Immerse Yourself in the Amish Story WITNESS the spectacular “Jacob’s Choice” told with Disney-like Special Effects in the Amish Experience Theater.
EXPLORE the Amish Country Homestead, the region’s only Officially Designated Heritage Site Amish home.
TOUR the magnificent and rarely seen Amish Farmlands with a certified tour guide in complete comfort onboard one of our 14-passenger mini-shuttles.
making the most from your Amish Experience...
• Since 1959, the area’s first, and still foremost, interpretative source of Amish Culture.
Open Daily 7 Days a Week
SIT at a desk in the new Fisher Amish schoolroom furnished authentically with desks and more from an actual Amish classroom.
RECEIVE a free Amish cookbook autographed by the author herself when you take our Farmland Tour.
Designated a Heritage Site by the Lancaster County Planning Commission
SAVE with our Super Saver package which includes “Jacob’s Choice,” the Amish Country Homestead and a 90-minute Amish farmlands Tour. SATISFY yourself that you’re
FREE BUGGY RIDE Receive a voucher for a free “Cookie Run Buggy Ride” just a few steps away at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides with the purchase, at the Amish Experience Theater Box Office, of a regularly priced Supersaver, Theater/House Combo, or Amish Visit-in-Person Tour. BUGAN
RT 340 Between Bird-in-Hand & Intercourse at Plain & Fancy Farm
For GPS: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike • Ronks, PA
717.768.8400 Ext. 210
AmishExperience.com
DUTCH HAVEN W hile driving along Route 30 in Lancaster County, you may see a few unfamiliar, if not unique, sites. You may catch a glimpse of some folks dressed a little unusually. You’ll probably see a few horse-drawn carriages instead of cars. And, you’ll undoubtedly notice the Dutch Haven windmill. This landmark building has been drawing thousands of visitors each week to Lancaster County for the past 67 years. Opening first as a restaurant in 1946, the Dutch Haven operated with great success with a world famous Shoo Fly pie recipe.
Today, the Dutch Haven staple is still “America’s Best Shoo Fly Pie.” All you have to do is pass through the door and you will be offered a sample taste of this famous pie—warmed and topped with whipped cream, just like it was always served in the restaurant, years ago.
T-Shirts
LANCASTER COUNTY LANDMARK
Some 40,000 pies will be sold at the Dutch Haven this year alone. While most of these shoo fly pies are purchased over the counter, some are shipped UPS. Many pies are sold to faithful customers who have been buying them from Dutch Haven for over half a century!
the story. The windmill building now houses one of, if not the best, selections of primitive Amish pine furniture in the area. Corner cupboards, pie safes, chests, and shelves are all available. Hundreds of pieces of Amish woodcrafts fill what once were the dining rooms of this wonderful old building. In addition, thousands of other items from pot holders to copper crafts, T-shirts, small wood crafts, a stunning selection of pottery, and much more make Dutch Haven a true shopping experience. Dutch Haven is open 7 days a week 9am-9pm. For more information about this Lancaster County landmark, call (717) 687-0111.
As always at Dutch Haven, the famous pie that was featured in Time magazine is just part of
Souvenirs
Visiting Dutch Haven - “the place that made Shoo Fly Pie famous” - will help to make your trip to Pennsylvania Dutch Country even more memorable.
Hex Signs AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 3
DOLL OUTLET
STOP IN TODAY & STAY AWHILE
"CELEBRATING 21 YEARS" IN BUSINESS
W
hile visiting Lancaster County, make sure you stop in at the DOLL OUTLET. It is located on Rt 30 east, one mile east past the Rockvale Outlets. Just look for the big white building, with bright purple awnings, surrounded by beautiful Amish farmlands.
The DOLL OUTLET is the largest doll store within 1,000 miles of Lancaster, PA. Over 5,000 dolls in stock, from 2” tall, up to 42” tall. Prices range from $2.00 up to $1,300.00. A doll for everyone at a price everyone can afford. You’ll find dolls from a variety of different major doll companies. Their selection includes porcelain dolls, limited edition artist collectable dolls, vinyl play baby dolls and Amish dolls. You can even MAKE YOUR OWN 20” VINYL BABY. In 45 minutes or less, they will assist you in assembling your own baby doll, choosing your wig, diapering, and dressing him/her. Prices start at $55.00. Bring your camera when you visit the BABY DOLL ADOPTION NURSERY CENTER. You can peer through a real baby nursery window, with adorable life-like babies waiting to be adopted. Have your picture taken with your new bundle of joy. Meet the dolly nurse on duty who will give your baby a checkup with her stethoscope. Doctor’s coat is available for family members. Bring your own doll, and participate in a DOLL HAIR CARE SALON CLASS. This is a fun, hands-on activity as you learn how to properly
comb and style your doll’s hair. Hair brush and salon chair provided during class. $10.00 class fee per doll.
