Local Amish Artisans and Others Offer Hand-crafted Products and Great Service

Elkhart County’s Amish Country attractions in communities such as Middlebury, Nappanee, Wakarusa and Bristol are full of talented artisans, diverse business owners, and quality handmade products.

Many businesses in the area are run by those with either an Amish or a Mennonite background. Both groups derived from the Protestant Reformation and have similar Bible-based beliefs; many Mennonites follow the same plain, conservative lifestyle associated with the Amish. However, the Mennonites tend to embrace modern technologies like motorized vehicles, electricity, and phones.

“A favorite of many in the area, Teaberry Wood Products, is owned by LaVern Miller and his family who are Mennonite, which is a conservative religious group adjacent to the Amish,” said Terry Mark, director of communications & public relations. “Many artisans, including the Millers, will happily talk about what they make and they’ll show how they make their products.”

Teaberry Wood Products is known for its handcrafted home products, such as baskets, puzzles, and diverse home decor. As alluded to in the name of the company, all products are made from wood.

Other establishments in the area include restaurants, bakeries, clothing shops, and markets.

“Each of the area communities have Quilt Gardens, which are large gardens designed to mirror traditional quilt patterns using plants and flowers,” said Mark. “It is a free way for people to experience the area as the Quilt Gardens are conveniently located near restaurants, shops, bakeries, and other Amish and Mennonite businesses. There are 17 Quilt Gardens in the area.”

Dutch Country Market, just east of Middlebury, is an Amish-owned family business that has a variety of meats, cheeses, jellies, and jams. They also produce their own honey.

Not far from Dutch Country Market is Rise n’ Roll Bakery’s flagship location. Rise n’ Roll is known for their donuts, particularly their cinnamon caramel donuts. The bakery is franchised and there are several other locations throughout Northwest Indiana.

Gohn Brothers sells traditional Amish clothing, including shirts, dresses, pants, and hats. Middlebury Legacy Home Furniture, located just across the street from Gohn Brothers, sells Amish-crafted furniture ranging from dining room sets, bed frames, tables, and more.

“I think the thing that people appreciate the most about doing business with Amish County business owners is the handcrafted nature of the products,” said Mark. “They have what some would consider ‘traditional values’ like quality, honesty, and hard work.”

Tourists embarking on a summer vacation, and perhaps even locals looking for a day trip, will be able to check out all that Amish Country and the surrounding area has to offer.

“It is a diverse county with so much to do,” said Mark. “We welcome visitors and look forward to seeing so many experience the handcrafted and freshly-made Amish and Mennonite products offered here.”

For more information on the Elkhart CVB, you can visit visitelkhartcounty.com.