Where Are the People Going?

It’s true that many young people move to larger cities in search of opportunity, but small towns aren’t doomed. With remote work on the rise and a renewed appreciation for quality of life, some are choosing to return to the Midwest—seeking space, community, and a slower pace.

What Happens When You Shop Small?

Every purchase at a small business does more than exchange goods—it puts dollars into the hands of families who live and work in your community. At our store in Lamoni, Iowa, your support benefits our family, our team, our Amish partners, and a network of local artisans.

Why It Still Matters

Small towns are the soul of America: places where parades gather generations, neighbors lend a hand, and tradition meets handmade quality. Losing them means losing part of our identity. Yet with every customer who visits in person or online, that identity stays alive.

How Do We Bring People Back?

• Make it Easy to Stay or Return: Reliable internet and strong community support make small‑town living sustainable for families and remote workers.
• Celebrate Local Flavor: Unique shops, events, and locally made products give people reasons to visit and stay longer.
• Support Each Other: Promoting a neighbor’s business or buying handmade goods builds collective momentum.
• Tell the Story: Authentic tales of local charm resonate—when we share what makes our towns special, people listen and often come see for themselves.

Hope in the Heartland

At the Iowa Amish Country Store, we see proof every day that small towns aren’t finished yet. Travelers drawn by word of mouth, families returning year after year, and new customers discovering handmade quality all remind us that rural doesn’t mean irrelevant.

So if you’ve ever wondered whether your purchase makes a difference—it absolutely does. You’re helping a small town in southern Iowa stay on the map. And for that, we’re truly grateful.