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Discover Jamesport, Missouri

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Discover Jamesport, Missouri and the Old Order Amish Community


As we approach the New Year, the time comes to make a few resolutions. This year, why not resolve to take more time for yourself, to try and see new things. When you are making plans to keep your resolutions, think of Jamesport, Missouri. This is a beautiful little town, a perfect destination for a day-trip or getaway. This town is best known as an Old Order Amish community, but it also has a flourishing non-Amish community as well. A visit to Jamesport will transport you back in time to a way of life, free from the hassles of modern technology.

After the railroad bypassed Jamesport in the 19th century, the once-flourishing town was faced with dwindling prospects. However, they have made use of the town's old world charm, and have turned it into a popular tourist destination. Today, a visit to Jamesport is like walking through a door to the past. 

The Amish moved to Jamesport in 1953. The Amish are a unique community, not to be confused with Mennonites. In the 1600s the Amish separated from the Mennonites because they believed the Mennonites were not strict enough in their religious observance. The lives of the Amish are strictly governed by biblical law, and to this day they do not use technology. They live on rural farms, use tools from a bygone era, cook on wood burning or kerosene stoves, and use horse-drawn vehicles for transportation.

Jamesport has many little shops in its downtown area. If you want to visit the Amish and Country stores, you will have to travel a little outside the downtown area. Within the town you will find quaint homes, little inns, and bed & breakfasts. You will see the horse-drawn vehicles as they pass through town, and you can visit a variety of equine businesses. The town is also a great destination for antique hunters. Throughout the year there are a variety of festivals and events that visitors are welcome to attend.

If you are interested in learning about the Amish community, you can take one of the tours. These tours will lead you to the Amish shops and even show you around an Amish farm. You can find detailed maps of the Amish and Country stores in downtown Jamestown. The Amish stores are located on their farms, so when you visit the shops you will also have the chance to see a working Amish farm.

Jamesport has a variety of stores and restaurants that offer delicious food. For a tasting adventure, visit the Homestead Creamery and try some of their fresh artisan cheeses. On top of tasting their delicious samples, you will also get the chance to watch some of the cheese making process.

When visiting an Amish community, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. All of the stores in Jamesport are closed on Sunday and almost all of the Amish stores are closed on Thursday. Thursday is their second day of rest during the week; many do not keep their stores open. The best days to visit Jamesport or Fridays and Saturdays since you will have the chance to experience all that the town has to offer.

In addition, the Amish stores only take cash or checks, so be prepared to put away your debit or credit card. In order to respect the wishes and beliefs of the Amish, do not take their pictures.  Instead, satisfy your inner shutter-bug with photos of the idyllic scenery.

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