History

One of the main attractions of the area is the members of the Old Order Amish Faith.  In 1864, three Amish men came from Pennsylvania and Maryland in search of new and better farm ground.  They discovered the area that was to become Arthur and returned to their respective homes.  In 1865, they returned with family and friends.  There are several Amish Centennial Farms in the area.  (Farms that have remained in the same family for 100 years or more.)  From these few settlers, the Amish settlement grew to its present size of approximately 4,000 members. 

In the past few years, the Amish supplemented their farm income with small shops called "cottage industries" where they make fine oak furniture, cabinets, harnesses, buggies, and various other commercial items.  These, plus their delicious baked items have attracted a great number of tourists year round.  It is estimated there are more than 150 cottage businesses in and around Arthur.