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Amish Potato Salad

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish cooking

Amish Potato Salad: Creamy, Sweet, and Tangy Perfection

Amish Potato Salad: A Classic Side Dish Rooted in Tradition

Amish potato salad is a beloved staple in Amish communities and beyond, known for its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and hearty ingredients. Unlike many mayonnaise-based potato salads, Amish potato salad often features a slightly sweeter profile, with a hint of tanginess that makes it stand out at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. Whether served alongside fried chicken, grilled meats, or as part of a traditional Amish meal, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that reflects the Amish values of simplicity and hospitality.

What Makes Amish Potato Salad Unique?

Amish potato salad is distinct for its use of hard-boiled eggs, celery, and a dressing that combines mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and mustard. The result is a salad that is creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy—perfect for pairing with rich, savory main dishes. The inclusion of hard-boiled eggs adds protein and texture, while celery provides a refreshing crunch. The dressing is what truly sets it apart, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity that is characteristic of Amish-style salads1.

Classic Amish Potato Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs. starchy potatoes (russet or Yukon gold recommended)
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • 5 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion (white or yellow)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (real mayonnaise preferred)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar or rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: paprika, fresh dill, or black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled potatoes, chopped celery, hard-boiled eggs, and onion to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until well coated.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, fresh dill, or black pepper before serving.

Amish Potato Salad in Amish Communities

In Amish communities across Virginia and beyond, potato salad is a common sight at community gatherings, auctions, and church dinners. These events are not only social but also provide an opportunity for Amish families to share their culinary traditions with neighbors and visitors.

For example, in Charlotte County, Virginia—home to the state’s largest Amish community—potato salad is often served at the Southside Produce Auction, where attendees can enjoy homemade sandwiches and salads alongside fresh produce and baked goods. Similarly, in Halifax County and the Northern Neck, Amish-run stores and markets may feature potato salad as part of their deli offerings, especially during the spring and summer months.

Where to Find Amish Potato Salad

If you’re visiting an Amish community, look for local markets, roadside stands, and auctions where homemade potato salad is often available. Here are a few notable locations in Virginia:

  • Southside Produce Auction (Charlotte County): A hub for Amish food and fellowship, where potato salad is a popular item at auction events.
  • Pineview Bulk Food & Deli (Farmville): An Amish-run market offering a variety of homemade salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
  • Walker Valley Market (Pearisburg): Known for its deli and homemade salads, including potato salad.
  • Local Amish bakeries and markets in Halifax County and the Northern Neck: Many feature homemade potato salad, especially during the warmer months2.

Enjoying Amish Potato Salad

Amish potato salad is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to absorb the creamy dressing. It pairs well with grilled meats, fried chicken, or as part of a traditional Amish “noon meal.” Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or potlucks.

A Taste of Tradition

Amish potato salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a reflection of the Amish commitment to simple, wholesome cooking and the joy of sharing food with others. Whether you make it at home or seek it out in an Amish community, this classic salad is sure to delight.

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Discovering the Unexpected: A New Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe: A Sweet Slice of TraditionCommunity in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck

Amish Cinnamon Bread: A Sweet Slice of Tradition

Amish cinnamon bread is a beloved staple in Amish kitchens and bakeries across the country, known for its simple ingredients, rich cinnamon swirls, and comforting aroma. This no-knead sweet bread is a favorite for breakfast, dessert, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, embodying the Amish tradition of sharing food and hospitality.

What Makes Amish Cinnamon Bread Special?

Amish cinnamon bread stands out for its moist, tender crumb and the sweet, fragrant cinnamon-sugar filling that winds through each slice. Unlike many artisan breads, it requires no yeast or lengthy kneading, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The recipe typically calls for common pantry staples: butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, buttermilk, flour, baking soda, and a generous dusting of cinnamon and sugar for the topping1.

