September 2013 Amish Country News by Amish Country News

New From New York Times Bestselling Author

BEVERLY

LEWIS Jenny Burns shocks her family and friends

when she bids farewell to her modern life in favor of the Old Order Amish world, settling into the home of Samuel and Rebecca Lapp. The people of Hickory Hollow are very curious about the beautiful young seeker among them—one handsome Amishman in particular— but Jenny will face many challenges in the Proving time the brethren have set for her...challenges of the heart, as well as the spirit. The Secret Keeper Home to Hickory Hollow

Find Beverly on Facebook Visit beverlylewis.com to learn more and watch the book trailer!

Beverly Lewis

Is the Top Name in Amish Fiction

A division of the Baker Publishing Group • bethanyhouse.com Available at your bookstore or by calling 1-866-241-6733

DUTCH HAVEN W hile driving along Route 30 in Lancaster County, you may see both familiar and unexpected sights. Certainly the Plain folk and their horse and buggy transportation will seem a step back in time. But one unique and unmistakable landmark is the Dutch Haven windmill. Its revolving arms have been drawing thousands of visitors each week ever since it first opened as a restaurant back in 1946. And while hungry visitors could satisfy themselves on any number of Penn Dutch specialties, it was Dutch Haven’s shoo fly pie that put it on the map…and in the record books as “America’s Best Shoo Fly Pie.”

This is undisputedly Amish Country’s most famous dessert, and all you have to do is walk through the door at Dutch Haven to be offered a sample taste of this amazing treat, warmed and topped with whipped cream, just as it was served in the restaurant all those years ago.

T-Shirts

AMISH COUNTRY LANDMARK

Made with a secret recipe, some 40,000 pies are sold in the store or shipped via UPS all over the USA. Indeed, so popular and delicious are the pies that some faithful customers have been buying them for over 50 years!

The pie that was featured in TIME magazine still plays a feature role at Dutch Haven. But the windmill building is now home to an amazing selection of over 10,000 items. One of the area’s best selections of primitive Amish furniture includes

Souvenirs

corner cupboards, pie safes, chests, and shelves. Woodcrafts, souvenirs and collectibles of all kinds fill the former dining rooms. Also on the shopper’s menu would be everything from spice mats and Amish dolls to jams, jellies, and local honey. Who can resist buying a T-shirt, or maybe a bonnet or Amish felt hat. If you grow tired looking at all of the Dutch Haven gift items, relax in one of the Troutman Rocking Chairs, from the oldest rocking chair company in America. Also deserving of a trip home in your car are the colorful and decorative hex signs, a perfect reminder of a visit to Dutch Country.

Dutch Haven’s shopping hours are Sun.-Thurs. 9am-7pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am-9pm. For more information about this Lancaster County landmark, call (717) 687-0111 or visit dutchhaven.com. A visit to Dutch Haven, “the place that made shoo fly pie famous,” will make your trip to Amish Country even more memorable…and tasty!

Hex Signs

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 3

From the Horse's Mouth Interview by Brad Igou

EDITOR’S NOTE: We are pleased to offer what we believe is a first-of-its-kind interview. Our subject’s name is Aaron and he is one of the horses at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides. We sat down (actually we stood) in the stables at Plain and Fancy Farm on RT 340 between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse where Aaron works. So move over Mister Ed, it’s time to hear what Aaron has to say! Brad: To begin, what did you do to get your name in the business? Did you log in more buggy miles than any of the other horses? Aaron: Neigh! I mean, “Nay.” When Jessica and her dad started the buggy rides, they obviously only needed three things --- a carriage, a driver, and a horse. So my name was added along with Jessica’s. I think it also had something to do with getting top billing in alphabetical listings, you know the “AA” in Aaron, but I don’t understand such human concerns. Brad: How did you prepare for this work? Did it involve any rigorous training, like plowing fields or pulling a hay baler? Aaron: Those would be jobs for work horses and mules! We often see them out in the fields when I do the rides. But we carriage horses are a different breed. Speaking of breeds, the most common for pulling buggies are American Standard or American Saddle. We need to get accustomed to cars and trucks and horns and traffic, which we did, of course. But our rides tend to be on back country roads where it is beautiful and peaceful. Brad: How many people can you pull at a time? Aaron: That depends on how much they weigh! Just kidding. In reality, we can usually pull about three times our weight. Since I weigh about a thousand pounds, I can actually pull about 3,000 pounds worth of visitors. I once told Jessica she could weigh everyone before they get on board, but for some reason, she hated that idea. Even with a full carriage, you can see we don’t get anywhere close to my comfortable pulling limit. Of course, people on the ride aren’t seeing my best side!

Seeing the world from a buggy the way the Amish do on back country roads is a memorable experience for the entire family. Brad: Do you ever get a rest? Is there a horses union? Aaron: We are well taken care of. Plenty to eat and drink, and we are not overworked. We even get a cool-rinse off on hot days. I usually work a little over three hours a day and there are three shifts of horses. There’s time for us to relax between rides. You might see us standing there with one of our hind legs bent. We’re just resting, like you humans when you cross your legs or lean against something. We also enjoy chewing on wood, but not because we’re hungry. It’s like when you chew gum.

Brad: I don’t think so, but tell me more about where you go… Aaron: Well, it’s difficult to get bored because we have so many different routes, at least seven I think. Sometimes I go on the short “Cookie Run,” which takes me to an Amish farm where people can buy cookies and drinks. But there are longer rides with names like “Amish Town Tour” and “Amish Farm Tour” and “Amish Journeys.” That last ride is well over an hour, so folks really get to enjoy the countryside. Of course, you never know what we will see. Sometimes farmers are harvesting corn, or kids are coming home from the one-room school. Really, I don’t understand how you humans can appreciate the scenery whizzing by at 50 miles an hour! Brad: We don’t. I guess you do see the world differently from a horse and buggy. You even get to go through a wooden covered bridge, right? Aaron: Yep, Every ride goes through the little bridge at Plain & Fancy where folks also come to eat and see the Amish story of “Jacob’s Choice.” I love to hear the sounds of my hooves clipclopping as we go along, and I kinda think the visitors do, too. Brad: What kinds of things do people say about the rides?

Aaron: I really enjoy these rides and many of us work well into our early 20’s. Our life expectancy is about 30 years old. So I have good years left in me before it is time to retire and, literally, be put out to pasture. I know I’ll miss seeing all the smiling faces and getting my picture taken after each ride.

Aaron: I’ve heard so many comments that it’s hard to remember. Unlike elephants, our memories aren’t so good. I do recall one family that has come to ride with us at least five times. I think they were from Long Island, which I assume is near Hawaii. Anyway, the day I had them, the mom said ever since her son woke up that morning, “Aaron and Jessica’s” is all she heard. But one visitor probably said it best… “The sound of the horse was wonderful. The countryside is just beautiful. It was so relaxing. It was just what I needed.” That’s how I feel every time I take the visitors out on a buggy ride.

Brad: Do you ever get bored going on the same route all day long?

Brad: Thanks for talking with me. Some people aren’t going to believe this.

Aaron: First of all, I enjoy “overhearing” the conversations our drivers have with visitors. Most of the drivers are Plain, so they get lots of questions from visitors about their way of life. I sure have learned a lot about the Amish by listening to them. Sometimes they ask some pretty funny questions. Have you ever heard a horse laugh?

Aaron: Well, I don’t talk to people that often. I’m more the silent type. But after work at night in the barn, you should hear the stories we have to tell when we’re all just horsin’ around. We really like sharing our tails, I mean tales, of all the sights we saw that day, with people from all over the world, knowing how much fun they had. I know we’ll be seeing some of them again!

Brad: How long do you expect to work?

4 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Enjoy An Authentic Lancaster County Dining Experience.

Good ’N Plenty Restaurant is proud to serve a unique dining experience since 1969. At Good ’N Plenty, we are pleased to offer our guests family style dining, menu dining, a takeout program, an award-winning bake shop and an extensive gift shop. At Good ’N Plenty Restaurant, we have something for everyone. We offer three ways for guests to enjoy our delicious food.

Family Style Dining

Our traditional all you can eat family style dining is our most popular dining option. Guests are seated at large tables, often with other restaurant guests and all the food is brought to the table by our experienced and friendly servers.

Menu Dining

Our menu dining option is perfect for guests with a smaller appetite who would like to dine at individual tables. In addition to all the Pennsylvania Dutch favorites, our menu features fresh-made soups, garden-fresh salads and made-to-order sandwiches.

Take-Out

Good ’N Plenty’s takeout program is ideal for busy people who want a delicious meal in a hurry. Place your take out order and we will have a tasty meal waiting for you.

Stop By Our Bakery & Gift Shop

Our world famous Good ’N Plenty bakery, located on the lower level, is filled with traditional PA Dutch favorites, seasonal treats and award-winning delights. Customers near and far comment on the incredible variety available at the Good ’N Plenty Gift Shop with something for everyone!

Serving Monday – Saturday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM

11:30 AM - 5:00 PM on Sundays (Seasonally)

Rt 896, Smoketown 717-394-7111 goodnplenty.com

The Finest In Local Farm Market Shopping

MARKET OPEN ON DAYS MARKED

Route 340, Bird In Hand, PA • 717-393-9674 AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 5

Kan Jam has arrived in Amish Country at Leacock Coleman Center by Clinton Martin

njoying the great outdoors is what the staff at Leacock Coleman Center does best – well, that and matching visitors with the very best gear for their own outdoor pursuits. Whether your family enjoys camping, hiking, grilling, tailgating, or simply picnicking at the local park, Leacock Coleman Center has all the right stuff to make it happen with style and efficiency. One of their newest and instantly most popular additions is the insanely fun Kan Jam game

which started out in the mid-1990s as a few guys throwing a disc into banged up metal garbage cans. But, it has somehow now become an official, patented, wildly popular outdoor game turning up in backyards (and school gym classes) across the country. Leacock Coleman Center is one of only a few retailers in these parts entrusted with Kan Jam.

Discover Lancaster County’s “must see” interactive attraction! Start your experience at turkeyhillexperience.com Columbia exit of Rt. 30 301 Linden Street Columbia, PA 17512 1-888-986-8784

. r Fun i p e f o al cow. c e R ’s chanic Kenny g a me m. a kin Ice Cre by mil opie Pie Start of Who l. ia le p c r m e a comm Add a s wn TV r. your o freeze in Star in lk wa ree. ff in a p o s l g o n o C m-killi h a ger Top wit

What’s your formula for fun? in them Fun

aking.

You’ll laugh out loud at the songs about hot ﬂashes, chocolate binges, memory loss and more... it will have you dancing in the aisles! Celebrate women with the classic tunes of the 60s, 70s and 80s!

For discount tickets, visit turkeyhillexperience.com and enter promo code: AMISH13

The game doesn’t require a lot of equipment or space. It is light in weight and easily transportable. The kit comes with plastic goals and throwing discs. All you need is at least 50 feet of space and one or two friends to play along. The object of the game is to score exactly 21 points before your opponents. Two teams of two people each is the suggested arrangement. To get to 21, players must do one of four things: Your partner deflects the disc you threw and hits the goal (1 point). You hit the goal directly with your disc, without the help of your partner (2 points). Your partner deflects the disc you threw so that it falls inside the goal (3 points). You throw the disc directly into the goal with no help from your partner (Instant win). For families looking to spend some lowbudget, easy, yet filled with action-packed fun together, Kan Jam makes a perfect pursuit. Leacock Coleman Center is great outdoor shopping, whatever your wish-list, and is now the place to pick up a Kan Jam kit as well. IMPORTANT NOTE: The retail store has moved from Old Leacock Road to an expansive new, more convenient location on Route 340, about halfway between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse. The address is 3029 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, although some GPS systems will need you to enter Ronks as the town name. The new store hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Thursday; 9:00am to 8:00pm Fridays; 9:00am to 4:00pm Saturdays. Closed Sundays. If you can’t make it to Leacock Coleman Center in person, you can still shop online at leacockcolemancenter.com. Finally, for additional information, call, 717-768-7174. This is a shopping experience you’ll enjoy, with truly something for everyone.

400 Tons of hay a year needed to feed the horses at Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides.

6 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

a Kahn Lucas Outlet

Bonus Bucks

Enjoy $5 off

ANY $5 or more purchase! Shop trendy new fall fashions and accessories. Expires 9/30/13. Cannot be redeemed for cash value or store credit. CPP0913

Rockvale Outlet: 35 South Willowdale Drive, Suite 1818 Lancaster, PA 17602 • 717.396.7860

Gettysburg Outlet: 1863 Gettysburg Village Drive, Suite 680 Gettysburg, PA 17325 • 717.398.2717

Sept. 10-Nov. 30 Join the Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club in a delightful, musical journey of self-discovery, healing and renewed wholeness. In an entertaining tale only New York Times bestselling author Wanda Brunstetter could spin, these unlikely quilters bind together like scraps of fabric stitched under the loving guidance of Amish widow Emma Yoder.

2760 Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340) Bird-in-Hand • (717) 768-1500

www.EatBIHRestaurant.com

Buy One Breakfast Smorgasbord get 1/2 Off Second Breakfast Smorgasbord Not valid with any other offer or discount. Limit one discount per coupon. Expires October 4, 2013.

Tickets $33 Lunch and dinner packages available

(800) 790-4069 • www.EnjoyBIHStage.com

ACN

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 7

Welcome to Intercourse PA INTERCOURSE 772

To Country Knives

Zook’s Old Fabrics Candle Store Barn

Dutchland Quilt Patch

340

Esh Handmade Quilts

Intercourse Pretzel Intercourse Canning Co.

HARVEST DRIVE

erhaps no other town in the entire country can claim its fame on just one simple thing --- its name. Harrison Ford drove a buggy past the road sign on a memorable visit in the Hollywood blockbuster hit of the movie "Witness." For years people have postmarked “Intercourse” on envelopes, and the jokes from visitors who travel through Bird-in-Hand to Intercourse are endless. There are several theories for the name, but that which we find most plausible follows. Around 1730, the Old Provincial Highway (now Route 340) was laid out to connect Philadelphia with Lancaster. Conestoga wagons hauled freight back and forth between the two cities. Providing rest for travelers and horses, taverns sprouted along the way, becoming centers for news, gossip, and commerce. The construction of a log tavern in 1754 at the intersection of Newport Road and the Highway took “Cross Keys” as its name.

QUEEN RD.

CENTER ST.

340

Best Western Intercourse Village Inn

OLD PHILA. PIKE

Factory

772

To Gap

30 41

It remained such until 1814, when the name was changed to Intercourse as part of a failed real estate scheme of a Mr. George Brungard, who had acquired 48 acres of nearby land and attempted to lay out a town site and divide it into sections for sale by a lottery, advertising “151 handsome building lots of $250 each to be drawn for by number.” Renaming the town made sense, as intercourse had a common usage referring to the pleasant mutual fellowship and frequent intermingling which were so common in the informal atmosphere of the quiet country village. Over time, Brungard’s scheme begat others. As recently as 1971, an enterprising soul tried to take advantage of the town’s name by selling deeds for one-inch square plots of Intercourse to visitors. Creative, but nonetheless a failure. By 1880, Intercourse had a population of 280 with a post office that actually moved among stores or restaurants as owners hoped visits by residents would increase their business.

