New Amish Community Blossoms in Delaware’s Heartland
In the rolling countryside of Kent County, Delaware, a new Amish community is taking root, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and entrepreneurial spirit. This growing settlement, established in early 2024, has quickly become a focal point for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of simpler times and high-quality craftsmanship.
The new community, located just outside the town of Hartly, is home to approximately 200 Amish individuals spread across 15 families. They’ve brought with them a rich tapestry of skills and businesses that are already making a significant impact on the local economy.
One of the most popular new establishments is the Hartly Amish Market, a bustling hub of activity where visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted furniture. Sarah Miller, the market’s manager, shared her enthusiasm for the new venture: “We’re blessed to be able to share our goods with our English neighbors. The response has been overwhelming, and we’re grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received.”
The market features a variety of stands, including a bakery that’s quickly gaining fame for its shoofly pies and homemade bread. John Yoder, the baker, beamed with pride as he described his most popular item: “Our cinnamon rolls seem to fly off the shelves. We can barely keep up with demand!”
Another standout business is the Peaceful Valley Furniture Workshop, where master craftsmen create exquisite pieces using traditional woodworking techniques. Owner Amos Stoltzfus explained the appeal of their products: “In a world of mass-produced items, people appreciate the care and attention we put into each piece. Every table, chair, and cabinet tells a story.”
The community has also established a thriving greenhouse operation, supplying local gardeners with a wide variety of plants and flowers. Emma Lapp, who runs the greenhouse with her husband, noted the increased interest in home gardening: “Many of our English friends are eager to learn about organic growing methods. We’re happy to share our knowledge.”
Perhaps the most unique addition to the area is the Amish Ice Cream Parlor, a seasonal attraction that’s drawing visitors from as far as Wilmington. Using a John Deere engine-powered churner, they produce small batches of creamy, flavorful ice cream that has quickly become a local favorite. “It’s a bit of an unusual sight,” chuckled Jacob Beiler, the parlor’s owner, “but the smiles on children’s faces when they taste our ice cream make it all worthwhile.”
The influx of Amish businesses has not gone unnoticed by the local community. Tom Jenkins, a longtime Hartly resident, expressed his appreciation: “It’s been wonderful having the Amish here. They’ve brought a sense of community and craftsmanship that we were missing. Plus, their baked goods are out of this world!”
Local officials have also welcomed the new settlement. Mayor Susan Thompson remarked, “The Amish community has already made a positive impact on our local economy. Their businesses are drawing visitors from all over the state, which benefits everyone in Hartly.”
While the Amish are known for their traditional ways, they’ve shown a willingness to adapt to some modern necessities. For instance, many of the businesses accept credit cards, processed through English-operated point-of-sale systems. This compromise allows them to cater to a wider customer base while maintaining their core values.
The community has also worked closely with local authorities to ensure road safety, installing reflective signs on their buggies and working out designated buggy lanes on some of the busier roads. “Safety is a priority for all of us,” explained Bishop Samuel Lapp. “We’re grateful for the cooperation we’ve received from our English neighbors in making the roads safer for everyone.”
As the community continues to grow, there are plans for expansion. A small schoolhouse is under construction, and there’s talk of opening a harness shop in the coming months. The Amish leaders are careful to balance growth with their desire to maintain a close-knit community.
The arrival of the Amish has also sparked interest in sustainable living practices. Local schools have organized field trips to Amish farms, where students learn about organic farming methods and animal husbandry. “It’s been eye-opening for our students,” said Hartly Elementary School teacher Lisa Morales. “They’re learning valuable lessons about self-sufficiency and respect for the land.”
As the sun sets over the new Amish settlement, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the distant sound of a dinner bell serve as reminders of a simpler way of life. Yet, this community is far from stuck in the past. Instead, they’re proving that traditional values and modern commerce can coexist harmoniously, enriching the lives of all who encounter them.
The future looks bright for Delaware’s newest Amish community. As they continue to weave themselves into the fabric of Kent County, they bring with them not just economic opportunities, but also a reminder of the importance of community, craftsmanship, and connection to the land. In a fast-paced world, the Amish of Hartly offer a welcome respite and a chance to experience a way of life that values simplicity, hard work, and neighborly kindness.
Citations:
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