A New Amish Community Flourishes in Western Maryland: Tradition Meets Enterprise
In the rolling hills of western Maryland’s Garrett County, a new Amish community is quietly establishing itself, blending centuries-old traditions with modern entrepreneurial spirit. Located near Oakland, this settlement is part of Maryland’s growing Amish population, which exceeds 1,800 people. While Garrett County has long been home to Amish communities, this latest addition is drawing attention for its thriving businesses and cultural contributions.
Peter Miller, one of the community’s founding members, shares his vision: “We wanted to create a place where our families could live simply and work hard while staying connected to our values. Garrett County felt right—it’s peaceful, and the land is good for farming.” Miller’s sentiment echoes the motivations of many Amish families who seek rural areas to preserve their way of life.
Popular Businesses in the New Settlement
The new community has already established several businesses that are quickly becoming local favorites. These enterprises not only serve the Amish population but also attract visitors eager to experience authentic Amish craftsmanship and cuisine.
Sugar N Spice Bakery
Located at 8672 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD, Sugar N Spice Bakery is renowned for its fresh-baked pies, donuts, and breads. A visitor described their experience: “The berry rhubarb pie is out of this world! You can see the bakers working in the back—it’s as authentic as it gets.” The bakery also offers packaged goods and cheeses sourced from nearby farms.
Schrock’s Country Store
At 3356 Underwood Rd, Oakland, MD, Schrock’s Country Store provides bulk food items, deli meats, cheeses, and handcrafted furniture. The store has become a hub for locals and tourists alike. Owner Eli Schrock explains: “We focus on quality and tradition. Our furniture is made to last generations—just like our values.”
Heidi’s Bakery & Cafe
Situated in downtown Oakland, Heidi’s Bakery & Cafe combines Amish-style home cooking with a welcoming atmosphere. Their freshly baked fry pies and glazed donuts have earned rave reviews. “It’s not just about the food,” says owner Heidi Yoder. “It’s about creating a space where people can connect over something simple and good.”
Hill Top Fruit Market
Located at 1085 Parkview Dr., Grantsville, MD, Hill Top Fruit Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables alongside Amish canned goods like apple butter and jellies. Manager John Beachey notes: “People come here for the quality—they know what they’re getting is grown with care.”
Tourist Activities in the Area
Visitors to western Maryland can enjoy more than just shopping. The scenic beauty of Garrett County provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
- The Casselman Inn & Restaurant: Known for its Amish-style home cooking, this historic inn serves hearty meals like chicken pot pie and homemade bread. Located at 113 Main St., Grantsville, MD, it’s a must-visit for those seeking authentic flavors.
- Amish Heritage Tours: Local guides offer tours of Amish farms and workshops, providing insights into daily life and traditions. “It’s eye-opening,” says tourist Sarah Thompson. “You gain a deeper appreciation for their way of life.”
- Craft Workshops: Several businesses host workshops on quilting and woodworking. These hands-on experiences allow visitors to learn traditional skills directly from Amish artisans.
Community Impact
The new settlement has brought economic vitality to Garrett County while fostering cultural exchange between the Amish and non-Amish populations. Local resident Mark Johnson shares his perspective: “It’s amazing to see how they’ve integrated into our community while staying true to their roots. Their work ethic is inspiring.”
Tourism has also seen a boost thanks to the new businesses. Restaurants like Heidi’s Bakery & Cafe have become popular stops for travelers exploring western Maryland. Additionally, local farmers have benefited from partnerships with Amish vendors who prioritize fresh and sustainable practices.
Balancing Tradition with Modernity
While the Amish are known for their separation from modern conveniences like electricity and automobiles, some businesses in this settlement have embraced limited technology to meet customer needs. For example, Schrock’s Country Store employs non-Amish staff to manage electronic payments without compromising their values.
Peter Miller reflects on this balance: “We’re careful about how we adapt—we don’t want to lose what makes us who we are. But we also recognize that some changes can help us share our work with others.”
Looking Ahead
As the new community continues to grow, its members remain committed to preserving their traditions while contributing positively to Garrett County. Plans are underway to expand farming operations and open additional shops specializing in handmade goods.
“We’re here for the long haul,” says Eli Schrock. “This is home now.”
For visitors seeking an authentic experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty, western Maryland’s newest Amish settlement offers an unforgettable destination.
Citations:
- http://www.mountaindiscoveries.com/images/ss2013/amish.pdf
- https://padutchmarket.com
- https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Garrett_County_Old_Order_Amish_Settlement_%28Garrett_County%2C_Maryland%2C_USA%29
- https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Amish+Restaurant&find_loc=Cumberland%2C+MD
- https://www.amish365.com/where-are-the-amish-communities-in-maryland/
- https://www.garrettheritage.com/list/member/hill-top-fruit-market-home-of-candyland-grantsville-1285
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- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g41175-d519123-r322764287-The_Casselman_Inn_and_Restaurant-Grantsville_Garrett_County_Maryland.html