The local stagecoach service started around 1898 as “a single horse conveyance similar to a market wagon, with a roll-up curtain and double set of seats.” When the stagecoach driver knew of passengers beforehand, their comfort on cold days was added to with the placement of hot bricks heated in the oven, and wrapped in newspaper to preserve their warmth. As the days of the dirt road drew to a close, so too did the stagecoach era. In 1923 a transit company was organized and bus service initiated to and from Lancaster. While “many of the Amish residents of the area were eager to see the line started, they did not want to invest in stock of the Company. Instead they bought books of tickets which were really prepaid bus

Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies on Harvest Drive just west of Intercourse now features delicious sausage pies in addition to its sought after chicken pies.

8 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

LOCALLY MADE

• Quilts • Fabric & Patterns • Primitive Country Decor & Lighting and much more!

2 LOCATIONS Village of Dutch Delights

Rt. 30, 1/4 Mile East of Miller’s Smorgasbord 717-687-0534

Intercourse Store (No Fabric)

Look for the green sign on Rt. 340! 3453 Old Philadelphia Pike 717-768-3981

Mon-Thur 9-6 ∙ Fri 9-8 ∙ Sat 9-7 ∙ Closed Sunday Shop On-Line at www.DutchlandQuilts.com

fares.” Enough money was raised to buy a Mack Auto Bus for $6,800. It held 25 passengers and even had solid rubber tires! Today Intercourse has been recognized as a “foodie” town by the PA Dutch Visitor’s Bureau. You'll soon discover why walking the streets of this tiny hamlet is an absolute mustvisit for everyone.

BRING IN AD FOR FREE GIFT!

Number of different shows on stage each day at the great Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire.

COUNTRY KNIVES Over 8000 Items of Fine Cutlery on Display!

4134 Old Philadelphia Pike 2 Miles East of Intercourse on Rt. 340

717-768-3818 Hours: Monday - Saturday 9-5

www.countryknives.com AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 9

High Touch, Yet Hi-Tech... The Making of JACOB’S CHOICE

world, without any “English” characters as a point of comparison. Our choice was thus very unlike the classic style so typical of “clash of Continued on Page 22

OF INTERCOURSE

• Fabric • Books • Batting

Th i

Mon-Sat 8am-5pm

13 Center Street Intercourse, PA 717-768-0156 IntercourseCanning.com

Monday thru Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm

At Intercourse Canning Company

Amish Country News, PO Box 414, Bird-In-Hand, PA 17505

10 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

in on l op

ANY $10 PURCHASE

Limit one coupon per family. Cannot be combined with any other offer. May not be used on sale items and not valid on mail orders. Offer ends 12/31/13.

A Simply Irresistible Celebration of 16 Years of Canning!

Fantastic articles! Money saving coupons! A guide to Amish Country! For an Amish Country News annual subscription, complete this form and send a check or money order for $30 to:

OFF Sh

• Live demonstrations Wed. through Sat. 11am-3pm • Ample samples throughout the store • Video from our old manufacturing facility

Amish Country News is printed 7 times per year. Please check an issue to start your subscription. Spring (April/May) June July August September October Winter (Nov/Dec)

IN THE VILLAGE

(717) 768-8153 3535 Old Phila. Pike

$2.00

co m

ZOOK’S FABRICS

But as we progressed, we moved away from the idea of a narrated, documentary style presentation to an emotional story whose family members audiences would readily relate to. We decided to tell our tale entirely within the Amish

Scenes of the persecution of Anabaptists in Europe are a dramatic highlight of "Jacob's Choice."

ow to experience a more intimate, emotional view of the Amish? My recommendation, and long a visitor favorite, for experiencing a unique look at “what it means to be Amish” is the multimedia production of JACOB’S CHOICE. The story reflects upon 400 years of Amish history as it relates the personal story of a teenage Amish boy and his Old Order Amish family of today. Set within only the third “experiential theater” in North America, the Fisher family story is brought to life through multiple projection screens, a three-dimensional set with theatrical lighting, surrond sound, and special effects. With your indulgence, as one of the producers, I’d like to share the making of JACOB’S CHOICE.

The first step was to form a creative team which consisted largely of a group of dedicated, hardworking local people. An award-winning author was given some materials and turned loose to develop a storyline. We had learned over the years was how surprised people were that the Amish believed in adult baptism as a matter of free will. Our screenwriter picked up on this, and began with a story that involved for many young adults this difficult choice and the impact on the family the process inevitably wrought. There was a narrator, and there were non-Amish in the story, with history woven throughout.

at Fa

by Brad Igou

• Fabric • Sewing & Quilt Suplies Mon, Tues, Thurs 8-8, Wed, Fri, & Sat 8-5

(717) 336-2664

Sauder’s Fabrics

681 South Muddy Creek Rd. Denver, PA 17517

N. GROFFDALE RD.

LEOLA

Riehl’s Quilts & Crafts E. EBY ROAD

Smucker’s Quilts

NEW HOLLAND

MAIN STREET Witmer’s Quilt Shop

Country Lane Quilt Shop

322

897 23 RANCK AVE.

This entire century had been one of continued misery for the peasants of the Palatinate (western Germany). The Thirty Years War had raged across the area with barbaric ruthlessness. The peasant inhabitants fled to nearby Holland for refuge. And within a decade of the end of that conflict, King Louis XIV of France started a new religious war in the same general area. These Palatinate peasants were exhausted by war’s desolation, and were ripe for a new start. Traveling land agents for William Penn’s new colony found listening ears. In addition to religious freedom and a peaceful existence, Penn offered cheap land. The stated price was 100 English pounds for 5,000 acres. (At today’s rate exchange, this would be less than $.04 an acre). By the year 1702, a goodly number of Palatinates had immigrated to Pennsylvania, and Queen Anne, newly reigning in England, was delighted that Penn was colonizing his immense grant without drawing off the population of Britain.

To Ephrata

S. GROFFDALE RD.

he instability in Europe in the late 1600’s spawned and nurtured the pioneer interest in the deep forest lands of Pennsylvania — 60 miles inland from Philadelphia. In 1681 William Penn received his 40,000 square-mile land grant to settle King Charles’ debt to his father. Himself a Quaker, Penn had experienced religious persecution firsthand, and decided to establish his American colony based on complete religious freedom.

RAILROAD AVE.

Welcome to New Holland • Blue Ball BLUE BALL

Country Home Blue Furniture Ridge Furniture

To September Farm Cheese

The area today called New Holland was practically covered by virgin forests—sturdy timbers of oak, ash, chestnut, and walnut. By 1728, William Penn had been dead for 10 years and his American colony, called Pennsylvania, was being administered by a proprietary governor while the sale of land was formalized by patent deeds. In 1802, when a post office was established and an official name was necessary, there was no objection to naming the town New Holland. These grateful people remembered how extremely kind the inhabitants of Holland were to them, and the assistance that included funds to cover the cost of the refugee German immigrants’ ocean voyage. This was no small matter when the alternative was indentured service for a period of years. For adults, indenture frequently meant four to seven years of labor without pay. Minors served until their 21st birthday. But still, William Penn’s Quaker Pennsylvania was liberation compared to the Europe they fled seeking freedom of religion, assembly and speech for all, hopefully, none of which we take for granted today.

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 11

Lapp Family Reaps What They Sew by Clinton Martin

s part of our annual Family-Owned Business issue, we delight in sharing the stories of families working hard day-in and day-out to make Amish Country such a wonderful place to visit. John Lapp and his family comprise one such household. While John started out as a farmer, and still does grow some vegetables (his ingenious refrigerated storage shed is a prime example of an Amish adaptation of technology), his family’s main income source has become quilts, crafts, and fabric. Consistent with Amish demeanor, he wouldn’t have wanted us to shine a spotlight on

him or his family, so we’ll have to concentrate on the exceptional work they do with their hands. John realized years ago that farming was becoming more and more difficult given the limited space he had, so to supplement the family income he developed a small road-side business selling quilts and crafts made by his family, friends, and neighbors. As it turns out, visitors to the area loved the authentic, home and handmade Amish crafts. The business soon needed more space, and a permanent home. Fortunately, John’s farmstead had a large open, walk-in basement he was able to convert into a very special fully stocked store.

Wonderful wooden toys are just part of the "craft half" of Lapp's Quilts and Crafts near Strasburg. Today, Lapp’s Quilts & Crafts is as welcoming as ever, with hand-stitched quilts, wooden toys and other crafts, and plenty of fabrics for the do-it-your-selfer. As you might expect, John and his family are still reaping what they sow, or perhaps better said, reaping what they sew (groan understood)! The Lapp family farm and on-site store is located on North Star Road, just east of Route 896 near Strasburg. For GPS users, 206 N. Star Rd, Ronks PA. Call ahead with any questions to 717-687-8889, extension 1. Keep in mind the phone is not in the home, so you’ll need to leave a message. Lapp’s Quilts & Crafts is open daily except Sundays.

12 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

13 Years Strong!

isitors to Lancaster County love to experience the serenity of days gone by.

Part of this experience includes the delicious foods of the area and the handcrafted products of furniture artisans, including the still very much in demand Amish furniture. One place that offers both is the world famous Shady Maple complex. When Shady Maple Smorgasbord moved into a larger building across the parking lot a decade ago, the former restaurant building became home to one of the largest and best furniture stores in the area, Country Home Furniture. The store is now celebrating its 13th anniversary in business. According to management, "We like to think we're helping to preserve a little piece of America's furniture making history. Our craftsmen are steeped in tradition. They deeply care about their work." On two floors and 30,000 square feet of selling space in their retail store, you will find eight manufacturers of Americanmade sofas and recliners, made in North Carolina, Ohio and Mississippi, in addition to over 30 manufacturers of solid wood dining, bedroom, office, occasional and entertainment… and the area's largest selection of Amish furniture. The hardwood pieces come from American handcrafters and Amish builders in Ohio, Indiana and right here in Lancaster County. With hundreds of stylish products in traditional, transitional, modern and country looks on the floor, there is something for everyone. Unlike other stores where your only choices are what you see, at Country Home Furniture, you can have a hand in every facet of your design. That's the beauty of shopping there. Customers love the flexibility of having a piece made for them by selecting the wood, stain, hardware and fabric. If beautiful, quality, brand new, solid wood, American handcrafted furniture are important to you, then you owe it to yourself to explore Country Home Furniture. As they like to say, it's "worth the drive to the countryside" to come see the craftsmanship first hand, then enjoy your meal at Shady Maple Smorgasbord - two great things that make Lancaster County famous. Country Home Furniture is open Monday and Friday 10-7, Tuesday through Thursday 10-5, and Saturdays 9-5. The entire complex at Shady Maple is closed on Sundays.

For more information, call 717-354-2329, go online to www.chfs1.com or email sales@chfs1.com. GPS address is 1352 Main Street, East Earl Township, PA. 2 • Amish Country News • Spring 2013 • AmishNews.com

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 13

Strasburg - A Town of Trains & Heritage To

BACHMAN TOWN RD.

Amish Village

Hershey Farm Restaurant & Motor Inn

HERR RD.

RON KS RD.

J & B Quilts & Crafts Country Creations

V FAIR

NORTH STAR RD

IE W

Lapp’s Quilts & Crafts Parking

896 Iron Horse Inn

741

Ghost Tour

DECATUR STREET

896

Choo

741

Choo

STRASBURG

As Strasburg flourished, so did its neighbor to the east, Philadelphia. The commercial interests of Philadelphia pressured the State Legislature to improve the transportation network into their city. As a result, a series of canals along with

14 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

National ToyTrain Museum

Strasburg Rail Road Verdant View Farm B&B and Farmland Fun

the Philadelphia and Columbia Rail Roads were constructed. Strasburg residents became alarmed at the possibility of losing their commercial position and there soon emerged a charter for the Strasburg Rail Road to construct a rail line

VillageGreens.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Please Call For Hours

Barn

Lil Country Store & Mini Horse Farm

PARADISE LANE

ll aboard! Strasburg is a destination all its own in Dutch Country, home to many well known attractions. To name just a few --- the Strasburg Rail Road, Living Waters Theatre, Ghost Tours of Lancaster, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, National Toy Train Museum, and the Choo Choo Barn. But you may not know much about the interesting history of "Train Town." Strasburg, named for the city in France, was actually “founded” by a Frenchman, Pierre Bezaillion, who traded with the Delaware Indians. The story goes he came to the area in 1693, as French fur traders opened up the first path through this area from Philadelphia to the Susquehanna River. As early as 1716, when the first wagon was used for hauling goods, the path became known as the Conestoga Road, and the wagons that traveled them eventually became known as Conestoga Wagons. Main Street Strasburg was developed during the next half century as traffic on this road increased considerably and the first log houses appeared in the village about 1733. Strasburg continued to flourish in the 18th century primarily because of its location along the major wagon routes between Philadelphia, Lancaster, and the Susquehanna River.

The Only 23 Hole Golf Course in Lancaster County

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connecting Strasburg with the Philadelphia and Columbia Rail Road main line near Paradise. Finally in the 1850’s, trains were hauling freight and passengers.

SRR back to life in a totally new way. They added passenger cars and buildings, and today’s Strasburg Rail Road was born, destined to become one of Dutch Country’s top attractions.

About 100 years later, business had dwindled, and a severe storm in 1957 destroyed much of the track. It seemed the SRR had reached the end of the line. To the rescue came a group of local train enthusiasts who began bringing the

Appropriately enough, the State decided to build an expanded Rail Road Museum of Pennsylvania across the street, the ideal place to preserve the history of railroading in Pennsylvania. With the other train attractions

nearby, it’s little wonder that Strasburg has earned the title of Train Town!

200

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 15

13AV019_ACN_2.375x4.75_v2_Layout 1 2/19/13 12:

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persecuted religious groups in Europe, many Moravians sought freedom in the New World, arriving in the early 1700’s, with settlements in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. In 1755 the town actually took the name Lititz, the German spelling for Lidice, where European reformers had taken refuge in the 15th century.

This vintage and rare photo shows Louis Sturgis and workers hand twisting their famous pretzels. Photo courtesy of Sturgis Pretzel House

here really is no place quite like Lititz, and visitors should plan time there while in Amish Country.

The Lititz story is tied to that of the Moravian faith in Bohemia. As was the case with other

Music and education were important to the Moravians. In fact, the Lititz schoolhouse erected in 1746 marked the beginnings of what was to be Linden Hall, the oldest continuously operating residence school for girls in the United States. For one hundred years, Moravian church members were the only people permitted to live in the town. It was not until 1855 that nonMoravians were allowed to own their own homes. The complex of buildings comprising the Moravian congregation is well worth seeing, particularly the church built in 1787.

