New Amish Community Takes Root in Hazleton, PA: Tradition Meets Coal Country
In an unexpected turn of events, a new Amish community has established itself on the outskirts of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, bringing a touch of simplicity and tradition to this former coal mining hub. The settlement, which began forming in late 2024, now consists of approximately 15 families who have relocated primarily from more established Amish communities in Lancaster County.
Jacob Miller, one of the community’s founding members, explains the motivation behind the move: “We were seeking new opportunities and affordable farmland. Hazleton offered us a chance to start fresh while maintaining our way of life.”
Despite the challenges of adapting to Hazleton’s post-industrial landscape, the Amish settlers have quickly established several thriving businesses that are attracting attention from locals and tourists alike.
One of the most popular new establishments is the Sunrise Bakery, run by Sarah Yoder and her family. Located just off Route 93, the bakery has become known for its fresh-baked goods, particularly its shoofly pies and homemade bread. “We use recipes passed down through generations,” Yoder shares. “People seem to appreciate the simplicity and quality of our baked goods.”
The bakery has become a favorite stop for both locals and visitors exploring the area. Emily Thompson, a resident of Hazleton, explains, “The Sunrise Bakery has become my go-to place for fresh bread and pies. There’s something special about knowing it was made that morning using traditional methods.”
Another thriving enterprise is Miller’s Handcrafted Furniture, where master craftsman Eli Miller creates stunning pieces that blend traditional Amish woodworking techniques with modern designs. “We’re adapting our styles to suit local tastes,” Miller notes. “People here appreciate the durability of our furniture, but they also want pieces that fit in their homes.”
The furniture shop has garnered attention not only for its quality but also for its sustainable practices. All wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests, and the shop operates entirely off-grid, powered by solar panels.
The Hazleton Farmers Market has also seen a boost since the arrival of the Amish community. Every Saturday, Amish farmers set up stalls offering fresh produce, homemade jams, and handcrafted items. John Stoltzfus, who runs one of the most popular produce stands, shares, “We’re finding that people in Hazleton have a real appreciation for farm-fresh goods. It’s been a joy to share our harvests with the community.”
The impact of the Amish settlement extends beyond retail. Local restaurants have begun sourcing ingredients from Amish farms, leading to a small but growing farm-to-table movement in the area. Chef Michael Rodriguez of The Coal Miner’s Table, a popular restaurant in downtown Hazleton, shares, “Working with the Amish farmers has transformed our menu. The quality and freshness of their produce is unmatched.”
While the Amish are known for their traditional ways, this new community has found innovative ways to adapt to their new home while maintaining their core values. For instance, some businesses have partnered with non-Amish locals to handle online orders and electronic payments, allowing them to reach a wider customer base without compromising their beliefs.
The arrival of the Amish has not been without challenges. The community has had to navigate local regulations regarding their horse-and-buggy transportation on busy roads. However, local officials have been largely supportive of the new settlers.
Mayor Jeff Cusat comments, “The Amish community has brought a unique dimension to our area. We’re committed to working with them to ensure they can maintain their traditional lifestyle while contributing to our local economy.”
Looking ahead, the Amish community has plans for further expansion. A small schoolhouse is under construction, and there are discussions about opening a dedicated Amish market to showcase their various goods and crafts.
As the sun sets over the hills surrounding Hazleton, casting long shadows across newly tilled Amish fields, it’s clear that this community is here to stay. Jacob Miller reflects on their journey so far: “We may be far from our original homes, but we’ve found a new one here in Hazleton. The land is different, the surroundings are more urban, but the spirit of hard work and community is the same.”
For visitors to Hazleton, the opportunity to experience both the area’s rich industrial history and the simplicity of Amish life offers a truly unique experience. As Eli Miller puts it, “We may not have electricity in our homes, but we have something just as powerful – a connection to the land and to our traditions. That’s what people are really looking for when they come here.”
This new Amish settlement in Hazleton represents a fascinating blend of old and new, tradition and adaptation. As it continues to grow and evolve, it promises to become an integral part of the rich cultural tapestry that is northeastern Pennsylvania.
Citations:
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