Media Information

History and Culture: All About the Amish

Although many think of the Amish as misfits dreaming of the 19th century, their history and beliefs are much more complex than that. The Mennonite faith sprang from a 16th-century Anabaptist movement during the Christian Reformation. In the 17th century, Jakob Ammann sought to invigorate the Anabaptist faith by establishing stricter interpretations of scripture and modes of living. Ammann’s practice began the tradition of adult baptism while also forbidding baptized men from shaving, advocating professions of faith, and shunning those disobedient to the doctrines. Seeking religious freedom, the Amish migrated to America and arrived in what would become Holmes County in 1809.
 

The Amish seek a closer relationship with God through the rejection of “worldly” things. The language among the Amish is Pennsylvania Dutch, but they also speak English. While their living may appear unusual in our modern world, as with any faith and heritage, each Amish church and family has its internal logic and philosophy by which to guide their lifestyle.

Maintaining self-sustaining farms or expanding into industries such as handcrafted furniture requires dedication, skill, and commitment. Cows don’t milk themselves. It’s valuable to remember that Amish are people experiencing a spectrum of joys and challenges, much like other Americans. Because they are a minority group, they are frequently stereotyped. And perhaps that is a part of the value in visiting this area--practicing that personal skill of leaving behind cultural caricatures in order to connect with authentic individuals. 

Suggested stops:
The Amish And Mennonite Heritage Center
Yoder’s Amish Home 
Troyer’s Amish Tours

Local Flavor: Homegrown Goodness

Many know Ohio Amish Country for the incomparable quality of our foods. A trip into artisanal and specialty shops in Ohio’s urban centers will often yield labels bearing our characteristic buggies. Many people don’t realize that they can go straight to the source for these awesome savories. Our cheese factories utilize local, fresh milk to create cheese in the Swiss tradition. Jam and jelly flavors might take you back to the PBJs of elementary school or provoke your tastebuds with combos like jalapeño-raspberry. You can make a day of sampling. 

The area has long been the source of fresh, local produce. Fruits and veggies become available as soon as seasonal weather permits. You’ll find leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers, squash, apples, peaches, berries… This list goes on and on. Stop by roadside stands on local shops for homegrown produce. Millersburg hosts the Amish Country Farmers’ Market May-October. The variety of produce will astound shoppers.

Cottage Industries: Authentic Arts

Cottage industries thrive in Ohio Amish Country. We have many craftspeople who use traditional skills and develop unique styles and products. Many of our crafts serve practical functions while providing rich decoration to daily living.

Quilts may be the most widely recognizable artistic endeavor in Amish Country. The area features many fabrics and notions shops to supply quilters with brilliant and textured fabrics. Quilts often have pieced geometry that represents historic or traditional design. Traditional Amish quilts tend to be dark, but you’ll see many more innovative pieced designs and quilting work in this area. Whether practiced as a social or solitary activity, quilting produces a functional work of art.

Other artisans in the area create through varied mediums that utilize fiber, clay, paint, wood, and even upcycled materials. Several shops in the area feature the work of local artisans. Pieces include kids aprons, pottery bowls and mugs, jewelry, decor, and apparel. Visitors might also notice Amish farms advertising baskets or brooms. You’ll have to venture down the lane to explore these crafts.

Handcrafted, hardwood furniture is one of our area’s most successful industries. The furniture makers use traditional techniques while engaging in contemporary design and sustainable practices. Many pieces are customizable, and our furniture stores offer excellent opportunities to discover accent and anchor pieces for family homes. This heirloom-quality furniture is made in America and supports local tradespeople. The furniture delivers longevity and peace of mind that a box of imported, build-it-yourself, particle board furniture can’t provide. Amish Country’s artisans strive to create works that express beauty that will last into the future.

Suggested stops:
Helping Hands Quilt Shop 
Homestead Furniture