One name is linked forever with the history of Lititz --- Julius Sturgis. It was Julius Sturgis who opened the first commercial pretzel bakery in the New World in Lititz. The year was 1861, and the site at 219 East Main Street is on the National Register of Historic Places. A tour of the bakery, still in operation, is unlike any other and well worth your time. Just recently, Lititz won Budget Travel's 2013 "Coolest Small Town in America" competition.

Filling Visitors’ Wish Baskets...The Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market by Clinton Martin

f there’s one thing on nearly every visitor to Amish Country’s wish list, it is visiting a farmers market. Part shopping excursion, part something to see and do including up close and personal interaction with our Amish neighbors, strolling the aisles of a local farmers market is like browsing much of what Amish Country offers all in one place under one roof. The Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market has long been one of my favorites. The market is a clean, comfortable, fully enclosed, air-conditioned building, all of which makes for a pleasant shopping experience compared to the often dusty, sun-scorched markets that dot the surrounding area. At the over 25 market stands, vendors display a cornucopia of Amish Country treats, from local meats, cheese, fruits, vegetables, baked and canned goods, and spices, to candies and even premise-made fudge. I never fail to appreciate that most of the food vendors offer small samples for tasting before buying. But, the market is not solely about food. You’ll find unique, locally made crafts as well. It’s all part of the experience! There is plenty of free parking, including for the largest RVs. Market hours are 8:30AM -5:30PM, Wed – Saturday. For GPS users, 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, but finding the market really couldn’t be easier. Bird-in-Hand is just a few miles east of Lancaster on Route 340. The market is right smack dab in the middle of the village. Call (717) 393-9674 for more information, or look online at birdinhandfarmersmarket.com.

18 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Dutch Haven, A Classic…and Certified Cool! by Clinton Martin

for a hand-rolled soft pretzel and homemade Amish root beer. All baking is done on the premises and they specialize in shipping pies and other delectables. The souvenir store features Amish pine furniture, souvenirs, jams and jellies, and other arts and crafts.”

Visitors to Dutch Haven are greeted with a sample of the bakery's sought after shoo-fly pie.

f you’ve ever flipped through a copy of AMISH COUNTRY NEWS before, you’ve undoubtedly seen the swinging arms of Dutch Haven’s bakery and store beckoning you in for a free taste of Amish Country’s famous Shoo-Fly Pie. Now, there’s shoofly pie, and there’s shoofly pie! Dutch Haven’s happens to be credited with baking up “America’s Favorite Shoo-Fly Pie” in publications as renowned as TIME Magazine. For those of you who somehow have yet to set foot inside Dutch Haven, and never tasted a free fork-full of Dutch Haven’s warm, sweet, gooey delicious Shoo-Fly Pie, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, there are many who would look at you and just say, “Duh!” Others might say that you just might have bragging rights to the strongest “will power” in Amish Country! However, we’ve discovered yet one more reason to visit Dutch Haven now that STREET SCENES Magazine has taken pen in hand to extol the sweet treats and shopping delights that await under those iconic turning windmill arms. STREET SCENE, produced by the National Street Rod Association, recently published a guide to road-side attractions, eateries, and boutiques in Lancaster and the surrounding countryside. Much like the popular “Diners, Drive-Ins…” show on TV, this editorial piece sought out the coolest, most classic American stops along the region’s best road-trippin’ and cruisin’ routes. As anyone who’s traveled the “Lincoln Highway” coming or going into Lancaster County knows, you simply can’t miss Dutch Haven along Route 30 east surrounded by our bucolic Amish countryside. So when the hotroddin’ editors of STREET SCENE happened to cruise by Dutch Haven, they stopped in for a visit. They noted (kinda doing my job for me), “Since 1946, Dutch Haven has been famous for America’s Best Shoo-Fly Pie and today it’s still produced from the original recipe. Come in for a free sample of pie, or

In addition, in August Dutch Haven was selected as one of “The Ten Best Offbeat Sites in Pennsylvania Dutch Country” by Huffington Post writer Malerie YolenCohen. She extols that “Dutch Haven sells more Shoo-fly Pie than all other bakeries in Lancaster combined. Why? Because it's awesome. Forget what you think about that

gooey, tooth-hurting-sweet stuff you thought was Shoo-fly pie. No nuts, fruit, or dairy, these pies can stay on your counter for two weeks and in your fridge another two.” It appears Dutch Haven is now not only America’s favorite source for Shoo-Fly Pie, but is also certified cool, classic, and offbeat by the people who’d know. So, my suggestion -- put your diet on hold, throw your “will power” in the back seat for an hour, and drive on over (no hot rod needed) to Dutch Haven to try (and, my guess, buy) a pie. You can even ship pies to anyone on your “nice list” too .

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Giving Family the Business by Brad Igou

Amish entrepreneurs can start young and early, as seen by this youthful lad readying his roadside stand for business. Photo credit: Charles Rehm.

ysfunctional families. Can’t help but run into them for they’re everywhere on TV and in film these days . Indeed, the endangered species seems to me the “functional” TV family I remember growing up like LEAVE IT TO BEAVER and OZZIE AND HARRIET. Their problems were little more than a perplexed, or maybe a mischievous child as on DENNIS THE MENACE. I should note that these TV families of yesteryear were not always the ideal nuclear family. Remember MY THREE SONS and THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW?

But somehow we, as a society, lost interest in these “normal” families and began looking for domestic units that appeared more real to us. In time, these iterations evolved into the dysfunction we’ve been watching now for a couple decades, albeit sprinkled with the occasional exception (the COSBY SHOW comes to mind). All this got me to thinking about dysfunctional family businesses. To be sure, there are popular cable shows with this theme as well. But I won’t be writing about them today. The families behind the businesses advertising in these pages, most of whom I know personally and call my friends or associates, seem to be functioning quite well. Which brings me to the genesis of our September theme of “family owned businesses.” Back in 2007, our managing editor wanted to focus attention on the many family owned businesses in Amish Country as the subject of a theme for one of our issues. I jokingly said that this would be about 90% of our advertisers and we really couldn’t write about every one of them. Furthermore, we highlight businesses in every issue, so the fact that they were familyowned and, perhaps more importantly, familyrun wasn’t really novel.

But the editor was not from around here, and couldn’t help but be impressed by the absence of national chain restaurants and stores and the corresponding preponderance of familyowned businesses. I suppose that, without thinking about it, I had just taken this reality as being our norm, and actually doubted that we were unique in this regard. But upon reflection, I started pondering if perhaps the traditional work ethic, farming traditions, and influence of our Amish and Mennonite neighbors might have indeed produced a different business culture. Clearly, many businesses were concieved here because the Amish wanted to keep close to the family rather than traveling off to work in a factory, the so-called “lunch pail dilemma.” As farmland dwindled and became more expensive, factory work seemed the only alternative. Dad was off to work with his lunch pail each morning and not seen until evening. The factory work environment also had its own unwelcome influences. In any event, thus began Amish “cottage industries.” Now Dad could stay close to home by either working for another nearby Amishman or for himself with the support of family. As listed in the new treatise by Dr. Kraybill, THE AMISH, such businesses run the gamut from construction, crafts, food production, installation, machine and metal, manufacturing, to retail, services, trades, and woodworking. Within each category are multiple business types. Under “services” alone, you’ll find accounting, auctioneering, battery and electrical work, butchering, clock and watch repair, horse shoeing, leather and harness, printing, sewing, spray painting, tent rentals, upholstery, tombstone engraving, and tree trimming. Now there’s a list that gives new meaning to the word “eclectic!” But family businesses aren’t limited to the Amish, of course. Families in the hospitality industry run restaurants, gift shops, hotels, attractions, bed and breakfasts, etc. Some businesses started because of a special interest or talent of a family member, as was the case with the Choo Choo Barn where the Groff family has continued the hobby-turned-attraction model railroading tradition from father to son to daughter. On their way to a fourth generation? Another example is Country Creations, where a mother’s desire to spend more time with family

20 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

combined with her handcraft skills, resulting in a small shop in the house which eventually overflowed into the tobacco shed and then the dairy barn! Others saw a need or opportunity and seized upon it. After the Lapp brothers opened Plain & Fancy Farm Family Style Restaurant, one brother saw the need for another such dining experience. Christ Lapp and his wife opened the now famous Good ‘N Plenty, and later the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, and with son Glen and grandson Justin, is now one of our best known three-generation family businesses. There are those who seemed to have stumbled upon an idea and through their hard work and ingenuity found profit in the process. That may have been the case with the original inn built in the sleepy village with the funny name of Intercourse. Most recently during the construction of the hotel’s major expansion (now the Best Western Plus Intercourse Village Inn), I saw the father involved in talks with workers to assure the finishing touches were just right while the son was getting a lesson on how to maintain the new indoor pool. Finally, you’ll notice that many farm owners have supplemented their income with adjacent craft or quilt shops, selling baked goods, giving farm tours, or opening a bed and breakfast. In some cases, this agri-tourism has overtaken the farming to becoming the profit center, as is the case with Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and its popular corn maze. In almost every case, what these businesses have in common is family support, hard work, determination, and a passion for what they do. Many will also tell you that their faith is important. They don’t push their beliefs on you, but you will see them in practice in many ways --- how they do business, relate to people, and contribute to charities and volunteer work, from benefit auctions to the local fire company to disaster relief. It’s also one reason that the quilt or furniture shop you planned to visit this Sunday is likely to be closed! These individual entepeneurial families have extended outward to form the hub of some of our very small rural villages where people actually know their neighbors and welcome strangers as friends. These are wonderful places where families work, worship, eat and play together. I think one of the reasons so many visitors keep returning to Amish Country is the feeling that they’ve become a part of our extended family. Certainly not the stuff for reality TV shows following the fortunes of their dysfunctional family members, but, for most of us, it suits just fine!

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culture” films from Shogun to Witness to Dances with Wolves whose plots unfold through the eyes of someone “like us.” We were heading towards a more universal story, one that would have us empathizing with Amish

characters in situations we could identify with, but set in an Amish world, and grounded in rich Amish history presented as dramatic flashbacks. We felt sure the appeal would extend to both young people and adults. The development of the script took months with many chefs at the stovetop. At the same time, the theater building, the choice of special

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22 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

effects, and exactly how the story would best be presented were often hotly debated. Fortunately, it was a sound, creative interchange of concepts and ideas. We regularly arranged for the creative team to talk to Amish to acquire a background understanding about what had been foreign to them. We tried hard to keep our focus on “the story” and, although intrigued by the possibilities, not let the effects get in the way, but rather incorporate them to add drama and emotion. History is an area where people tend to quickly lose interest so we determined to use our effects to bring the Amish past to life. The contemporary story would be presented in movie, visual surround form on four screens. The historical scenes would rely on an old theatrical effect called “Pepper’s Ghost” to create three-dimensional images in a physical space. We settled on two dramatic stories from the Martyrs Mirror, a book published in 1660 that graphically depicts the persecution of the European forefathers of the Anabaptist Amish and Mennonites. We decided to use actual words from a 1737 passenger’s diary for the part of the show dealing with the freedom voyage to America. It was important that we tell the story through the lives of individuals, past and present. It was equally important that we create the feel of a farm, with barn-siding as part of the set surrounding the audience and benches you’d find at an Amish church service for our seating. Eventually, the idea of showing the film on actual barn siding surfaced. Our lighting designer decided to place lights behind the siding to simulate light peering through the cracks. It sounded unusual, but the design element became one of the signature features of the theater, allowing the set to become the movie screens and vice-versa, with the addition of a windmill, lanterns and a country bell and other pieces you would find on a farmscape. The buggy scene, probably the purest emotional moment in Jacob’s story, was done with film and a full-sized Amish buggy. To tell you more would spoil the story.

Storyboards were crafted by a talented artist so that we might visualize the scenes we would be capturing on film. A production and film crew was assembled from across the country. Local actors were auditioned and cast. We even ended up renting costumes from Paramount Studios, the same costumes used in the movie Witness, one of which was Harrison Ford’s! Since no Amish would allow filming on their farm, we scouted and secured three local farms, even removing electric lines as needed, always fully recreating Amish scenes with intense accuracy. While the theater was being built on the property of Plain & Fancy Farm, the final editing, music (from an Academy Award Nominee) and sound were being added in Hollywood. It was an editing challenge to say the least, since our dozens of hours of film not only had to be condensed, they had to flow seamlessly across five screens. Continuing the collaborative process, we had to decide what and who would be seen where and how each scene would unfold so that the audience would not “miss” anything. Meanwhile, the physical set and effects, some built off-premise, were being put into place, including a cannon that would shoot smoke rings over the audience, a favorite of both adults and children. After we got the film back to Lancaster transferred to digital media, we worked on

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lighting cues and programing. We installed a new, state-of-the-art computer system designed to run the entire show with the push of a button. After staying up all night one last time, we managed to open, as planned, July 1, 1995.

continually updated and new effects added where it made sense to do so. However, the story remains intact, as poignant and relevant as the day it opened and one that touches each audience member in some memorable way.

It is a tribute to the production that it remains popular and the area’s go-to Amish attraction. To be sure, sound and lighting have been

I feel comfortable that we achieved our goal of “tears and wow” against a backdrop of modern Continued on Page 50

“A heartwarming new voice for fans of Beverly Lewis.”—Emma Miller Rhoda’s new romance with an outsider brings the risk of being shunned by the community in the tranquil Amish town of Willow Ridge, Missouri, but nothing is stronger than the power of love…

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 23

N. HARVEST DR.

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many teamsters or wagoneers were poorly educated they could not read. Given orders to stop at a certain inn, they were able to do so by recognizing the artwork on the signboard. The legend of the naming of Bird-in-Hand dates to the time when the Old Philadelphia Pike was being laid out. By 1734, surveyors at McNabb’s Hotel were discussing whether they should stay at their present location or return to Lancaster to spend the night. One of them said, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” The sign in front of the inn, which became known as the Bird-inHand Inn, is known to have once "portrayed a man with a bird in his hand and a bush nearby, in which two birds were perched." Variations of this sign appear throughout the town today. McNabb’s Hotel was destroyed by fire in 1851. By the following year, a three-story hotel was built to replace it. More recently, it was Bitzer’s Hotel before becoming the present Village Inn of Bird-in-Hand, a beautiful bed and

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f the many unique village names that dot the Amish Country map, one of the more interesting is Bird-in-Hand. William Penn, an English Quaker, had founded the colony of Penn’s Woods, and settlers began arriving from Europe in the early 1700’s, moving westward from Philadelphia. The trip by stagecoach, or Conestoga wagon with freight and merchandise, lasted several days. Inns were built every few miles, identified with signs held by an iron pole or attached to the side of the building. The reason for the signs was so that they could be understood by all nationalities. Further, since

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breakfast property. The Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County states that the existing brick building “may be one of the few 19th century inns in the context of a small town in Lancaster County, which survives with a high degree of architectural integrity.” It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When referring to their bird in hand symbol, some residents say that the bird nestled in the human hand indicates friendship, comfort, and hospitality, all of which you’ll discover in this perfectly delightful little village of shops, farmers markets and eateries.

