New Amish Marketplace Brings Slice of Lancaster County to South Jersey
In the heart of Gloucester County, New Jersey, a new Amish marketplace has opened its doors, bringing the charm and craftsmanship of Lancaster County to eager South Jersey residents. The Pine Grove Amish Market, located just off Route 55 in Pitman, has quickly become a popular destination for those seeking authentic Amish goods and a taste of simpler times.
Opened in January 2025, the 30,000-square-foot market houses over 20 Amish-owned businesses, each offering a unique selection of handcrafted items, fresh produce, and homemade delicacies. The market’s success has been immediate, with locals and visitors alike flocking to experience the quality and variety of goods on offer.
One of the most popular stops in the new marketplace is Stoltzfus Bakery, run by the affable Samuel Stoltzfus. “We’re overwhelmed by the warm welcome we’ve received,” Stoltzfus shared, his eyes twinkling with pride. “Our whoopie pies and shoofly pies have been flying off the shelves. It seems like folks here in New Jersey have quite the sweet tooth!”[1]
Adjacent to the bakery, the aroma of smoked meats wafts from Yoder’s Butcher Shop. Proprietor Eli Yoder has been surprised by the demand for his products. “We didn’t expect such enthusiasm for our homemade sausages and smoked hams,” he remarked. “It’s a joy to share our traditional recipes with new friends.”[2]
The market also features a furniture showroom where master craftsman Jacob Miller displays his handcrafted pieces. “Each item tells a story,” Miller explained, running his hand along the smooth surface of a cherry wood dining table. “We put our heart and soul into every piece, and it’s rewarding to see how much the customers appreciate the quality.”[4]
For those seeking fresh produce, Lapp’s Farm Stand has become a go-to destination. Emma Lapp, who runs the stand with her husband, noted the increased interest in organic and heirloom varieties. “People are really curious about our farming methods,” she said. “We’ve been hosting small workshops on canning and preserving, which have been very popular.”[2]
The market has also become a hub for those interested in sustainable living. Rebecca’s Herb and Soap Shop offers a wide range of natural products, from medicinal herbs to handmade soaps. “There’s a growing interest in natural remedies and chemical-free products,” owner Rebecca Zook observed. “We’re happy to share our knowledge and help people lead healthier lives.”[6]
Local residents have embraced the new market with enthusiasm. Sarah Thompson, a Pitman native, has become a regular visitor. “It’s like stepping into another world,” she marveled. “The quality of the products is outstanding, and there’s something so refreshing about the simplicity and honesty of the Amish approach to business.”
The market has also had a positive impact on the local economy. Pitman Mayor David Corcoran expressed his delight at the new addition to the community. “The Pine Grove Amish Market has brought a unique flavor to our town,” he stated. “Not only is it attracting visitors from across the region, but it’s also creating jobs and boosting our local economy.”[5]
One of the more unexpected successes has been the market’s food court, which offers a variety of traditional Amish dishes. The chicken pot pie at King’s Kitchen has become legendary, with lines often stretching out the door during lunch hours. “We never expected such a response,” admitted Sarah King, who runs the kitchen with her husband. “We’ve had to increase our staff just to keep up with demand.”
The market has also become a cultural bridge, fostering understanding between the Amish community and their “English” neighbors. Regular demonstrations of traditional Amish crafts, such as quilting and woodworking, have drawn curious onlookers and aspiring artisans alike.
“It’s been a learning experience for all of us,” reflected market manager Daniel Esh. “We’re finding ways to maintain our traditions while adapting to the needs of our customers. The support we’ve received has been truly humbling.”
The success of the Pine Grove Amish Market has not gone unnoticed by local businesses. Initially, there were concerns about competition, but many have found that the increased foot traffic has benefited the entire area.
“At first, I was worried about how it might affect my store,” admitted Tom Jenkins, owner of a nearby hardware shop. “But I’ve actually seen an uptick in business. The market brings in people from all over, and many of them end up exploring the rest of Pitman too.”
The market has also sparked interest in Amish culture and history. Local schools have organized field trips, giving students a chance to learn about Amish traditions and values. “It’s been eye-opening for our students,” said Pitman High School history teacher Lisa Morales. “They’re learning valuable lessons about community, craftsmanship, and living in harmony with the land.”
As the Pine Grove Amish Market approaches its first anniversary, plans for expansion are already in the works. There’s talk of adding an outdoor farmers’ market during the summer months and potentially expanding the main building to accommodate more vendors.
“We’re taking it one step at a time,” Esh explained. “We want to grow, but not at the expense of our values or the quality of our products. It’s about finding the right balance.”
The market’s success has also led to increased interest in Amish-made products throughout New Jersey. Several vendors have reported a surge in online orders from customers who can’t make it to the market in person.
“We’ve had to adapt to some modern methods of doing business,” admitted Miller, the furniture maker. “But we’re careful to maintain our traditions and the quality of our craftsmanship. That’s what sets us apart.”
As the sun sets on another busy day at the Pine Grove Amish Market, the clip-clop of horse hooves can be heard as some of the vendors make their way home. It’s a sound that would have been unfamiliar in this part of New Jersey just a year ago, but one that now brings a smile to the faces of local residents.
The market has become more than just a place to shop; it’s a community gathering spot, a cultural exchange, and a reminder of the value of tradition in an ever-changing world. As it continues to grow and evolve, the Pine Grove Amish Market stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship, wholesome food, and the simple pleasures of life.
Citations:
[1] https://www.columbusfarmersmarket.com/amish-market
[2] https://amishamerica.com/amish-markets-new-jersey/
[3] https://amishamerica.com/amish-business-directory/
[4] https://www.amishmike.com
[5] https://www.jerseysbest.com/community/taste-homemade-goods-from-the-heart-of-amish-country-at-n-j-markets/
[6] https://precisebuildings.com/about-us/amish-heritage/
[7] https://www.barkmanfurniture.com/bridgewater-new-jersey/
[8] https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Amish+Market&find_loc=Jersey+City%2C+NJ
[9] https://amishmarketmullicahill.com