How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread

Ingredients:

  • For the bread:
    • 1/8 cup Butter
    • 1/8 cup Granulated sugar
    • 1 Large egg
    • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
    • 1 cup Buttermilk
    • 3 cups bread flour
    • 1 Tbsp Baking soda
    • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
    • Granulated sugar
    • Ground cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla using a handheld mixer.
  3. Using a rubber spatula, add buttermilk, flour, and baking soda just until combined.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
  5. Divide half of the batter between the two prepared pans. Sprinkle three-fourths of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in both pans.
  6. Spread the remaining batter evenly over the top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar on top.
  7. Use a butter knife to create swirls in the batter.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the bread cool for 20 minutes in the pan before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Amish Cinnamon Bread in Amish Communities

In Amish communities, cinnamon bread is more than just a treat—it’s a symbol of home and hospitality. Many Amish bakeries, such as those in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Virginia, feature cinnamon bread alongside other baked goods like pies, cookies, and shoofly cakes. Visitors to these communities often seek out local bakeries for a taste of authentic Amish cinnamon bread, which is typically made fresh daily.

For example, in Virginia’s growing Amish communities, like Charlotte County, Halifax County, and the Northern Neck, Amish bakeries and markets offer a variety of homemade breads, including cinnamon bread, to both locals and tourists2. These bakeries are often family-run and use traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Where to Find Amish Cinnamon Bread

If you’re visiting an Amish community, look for local bakeries, markets, and roadside stands. Here are a few examples from Virginia, where Amish bakeries are becoming increasingly popular:

  • Charlotte County: Home to Virginia’s largest Amish community, with several bakeries and markets offering homemade bread and baked goods.
  • Halifax County: Known for its Amish food stores and bakeries, where you can find cinnamon bread and other treats.
  • Northern Neck (Richmond County): A newer Amish settlement with bakeries and markets that feature fresh, homemade bread.

For those who can’t visit in person, the recipe above allows you to bring the taste of Amish cinnamon bread into your own kitchen.

Enjoying Amish Cinnamon Bread

Amish cinnamon bread is best enjoyed warm from the oven, with a pat of butter or a glass of cold milk. It’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a dessert. The bread also freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gifting.

A Taste of Tradition

Amish cinnamon bread is a testament to the Amish tradition of simple, wholesome cooking and generous hospitality. Whether you bake it at home or seek it out in an Amish community, this sweet, cinnamon-laced bread is sure to delight.

Discovering the Unexpected: A New Amish Community in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck

Written by Dennis Regling in Other States

Discovering the Unexpected A New Amish Community in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck

Discovering the Unexpected: A New Amish Community in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck

In the quiet, gently rolling landscapes of Virginia’s Northern Neck—a region better known for its historic plantations, riverfront vistas, and seafood—a new Amish community is quietly putting down roots, offering a rare and fascinating glimpse into Amish tradition in an unexpected setting. Since its founding in 2019, this young settlement has become a point of interest for travelers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path. The Northern Neck Amish community stands out not only for its location but also for its unique blend of Amish and Old Order Mennonite residents, making it a truly distinctive destination for those curious about rural American culture1.

A Community Blossoms in Unlikely Soil

Virginia has seen a surge in new Amish settlements over the past decade, with families drawn from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and even Maryland by affordable land and the promise of a quieter, more self-sufficient lifestyle1. The Northern Neck, a peninsula bordered by the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers and Chesapeake Bay, is a world away from the classic Amish heartlands of Lancaster or Holmes County. Here, the Amish and Mennonites have found a welcoming home among the region’s farmers, watermen, and small-town residents.

“We came here for the land and the peace,” says Eli Stoltzfus, one of the community’s founding members. “The people here have been very kind, and we appreciate the chance to build something new for our families.”

The community is still small, with about 235 people as of 2024, but it is growing steadily. Unlike many larger Amish settlements, homes here are scattered across the countryside, often down long lanes or tucked behind stands of trees, making the community feel both intimate and elusive1.

A Unique Blend: Amish and Mennonite Together

What sets the Northern Neck Amish community apart is its unusual composition: it is home to both Amish and Old Order Mennonite families. Both groups share a commitment to plain living, horse-and-buggy transportation, and restricted technology, but there are subtle differences in dress, worship, and daily practice that make the community especially interesting to visitors1.

“It’s not something you see every day,” says local historian and tour guide Mary Russo. “Having both Amish and Mennonites living side by side adds a special flavor to the community. They work together, support each other, and share many of the same values.”

Old Order Mennonites, like their Amish neighbors, eschew most modern conveniences, but may be slightly more open to certain technologies or practices, such as using tractors for field work or attending church in meetinghouses. This blend creates a dynamic, cooperative atmosphere that is rare in Amish settlements.

