Oklahoma does not have a large Amish presence, but the communities that are there are stable, thriving, and deeply rooted. I would expect the state to welcome more Amish as the years go by, because the Amish population is growing nationwide and people are always in search of new states to plant roots. The Amish in Oklahoma have their unique traditions and foods.
❤️ Why the Amish Like Oklahoma?
If you are Amish there is a lot to like about Oklahoma. Some of the characteristics that make the state appealing:
- plentiful farmland
- conservative culture
- relatively inexpensive land
- Flat, perfect for horse-drawn buggies
The Amish culinary culture has also thrived in Oklahoma as homemade barbecue sauces and southern cornbread have become specialties.
👎 Why the Amish Might Not Like Oklahoma
But there are reasons why the state hasn't seen an influx of Amish. Among the reasons:
Far from other Amish settlements. Amish settlements in Oklahoma are some hours away from those in Kansas. And Missouri has a sizable Amish presence, but main Amish areas in Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are a long day's drive away from Oklahoma.
Hot Climate, not great for people who don't have indoor air-conditioning
🗺️ Where are the Amish Communities In Oklahoma?
Choteau: This is the largest and oldest Amish settlement in the state. This is in northeastern Oklahoma. About 600 Amish live in the area and are divided among four church districts. The Amish here are more progressive in some ways, using tractors for farming and also for short-haul errands.
Westville: This is a smaller Amish community located in the east Central part of Oklahoma near the Arkansas state line. The settlement is small, numbering close to 100 people. Interestingly, this Amish settlement holds worship services in a community building as opposed to private homes. Last names like Brenneman and Byler are common.
Clarita: This is a smaller Amish community and has been around for about 30 years. The second Saturday in September, is an Amish Crafts & Antique Show. This auction is put on by 20 different families, this school benefit features an auction of hand-sewn quilts, antiques, glassware and crafted furniture, as well as approximately 200 different craft booths. Breakfast service begins at 7am and Amish food vendors serve tasty treats like homemade chicken and noodles all day long.
Morris: This is a small community about 50 miles northeast of Choteau.
There are also some Mennonite communities in Oklahoma, primarily in the west. And in Thomas, Oklahoma, there is Zion Amish-Mennonite Church (pictured above). This is a Plain church that has origins in the Old Order Amish church
🏪 Amish Businesses in Oklahoma
Do you have a favorite Amish business in Oklahoma? Let us know about it so we can add it to the list!
The Amish Cheese House: 101 S Chouteau Ave, Chouteau. Owned by the Miller family, this isn't Amish owned, but the Millers have Amish and Mennonite backgrounds and some Amish work in the store, so it is rooted closely in Amish traditions. The Cheese House is a classic Amish-style bulk food, bakery, and deli.
Front Porch Bakery, 18435 S Highway 66,Claremore, OK 74017. This store bills itself as an Amish-style bakery offering Amish baked goods and classics near the Claremore Amish community.
Clarita Greenhouse and Market:, 17487 State Hwy 48. This is a quintessential Amish greenhouse with seasonal plants and vegetables and other goodies. This is run by the Schrock family. Owner Eli Schrock has an on-camera interview with Oklahoma Gardening that is fun to watch.
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