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24 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 25

Always An Interesting Find at Country Housewares Store by Clinton Martin

f you’ve ever heard a local say a certain shop is an “Amish Walmart,” you’d do well to listen in. Far, far from the impersonal, big box store when we think of Wally World, an “Amish Walmart” is a fascinating place that really must be shopped to be understood. Country Housewares Store is one of my favorites. In some ways, this dry goods store is like any other, carrying everyday kitchen utensils, tableware, clothing, toys, and books.

In other ways Country Housewares is simply an incredible cultural experience. Your discoveries there will include many that you’ve never seen before, and perhaps a few that you thought went out with the Model T. Obviously, catering to Amish tastes, this Amish owned and operated store does have a lot of items that are every day necessities for the Plain folk yet seem nostalgic to us English. One example is the two-burner home-canning kit that comes

From clothing to pots and pans, Country Housewares is a fascinating Amish version of a department store, where you just might find that item "they don't make any more." with everything you’ll need to put up a gardenfull of fruits and veggies. Nostalgic indeed! Owner Michael Fisher is clear in his invitation to Amish and English alike to visit his store. There is ample parking for both cars and horse-drawn carriages, and Country Housewares is open daily except Sundays. To get there, you will be heading off the beaten path (part of the fun after all) to Musser School Road, which turns off Groffdale Road, just south of Route 23 between New Holland and Leola. For GPS users, it’s 587 Musser School Road, Leola PA. Call ahead with questions to 717-556-0985.

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26 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

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Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop Celebrating 41 Years of Goodness

Butch & Linda Miller Owners ince 1972, the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop has remained family owned and operated. Erwin (Sr.) & Annie Miller were the first of this family chain. Now in the second generation, Erwin (Jr.) & Linda Miller, along with their son, Glenn Miller (3rd generation, who has a son Erwin Miller III) have been running the business since 1996. Many of the recipes used today are still the “tried and true from scratch” recipes Grandma Miller used since the family began operating the business in 1972. The wonderful aroma of baking hits you almost before you’re through the door. And it only gets better from there!

The family and its many Plain community employees want visitors to get that great homemade taste at a better price than commercial bakeries. “We take pride in the things that we bake and enjoy the look on people’s faces as they taste our selection.” And what a selection it is! You’ll see varieties of fresh baked breads (their cheese bread is a personal favorite), potato rolls, cinnamon buns, “melt in your mouth” whoopie pies, gooey-bottom Dutch shoo-fly pie (their specialty), cookies, fruit pies, angel food and layer cakes, and many, many more items. Through a window behind the counter, you can observe the mixing and baking process, and see trays of baked goods waiting to go into the display cases or to be sent to fulfill wholesale orders for several local restaurants. (Bird-inHand Bake Shop baked goods can also be found

at various market stands in five different states.) The sweet scents of fresh breads and cookies always greet your nose! Not only can you indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolate whoopie pie or a creamy cone of local ice cream, but Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop also offers its visitors a few extras. They have a fine selection of local handmade crafts. “Our wide assortment fits many people’s tastes and interests.” You’ll find locally made Amish dolls, pillow cases, pictures, candles, Amish straw hats, hand painted slates, and much more. In addition there is always a variety of canned goods and bulk foods, especially popular with those large families that live in the area. The Millers realized that with all that food and country peacefulness, visitors might want to linger and relax. “Our large wrap around porch provides an excellent place to enjoy a hot cinnamon roll and a steaming cup of coffee.” And with more than enough green grass to go around, they have installed several picnic areas to enjoy, along with public restrooms and waste bins for your picnic use.

It may be a little off the beaten path, but at the Bird-in-Hand Bake shop you can truly savor the quiet peacefulness and baked goodness found only in the heart of Lancaster County. As the Millers would say, “You can consider yourself personally invited to come and spend a day with us in beautiful Amish Country. We are confident that you will find the baked goods, crafts, and location second to none.” Open All Year 8:00AM - 5:00PM (Winter Hours - 8:00AM - 4:00PM) Bus groups and tours are welcome. Closed Sundays, Good Friday, Ascension Day, Christmas, and New Year’s.

Finally, since the Millers have a family of their own, they know it is important to keep the children entertained on a vacation. “While you shop, your children can burn some energy outdoors in our huge play area.” And any place in Amish Country just wouldn’t be right without some animals. That’s why they’ve added a petting zoo to their list of attractions.

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 27

AMISH SERIES 2013 AMISH TECH: Plain Meets Modern Part 5

by Brad Igou

“Amish America: Plain Technology in a Cyber World” was the international conference held at nearby Elizabethtown College, June 6-8. Presenters, ranging from academia to members of the Plain community, examined technology, its use, and its influence on Amish religious and cultural life. Kevin Kelly gave a presentation entitled “What the Amish Can Teach (and Learn from) Nerds and Geeks” Kelly was an editor of the “Whole Earth Catalog” before cofounding “Wired” magazine in 1993. The chapter “Lessons of Amish Hackers” in his book WHAT TECNOLOGY WANTS was the focus of his speech. As part of our Amish Series, we’ll take a look at some of Kelly’s observations.

With the arrival of the cell phone and its use by many Amish, will the "telephone shanty" soon become a piece of Amish history?

ust as Darwin’s theory of evolution examined biological samples and the observation of the natural world around him, so too might we try to make sense of modern technology by looking at the schemes and progression of the things we invent. Few technologies today stand alone. Most are a “web of inventions” that require hundreds, if not thousands, of people to manufacture, combine, and produce. Just think of something as simple as a computer “mouse,” not to mention the computer itself that led to us becoming a people of the “screen” rather than the people of the “book” we once were. Every new solution to a need (invention) inevitably creates new problems and challenges. Thus, most of today’s challenges were a product of past technologies, and, today’s technology is just as likely to create future challenges. However, should not a response to a bad idea be a better idea, rather than a lapse in thinking about how to solve the problem created by the bad idea? Thus appears the “responsibility to keep inventing.”

In Amish culture, says Kelly, there is often an intentional and informed delayed adoption of a new technology. This “precautionary principle” says we should not adopt a new technology until it is proven safe. Engage it, try it, evaluate how it works, subject it to vigilant testing, etc. The Amish make a practice of doing all this, but modern society typically does not. The conclusion --- technology is not good or evil in itself, but rather is “amoral.” In other words technology will only be shown to be good or bad based on how we put it to use. Moreover, the Amish make careful distinctions between “using” something and owning it. The distinctions translate to the technology they might employ at work versus at home, whether a propane, instead of an electric refrigerator, or hiring a driver to take them somewhere that’s too far for the horse and buggy. To summarize, Kelly tells us that… Amish hacking avoids the negative connotations that the term “hacker” raises in the rest of the world. The original term “hack” was often something that subverted a rule or explored a loophole, and the Amish are often seen to do that. There’s a line and they’ll often come up to that line or cross it in a way that no one even thought of before. The difference between Amish hackers and English hackers is that English hackers don’t have such a line… Regular hackers are hacking because they can, while Amish hackers are hacking with more of a goal. They’re hacking within these boundaries [represented by centuries of tradition and culture], where outside hackers have no boundaries. Perhaps the best example of this “hacking” was during a visit to an Amish Country woodworking shop. As Kelly describes it… This was a small-time factory cranking out wooden furniture with machine power. But where was the power coming from? Not from windmills. The boss…takes me around to the

28 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

back where a huge dump-truck-sized diesel generator sits. It’s massive. In addition to a gas engine there is a very large tank, which I learn stores compressed air. The diesel engine burns fuel to drive the compressor that fills the reservoir with pressure. From the tank a series of high-pressure pipes snake off toward every corner of the factory. A hard rubber flexible hose connects each tool to a pipe. The entire shop runs on compressed air. Every piece of machine is running on pneumatic power. The Amish call this pneumatic system “Amish electricity.” Amish hackers try to outdo each other in building pneumatic versions of electrified contraptions. Their mechanical skill is quite impressive, particularly since none went beyond the eighth grade. They love to show off this airpunk geekiness. One Amishman told Kelly that the issue with phones, pagers, and PDAs was that “you got messages rather than conversations” and that “If I had a TV, I’d watch it.” The big challenge right now is the cell phone. Whatever decision is made as to its acceptance, rejection, or partial use, it’s always about “holding the line.” You must control the technology, not allow it to control you. Concerning setting boundaries of technology use, Kelly says that the Amish “all recognize the line keeps moving, but a line must remain.” It is Kelly’s opinion that the Amish “don’t adopt everything new but what new technology they do embrace, they take up about half a century after everyone else does. By that time, the benefits and costs are clear, the technology stable, and it is cheap.” Kelly sees four principles in the Amish attempt to “slow down progress” and adopt things slowly:

Through ingenuity and limited use of technology, this Amishman grows "lettuce in the air" on revolving towers, and even supplies such stores as Whole Foods Markets throughout Philadelphia.

1. They are selective. They know how to say “no” and are not afraid to refuse new things. They ban more than they adopt. 2. They practice evidence-based evaluation of a new technology through engagement and interaction instead of by theory. 3. They have criteria by which to select choices: technologies must enhance family and community and distance themselves from the outside world. (How would we choose and use our technologies differently if we decided that community came first?) 4. The technology choices are not individual, but communal. The community shapes and enforces technological direction. The Amish create their identity more by what they don’t have, as opposed to us by what we do have. For the Amish, this approach has maximized life’s satisfaction, comfort, and certainty in their world. Something for you to ponder – what if we were to make an attempt to select the minimum technology we need to do, and to be what we want. Kelly argues that we have a duty to increase and improve possibilities for others through technologies we create, something the Amish don’t do very well. I agree that we’re certainly not likely to change our warp-speed approach to the creation and adoption of new technologies. Yet I would challenge you to think what might happen if we thoughtfully dialed back...just a little!

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 29

A Warm & Wonderful WAY TO STA RT YOUR DAY! Overnight Breakfast Bars 1 1/4 cups our 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats 2 T. ax meal (optional) 1 tsp. baking powder 1 T. baking soda ROM HE 1 /4 tsp. salt AMILY 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 cup sugar OOKBOOK 1 /2 cup brown sugar 2 /3 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 1 1/3 cups buttermilk or plain yogurt 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped Topping: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans 1 /2 cup brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon

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30 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Country Knives Serves the World, Calls Amish Country Home

hold, consider, and enjoy, a seemingly unending selection of cutlery. You can literally shop for eyelash curlers, shaving razors, and beauticiangrade hair tools while browsing hatchets, butcher blocks, hunting knives, and even decorative, Hollywood-inspired blades. Whether or not you end up purchasing at Country Knives, you won’t be able to say you couldn’t find what you were looking for. Country

Knives carries knives from manufacturers all over the world. A long-time customer favorite is Spyderco. The brand is known for “thinking beyond established knife industry barriers.” As the Spyderco ownership puts it, they “didn’t go into business to rake in a mountain of dough. We’re here for more selfish reasons - indulging our passion for creating knives.” Continued on Page 50

by Clinton Martin

ne of the world’s largest selections of knives and other cutlery items is… on display at a museum in Washington DC? Perhaps, at a gallery in New York City? No! It’s right here, in Amish Country. Just east of the village of Intercourse on Route 340 is the spectacular Country Knives. With 8,000 items in stock, Country Knives proudly displays for customers to personally inspect,

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 31

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Now Through October 27 PENNSYLVANIA RENAISSANCE FAIRE Mount Hope Estate & Winery Now Through October 5 MENOPAUSE: THE MUSICAL Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre Now Through October 25 Amish Visit-in-Person Tours Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm September 7 Whoopie Pie Festival Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn September 10 – November 30 Wanda E. Brunstetter’s HALF-STITCHED: THE MUSICAL Bird-in-Hand Stage

32 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 33

Defaming the Amish — Season 2 of Discovery's "Amish Mafia" can’t.” Levi describes Caleb as “a little pony that needs to be trained… You gotta tell the horse who’s the boss.” (Caleb, you need a new agent!) An “English” man is selling smartphones to Amish kids. Levi tells Caleb he can’t have the kids buying phones from illegal dealers. Levi explains that “burner phones are prepaid phones sold at a higher price to the Amish, and the Amish community doesn’t appreciate it.” Besides, this outsider is selling phones in Levi’s territory!

Exclusive photo of “Big Steve,” looking safe and sound, taken August 14, 2013, courtesy of Amish Country visitor Chris Hudson. by Brad Igou

ast year, hot on the heels of TLC’s BREAKING AMISH was Discovery Channel’s AMISH MAFIA. The simple pairing of the words “Amish” and “Mafia” created instant buzz and the show was both the highest rated series premiere and “freshman series” in Discovery Channel history, with over 3,000,000 viewers! AMISH MAFIA claims the existence of a secret group within the Amish community that enforces rules and comes to the aid of the community under the leadership of boss “Lebanon Levi.” The cast consists mainly of locals who were raised Amish but never actually joined the church. “Wayward Sons,” the first episode of Season Two, premiered August 13th and continues the complicated storylines of Season One. Rather than even attempt to summarize the overly contrived plot, just let it be said that Merlin from Ohio is trying to “bring down” Levi, as are Levi’s love interest, Esther, along with her brothers, and another former gang member, the “black Amishman,” Alan. So, everyone is out to get Levi while the series continues its lies and half-truths with scenes designed to tantalize and titillate its audience. Producer honesty is reluctant, or perhaps opportunistic, when cast police records are revealed while incorporating the lawbreaking into the storylines. Cast absences due to jail time may explain the addition of new henchman, Caleb. Like Mennonite Jolin, who left Levi’s crew in Season One, Caleb is not Amish and so as an enforcer “he can do things the Amish

Caleb confronts the culprit, destroys the contraband, and smashes the car windows with a bat as it drives away. Caleb declares that if this bad actor comes back, “he’ll go home in an ambulance.” (Isn’t it curious why anyone would buy a phone out of the trunk of stranger’s car, especially when the same phone could be bought at any number of stores at a cheaper price. The Amish are certainly not stupid, regardless of what this show might imply.) Meanwhile, Esther’s brother has been arrested. She’s desperately looking for money, one assumes to pay lawyer fees and fines. Unlike Amish I know who regularly use banks, Esther frantically looks about her house for money she has hidden away for a rainy day. As she pries money out of a wall, she notes, with all seriousness, that “My father used to tell me you can fit $5,000 into a door frame.”

Merlin also tells us that in Ohio, Amish burn their trash so outsiders can’t go through their personal information. Levi has become “too English” and doesn’t burn his. (It is also against the law to burn trash in most of Lancaster.) Merlin sees this as an opportunity to peer into Levi’s affairs and has Wayne steal Levi’s garbage. They find Levi has a secret maple syrup business! (This latest, and most shocking revelation, should be too much for even cable television. Oh the horror...a secret maple syrup business!) As the last sands of grain fall through the hour glass of Show One/Season Two, Alvin wakes Levi in the middle of the night saying that someone has broken into henchman Big Steve’s house. The “house,” which appears to be a trailer, has been ransacked and a hatchet left in the table. Finally, we witness producers interviewing Levi’s newest protagonist, Alan, now out of prison. When Alan is confronted with the question that he is taking Levi’s men down one by one, beginning with Big Steve, he refuses to answer and walks out of the interview. (So what has become of Big Steve? I want to assure everyone that Big Steve is fine. A fan just sent us the photo to the left of Steve at the buggy ride business where he works as a driver.)

