Pennsylvania Dutch Country, which is famous for its horse-and-buggy farm communities of Amish and Mennonites, is less known for its Puerto Rican community. But from the flags waving in home windows to the smells of Puerto Rican food on busy streets, they’re very much present in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. And in a nod to the region’s name, they call themselves “Dutchiricans.” 

Dutchiricans have been in the area for generations, and most of them have economic and religious ties to the Mennonite community, in particular. Mennonites vary in their strictness, but they are a similar group to the Amish and some adhere to a traditional way of life, including plain clothing, head coverings, limited education, and horse and buggy transportation. During World War II, Mennonites volunteered their time as “conscientious objectors” due to their pacifist beliefs. Instead of fighting on the battlefield, they built hospitals and schools in Puerto Rico. Years later, Puerto Ricans followed their Mennonite brethren back to Pennsylvania to work on their farms and factories. Many joined the Mennonite church and communities in the process. But as with any history, there were complications.  

For many Dutchiricans, moving to Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the mid-20th century meant adapting to an entirely new way of life, from clothing to food to the way you worshipped. Dutchiricans faced hardships, as well, with limited options for work advancement, housing, and even marriage between communities.

In this episode, producer Sarah McClure explores Pennsylvania Dutch Country and spends time with one Dutchirican woman, Ramona Rivera Navedo, who shares her story. Ramona recalls her Dutchirican family history in detail, from her family leaving their barrio in Puerto Rico to her father working on Mennonite farms. 

Dutchiricans like Ramona navigated the demands of assimilation to carve out their own space in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Today, they’re reclaiming their history in the Mennonite church — and beyond. 

Featured image by Ramona Rivera Navedo.

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This episode was produced by Sarah McClure and edited by Alejandra Salazar, with production support from Roxana Aguirre. Fact-checking for this episode by Roxana Aguirre.

Special thanks to Drs. Guzmán Zavala and Hinshaw, whose scholarly work helped shape the foundation of this story.

Music Credits:

Church Song
“Caminamos en la luz de Dios”
Performed by the congregation of Laurel Street Mennonite Church
Music Leader: Derrick Charles

Outro Song
“Décima”
Written and performed by Pastor Juan González
Recorded at Lancaster County’s first Dutchirican exhibit (2017)