Few People Realize How Much Amish History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of New Wilmington, Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 14, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Chances are pretty good that when most people think of Amish communities in Pennsylvania, their thoughts turn to Lancaster. It is, after all, a hotbed with tourists and while it may be the most high-profile Amish community in Pennsylvania, it certainly isn’t the only one. This small town in Pennsylvania, in fact, is one of the oldest Amish communities in the United State.
Although it may not get the headlines that Lancaster does, New Wilmington has a long and storied history dating back to the mid-1800s.
With a population of just over 2,000, the small Western Pennsylvania town is home to the third largest Old Order Amish Sect in the United States. Today, the majority of its residents are Amish.
To get a glimpse into the everyday life and history of the Amish in New Wilmington, book a guided tour with Simple Life Amish Tours. Your seasoned tour guide will lead you on a journey throughout New Wilmington and nearby Volant as you become acquainted with Amish country.
Along the way, you’ll make a variety of stops, including at an Amish produce and bakery stand, a furniture shop, and a quilt shop – all Amish-owned and run. You’ll also visit an Amish grocery store, tucked in the basement of a local home and illuminated by a gas lamp.
Carve out some time to explore more of New Wilmington, too. Home to Westminster College, the Pennsylvania town is also known for Irons Mill Farmstead. With pumpkin picking and other fall activities, it’s a fun, family-friendly destination during the autumn.
Explore the Cheese House, where you’ll find a large selection of cheeses, jellies, jams, and sauces. Stock up on the freshest apples and other produce at the Apple Castle. You can even pick your own apples in season.
Have you been to this small town in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Pennsylvania’s perfect for exploration. When you’ve got some free time, set off on one of these unique road trips in Pennsylvania.
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