively Q&A sessions. “These stories aren’t just history; they’re part of our identity,” he said.
The Future of Anabaptist Gatherings
While the 2025 event was billed as a one-time occasion, its success has spurred discussions about future collaborations. Potential ideas include:
Regional spin-offs: Smaller conferences focused on youth education or sustainable farming.
Digital outreach: Live-streaming sessions for homebound members, a contentious proposal given many communities’ restrictions on technology.
Interdenominational dialogues: Inviting progressive Mennonite and Brethren groups to discuss shared challenges like climate change and healthcare access.
Shipshewana Beyond the Gathering
For visitors inspired to explore Shipshewana’s Anabaptist heritage, the town offers year-round attractions:
Off the Beaten Path Tours: Self-guided drives past Amish cottage industries, from leather workshops to peanut butter mills4.
Seasonal Festivals: Mayfest parades, Ranch Rodeos, and the Lights of Joy Christmas display2.
Hands-On Experiences: Workshops on quilt-making, butter-churning, and buggy-building at local farms.
Conclusion
The March 2025 gathering in Shipshewana was more than a conference—it was a testament to the enduring vitality of Anabaptist communities in an increasingly fragmented world. By blending historical reflection with forward-looking dialogue, attendees left with renewed purpose, proving that even the most tradition-bound groups can adapt without compromising their core values. For those seeking to understand the heart of Amish and Mennonite life, Shipshewana remains an indispensable destination.