Introduction to the New Amish Settlement in Nebraska’s Sandhills
Back in December 2023, I described the nascent Amish community being established in the Sandhills region of Nebraska. This area, known for its vast, rolling grasslands and sparse population, has recently become the focus of a new Amish settlement, highlighting their ongoing pursuit of remote and tranquil environments.
Why the ‘Middle of Nowhere’ Label Fits
The reason this location is often called the “middle of nowhere” is rooted in its remoteness and low population density. The community members, believed to be part of the Michigan Circle—who have been increasingly visible in recent months—have initiated a new settlement near the town of Valentine. Interestingly, this settlement is approximately 40 miles from Valentine itself, and the nearest mailing address is in that town, which is a common naming convention for Amish communities established in distant, rural areas.
The Unique Geography of the Sandhills
My initial unfamiliarity with the Sandhills changed after speaking with Paul Hammel, a dedicated reporter from the Nebraska Examiner. He explained that this region is remarkably remote and sparsely populated, making it an ideal location for those seeking solitude. The county in question, Cherry County, is notable for its vast land area—it is the largest in Nebraska—and its population is less than 5,500 residents. To put this into perspective, Cherry County’s territory exceeds that of Connecticut, yet its population remains tiny, emphasizing its secluded nature.
Amish Attraction to the Area
Amish communities often choose such remote regions due to factors like affordable land prices and lifestyle preferences. The area’s low population density and open landscapes align well with their desire for simple, agrarian living. While other parts of the country may be more sparsely populated overall, this specific region ranks as one of the most isolated. The closest settlement of notable size to this Amish community is the small village of Kilgore, which has a population of just 77 residents.
Progress and Growth One Year Later
Fast forward a year, and the community has shown promising growth. According to a recent report by News Channel Nebraska, the community is steadily expanding. An interview with one of its members, James Yoder, reveals insights into their development:
- Yoder, who moved here about a year and a half ago after living in Michigan and Indiana, expressed their appreciation for the West’s open spaces.
- Currently, nine families have settled in the area, with expectations of growing to around 20 families as more members join.
- Yoder indicated that once maximum capacity is reached, the community will likely spread out to new areas to continue expansion, reflecting their tradition of establishing new settlements as their numbers increase.
Estimations suggest that the current population, based on family sizes, could be around 70 to 80 people or more. For example, the bishop’s family alone reportedly consists of 13 members, which significantly impacts the overall count.
Occupational and Lifestyle Details
The community’s livelihood largely revolves around faith, family, and diligent work. Typical occupations include:
- Running local businesses such as Canyon Country Cabins.
- Operating cabinetry and saw-sharpening shops.
- Farming and ranching activities form a core part of their livelihood.
While some modern equipment like tractors is used, horses and buggies remain prevalent, underscoring their commitment to traditional modes of transportation. As Yoder notes, there’s a strong interest in ranching, which aligns with the area’s open spaces and rural character.
Implications and Future Outlook
This emerging community exemplifies how Amish groups are intentionally seeking out remote locations, often where non-Amish populations are declining. Should this trend continue, the Amish population could constitute a significant minority within Cherry County in a relatively short span. However, it’s worth noting that this community belongs to the Michigan Circle, known for their cautious approach to community size. As Yoder mentioned, expansion will likely involve spreading out into new areas when capacity is reached.
Media Coverage and Broader Context
NCN has produced an informative video report showcasing the community with compelling visuals, although embedding it here is limited. The overall Amish population in Nebraska remains small—around 600 residents, ranking 22nd among U.S. states—but recent years have seen the addition of four new communities since 2020. This indicates a clear upward trend in Amish interest within the state.