Lafayette County, Wisconsin
When you think “Amish”–most people think of Pennsylvania, Ohio, or Indiana. But did you know that Wisconsin has the fourth-highest Amish population in America?
And our state’s Amish history doesn’t go back very far…
The first Amish families moved to Medford, Wisconsin in 1920, and in the 1960s, a larger migration began. Since the 1990s, the state’s Amish population has steadily increased as East Coast land prices increase, and entire communities move west. Today, there are an estimated 8,000 to 12,000 “Old Order Amish” in Wisconsin, as well as a large number of “New Order Amish” and Mennonites. (We don’t know the exact stats because the Census Bureau doesn’t collect data on religious affiliation.)
❤️ Amish 101
The Amish are one of the fastest-growing population groups in America. Their population has risen from 5,000 in 1920 to more than 300,000 today.
Traditionally, most Amish were farmers. But modern Amish workers have become increasingly involved in business, most notably in carpentry, construction, and sales of farm products.
Amish life is governed by the “Ordnung,” a German word for order. While the rules vary from community to community, most are forbidden from owning cars, using electricity, attending high school or colleges, and initiating divorce.
Visiting Wisconsin’s Amish Communities
While some Amish communities prefer to remain close-knit and relatively private, others are incredibly welcoming to visitors and enjoy sharing their baked goods, handmade woodwork, and unique culture with anyone interested.
Here are 3 Travel Wisconsin recommends exploring…
❤️ Cashton Area Amish
Highlights:
✅ Wisconsin’s largest Amish settlement
✅ Hill & Vale Bakery
✅ Old County Cheese factory
Click here for links & a full itinerary!
❤️ Dalton/Kingston Area Amish
Highlights:
✅ Near Madison
✅ Lilac Wood Shop
✅ Mishler’s Country Store
Click here for links & a full itinerary!
❤️ Augusta Amish
Highlights:
✅ Wisconsin’s smallest Amish settlement
✅ The Wood Shed
✅ Countryside tours
Click here for links & a full itinerary!
MORE: 5 Small Wisconsin Towns Everyone Should Have on Their Bucket List
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