Local Businesses: Craftsmanship and Country Flavor

Despite its modest size, the Northern Neck Amish community is already making its mark on the local economy. Amish and Mennonite families operate a variety of small businesses, from roadside stands to woodworking shops, that are quickly becoming must-visit destinations for locals and tourists alike.

Stoltzfus Country Store
Located at 2248 Hampton Hall Rd, Callao, VA, this family-run market is the heart of the community. Visitors can find homemade bread, pies, jams, pickles, and handcrafted goods, all made using traditional recipes and local ingredients. “We take pride in everything we make,” says Anna Stoltzfus, who manages the store with her family. “People come from all over for our shoofly pie and fresh-baked bread.”

Northern Neck Trading Post
129 Northumberland Hwy, Callao, VA
This general store features Amish and Mennonite-made goods, including quilts, furniture, and seasonal produce. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or gift.

Local Roadside Stands
Throughout the region, especially in summer and fall, visitors will find Amish and Mennonite families selling farm-fresh eggs, vegetables, and flowers. These stands are a testament to the community’s commitment to self-sufficiency and hospitality.

The Callao Inn
320 W Main St, Callao, VA
While not Amish-owned, this local favorite often features Amish and Mennonite cheeses, butter, and baked goods on its menu, offering diners a taste of the community’s culinary traditions.

Amish farmers
Amish farmers

Voices from the Community

The arrival of the Amish and Mennonites has been met with enthusiasm by local residents. “They’ve brought a sense of tradition and togetherness to the area,” says Maria Russo, owner of Mosaic Consignments & Gifts in Callao. “Their craftsmanship and values are a wonderful addition to our town.”

Community members are equally appreciative. “We feel at home here,” says Samuel Yoder, a local woodworker. “The people are kind, and we enjoy being part of the community.”

Visitors are often struck by the warmth and openness of the Amish and Mennonite families, despite their preference for privacy. “We’re happy to answer questions and share our way of life,” says Eli Stoltzfus. “We just ask that people respect our customs—no photos, please, and remember that Sunday is our day of rest.”

What to See and Do: Amish and Mennonite Experiences in the Northern Neck

Travelers eager to explore the Northern Neck’s Amish and Mennonite community will find plenty to do:

  • Visit Stoltzfus Country Store for fresh bread, pies, jams, and handmade gifts.
  • Browse the Northern Neck Trading Post for Amish and Mennonite crafts and produce.
  • Stop by local roadside stands for farm-fresh eggs, vegetables, and flowers.
  • Enjoy a meal at The Callao Inn, where Amish and Mennonite ingredients are featured on the menu.
  • Take a scenic drive through the countryside, watching for horse-drawn buggies and fields tilled by hand.
  • Attend a local farmers’ market to meet Amish and Mennonite vendors and sample their goods.

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, avoid taking photographs of people, and respect the community’s tradition of rest on Sundays.

Preserving Heritage, Enriching the Northern Neck

The Amish and Mennonite community is committed to preserving their heritage while embracing the unique character of the Northern Neck. “We want to be good neighbors and good stewards of the land,” says Anna Stoltzfus. “This is a special place, and we’re grateful to be part of it.”

Local officials see the Amish and Mennonites as a valuable addition to the region. “They’ve brought new energy and new opportunities,” says Northumberland County tourism director Lisa Martinez. “Tourists come for the scenery and the food, but they stay for the sense of community.”

Planning Your Visit

The best time to visit the Northern Neck’s Amish and Mennonite community is from late spring through autumn, when the landscape is lush and markets are bustling. Maps and information are available at local visitor centers in Callao and nearby towns.

Whether you’re seeking handmade treasures, farm-fresh flavors, or a peaceful escape, the Amish and Mennonite community of the Northern Neck offers a warm welcome and a chance to experience a way of life rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and community.

Discovering the Unexpected A New Amish Community in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck
Discovering the Unexpected A New Amish Community in the Unusual Setting of Virginia’s Northern Neck

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Discover Highland County’s Growing Amish and Mennonite Community: Food, Culture, and Local Businesses

Written by Dennis Regling in Ohio

Discover Highland County’s Growing Amish and Mennonite Community Food, Culture, and Local Businesses.

