The Amish presence in South Dakota is relatively recent and small compared to other states. The first Amish settlement in South Dakota was established in 2010 when three families from Wisconsin moved to Hutchinson County, near the town of Tripp in the southeastern part of the state[1]. This marked the beginning of what would become the state’s only Amish community.
Initially, the community grew slowly but steadily. By 2010, five families had settled in the area, with a sixth expected to arrive soon, bringing the total population to about 50 people[1]. The Amish families chose this location because they felt their previous communities in Wisconsin were becoming too crowded, and they sought more space and affordable farmland.
Challenges and Disbandment
Despite the initial optimism and warm welcome from local residents, the Amish community in South Dakota faced significant challenges. By 2023, the community, which had grown to about nine families and around 60 individuals, began to disband[2]. The reasons for this disbandment included:
- Difficulties adapting to the local environment
- Lifestyle challenges
- Competition with well-established Hutterite communities in agricultural markets
- Climate differences compared to their previous homes in the East
Amish Businesses and Tourist Attractions
Although the Amish community in South Dakota is currently disbanding, there were several businesses and attractions that were of interest to tourists during their time in the state. It’s important to note that due to the community’s dissolution, these businesses may no longer be operating. However, we’ll discuss them to provide context and historical information.
1. Borntreger’s Baked Goods
One of the most popular Amish businesses in the Tripp area was Ida Borntreger’s baked goods stand. Known for her excellent baking skills, Ida sold pies, rolls, and loaves of bread to neighbors and visitors alike[1]. While an exact address is not available, this stand was located on the Borntreger family farm near Tripp.
2. Amish Furniture Workshops
Several Amish families in the community were skilled craftsmen who produced high-quality, handmade furniture. These workshops, typically located on the family farms, offered a variety of wooden furniture pieces, including tables, chairs, and cabinets. Visitors could often watch the craftsmen at work and purchase unique, locally-made items.
3. Amish Produce Stands
During the growing season, Amish families would set up produce stands near their farms, selling fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. These stands provided an opportunity for tourists to purchase locally grown, organic produce and interact with Amish farmers.
4. Amish-Run General Store
While not exclusively Amish, some community members worked at or supplied goods to local general stores in Tripp. These stores often carried Amish-made products, including baked goods, preserves, and handcrafted items.
Visiting the Former Amish Community
Although the Amish community is disbanding, the area around Tripp still offers insights into rural South Dakota life and the brief Amish presence in the state. Here are some points of interest for tourists:
Tripp, South Dakota
Tripp is a small town located in Hutchinson County, about 20 miles southwest of Mitchell. While it may not have an active Amish community anymore, it provides a glimpse into the rural lifestyle that attracted the Amish to the area. Address: Tripp, SD 57376
Hutchinson County Historical Society
For those interested in local history, including the brief Amish presence in the area, the Hutchinson County Historical Society in Olivet offers exhibits and information about the region’s past. Address: 201 Nebraska St, Olivet, SD 57052
Alternative Attractions: Hutterite Colonies
While the Amish community in South Dakota has disbanded, the state is home to numerous Hutterite colonies. Hutterites, like the Amish, are Anabaptists, but they have distinct cultural practices and a much larger presence in South Dakota[4].
There are at least 62 Hutterite colonies in South Dakota, making it the state with the largest number of colonies in the United States[4]. Some colonies welcome visitors and offer tours, providing an opportunity to learn about another Anabaptist group with a significant presence in the state.
Bon Homme Colony
One of the oldest Hutterite colonies in South Dakota, established near Springfield along the Missouri River. Address: 31232 Colony Road, Tabor, SD 57063
Rockport Colony
Located near Alexandria, this colony offers tours by appointment and sells colony-produced goods. Address: 26909 Rockport Colony Road, Alexandria, SD 57311
Cultural Sensitivity and Visiting Guidelines
When visiting areas with Anabaptist communities, whether Amish or Hutterite, it’s important to respect their privacy and cultural practices. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially of people.
- Dress modestly out of respect for their conservative values.
- Be mindful of their religious practices, particularly on Sundays.
- Support local businesses by purchasing handmade goods and produce.
- Engage respectfully with community members, but avoid intrusive questions about their lifestyle.
The Legacy of the Amish in South Dakota
Although the Amish community in South Dakota was short-lived, it left a lasting impression on the local area. The Amish families were known for their strong work ethic, craftsmanship, and agricultural skills. Their presence brought attention to the importance of sustainable farming practices and traditional crafts.
The disbandment of the community highlights the challenges faced by Amish groups when settling in new areas, particularly those with different climates and established agricultural competitors. It also underscores the delicate balance between maintaining traditional lifestyles and adapting to new environments.
Comparison with Other Plain Communities
While the Amish community in South Dakota did not thrive, it’s worth noting the success of other Plain communities in the state, particularly the Hutterites. South Dakota has the largest Hutterite population in the United States, with over 10% of the state’s farmers being Hutterites[4].
The success of Hutterite colonies in South Dakota can be attributed to several factors:
- Communal living and shared resources
- Adaptation to modern farming technologies
- Diversified agricultural operations
- Established presence in the state for over a century
This contrast between the Amish and Hutterite experiences in South Dakota provides an interesting case study in the adaptation of traditional communities to new environments.
Conclusion
The story of the Amish in South Dakota is a brief but intriguing chapter in the state’s history. While the community did not endure, it left an indelible mark on the local area and provided valuable insights into the challenges of establishing new Amish settlements in the Western United States.
For tourists interested in learning about Plain communities, South Dakota still offers numerous opportunities through its Hutterite colonies. These communities provide a window into a unique way of life that balances tradition with adaptation to modern agricultural practices.
As we reflect on the Amish experience in South Dakota, we’re reminded of the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that shape the American landscape. While the Amish may no longer have a presence in the state, their brief settlement serves as a testament to the ongoing story of migration, adaptation, and the search for community in America’s heartland.
Citations:
[1] https://peacefulsocieties.uncg.edu/2010/07/22/warm-welcome-for-amish-migrants-into-south-dakota/
[2] https://amishamerica.com/amish-leaving-south-dakota/
[3] https://amishamerica.com/south-dakota-amish/
[4] https://kxrb.com/who-are-the-hutterites-and-how-many-live-in-south-dakota/
[5] https://www.sdpb.org/rural-life-and-history/2023-04-03/south-dakota-amish-community-disbanding
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._states_by_Amish_population
[7] https://www.amishfarmsoap.com
[8] https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=35327136