New Amish Settlement Takes Root in Rural Ohio, Revitalizing Local Economy
In the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, a new Amish community is quietly establishing itself, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and economic revitalization. The settlement, located in Morgan County, has grown from just three families in January 2024 to nearly 20 households today, comprising over 100 individuals.
The newcomers, primarily from overcrowded settlements in Holmes and Geauga Counties, were drawn to the area’s affordable farmland and ample space for expansion. Noah Miller, 42, one of the first to arrive with his wife and eight children, explains their motivation: “We were seeking a place where our children could continue our way of life, with room for farms and small businesses. In Holmes County, land prices had become prohibitive for young families.”
The influx has transformed previously abandoned farmsteads into bustling homesteads. Local residents have noticed the changes. Sarah Thompson, 58, who runs the general store in nearby Chesterhill, remarks, “It’s been quite a sight to see horse-drawn buggies on our roads again. They’re breathing new life into some of the old farms around here. Just last week, I saw the Millers’ children helping to raise a new barn – it was like stepping back in time.”
The Amish families have already made their mark on the local economy. Several have opened small woodworking shops, producing handcrafted furniture that’s gaining popularity in nearby Columbus. Others have established produce stands along Route 377, offering fresh vegetables, homemade jams, and baked goods. The Yoder family has even started a small dairy operation, supplying raw milk to local cheese makers.
County Commissioner John Hawkins sees the influx as a positive development. “These families bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to rural living. It’s exactly what our community needs. We’ve seen a 15% increase in agricultural output in just the past six months.”
However, the transition hasn’t been without challenges. The county has had to install new road signs warning drivers about slow-moving vehicles, and some residents are still adjusting to sharing the roads with horse-drawn buggies. Local authorities have also had to navigate zoning issues to accommodate the Amish’s traditional building practices.
Despite these hurdles, the new settlers remain optimistic. Eli Yoder, 35, who moved from Geauga County with his wife and seven children, says, “We feel welcomed here. There’s a sense of opportunity that we didn’t have back home. We’re planning to open a harness shop next spring, which will serve both Amish and English customers.”
The community has also established its own one-room schoolhouse, currently educating 27 children. Mary Hochstetler, 22, the community’s teacher, notes, “We’re teaching our children the importance of hard work and simplicity, while also ensuring they have the skills to interact with the outside world when necessary.”
As the community grows, it’s clear that this new Amish settlement is not just preserving a traditional way of life, but also contributing to the renewal of rural Ohio. Local real estate agent Tom Brennan reports increased interest in properties near the Amish settlement. “People are drawn to the idea of living near a community that values simplicity and hard work. It’s creating a unique cultural dynamic in our area.”
With plans for a sawmill and a bulk food store in the works, the Amish settlement in Morgan County seems poised for continued growth, offering a glimpse into how traditional communities can play a role in revitalizing rural America.