Esther’s other brother, Freeman, has returned to Lancaster from North Dakota to join with his siblings in bringing Levi down. Esther believes that this was a bad idea for (are you ready for this...) Freeman is possessed by the Devil! Esther joins a sewing circle, something Lebanon Levi can’t do, to learn about the women’s husbands and businesses. But, she is not made welcome and laments that she is being shunned for her brothers’ actions. The shunning is clear to her because the ladies won’t pass a sewing needle to her! (Remember Esther never joined the church so she can’t be shunned, nor would these “Amish” women likely appear on a national TV show!) Back in Ohio, Merlin explains that selling raw milk is illegal and such businesses must be shuttered because he doesn’t want “the Feds” breathing down his neck. He reveals (another “hold on to your hats”) that Amish are able to drink raw milk because they grew up with it, although the rest of us are too weak to handle it. The little minion, Wayne, is dispatched to the recalcitrant farmer’s basement to smash the hundreds of jars of milk, getting a bit bloody in the process. (Perhaps all this milk being stored without refrigeration is the reason people drinking it are getting sick!)

34 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Clearly identifying themselves as "Cast Members," Merlin and Alan signed autographs and t-shirts at this Route 30 souvenir shop on July 6, 2013. Photo credit: Sherri Patko. Stay tuned, as the exploding buggy teaser for the next episode promises more of the ludicrous with a dash of gratuitous violence for good measure. It gives me no pleasure in calling out the Discovery Channel for its continuing to shamelessly misrepresent, sensationalize and defame our Amish neighbors. What price fame, fortune and ratings?

Killer Hats... Covering Amish Country’s Noggins

AMISH TOUR TEE-SHIRTS In Bold Maﬁa Black

by Clinton Martin

mish Country is certainly known for the Plain people, but there are plenty of folks around these parts whose bold approach to their clothing and accessories is far from “simple and humble.” And, make no mistake, Killer Hats has these “ladies, gentlemen, cowboys, bikers, and scoundrels” covered. Yet, Killer Hats also happens to be a prime source for the area’s most famous lid-topper, none other than the everyday Amish man’s straw hat. As the owners of Killer Hats so expertly describe, an Amish straw hat (they are locally hand-made Amish straw hats, not imported knock-offs) is a traditional hand-woven straw hat with a wide brim and a ready-to-work, or-play durability. However, what really sets it off from other straw hats is the time-honored traditional black band or ribbon wrapping the base of the hat’s dome.

Price: $20.00 includes shipping and handling. Call 717.768.8400 ext. 211 with your Visa or Master Card. Specify quantity and size: small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large, or xxx-large. Online: AmishExperience.com. In person: Amish Experience Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm, RT 340 between Bird-In-Hand and Intercourse.

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In traditional Amish straw hats, this band is made of grosgrain fabric with its distinct bumpy, or ribbed texture. In grosgrain, the weft is thicker than the warp (which is weavers’ talk for the thread you pull through the gaps of the other threads more or less) which gives it the notable transverse ribbing. Basically, grosgrain is very strong, usually comes in black, and is certainly not flashy. It is a poor man’s silk, perfectly suited to the Amish and their belief of avoiding showy displays of wealth or influence.

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 35

AMISH FARMLANDS • “WITNESS” MOVIE • VISIT-IN-PERSON

Tours Since 1959

Amish Farmlands Tour

Journey along back country roads, deep into the Amish Farmlands to discover sights rarely seen. Under the watchful eye of your guide, you’ll gain insights into the “how” and “why” of an everchanging culture, and see at-themoment activities of the Amish. If you’ve seen the Amish portrayed on the Discovery Channel’s “Reality” TV Show, and you wonder what really is true and not true about the Amish, this is the tour you can’t afford to miss! We’ll debunk myths about the Amish and provide accurate, respectful, and authentic information, just like we have been for over 50 years. Plus, now through October 31, 2013 we’ll provide each guest who purchases the Amish Farmlands Tour, or one of our combination packages, with a voucher for a free buggy ride at Aaron & Jessica’s.

“Witness” Movie Tour

Visit-in-Person Tour

Harrison Ford in the movie WITNESS lived as an Amishman on this Amish farm. Our exclusive tour is your only chance to visit the farm, hear legendary tales of the filming, and take photos inside the barn and summer kitchen of this picturesque property seen on movie screens by millions. Marvel at the historic covered bridges we cross making our way through unexplored parts of Amish Country.

Rare is the opportunity to meet with Amish families willing to share their traditions and beliefs with you. In a group whose size is never more than 14, this is the only Amish Tour to be designated an official “Heritage Tour” by the County. Visit an Amish farm at milking time, stop at a Cottage Industry, and finally gather round a living room in an Amish home for an informal conversation with the family.

Duration: 2 1/2 hours. Sat Only 4:30pm.

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Plain & Fancy — Farm to Table Since 1959 Where It All Began Over 50 years ago, Plain & Fancy Farm opened to provide delicious, authentic Amish meals to visitors from all over the world, the first family-style restaurant in Lancaster County. Since then, Plain & Fancy Farm has become not only a PA Dutch culinary delight, but has also added fun and interesting attractions such as the Amish Experience, Amish Country Tours, the Amish Country Homestead, and Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides. The onsite Country Store offers excellent country shopping, and the newest addition to the property, Amish View Inn & Suites, welcomes visitors with luxurious lodging amidst all that Plain & Fancy has to offer.

A Lancaster Original Amos, Ben, Manny and Elmer are some of the Amish farmers who supply Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant with the farm-fresh produce it serves on a daily basis. Depending on the season, sweet corn, tomatoes, watermelon, cabbage, broccoli, squash, peppers and onions are all sourced from farms within a horseand-buggy’s drive. These neighbors, and the neighbors before them, have helped Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant go “from farm to table” for over 50 years. The restaurant is AAA recommended, a PA Preferred and ServSafe award winner, and the Pennsylvania recipient of USA Today’s Great Plate Award.

The Amish Farm Feast Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant is best known as Lancaster County’s original family-style restaurant. The all-you-can-eat Amish Farm Feast includes your entrees, side dishes, starters, desserts and beverages. Enjoy fried chicken, roast beef, chicken pot pie, baked sausage, real mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, green and yellow string beans, dried sweet corn, chow chow, cole slaw, raisin bread, rolls and apple butter, lemonade, iced tea, hot tea, coffee, sour cream apple crumb pie, shoofly pie and vanilla ice cream. It was this very meal that drew Man Vs. Food’s Adam Richman to Amish Country, who went behind the scenes in the Plain & Fancy kitchen for one of his popular show’s episodes.

The New “ala carte” Menu The restaurant also offers a new ala carte menu featuring mouth-watering appetizers, signature soups and salads, charbroiled burgers and sandwiches, and made-fromscratch entrees and platters. The ala carte

menu is also a great value with daily specials starting at $10 or less.

AmishView Inn & Suites

While you’re at Plain & Fancy Farm, you’re invited to stroll up and visit AmishView Inn & Find books, DVDs, candles, souvenirs and Suites, a classically beautiful hotel that features local handcrafts, and more. Explore The elegant accommodations and incredible views. Country Store’s collection of traditional Amish If time permits, a front desk representative can clothing, straw hats, bonnets, toys and dolls, provide you with a quick tour of the hotel. The and discover new treasures to adorn your indoor pool, fitness center, arcade, whirlpools kitchen and home. You’ll find seasonal items and fireplaces make AmishView perfect for an as well as Christmas decorations, available intimate getaway, family vacation, or corporate year round. The store also features Kauffman's retreat. Complimentary hot country breakfast, Fruit Farm jams and jellies, bakery fresh items wireless internet, HBO, DVD players, special from Miller’s Bakery, and Plain & Fancy chow amenities and kitchenettes come with every AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 37 chow and apple butter. room.

The Country Store

Be Thou Entertained at the

Pennsylvania

by Clinton Martin

o, you’ve chosen to vacation in Amish Country. Well, you’re in good company – Royal company in fact. It is whispered among some circles that Her Most Royal Majesty the Queen of England is due to spend her “holiday” this year in none other than here in Amish Country. But, don’t expect a motorcade or private jets. This isn’t the Queen of 2013, this is the Queen of 1563 or so, better known as Elizabeth Regina Gloriana. Truth be told, Good Queen Bess spends every holiday here, at her most favorite retreat amidst 35 acres of the splendor of the formal gardens of Mount Hope Estate & Winery. 2013 marks the 33rd year that Her Majesty and Her Court are the centerpiece of the grand spectacle that transforms the beautifully landscaped grounds into a grand festival unlike any other. This is the glorious Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire! The Faire, as it is affectionately abbreviated by locals, is one of the region’s biggest and most colorful events with such credits as having been named one of the Top Ten Events in PA by the Department of State and One of the Top 100 Events in America by the American Bus Association. The castle gates welcome visitors from near and far August through October, Saturdays and Sundays only, with the exception of a bonus Labor Day Monday. Each weekend features a unique theme, such as “Pyrate’s Invasion” or “Heroes of the Realm.” However, the entire Faire season revolves around a single plot line, referred to as the year’s “scenario.” This year’s scenario was created by Mount Hope’s own Artistic Director, Mark Sullivan. Having been involved at the Faire for the past 20 years in various roles, he has trained and directed over 1000 actors and written dozens of shows. I had the opportunity to interview Mark the day before the 2013 season opened, which provided great insight into what I was about to see when visiting the Faire. Sadly, you the reader can’t call him up and ask for tips to your day at the Faire, but you can share in my Q&A here!

Renaissance Faire

To bring you up to speed, the year is 1588 and Her Majesty’s favorite Shire of Mount Hope is prepared for Her grande arrival. All is in readiness and the villagers are clearly excited to welcome the Queen once again. England itself is enjoying a period of peace and prosperity... indeed experiencing a rebirth --- a Renaissance of theater and music, of art and dance. But even as things at home are wondrous well, turmoil lurks just outside the English borders. In Ireland, insurrection and unrest show up in daily attacks on English ships and outposts. The proud and rebellious Irish people want freed of English rule. Led by the courageous Red Hugh O’Donnell, rebels are constantly striking at the English forts and wreaking havoc throughout the countryside.

It isn't every day that a visitor gets to kiss the Queen of England, a true Faire fantasy for this "nipper." In response, Her Majesty has sent the tough, uncompromising Sir Richard Bingham as Governor to quell the rebellion. It is his task to quash the uprising – by any means necessary. He has swept through Ireland with an iron fist. Much to Her Majesty’s surprise, he has returned to England with a present for the Queen --- he has managed to capture Red Hugh! Triumphantly, he presents the thorn that has plagued the Queen. But a greater force is on its way to Mount Hope, one that can change the course of history. For as mighty as is Red Hugh, an even more inspiring figure has been fighting for Ireland’s freedom. The Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley is brazenly prepared to confront the Queen and state the case of Irish freedom! How’s that for a set-up! Now that you’re introduced to the scenario, let me introduce you to its writer. Sullivan had actually written

38 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

a similar Faire day plot 20 years ago, but that version didn’t include Grace O’Malley as a central figure. This year, he wanted to use the Irish insurrection as a foundation, but he knew that a story of two powerful women opposing one another would play well. Besides, Sullivan’s personal Irish heritage certainly made it a fun scenario to explore. Historically, Grace O’Malley (she really existed and was truly referred to as “the pirate queen”) is the only person to have a face-toface, private, behind-closed-doors meeting with Queen Elizabeth. Sullivan explained that to this day nobody really knows what happened, but we know that it didn’t succeed in settling the hostilities. From here, the scenario admittedly takes poetic license, with shows throughout the day built to deepen the intrigue. Now, you need not follow the plot by attending these “scenario shows,” but they are essential for those interested in following the Queen vs. Pyrate confrontations. In the end, Sullivan noted, the scenario shows (among the nearly 100 stage shows that include juggling, sword-swallowing, animal acts and tons of music and dance on the daily Revels Schedule) are usually the most well attended and crowds gather early for the best seats. I happened to attend the Faire on opening day and decided to follow the scenario from beginning to end. The first order of business was to be there when the Faire opened. This isn’t simply an impersonal unlocking of the gates, and a tepid utterance of “welcome to the Shire.” The “grande arrival,” as it’s called by the Faire’s thespians, is indeed a kick-off worthy of any such widely acclaimed event. In the minutes up to opening, there is a palpable energy in the air, as costumed actors, “playtrons” (festival-goers who don 16th century costumes just for fun,) and the rest of the eager crowd awaits the Queen’s arrival with Her parade of trumpeters, jesters, knights, lords and ladies-in-waiting to proclaim in royal fashion that the festival day has begun. Prior to the Queen’s arrival, the heralds stand proudly atop the stone archway that forms the entrance to the Faire playfully heckling the crowd, while the Queen’s “trayned band” stands at the ready, waiting to fire their muskets in salute to Her Majesty’s appearance. The “trayned band” is but a small part of the Faire’s interesting living history component. Trayned Bands were local militia regiments organized on a county

by county basis. Think of them as Elizabethan England’s version of the National Guard. The Band provides the fireworks for the opening ceremony, but also stages an historically accurate military encampment on the grounds, and even showcases a fascinating drill demonstration. Other living history events not to be missed are the glass-blowing demonstrations at Historical Glassworks, the flight of the birds of prey trained and kept by the Queen’s Royal Falconer, and Archery through the Ages, a show dedicated to the English long bow, and its remarkable effectiveness as a weapon of war. But, I had not come to the Faire to seek out only the historical demonstrations. Indeed, I needed to find out what was to happen with our good Queen and the feared piratess Grace O’Malley. So, I consulted the “daily writ” (a one-page, oversized scroll of sorts that you can pick up at the on-site “Infomistress” booth that contains show schedules as well as other helpful hints.) The Queen’s Court was the first scenario-based show, and it began only minutes after the gates had swung wide, so we (did I mention that my own good mistress and wife did accompany me to the Faire?) made our way over to the proper stage hoping for a good seat. The Queen’s Court was actually held upon the Globe Stage, a remarkable recreation of William Shakespeare’s famed London stage. The show was witty, laugh-out-loud-funny, cunningly clever, and went a long way in introducing the main characters, providing vivid introduction to the day’s plot. The scenario was officially launched, and the next theme show announced. That would be the Faire’s justifiably famous Human Chess Match, a must-see revel to be sure. We were glad that the Chess Match didn’t start for a few hours, as there were many other shows and activities that we wanted to fit in before assembling by the massive chess board. The first order of business was to set out to find something hearty to eat and refreshing to drink. There are a dozen and a half royal kitchens on the grounds serving forth delights ranging from “smoked olde worlde turkey legges” to the German yummies at the bratwurst hut, not to mention the delicious Mount Hope wines and refreshing

The merriment is contagious as the jester and villagers lead a procession through the Shire of Mount Hope.