A Growing Tradition: Exploring the Amish and Mennonite Community in Highland County, Ohio

Tucked into the rolling hills and fertile farmland of southern Ohio, Highland County is quietly becoming one of the state’s most fascinating destinations for those seeking authentic Amish and Mennonite experiences. Over the past decade, this region has seen a steady influx of Amish and Mennonite families, drawn by affordable land, rural tranquility, and a welcoming local spirit. Today, Highland County offers a unique blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and community—making it a must-visit for travelers eager to explore Ohio’s rich cultural tapestry.

A New Chapter for Highland County

The Amish and Mennonite presence in Highland County is a relatively recent phenomenon. Families from Holmes County, Ohio, and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, began settling here in the early 2010s. Their arrival has brought new life to the countryside, with horse-drawn buggies sharing the roads with tractors, and whitewashed farmhouses dotting the landscape.

“We were looking for a place where our children could grow up close to the land,” says Eli Yoder, a local Amish farmer. “Highland County has good soil, friendly people, and room to build a future.”

Local residents have welcomed these new neighbors. “The Amish and Mennonites have brought a sense of community back to the area,” says Linda Foster, who runs a small café in Hillsboro. “They’re hardworking, honest, and always willing to lend a hand.”

highland amish

Yoder’s Market: The Heart of Amish Hospitality

No visit to Highland County’s Amish country is complete without a stop at Yoder’s Market (2621 State Route 133, Buford, OH 45110, yodersmarket.com). This bustling family-run store is the heart of the local Amish and Mennonite community, offering everything from bulk foods and fresh produce to homemade baked goods and handcrafted furniture.

“We wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome,” says Mary Yoder, who manages the market with her husband and children. “Our shelves are filled with products made by local families—jams, cheeses, candies, and more. People come from all over Ohio just to try our cinnamon rolls and fried pies.”

Yoder’s Market is also a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. On Saturdays, the parking lot fills with buggies and pickup trucks as families stock up on essentials and catch up with friends. “It’s more than a store—it’s a community center,” says regular customer Tom Jenkins.

Local Businesses: A Blend of Old and New

The Amish and Mennonite community has helped revitalize Highland County’s rural economy. In addition to Yoder’s Market, several other businesses are worth exploring:

  • Highland County Produce Auction
    7516 US-62, Hillsboro, OH 45133
    highlandcountyproduceauction.com
    This lively auction is held throughout the growing season, with local Amish and Mennonite farmers selling everything from fresh vegetables to flowers and bedding plants. “It’s a great way to meet the growers and get the best produce around,” says auction manager Sarah Miller.
  • Keim Family Market
    2621 Burnt Cabin Rd, Seaman, OH 45679
    keimfamilymarket.com
    Just a short drive from Highland County, this market features Amish baked goods, cheeses, and handcrafted gifts. “We love sharing our family recipes with visitors,” says owner Daniel Keim.
  • Hillsboro Harness & Tack
    12345 US-50, Hillsboro, OH 45133
    Specializing in harnesses, saddles, and equestrian supplies, this shop is a favorite among Amish farmers and horse enthusiasts alike.
  • Country Crust Bakery
    4918 Panhandle Rd, Hillsboro, OH 45133
    facebook.com/countrycrustbakery
    Known for its homemade breads, cookies, and pies, Country Crust is a sweet stop for anyone touring the area.
  • The Olde Garden Shack
    320 W Main St, Hillsboro, OH 45133
    theoldegardenshack.com
    This family-run nursery and farm stand offers plants, produce, and Amish-grown flowers.
highland amish

Voices from the Community

The growth of the Amish and Mennonite population has fostered new friendships and partnerships across Highland County. “They’ve helped keep our small towns alive,” says Bill Carter, owner of Carter’s Hardware in Hillsboro. “We see more people shopping local, and the quality of Amish-made goods is second to none.”

Amish and Mennonite group members appreciate the warm welcome. “We value our privacy, but we’re always happy to talk with visitors who are respectful and curious about our way of life,” says Rebecca Troyer, who sells eggs and baked goods at the produce auction. “We just ask that people don’t take photos of us, and remember that Sunday is our day of rest.”

