New Amish Community Brings Tradition and Growth to Rural Oklahoma
A quiet transformation is underway in rural Oklahoma, where a new Amish community has recently taken root, blending centuries-old traditions with the rhythms of modern local life. Nestled near the outskirts of Chouteau in Mayes County, this community marks a significant chapter in Oklahoma’s evolving cultural landscape, promising economic vitality, cultural exchange, and a renewed appreciation for simplicity.
A New Beginning in the Heartland
Oklahoma has long been home to small but deeply rooted Amish settlements, with Chouteau, Clarita, Welch, and Westville hosting the state’s four established communities1. The arrival of a new group, comprised largely of families from Ohio and Indiana, is seen by both locals and Amish members as a hopeful sign for the region’s future.
Jacob Yoder, a spokesman for the new settlement, explains, “We were drawn here by the open land, the welcoming spirit of the people, and the chance to build a life close to our values. Oklahoma offers us the space to farm, raise our families, and maintain our traditions.”
Tradition Meets Opportunity
The Amish are renowned for their commitment to community, humility, and a lifestyle governed by the Ordnung—a set of rules that shapes everything from technology use to dress and worship2. In Oklahoma, these traditions have adapted in practical ways. For instance, the use of tractors for fieldwork has been permitted, a decision made to help young families remain on the land and sustain their way of life2.
Raymond Miller, an Amish minister, notes, “Allowing tractors was a big step for us, but it means our children can stay and work the land. It keeps our families together, which is at the heart of our beliefs.”
Local Businesses Thrive
The arrival of the new Amish community has already begun to invigorate the local economy. Chouteau and its surroundings are no strangers to Amish entrepreneurship, with businesses like the Amish Cheese House, Dutch Pantry, and Nettie Ann’s Bakery drawing both locals and tourists alike358. These establishments offer everything from homemade cheeses and baked goods to handcrafted furniture and preserves…