
The Rich and Surprising History of the Amish Settlements in Iowa
The Amish have a long history in the Hawkeye State and are part of what makes Iowa such a unique and special place to live.
Amish communities receive a steady amount of tourism in the state yearly, and many of their colonies are open to the public.
According to the latest census data, nearly 400,000 individuals who identify as Amish, currently live in the U.S., and the state of Iowa has one of the highest populations of Amish in the entire country.
Iowa is home to several Amish settlements, with the largest and oldest located in the southeastern part of the state. Here's a look at the key Amish communities in Iowa and their history:

The Kalona Settlement
- Location: Near the town of Kalona in Washington County, southeastern Iowa.
- History: This is Iowa’s largest and oldest Amish settlement, established in 1846, just one year after Iowa achieved statehood. Kalona remains a hub of Amish culture, with traditional farms, woodworking shops, and a variety of Amish-run businesses. The area is well-known for its thriving community and attracts visitors interested in Amish craftsmanship and lifestyle.
Bloomfield Settlement
- Location: Davis County, southeastern Iowa.
- History: Established in the 1970s, this community is one of the fastest-growing Amish settlements in Iowa. The Bloomfield Amish are part of the Old Order Amish group and maintain a strict adherence to traditional ways, including horse-drawn transportation and avoidance of modern conveniences like electricity.
Hazleton Settlement
- Location: Buchanan County, northeastern Iowa.
- History: Established in the 1910s, the Hazleton Amish community is smaller than Kalona but well-established. The Amish here focus on farming, carpentry, and quilt-making.
Rural Seymour and Corydon Settlements
- Location: Wayne County, southern Iowa.
- History: These smaller Amish settlements were established in the 20th century and are known for their agricultural roots.
Other Settlements
Iowa also has smaller and newer Amish communities in locations such as Buchanan, Delaware, and Clayton counties in the northeast and in Appanoose County in the south. Many of these settlements are less than 50 years old, reflecting the Amish tendency to migrate to areas with affordable farmland and less pressure from urbanization.
The Amish first arrived in Iowa seeking religious freedom, fertile land, and a place to maintain their traditions. Over the decades, they have become an integral part of the state’s cultural legacy. The Amish population in Iowa continues to grow due to high birth rates and the draw of rural living, which aligns with their values.
To learn more about the Amish in Iowa and to watch videos, check out the page on the Iowa PBS website.
The Sunken Iowa Steamboat
Gallery Credit: Andy Gott
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