Swashbuckler Brewing Company ales. But, our gastronomic pleasures of the day are but a brief sidebar in this treatment of the Faire’s wondrous entertainment offerings. As it were, we met costumed characters along the way while we sipped and supped from one corner of this 16th century playground to the next. First was the French mercenary who tried with great aplomb to trick me into buying him a beer (though I sent him packing with head held low when I remarked there isn’t much danger posed from a French soldier) and then there was Ima Hoppengrapenstompen, who helped me pick out a delicious apple strudel from Helmut’s Apple Strudel hut. As the other half of the infamous identical fraternal twins known as the Hoppengrapenstompen sisters, Ima is the on-site beer expert and guide to all the Germanic foods at the Faire. When we finally ended up back at the Globe Stage, “Shakespeare’s Lovers” was just ending. We ended up walking over to the Boar’s Head Stage, to check out one of the new acts at this year’s festival, a band called “Crannog.” Their music was intriguing and interesting, and ranged from one style of renaissance folk music to the next, included stringed instruments, small accordions (referred to as “squeeze boxes”) and a great lead voice. Since we had arranged for a baby-sitter, we decided to leave Crannog and head over to the Ball & Chain Stage. One of the newest stages on site at the Faire, this is where all the “asterisk shows” are staged. That is a Faire colloquialism for shows not suited to children (the Faire calls them “nippers”). Basically, there are hundreds of things to see and do for the whole family at the Renaissance Faire, including an entire kidcentric playground, but throughout the day there are five or six shows that just aren’t written with the nippers in mind. We decided (in sooth for the very first time) to wander into the audience at one of these shows. If our bawdy quotient were exceeded and we were noticeably blushing and stared at, we could just quietly excuse ourselves for we were purposefully seated in the back. When we arrived (nobody noticed us as far as we could tell) there wasn’t an empty seat to be had, and a large crowd had already gathered standingroom-only-style around the perimeter of the stage. We joined in finding a bit of open space, and boy where we glad we did. The show, a twoman improvisational comedy team called the “Duo of Woo” was fantastic. The two characters were Brodie and Smitty MacManly. They “are the latest brothers from the MacManly Clan, a family of Sword Masters and Woo Masters Extraordinaire!” Their timing was great. They built up splendidly to every joke, and audience participation was perfectly incorporated. We ended up staying for the whole show, and while the jokes were for grown-ups, there weren’t any topics posed that wouldn’t be PG13 or just perhaps in an R rated movie at your local theater.

The "Ultimate Joust" is a fiercely lifelike battle with lance and shield and a thrilling climax to your day at the Faire. Without giving too much away, the Ball & Chain Stage happens to be equipped with water effects employed to hilarious ends. We ended up circling back later in the day for the “Trial and Drench” show, which was a very funny rendition of a renaissance criminal court. Basically, everyone is guilty, and the punishments crazy. Not surprisingly, one of the most popular shows of the day ended up being the Human Chess Match where the Queen and Grace O’Malley squared off. The match was officially billed “friendly” though the stakes were quite high. The game is played like traditional chess, though the pieces are people, and when the “rook” takes the “knight” there is hand-to-hand or broadsword to rapier combat. Through extremely well-crafted dialogue (I suppose we have Sullivan to thank for that) the match is equal parts action and theater. At the end, there is a 20-person “surprise.” Expect mayhem. Expect excitement. But, don’t expect me to give away exactly what happens. After the Human Chess Match our next show to follow the scenario was the awesome Ultimate Joust, which is actually one of three joust shows that take place during the day. It is by far the biggest, and practically everyone that goes to the Faire is in attendance making it fortunate that the Joust Arena holds upwards of 8000 people. In fact, during the Ultimate Joust, there are no other shows on the schedule! This year’s Ultimate Joust set a new standard that future years will be hard-pressed to match. The show can best be described as a display of equestrian skill, acting prowess, spectacular stunts, and high-intensity pyrotechnics, with more than a little bravado and chivalry all wrapped up together. You might expect that the Ultimate Joust ends the day and that everyone would soon be making a bee-line for the exits. That, however, isn’t the case. The final au revoir is actually just as appealing as the Ultimate Joust, but for different reasons. It is the “Finale In Song” held at the Globe Theater. When the Renaissance Faire was first developed, the Finale was just a loosely organized gathering Continued on Page 45

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 39

From New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author

S h e l l e y S h e pa r d G r ay

Eventide

Book Three in the Days of Redemption Series “Shelley Shepard Gray stirs readers’ hearts.” —Sherry Gore, author of Simply Delicious Cooking

A young Amish woman harbors a difficult secret. Does she dare share the truth with the man she hopes to marry?

Also Available in the Days of Redemption Series ShelleyShepardGray 40 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Furniture Built For your Lifetime and Beyond… Gish’s Furniture by Clinton Martin

It might be an eerie thought, but purchasing furniture at Gish’s Furniture is as much shopping on behalf of your heirs as it is for yourself! Yes, Gish’s Furniture carries what can truly be called “heirloom furniture” --- that is, the life of the solid-wood, hand-crafted, quality-finished piece extends well beyond that of any man or woman. Each piece is an object of beauty that buyers proudly display in their homes knowing the kind of long-lasting, time-honored quality and craftsmanship it represents. Gish’s Furniture carries many different styles of furniture, but each collection is hand-crafted by just a few Amish and Mennonite craftsmen, hand-selected by owners Michael and Teresa Gish. Most lines come in solid oak and cherry, which are then available for finishing in numerous stains and colors. But perhaps most importantly to the Gish family, each and every piece is finished with the Gish Catalyzed Conversion Varnish. OK… I’m guessing that you, like I first was, are asking yourself, “What is Catalyzed Conversion Varnish… and why do I want it?” The answer is that a piece of furniture can be made by the finest craftsmen in the world. However, if it is not finished properly, the quality of the furniture diminishes over time as years of use wear down its luster. At Gish’s all of the furniture is finished, as they say, “properly.” This Catalyzed Conversion Varnish creates a hard, resilient finish that long displays the beauty and charm of the wood from which it is made. For instance, dining room furniture will not show water rings from glasses and pitchers. Other furniture retailers may carry lesser-quality furniture finished with pre-catalyzed lacquer or polyurethane. Gish’s carries only solid furniture they’d display in their own home. It is style she can appreciate. Quality he can count on. For magazine readers of Amish Country News, there is a Gish showroom near you, be it Lancaster, Gettysburg, or on the west shore of Harrisburg in Camp Hill. But for those of you reading online, your nearest showroom will be www.gishs.com. The Lancaster showroom is the one I frequent and is open daily except Sunday. Call ahead for hours and directions at 866-9254474. The Lancaster showroom is on Route 30, across from the Mennonite Information Center. Log 2191 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster into your GPS.

Never On Sunday? Doesn’t Have To Be So in Amish Country! by Clinton Martin

re you thinking to yourself, “There’s probably nothing to do on Sunday in Amish Country”? It’s been a thought that many, if not most visitors have had for years. Well, while some of the popular attractions, shops, and restaurants may not be open Sundays, there is plenty to see and do with a little careful trip planning in advance. Take a moment, sit down, and page through this magazine. For your convenience, in our Index we’ve noted all of those advertisers open Sundays (S). You’ll find at least a dozen cool things to do on a Sunday, including “Spending a Day with a Knight” at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. But, when thoughts of food begin to creep into the conversation or somewhere deep in your underbelly, tuck the magazine under your arm, punch 6 N. Reamstown Rd., Reamstown PA into your GPS, and head directly to Union Barrel Works. Why am I sending you to a brewpub on a Sunday morning? For one fantastic Sunday Brunch, that’s why! In fact, consulting your AMISH COUNTRY NEWS for Sunday activities will be infinitely more satisfying while you graze over a generous portion of UBW’s excellent Eggs Benedict or Stuffed French Toast. Oh, and what would Sunday Brunch at a brew pub be without a little luxurious liquid from the tanks? UBW mixes up an unusually tasty Bloody Mary with their house-brewed Pale Ale. And yes, they do feature classic Mimosas too. Call (717) 335-7837 or visit unionbarrelworks.com for more information. Cheers, and see you Sunday!

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 41

Dutchland Quilt Patch

Miller’s Smorgasbord

RONKS RD.

Welcome to Our Paradise PARADISE

Dutch Haven LINCOLN HWY. EAST

Jake’s Country Trading Post

isitors to Lancaster from the east on RT 30 travel through Paradise, which celebrated its 300th anniversary in 2012. The town’s story traces back to Europe over 300 years ago, to the area of the Palatinate in Germany where Protestants had settled following the declaration of King Louis XIV that all Protestants in France would be persecuted. Fearing a French invasion, many accepted the invitation to settle in the New World in William Penn’s colony of Penn’s Woods. By 1712, they had secured land in Lancaster’s Pequea Valley as the area’s first white people, living peaceably with local Indians.

741

Killer Hats

Strasburg Rd.

S. Vintage Rd.

Historic Revere Tavern

To Wolf Rock Furniture To National Christmas Center Rainbow Cackleberry Dinner Theatre Farm Antique Mall

The origins of RT 30, also known as “Lincoln Highway,” date back to Lancaster’s Colonial days when the frontier county needed a highway to connect it with the provincial capital of Philadelphia. The first road that was constructed is now RT 340, still referred to as the “Old Philadelphia Pike.” Soon, it was apparent that this road was insufficient to handle the increasing traffic, and in 1790, a commission to survey a new route was created. Since the cost was too much for the state to undertake, the company charged with building it was given the power to demand “reasonable” tolls from users. Investors received dividends earned from tolls collected along the gates of the turnpike. (As the toll was paid, the gate or “pike” was turned, hence the term “turnpike”). The Act described the construction of the highway, which was to be a bed of small crushed stones on top with, rather than dirt, larger stones underneath to prevent carriage wheels from cutting into the soil. This revolutionary system of road construction is credited to a John McAdam, whose name became the term for paved or “macadam” roads. The "Lincoln Highway" (RT 30) opened in 1795 as the first long-distance, hard surfaced road in the country. Taverns and stagecoach stops grew up along the turnpike for weary travelers. Of these, the Revere Tavern, dating back to 1740 and originally called the

42 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

“Sign of the Spread Eagle”, still proudly stands today. In 1841, the tavern became the residence of Reverend Edward V. Buchanan and his wife Eliza Foster Buchanan. Eliza was the sister of Stephen Foster, whose immortal songs will always be a part of Americana. Foster not only penned music at the tavern, but sent many of his manuscripts to Eliza, also a talented musician, for her approval. On the banks of the Pequea Creek, Eliza and Stephen played many of Stephen’s 200 songs, including “Way Down Upon the Swanee River” and “Oh, Susanna.” Wherever you happen to call “paradise,” we hope that a little bit of our own Paradise won’t do you any harm!

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 43

(717) 687-8980 • www.jakesctp.com

On Route 30 in Paradise • 2954 Lincoln Highway East

with $20.00 purchase or more and this coupon. Limit one coupon per family. (Expires 09/30/13) Cookbook valued at 2.00.

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December 31st, 2013

Calling All Photo g

raphers!

2013 Amish Cou ntry News Phot o Contest

Ours is one of the most photographed areas in the world. With so much beauty and variety around us, it’s no wonder! If you think you’ve got a great photo, why not send it to us? The winner will recieve free tour and attraction tickets. In addition, you will see your photo in the pages of Amish Country News! Other prizes will also go to the first, second, and third runners-up. All submitted photos become the property of Amish Country News and the Amish Experience. Photos may also be used in upcoming issues, in other publications, and/or for other promotional purposes. Photos will be judged on quality, color, subject matter, etc. Keep in mind that these photos are for publication, cannot be returned, and should depict a scene, aspect, event, or activity typical to Lancaster or the Pennsylvania Dutch Country region. DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: December 31st, 2013 We will accept photos via email, and request that no more than 10 photos by the same person be submitted, so pick your best! Each photo submitted should contain the name, address, phone # and email address of the photographer, so they can be contacted. Any details on the location, date, or subject matter of the photograph should be included.

To enter, send photos in .jpg or .tiff format to: editor@amishnews.com (Please put “2013 photo contest” in the subject line)

44 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

(Continued from Page 39) of performers who entertained guests as they slowly exited the grounds. As the Faire grew, so too did the Finale. When I spoke with Sullivan, he confided in me that indeed the “Finale in Song” is one of his personal favorites taken from the docket of daily shows. As he described it, it sends the audience away with a bang. It is one last totally feel-good show, thoroughly entertaining, neatly wrapping up the day’s events. It showcases one last time the Faire’s infinite variety of song, comedy, and surprise with even a few “fireworks” thrown in. We left the day extremely satisfied, but for one small problem. I had noticed in the Daily Writ that a brand new dinner-show experience opened for the 2013 season, held on site at the just-unveiled Anchor & Mermaid Tavern. I had vowed to fit it into my day, but I simply didn’t get it done. Most of the tickets are sold ahead of time, but a few “no-show” remainders are made available for day-of purchase. I was completely enamored by the concept…but, for another Faire day. “Frequented by playwrights and pirates, nobles and ne’er do wells, The Anchor & Mermaid Tavern is the place to raise a pint and celebrate! It’s this reputation that brought Captain Red Swash Rodgers ashore to claim the Tavern as his own. But beware all who frequent the Anchor & Mermaid! Capt’n Rude can’t be too far adrift and won’t hesitate to lower the boom and keelhaul anyone who pillages what is his! The Anchor & Mermaid Tavern is cooled by capturing the sea breezes and using them to ‘condition the air.’” There were three different dinner shows offered at The Anchor & The Mermaid, two of which were suited for the whole family, one of which was reserved for those 21 years and older. I was, however, able to stop by the Infomistress on the way out and buy two “return to the past” passes which was simply purchasing another day’s admission to the Faire at a greatly reduced price. We’ll be sure to include The Anchor & the Mermaid in our next visit. Who knows, you might even find me writing of our experiences! So, now it’s your turn to “Spend a Day with a Knight” and take in the rollicking fun and fantasy that is the glorious Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. Call 717-665-7021 x231, visit www.parenfaire.com, or simply purchase admission at the castle gates. The Faire is held on the magnificent 90 acre site of the Mount Hope Estate & Winery. The days of yore couldn’t be easier to find on RT 72, 15 miles North of Lancaster and 14 miles East of Hershey, just South of Exit 266 of the PA Turnpike. God Save the Queen!

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 45

The Amish...Telling the Real from the Fake by Dr. Donald Kraybill

For several months, we have been writing about the lies and halftruths of the Amish “reality” TV series that have become popular with millions of viewers. We are now very pleased to share with you an article that first appeared July 18th online on the HUFFINGTON POST. It was written by one of the foremost authorities on the Amish, Dr. Donald Kraybill, who has kindly given us permission to reprint it here. He discusses six of the many “myths” perpetrated as “fact” in these shows The Amish Experience is currently addressing many of these issues in its tours of the Amish Farmlands, daily at Plain and Fancy Farm RT 340 between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse.