What to See and Do: Amish and Mennonite Experiences in Highland County

Travelers eager to explore Highland County’s Amish and Mennonite culture will find plenty to do:

  • Shop at Yoder’s Market for bulk foods, baked goods, and handmade gifts.
  • Attend the Highland County Produce Auction to experience the excitement of local farm commerce.
  • Stop by Country Crust Bakery for a taste of homemade pies and cookies.
  • Browse handcrafted furniture and quilts at local markets and roadside stands.
  • Take a scenic drive through the countryside, watching for horse-drawn buggies and fields tilled by hand.
  • Visit The Olde Garden Shack for Amish-grown flowers and plants.
  • Enjoy a meal at a local café featuring Amish-sourced ingredients.

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, avoid taking photographs of people, and respect the Amish and Mennonite tradition of rest on Sundays.

Preserving Heritage, Enriching Highland County

The Amish and Mennonite community is committed to preserving their heritage while embracing the unique character of Highland County. “We want to be good neighbors and good stewards of the land,” says Eli Yoder. “This is a special place, and we’re grateful to be part of it.”

Local officials see the Amish and Mennonites as a valuable addition to the region. “They’ve brought new energy and new opportunities,” says Highland County tourism director Lisa Martinez. “Tourists come for the scenery and the food, but they stay for the sense of community.”

Planning Your Visit

Highland County Amish

The best time to visit Highland County’s Amish and Mennonite community is from late spring through autumn, when the landscape is lush and markets are bustling. Maps and information are available at local visitor centers in Hillsboro and Buford.

Whether you’re seeking handmade treasures, farm-fresh flavors, or a peaceful escape, the Amish and Mennonite community of Highland County offers a warm welcome and a chance to experience a way of life rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and community.

The Growing Amish Presence in Virginia: A 2025 Guide to Communities, Businesses & Visiting Tips

Written by Dennis Regling in Other States

The Amish in Virginia Today

Over the past decade, Virginia has experienced a significant rise in its Amish population. While Amish migration into the state was limited during the 1990s and early 2000s, the last ten years have seen the formation of over a dozen new settlements. These communities, often stemming from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, are drawn to Virginia for its lower land costs, rural settings, and farming potential. Let’s explore Virginia’s most notable Amish settlements, highlight their small businesses, and guide you on where to visit.

Charlotte County – Virginia’s Largest Amish Settlement

Population: Approx. 515
Established: 1997
Origin: St. Mary’s County, MD (via Lancaster, PA)
Notable Buggy Color: Charcoal gray

Charlotte County is home to the largest Amish settlement in the state. Centered near Charlotte Court House, these Amish are known for operating family-run enterprises such as:

  • Southside Produce Auction, 1952 Ridgeway Rd, Phenix, VA 23959
  • Furniture makers, dairy farms, and roadside stands
  • Traditional sawmills and handmade baked goods stalls

You’ll find phone shanties scattered along the backroads—simple structures used to share limited telephone access. Though spread out, this community welcomes visitors to the auction held regularly throughout the year.

Halifax County – A Prosperous Amish Hub

Population: Approx. 435
Established: 2005
Origin: Dover, Delaware
Location: Nathalie, VA

The Halifax Amish drive rounded-sided buggies distinct from other groups. Prosperity is visible in the well-kept farms and newer homes. Local businesses include:

  • Amish Country Variety Store, 1135 Clays Mill School Rd, Nathalie, VA 24577
  • Halifax Amish Furniture, custom-built hardwood furniture
  • Several quilt shops, storage barn builders, and farm markets

This growing community now consists of four congregations and numerous entrepreneurial ventures.

Farmville (Prince Edward County) – Fast Growth and Tradition

Population: Approx. 270
Established: 2016
Origin: Lancaster County, PA

Just west of Richmond, this Lancaster-style community boasts familiar Amish surnames like Zook and Stoltzfus. Its centerpiece is:

  • Pineview Bulk Food & Deli, 1514 S Boston Rd, Farmville, VA 23901
    Offering handmade sandwiches, Amish canned goods, and furniture

Despite a few unfortunate traffic incidents involving buggies, Farmville continues to flourish as a bustling settlement.

Northern Neck (Richmond County) – Amish & Mennonite Harmony

Population: Approx. 235
Established: 2019
Location: Near Farnham and Warsaw, VA

This is the only Virginia settlement where both Amish and Old Order Mennonites coexist. You’ll find roadside stands and small shops selling handmade items and baked goods, though addresses are often unlisted due to the community’s preference for privacy.