LC has found another crew of renegade Amish and Mennonite youth to cast for Breaking Amish: Los Angeles, which premiered on July 21st. If the LA version is anything like the previous Breaking Amish or Discovery Channel’s Amish Mafia, not only will the “reality” show include heavy doses of fiction, it will also fabricate more myths about Amish life that deserve a good debunking. Consider these myths alongside the hard facts about real Amish life:

1. The Amish Are Slowly Dying Out Common sense suggests that an unplugged, high-school-rejecting, horse-and-buggy-driving people are fading fast in our high-speed cyberworld. The facts flip that assumption on its head. Since 1992 the Amish population has grown 120 percent, from 128,000 to 285,000. Because the Amish don’t proselytize, their large families (6-8 children) fuel the growth. But producing babies is not enough: the youth must be persuaded to sign on to the Amish team. On average, 85-95 percent of teens choose to be baptized and remain in Amish life. Outsiders who affirm Amish beliefs, learn to harness a horse, and speak the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect are also welcome.

2. The Amish Are Technophobes Because they don’t have television or Internet in their homes or Volvos or even pickup

trucks in their driveways, the Amish are easily mistaken for “Luddites.” [This term evolved from 19th century English textile artisans who protested against newly developed labor-saving machinery, and now refers to people who fear technology or new technology.] But the Amish are not anti-technology. Peer into Amish society and you’ll see state-of-the-art LED lights, rollerblades, gas grills, solar panels, and battery-powered hand tools. The Amish use technology selectively. They spurn technologies that they fear will ruin their community and its religious values: television, cars, computers, etc. However, they readily accept and invent new technologies (such as a wheel-driven alternator to recharge the batteries on their buggies) that they think will enhance the wellbeing of their society. Moreover, many Amish “engineers” adapt mainstream technology to fit within their moral values. They strip electric motors from large sanders and replace them with pneumatic motors to provide “Amish electricity” in furniture shops, for example. One thing is certain: Amish people spend much more time than the rest of us assessing the longterm impact of new technologies on human relationships.

3. The Amish Don’t Pay Taxes or Vote Amish people are not economic or social parasites. They pay all taxes -- school (twice for private and public schools), income, real estate, sales -- but not Social Security, which they view as health insurance. In 1965 the U.S. Congress exempted them from Social Security (they do not pay the tax AND they do not receive any benefits), and they are also exempt from the recent Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). The Amish contend that church members have a duty to care for the physical and material needs of other members. They are strict church and state separatists who reject both commercial and government insurance. Amish people are permitted to vote, but typically fewer than 10 percent head to the polls. Those who do vote are more likely to cast ballots

46 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Cast members and producers of BREAKING AMISH at a promotional interview for the media. Cast members wore Plain clothing even though they never joined the Church and no longer dressed that way. in local elections than presidential ones. As conscientious objectors to war, some consider it hypocritical to vote for the commander-inchief. Holding public office is taboo because it may entangle them in litigation, which the church forbids.

4. Amish Elders Arrange Marriages Neither bishops nor anyone else engages in matchmaking; young people are free to date and marry whomever they like. But if they wish to remain Amish, both persons must be baptized members of the Amish church before a bishop will marry them. (A bishop will marry a couple even if one person is a convert to the Amish faith -- regardless of background.)

5. Because They Refuse to Cooperate with Police, an Amish Mafia Protects Them The Amish Mafia of reality TV fame is a fabrication of the producers. Some of the actors were raised in the Amish community but never joined it. Their knowledge of Amish practices enables them to help stage what appear to be authentic scenarios. Certain offenses within the Amish community are punishable by the local congregation. Other more serious ones are reported to outside legal authorities. An early episode of Amish Mafia cited the shooting of ten Amish schoolgirls in 2006 as a reason for creating a protective mafia because the Amish won’t call the cops. In reality, the first thing the Amish teacher did when the armed intruder entered her one-room schoolhouse in 2006 was call 911. The police arrived shortly thereafter.

Continued on Page 53

Sam I Am? by Clinton Martin

Lancaster’s ONLY Officially Designated Heritage Tour

Amish

Visit-In-Person Tours

The Personal Encounter So Many Seek… But So Few Experience! Limited to 14 People Sam May has been in business for over 40 years in Lancaster County. Daughter and partner, Samantha, has been helping out since she was tall enough to sweep the floor!

n a recent visit to Sam’s Man Cave, looking to expand my budding collection of beer mugs, I was talking to Sam about his vast and ever-growing selection, and getting the scoop on some of his newest finds. I ended up with a gorgeous pint glass from Goose Island Brewing Co. marking its storied “312” brand. This beauty is that much more collectible now that Goose Island has been acquired by the giant Anheuser-Busch, and their iconic 312 (the area code of the neighborhood in Chicago from which Goose Island hailed) will be forever changed. But no sooner had my purchase been completed than I found myself talking to another Sam at Sam’s Man Cave. As it turns out, Sam lent his name not only to his business, but also to his daughter. I spoke with Sam the younger, and fairer, who explained that indeed Sam’s Man Cave is named after her father, though she is always helping out at the business. I suppose in my mind I was asking myself just which is “The Sam” behind one of my favorite stores.

As the pretty Sam puts it – “My dad started this business, part-time, in the late 60’s (I know, he is old) and in 1971 this became a full time operation. He started with whiskey decanters and beer cans. He is even mentioned in Beer Cans Unlimited. Being the daddy’s girl that I am, I started collecting beer cans when I was 4 and I still have my collection. And now, just like my dad, I love everything breweriana.” If you enjoy Man “Cave-ly” pursuits, you owe it to yourself to stop in at Sam’s Man Cave. Gentlemen -- I guarantee you’ll find just about anything you could possibly need to decorate, outfit, and enhance your own personal private spot. Sam’s Man Cave is located on Route 30 across from the Tanger Outlet at 2207 Lincoln Highway East. Call (717) 394-6404 or visit www.SamsManCave.com.

On the Farm

Visit an Amish farm at milking time

At Work

Talk with an Amish craftsman

At Home

Visit with Amish at home

V.I.P. stands for “Visit In Person,” for you will have the unique opportunity to meet three of our Amish neighbors. Traveling in a comfortable shuttle bus, this exclusive tour is limited to 14 people to allow more personal contact, as we visit the Amish on the farm, at work, and at home. Stop 1: Amish Farm at Milking Time. Observe the milking process. Discover “Amish electricity” as you learn that the Amish do not milk cows by hand.

Stop 2: Amish “Cottage Industry.” As land for farming shrinks, more Amish turn to home businesses to balance work and family. We may visit a carriage-maker, carpetloom shop, soap-maker, or cheese-maker for a personal talk and presentation. Stop 3: Visit An Amish Home. We’ll go to the home of one of our Amish neighbors for friendly conversation…a chance to sit, chat, and visit the Amish way. It's not surprising that strangers soon become friends.

Tours from the Amish Experience Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm RT 340, between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse.

Departs 5:00PM Monday - Friday June 10 through October Advance Reservations Recommended Call: 717-768-8400, Ext.210 Online: AmishExperience.com In Person: The Amish Experience Theater 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505 AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 47

To Hershey

Zipline Canopy Tour Refreshing Mtn.

422 322

Mount Gretna

To Hershey’s Chocolate World

Brickerville

117 Exit 266

PA Turnpike

419

Brickerville Antiques, and Specialty Shops

Mount Hope Estate & Winery (Wine Tasting Daily) PA Renaissance Faire (August 3-October 27) PaRenFaire.com

322

501

743

Lititz

) (Map Pg. 18

772

To Harrisburg

Manheim

283

772

462

Hill wTurkey Experience

Wrightsville

ha que Susver Ri

441

LITITZ PIKE

FRUITVILLE PIK

222

Columbia

VIL LE

283

Best Western Eden Resort

Your Place Restaurant & Country Inn of Lancaster

30 Lancaster City

462

IE NF

462

741

222

272

AMISH COUNTRY

48 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

Willow Street 272

222

err Dri

Hospice Auction (Lampeter Fairgrounds)

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AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 49

Special Children - Special Auction by Brad Igou

The line of horses “parked” at the Clinic for Special Children Auction fascinates visitors.

uctions have long been important fund raisers for charities and non-profits in Amish Country. Among the most recognizable are the fire company “mud sales,” and the many charitable events held for religious or community support groups, including the wonderful Hospice of Lancaster County Labor Day Auction. Most events feature many of the foods and crafts for which Amish Country is famous. Since Plain people are often involved in the auctions, opportunities exist to rub elbows without the feeling of intruding. In fact, many auctions are scheduled to coincide when larger numbers of visitors are here for they are often some of the main bidders, especially when quilts are on the block. And there’s the food; but more about that later! My personal favorite is the Clinic for Special Children Auction, held the third Saturday in September (the 21st this year), at the Leola Produce Auction on Brethren Church Road, a mile north of Route 23 in Leola.

According to their newsletter, the Clinic is “a non-profit medical service for Amish and Mennonite children with genetic disorders.” Dr. Holmes Morton founded the Clinic in 1989. Over the first twenty years, case load grew from 100 to 1,000 patients, with the number of genetic disorders treated rising from 12 to 109. The diagnosis of many rare disorders has saved the lives of thousands of children, often with the help of medical centers and researchers around the world. The Summer 2012 newsletter stated that “we’ve come a long way in 23 years; over 125 unique disorders, 2,187 current patients served, and an estimated $23 million in aggregate savings per year for the Plain Communities --- all on an operating budget of $1.7 million per year.” Here is a prime example of the Clinic’s work…. When a disorder suddenly took the lives of two young brothers, there was immediate concern about how to obtain blood samples and diagnose others in the extended family that might be at risk. A family wedding was coming up, so staff members from the Clinic drew blood samples for three hours on a Saturday night at the reception. Out of the 63 people tested, 12 males along with 14 female carriers were discovered who were at risk for the dangerous infection. Back to last year’s auction... It was a sight to behold! When the gavel was first raised, the room saw 1,500 would-be recipients of the SOLD signal along with over 30 volunteer clerks and auctioneers presiding over seven simultaneous auction blocks. With 4,000 donated items featuring 89 quilts and everything from handmade furniture and swing sets to farm equipment and crafts, truly there was something for everyone. Allow me to tempt you (as was I) with a sampling of foods that helps explain why my presence includes the opportunity to graze: 18,000 donuts, 3,200 subs, 4,000 soft pretzels, 530 gallons of ice cream, 500 smoothies, 2,600 pounds of barbecued chicken, 3,700 pounds of potatoes for fresh French frying, 700 omelets, 600 pancakes, eight roasted pigs for those amazing pulled pork sandwiches, and thousands of whoopie pies in many wonderful shapes, colors and flavors. And so, on an isolated farm south of Strasburg, doctors in a state-of-the-art genetic research facility and a group of people often known for shunning the world’s modern technology collaborate in an inspiring effort to help their children and those of many others.

Just in time for the NFL season, Amish Country’s favorite shopping experience, Jake’s Country Trading Post on Route 30 in Paradise, has every fan’s sports swag in stock.

Do try to be around for this auction. If there is one totally unique, unforgettably inspiring experience indigenous to Amish Country, this is it. More information: The Clinic for Special Children, P.O. Box 128, Strasburg, PA 17579. 717-687-9407. ClinicForSpecialChildren.org

50 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

The Making of JACOB'S CHOICE

(Continued from Page 23) technology designed to allow visitors to identify with the Amish, to turn their curiosity into understanding, and ultimately to leave the Theater with something to think about. I encourage you not to miss JACOB’S CHOICE presented daily, every hour, on the hour, 10am to 5pm in the Amish Experience Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm, Route 340, between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse. To further your experience, tours of an on-site Old Order Amish home and 14 passenger shuttle bus tours of the Amish Farmlands are also available. Through the end of October, with the coupon on page 56, free buggy rides, also starting from Plain and Fancy, can be had with the purchase of any combination Amish Experience ticket. See AmishExperience.com or call 717-7688400 for details.

With over 5,000 dolls in stock, Aimee & Daria’s Doll Outlet on Route 30 just east of Rockvale Outlets features dolls in every color, shape, size, and style.

Country Knives

(Continued from Page 31) So too does it seem that Country Knives didn’t design their business to simply sell knives. They could have built a simple website and shipped wares to customers out of a warehouse anywhere. Instead, the familyowned and operated Country Knives is housed right where the family lives and works, and is set up to provide shoppers with a gleaming, personal, friendly, and service-oriented handson experience. At the same time, Country Knives does understand that not all customers can make it to their corner of Amish Country each time they want to shop. The website is carefully set up to provide (nearly) as satisfying an experience --- www.countryknives.com. But, while in Amish Country I urge you to go and see this very cool shopping adventure for yourself. Call 717-768-3818 for hours and information.

Lancaster Beer & Wine Gallery

Celebrate Mount Hope Wine Shop

S Y LVA N I A

p ringa Ru ms n

B re

m w in g C o

50% Off One Food Item Purchase a food item at the Barn Café at Rumspringa Brewing Company and receive 50% off the purchase of a second food item of equal or lesser value. Not valid with any other offer. Coupon must be presented at the time of purchase. Expires 9/30/2013.

WineIntercourse, Gallery PA

The Wine Shop features daily complimentary tastings of award-winning Pennsylvania wine by trained, informative staff. Currently, we offer more than two dozen varieties of wine sampled in our Carriage House Wine Shop and on the grounds of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. While

Mount

visiting, shop the extensive selection of event merchandise, wine accessories, kitchenware and gourmet food items.

HOPE

Mount Hope

N

• Rumspringa on Draft and Take-Home Bottles & Growlers • Traditional Smoked Meat BBQ • Mount Hope Wines by the Glass • Beer Samplers and Wine Flights • Local Artisan Cheeses • Pennsylvania Dutch Signature Desserts

E D I N B I R D I

Visit the Second Floor Barn Café

The best in craft-brewed beers, light fare and awardwinning wines, featuring a taste to satisfy every palate.

Complimentary Wine Tasting Daily

Estate & Winery

Weekly Wine Specials Available – Visit Lancaster-Gallery.com to learn more! FREE RUMSPRINGA SAMPLE GLASS with a Beer Sampler Purchase. Present this ad at the Barn Cafe when you purchase a Rumspringa beer sampler and you will receive a complimentary sample glass to remember your tasting experience. Not valid with any other offer. Offer valid only for those 21 years of age or older and while supplies last. Offer expires 9/30/2013.

Nestled between Bird-In-Hand and Intercourse Route 340 • 3174 Old Philadelphia Pike | 717-768-7194

Lancaster-Gallery.com

Present this ad when you sample at our tasting counter and you can take home a memento of your visit: our exclusive Mount Hope wine tasting glass for only $2.00 (a $3.95 retail value). One glass per customer. Offer valid only for those 21 years of age or older and while supplies last. Offer expires 9/30/2013.