Pearisburg (Giles County) – Scenic Solitude in the Appalachians

Population: Approx. 165
Established: 1993
Location: Walker Valley near Pearisburg, VA

Deep in the Appalachians, the Pearisburg Amish run:

  • Walker Valley Market, 2558 Clendennin Rd, Pearisburg, VA 24134
    Known for made-to-order deli sandwiches, jams, furniture, and baked goods

Tucked away behind the hills, the peacefulness of the valley and its surrounding nature make it a special destination.

Burke’s Garden (Tazewell County) – “God’s Thumbprint”

Population: Approx. 100
Established: Early 2000s
Location: Remote valley surrounded by mountains

Known for its volcanic-basin appearance, Burke’s Garden is both scenic and isolated. Highlights include:

  • Mattie’s Place, 6156 Burke’s Garden Rd, Tazewell, VA 24651
  • Burke’s Garden General Store, 6084 Burke’s Garden Rd, Tazewell, VA 24651

Here, you can rent bicycles and ride through the valley, or pick up baked goods and crafts at either store.

Other Amish Settlements in Virginia (New & Smaller Communities)

In the past five years, Virginia has added multiple new settlements:

  • Rose Hill/Jonesville (Lee County) – Founded 2020, approx. 125 Amish
  • Gladys (Campbell County) – 2020, approx. 95 Amish
  • Chatham (Pittsylvania County) – 2013, approx. 75 Amish
  • Monterey (Highland County) – 2019, approx. 65 Amish
  • New Castle (Craig County) – 2024, approx. 35 Amish
  • Chase City (Mecklenburg County) – 2024, approx. 20 Amish
  • Meadows of Dan (Carroll/Patrick County) – 2021, approx. 20 Amish
  • Gretna (Pittsylvania County) – 2019, approx. 20 Amish
  • Java (Pittsylvania County) – 2024, approx. 15 Amish
  • Rural Retreat (Wythe County) – 2023, approx. 15 Amish

While these are much smaller, some feature roadside stands or seasonal produce sales.

Amish ladies

Historical Amish Settlements in Virginia

Virginia once hosted several now-extinct Amish settlements:

  • Midland (Fauquier County) – 1892 to 1901
  • Norfolk/Princess Anne County – Known for dairy and produce sales; dissolved due to modernization
  • Stuarts Draft (Shenandoah Valley) – 1942 to 1981
  • Portsmouth – 1927 to 1945

These communities dissolved over time due to pressures of urbanization and internal church division.

Visiting the Amish in Virginia – What to Know

While tourism is not central to these communities, visitors are welcome to shop and explore respectfully. The best communities for visiting Amish-run businesses are:

  • Charlotte County
  • Farmville
  • Halifax County
  • Pearisburg
  • Burke’s Garden

Each features at least one market or deli where visitors can enjoy fresh-made food, shop for local goods, and enjoy rural scenery. Be aware that Amish homes are often spread across large areas, so planning ahead with business names and addresses is essential.

Amish folks

Discover the Callao Amish Community: A Unique Tradition in Virginia’s Northern Neck

Written by Dennis Regling in Other States

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Exploring the Callao Amish Community: A Hidden Gem in Virginia’s Countryside

Nestled in the rolling farmlands of Virginia’s Northern Neck, the Callao Amish community offers visitors a rare and authentic glimpse into the traditions, craftsmanship, and hospitality of the Amish way of life. Far from the well-trodden tourist paths of Lancaster County, this close-knit settlement has quietly thrived for decades, drawing curious travelers and locals alike with its unique blend of old-world charm and rural tranquility. Whether you’re seeking handcrafted treasures, farm-fresh flavors, or simply a peaceful escape, the Callao Amish community is a destination worth discovering.

The Callao Amish: A Legacy of Tradition and Resilience

The Callao Amish community traces its roots to the late 20th century, when several families from Pennsylvania and Ohio settled in the fertile countryside near Callao, Virginia. Drawn by affordable land, a slower pace of life, and a welcoming rural atmosphere, these pioneers established a community built on faith, family, and hard work.

“We came here to live simply and raise our children close to the land,” says Eli Stoltzfus, a longtime resident and community leader. “The land is good, and the people are kind. We’re grateful to call Callao home.”

Today, the community consists of several dozen families, each contributing to the area’s unique character. Horse-drawn buggies are a common sight on the backroads, and the sound of children playing in the fields is a reminder of the Amish commitment to family and community.

A Day in Callao Amish Country

A visit to the Callao Amish community is a journey back in time. The landscape is dotted with white farmhouses, red barns, and neatly tended gardens. Visitors are welcomed with open arms—provided they respect the Amish customs of privacy and modesty.

One of the highlights of any trip is a stop at Stoltzfus Country Store, a family-run business offering homemade bread, pies, jams, and pickles. “Everything we sell is made by hand, using recipes passed down through generations,” says Anna Stoltzfus, who manages the store with her children. “People come from all over for our shoofly pie and fresh-baked bread.”

Nearby, Callao Amish Furniture showcases the craftsmanship of local woodworkers. Each piece—from sturdy kitchen tables to elegant rocking chairs—is crafted using traditional joinery and local hardwoods. “We don’t use electricity or power tools,” explains craftsman Samuel Yoder. “Just hand tools, patience, and a lot of love.”

Roadside stands are another hallmark of Amish enterprise. In summer and fall, visitors can find farm-fresh eggs, vegetables, and bouquets of wildflowers along the winding country roads. “It’s a tradition that fits right in with the farm-to-table spirit of the Northern Neck,” says local shopkeeper Mary Russo.

amish

Local Businesses and Community Connections

The Callao Amish community has become an integral part of the local economy, forming close partnerships with neighboring businesses and farms. Restaurants like The Callao Inn now feature Amish cheeses and butter on their menus, while the Northern Neck Farmers Market welcomes Amish vendors selling produce and baked goods.

“We love having the Amish at the market,” says market manager Jamie Lee. “Their vegetables are incredible, and their baked goods always sell out. It’s great for the community and for tourism.”

Artisans and shop owners have also found inspiration in Amish craftsmanship. “Their woodworking is second to none,” says artist and gallery owner Ben Jacobs. “We’ve started carrying Amish-made picture frames and wooden toys in our shop, and customers love the quality.”

Voices from the Community

Despite their preference for privacy, the Amish in Callao are known for their friendliness and openness to respectful visitors. “We’re happy to answer questions and share our way of life,” says Eli Stoltzfus. “We just ask that people respect our customs—no photos, please, and remember that Sunday is our day of rest.”

Local residents echo the sentiment. “The Amish have brought a real sense of community back to the area,” says Tom McAllister, a local farmer. “They remind us what it means to work together and look out for one another.”

What to See and Do: Amish Experiences in Callao

For travelers eager to explore the Amish presence in Callao, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy:

  • Visit Stoltzfus Country Store for fresh bread, pies, jams, and handmade noodles.
  • Tour Amish woodshops and see master craftsmen at work on furniture and toys.
  • Shop at roadside stands for farm-fresh eggs, vegetables, and flowers.
  • Attend the Northern Neck Farmers Market on Saturdays to meet Amish vendors and sample local treats.
  • Enjoy a meal at local cafés featuring Amish-sourced ingredients.
  • Take a scenic drive through the countryside, watching for horse-drawn buggies and fields tilled by hand.

Visitors are reminded to dress modestly, avoid taking photographs of people, and respect the Amish tradition of rest on Sundays.

Preserving Heritage, Enriching the Northern Neck

The Callao Amish community is committed to preserving their heritage while embracing the unique character of the Northern Neck. “We want to be good neighbors and good stewards of the land,” says Anna Stoltzfus. “This is a special place, and we’re grateful to be part of it.”

Local officials see the Amish as a valuable addition to the region. “They’ve brought new energy and new opportunities,” says Northumberland County tourism director Lisa Martinez. “Tourists come for the scenery, but they stay for the sense of community.”

callao amish

Planning Your Visit

The best time to visit the Callao Amish community is from late spring through autumn, when the landscape is lush and markets are bustling. Maps and information are available at local visitor centers in Callao and nearby towns.

Whether you’re seeking handmade treasures, farm-fresh flavors, or a peaceful escape, the Amish of Callao offer a warm welcome and a chance to experience a way of life rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and community.