Route 72 • 1/4 mile South of PA Turnpike Exit 266 2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA • 717-665-7021

PaRenFaire.com

Like Lancaster Beer & Wine Gallery and Mount Hope Estate & Winery on Facebook for weekly specials! AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 51

Blue Ridge Amish Furniture Front and Center by Clinton Martin

verything Beautiful. That’s our promise! --- a very apt calling card for the hardworking craftsmen at Blue Ridge Furniture. Sidney Burkholder, owner since 2000, has commandeered the small, familyowned manufacturing workshop through the past 13 years to become one of the area’s most trusted and appreciated furniture makers. The hand-made, professionally (and passionately) tooled, solid hardwood furniture is renowned for its quality and workmanship. Thus, no surprise is the Blue Ridge full warranty covering the “manufacturing of all of our furniture products to be free from detects for the lifetime of the original owner.” Here’s a secret --- Sidney’s catalyzed processing to all painted or stained wood finishes provides great comfort on his guarantee promise.

Over the years, he has assembled a skilled team of builders, who shape raw wood into fine furniture, specifically crafting designs to complement any décor or lifestyle. Blue Ridge has plenty of classic, traditional lines, but that they are creating Amish furniture does not mean that you won’t find sleek, contemporary designs as well. In meeting with Sidney and writing about his operation, I was mesmerized by the level of professional craftsmanship. I couldn’t help but quip, “Amish furniture is no longer a style; it has become a standard!”

“Amish furniture is no longer a style; it has become a standard.”

Blue Ridge, seemingly, has taken to becoming the bannerbearer of this standard. No matter what room of your home you hope to fill, Blue Ridge is likely to have a style or collection that meets your eye. Grandfather Clock for the living room? There are many to choose from. A new bedroom suite? The options range far beyond “mission” or “shaker.” Perhaps a stunning new entertain-

52 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

ment center? Blue Ridge Furniture provides beautiful, sturdy, stylish pieces. You provide the TV! Today, Blue Ridge Furniture is displayed at a beautiful retail showroom in the village of Churchtown, easily spotted along Route 23 just east of Blue Ball and west of Morgantown. Throughout the storefront’s 7,500 square feet, furniture pieces are attractively displayed leading you from one section to another. As Sidney puts it, “Go ahead... dream a little. Or dream big. From chairs and side tables to full dining room and bedroom collections, we have something beautiful for everyone!” Blue Ridge Furniture is open daily except Sundays. The GPS address is 2014 Main Street, Narvon PA. Call ahead for hours. 717-445-6595. For online shopping, it’s blueridgeheirlooms.com.

Our Advertisers

An (S) after the name denotes Open Sunday

ATTRACTIONS Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides (S)................... 21 Abe's Buggy Rides................................................ 45 Amish Country Homestead (S)........................ 50 Amish Country Tours (S)...................... 17, 36, 47 Amish Experience Theater (S).......................... 56 Amish Village (S).................................................. 16 Cherry Crest Adventure Farm............................ 16 Choo Choo Barn (S)............................................ 15 Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre (S).........................6 Dutch Haven (S)......................................................3 Ghost Tour.............................................................. 17 Hershey’s Chocolate World (S)........................ 41 Intercourse Pretzel Factory...................................9 Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.............................. 18 Mennonite Information Center........................ 31 National Christmas Center (S).......................... 45 National Toy Train Museum (S)........................ 16 Oregon Dairy Corn Maze (S)............................ .31 PA Renaissance Faire (S).................................... 33 Rainbow Dinner Theatre (S)............................. 35 Refreshing Canopy Ziplines Tour (S).............. 19 Strasburg Rail Road (S)....................................... 15 Turkey Hill Experience (S).....................................6 Verdant View Farm............................................... 16 Village Greens Mini Golf (S).............................. 14 Waters Edge Mini Golf......................................... 26

LET'S EAT Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop..................................... 27 Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord.........................................................7 Good 'N Plenty (S)..................................................5 Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn (S)............ 17 Intercourse Canning Company (S).................. 10 Intercourse Village Olde Mill Restaurant..........8 Iron Horse Inn (S)................................................ 14 Miller's Smorgasbord (S).................................... 29 Mount Hope Wine & Beer Gallery (S)............ 51 Plain & Fancy Farm (S)........................................ 37 Revere Tavern (S)................................................. 42 September Farm Cheese.................................... 23 Union Barrel Works (S)....................................... 41 Zook's Homemade Chicken Pies..................... 26

LODGING Best Western Premier Eden Resort (S).......... 33 Country Inn of Lancaster (S)............................. 32 Flory's Cottages & Camping (S)........................ 32 Lake in Wood Camp Resort (S)........................ 32

SHOPPING Aimee & Daria's Doll Outlet (S)....................... 23 Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market..............................5 Blue Ridge Furniture............................................ 11 Brickerville Antiques (S)..................................... 19 Cackleberry Farm Antique Mall (S)................. 44 Country Creations................................................. 14

Country Home Furniture.................................... 13 Country Houseware Stores................................ 12 Country Knives.........................................................9 Country Lane Quilts............................................. 24 Countryside Road Stand..................................... 24 Dutchland Quilt Patch............................................9 Esh Handmade Quilts............................................8 Esh Valley Quilts.................................................... 42 Gish's Furniture & Amish Heirlooms .............. 31 Gordonville Bookstore........................................ 10 J & B Quilts and Crafts......................................... 14 Jake's Country Trading Post (S)........................ 43 Kahn Lucas Outlet (S)............................................7

Kauffman's Fruit Farm......................................... 24 Killer Hats (S)......................................................... 42 Lapp’s Quilts & Crafts.......................................... 15 Leacock Coleman Center................................... 32 Li’l Country Store & Miniature Horse Farm.................................. 15 Old Candle Barn......................................................9 Omar & Sylvia Petersheim's Quilts & Fabrics... 26 Renninger's Antique Market (S)....................... 22 Riehl's Quilts & Crafts.......................................... 25 Sauder's Fabrics..................................................... 10 Sam's Man Cave.................................................... 29 Shupp's Grove....................................................... 22 Smucker's Quilts................................................... 12 Witmer Quilt Shop................................................ 12 Wolf Rock Furniture.............................................. 45 Zook's Fabric Store............................................... 10

What's Coming Up In October! Delicious dining destinations appear around every corner in Amish Country. October’s annual Food & Dining Issue is overflowing with tantalizing restaurant reviews, tasting notes on local beer and wine, and plenty of dietbusting baked good goodies. Explore with us the diversity of our dining options, from Zagat-rated fine dining to Amish and Mennonite bakeries. Bring your appetite!

The Amish...Telling the Real from the Fake (Continued from Page 46)

6. Rumspringa Is a Wild Time When Teens Live in Cities Popularized images of wild and drunken Amish teens have been extremely exaggerated since the “documentary” Devil’s Playground appeared in 2002. Surprised that Amish elders do not brainwash their youth but respect their voluntary choice to be or not to be Amish, producers have exploited and Hollywoodized this rather tame rite of passage. In fact, Rumspringa (age 16 to marriage) is simply a time when youth can «run around,» hang out with friends, find a spouse, and decide if they want to make a life-long commitment to join the Amish church. (This modern idea of adult religious choice is an old Amish belief that reaches back to 16th-century Switzerland.) In cultural limbo (betwixt parents and church elders), youth operate outside the rules of the church because they are not yet baptized. In some communities, rowdy groups engage in «worldly» activities -- driving cars, drinking, texting, and visiting local bars. In more

traditional enclaves, Rumspringa youth play ice hockey, throw softballs and go hiking. Whether they're watching video games on the sly or playing volleyball in a cow pasture, Amish teens are living at home, not in some faraway city like LA or NYC. EDITOR’S NOTE: Donald B. Kraybill is senior fellow at the Young Center and distinguished professor at Elizabethtown College (PA). For those who truly want to learn about Amish culture, I recommend watching the PBS documentary THE AMISH or reading the companion book of the same name, which he co-authored, a definitive study of the diversity of the Amish across America today.

AmishNews.com • September 2013 • Amish Country News • 53

September 2013 COVER STORY

Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides..............................4

FEATURE ARTICLES

Amish Experience Theater.....................................10 Amish Mafia.........................................................34 Amish...Telling the Real From the Fake..................46 Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop.......................................27 Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market................................18 Blue Ridge Furniture.............................................52 Clinic for Special Children Auction........................50 Country Housewares.............................................26 Country Knives.....................................................31 Dutch Haven\.......................................................19 Family Owned Businesses.....................................20 Gish’s Furniture....................................................41 Killer Hats...........................................................35 Lapp’s Quilts & Crafts........................................12 Leacock Coleman Center.........................................6 Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire.............................38 Sam’s Man Cave...................................................47 Union Barrel Works..............................................41

REGULAR FEATURES

Brad Igou’s Amish Series......................................28 Dutch Haven Lancaster Landmark...........................3 Event Sampler......................................................32 Publisher’s Message.............................................54

AREA MAP & GUIDES

Amish Country Map.........................................48-49 Bird-in-Hand...................................................24-27 Intercourse........................................................8-10 Lititz/Brickerville.............................................18-19 New Holland/Blue Ball.....................................11-13 Paradise..........................................................42-45 Strasburg........................................................14-17

PO Box 414 • Bird-in-Hand • PA 17505

(717) 768-8400, Ext. 218

AmishNews.com

Published by Dutchland Tours Inc. Brad Igou • Editor-in-Chief

brad@amishnews.com

Clinton Martin • Director: Sales & Marketing

clinton@amishnews.com

Eat Dinner Together Tonight! by Brad Igou

riving to work the other day I noticed this billboard encouraging eating together as a family. Brought to mind were two incidents I thought worthy of sharing with you. First, an Amishman was asked by a group of visitors what the most important piece of furniture was in the home. His answer was the kitchen table. More recently I was at a restaurant where the dad was eating in solitude while the three children were all busy on their cell phones.

E = eating better. Not surprisingly, more fruits and vegetables and less junk food is the usual menu.

So I begin by asking…

S = sharing food and conversation means…

If you have children, how many times a week do you ALL sit down and eat a meal together? Nationwide, this number is apparently low. In response, I guess is this billboard campaign to encourage more meals together. But why?

S = strengthening the family.

The TV series BLUE BLOODS concludes each episode with the entire family (father, married children and their families) all sitting and chatting over a meal. It was felt early on that the scene would not do much for ratings. However, to the contrary, it has become a favorite part of the show, one that viewers look forward to. Not that there aren’t difficult conversations and uneasy moments intermingled with the “togetherness.” This TV family even says grace before each meal, something rarely seen in movies or on TV any more. (By the way, the Amish give a silent grace both before and after their meal.) So what is the big deal about eating together? In various studies published by the Purdue University Center for Families’ Promoting Family Meals Project, the answer is summarized in SUCCESS: S = smarter children. Little ones have better language acquisition and, as they grow up, improved test scores and academic achievement.

Clinton Martin (717) 768-8400 ext. 217.

For Advertising Information Contact

U = unlikely to smoke, drink, or take drugs. Frequent family dinners meant teens were “more likely to be emotionally content, work hard at school, and have positive peer relationships.”

500,000 copies distributed annually by subscription, and at over 400 motels, information centers and businesses in PA Dutch Country. Copyright ©2013. All contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without prior approval of the publisher.

C = courteous and conversational. This “social skills training ground” helps us learn to talk, behave, take turns, be polite, share and not interrupt, even entertain.

Kirk Simpson • Graphic Designer

C = connected to family. The Amishman I mentioned certainly understood this. Family dinners tend to promote communication, family ties, and a sense of identity and belonging.

54 • Amish Country News • September 2013 • AmishNews.com

If eating dinners together around the table isn’t part of your normal routine, here are some tips to get you started: 1. Ease into it by planning to eat together just one or two times a week. Try to end activities outside the home before 5:30pm, and don’t plan evening activities until after 7:00pm. 2. Start simply by preparing a meal ahead of time that you just need to reheat. 3. Turn off, phones, TV, computer video games and the radio so that the focus is conversation. 4. Get everyone involved in the planning, shopping, menu choices, table setting, meal preparation, and yes, cleaning up afterwards. 5. Try not to talk about problems until after dinner and make this a time to relax and connect positively. Of course, our Amish neighbors cover these matters well. I was recently in an Amish home where mother was preparing a meal, but it was clear that dinner would not be served until a son arrived home from work so that the family could all eat together. Here’s my tip of the month --- become a bit more Amish and give prominence to your kitchen table rather than your smartphone, computer, or TV. Make it something you must do, not something you just think about doing. You’ll find more tips, recipes, and information at www.EatTogetherPA. com. Write me to let me know how you make out at editor@amishnews.com

The Sequel to the NY Times Bestseller from

Wanda . Brunstetter Join Emma Yoder Miller, the Amish widow-turned-newlywed, as she leads another quilting class with a new group of unlikely students, all with tattered pieces of their lives that need mending. Members of the patchwork group find friendship, faith, healing, and restoration while gathered around their quilts, under the Father’s guiding hands—for only He can take what’s ragged and shabby from the lives of His children and turn it into beauty for His glory.

Available Wherever Books Are Sold E Also Available in eBook Format

Don’t Miss Half-Stitched: The Musical, Now Playing in Bird-in-Hand, PA and Sugarcreek, OH. Learn More at www.AmishQuiltingClub.com

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Immerse Yourself in the Amish Story WITNESS the spectacular story of “Jacob’s Choice” told with Disney-like Special Effects in the Amish Experience Theater.

TOUR the magnificent and rarely seen Amish Farmlands with a certified tour guide in air-conditioned comfort onboard one of our 14 passenger shuttles.

EXPLORE the Amish Country Homestead, the region’s only officially designated Heritage Site Old Order Amish home.

SATISFY yourself that you’re making the most from your Amish Experience… • RECEIVE a free Amish buggy ride at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides with your purchase of a guided Amish Farmland Tour or one of our Combination Packages, with this coupon. • SAVE with our Super Saver Package, which includes “Jacob’s Choice,” the Amish Country Homestead Tour, and the 90 minute Amish Farmlands Tour, autographed Amish cookbook and free Amish Buggy Ride with this coupon. • Since 1959, the Amish Experience has been the area’s first, and still foremost, interpretive source of Amish Culture. • Begin your Experience by purchasing tickets at the Amish Experience Theater Box Office at Plain & Fancy Farm, calling us, or visiting our website. Designated a Heritage Site by the Lancaster County Planning Commission

FREE BUGGY RIDE, TOO!

Receive a voucher for a free “Cookie Run Buggy Ride” just a few steps away at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides with the purchase of a regularly priced Supersaver, Theater/House Combo, or Amish Farmlands Tour. One voucher for each adult or child ticket purchased with this coupon. Not valid with any other offer or with group tours. Offer expires 10/31/13. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. BUGAN

RT 340 Between Bird-in-Hand & Intercourse at Plain & Fancy Farm

717.768.8400 Ext. 210

For GPS: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike • Ronks, PA

AmishExperience.com

Open 7 Days a Week