MAKING MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME
NEWBORN BABY DOLLS
You’ll also find miniature doll house furniture and accessories too. Need new doll clothes? This is the place to go with a variety of sizes and styles. Aimee & Daria's specialize in clothing to fit the American Girl Doll/Bitty Baby and other 18” dolls. Are you looking for AMISH COUNTRY SOUVENIRS? They have lots of Amish vinyl dolls dressed in locally handmade clothing, wall hangings, cloth dolls, and more. When you arrive at the DOLL OUTLET, you will be greeted by some of the friendliest people in Lancaster, PA, and you’ll hear great praise and worship music. This is a store that began 21 years ago in a tiny room. It was opened only on the weekends where they sold their own personal doll collection to raise money for children in need. Now, they have expanded to three buildings! Brenda and Aimee Sheaffer (Mother & Daughter duo from the DOLL OUTLET) invite you to stop in today and plan to stay awhile. Don’t forget your camera!!
♥ DOLL DAY SPA ♥ ♥ DOLL HAIR SALON ♥ ♥ DOLL TEA PARTIES ♥ ♥ DOLL EAR PIERCING ♥
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4 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
REBORN BABY DOLLS
***AMERICAN GIRL DOLL** *BITTY BABY *MY TWINN* ** DOLL FURNITURE **
MAKE YOUR OWN VINYL DOLL 20” VINYL BABY DOLL YOU CAN MAKE YOUR OWN VINYL BABY IN 45 MINUTES OR LESS STARTING AT $55.00 AND UP ADORA - LEE MIDDLETON - PLAY BABIES NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY CALL THE STORE FOR MORE INFORMATION
DOLL OUTLET
SO MUCH TO SEE & DO HANDMADE IN LANCASTER BY YOU!
BABY DOLL ADOPTION NURSERY CENTER
MAKE YOUR OWN BABY DOLL
CLOTHING TO FIT YOUR AMERICAN GIRL DOLLS DOLL HAIR CARE SALON
18” VINYL DOLLS
♥ ADOPT A PET ♥
PARTY INFORMATION WEBSITE
DOLLOUTLET.COM
AIMEE & DARIA'S DOLL OUTLET
AMISH COUNTRY SOUVENIRS
GRUMPY CAT
ADOPT A TOY PET FROM LANCASTER, PA DRESS UP LIKE A DOCTOR TO OFFICIALLY ADOPT YOUR PET. BRING YOUR CAMERA. ANIMALS PRICED FROM $5.00 UP TO $40.00 FUN FOR BOYS & GIRLS — PET ADOPTION —
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 5
Stars of the Screen Enjoy Union Barrel Works Scene By Clinton Martin
L
ess than six months ago, “Dirty Jobs” star Mike Rowe was in Lancaster County, shooting his new show, CNN’s “Somebody’s Got to Do It.” He and his camera crew were looking for a nice, clean, friendly place with great food and delicious handcrafted beers. Having discovered that there are well over a dozen brew pubs in Lancaster County, Mike and his crew chose Union Barrel Works, just like the locals and visitors have year after year. The star-struck bartenders tell us he enjoyed UBW’s Pale Ale, while the crew sampled the other ten or so made-on-site beers. Will you see Union Barrel Works on TV? Probably not. The guys were hanging out “off the clock.” Can you see Union Barrel Works for yourself? Absolutely! UBW is open daily except Mondays and is located at 6 North Reamstown Road, Reamstown PA. Call (717) 335-7837 or visit UnionBarrelWorks.com
Can I See An Amish Barn Raising? Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides Has the Answer By Uncle Amos
M
y cousin is a driver for Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides at Plain & Fancy Farm, and he told me this is one of the most common questions he gets from visitors. Barn raisings obviously aren’t regularly scheduled events. They will occur after a fire or some other disaster that has resulted in the loss of a farm's barn.
They are famous as one day events, but planning and preparation happen days in advance. On the “raising” day, neighbors, friends, and relatives
all come to do the work. Ladies usually prepare the meals. Foremen are appointed and the barn is assembled. Drivers at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides provide answers to such questions like this every day. They’re sharing their own way of life. Seven different routes are offered, ranging from 20 to over 90 minutes in duration with stops at Amish farms, bake shops, quilt shops, etc. Private rides are also available. Just call 717-723-0478 or visit AmishBuggyRides.com.
6 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
All Amish People are Farmers, Right? Jake’s Country Trading Post Has The Answer Outdoor furniture, By Uncle Amos
M
any Amish farm to be sure, but even the most “pro-farming” estimates put it at only 50% of the Amish population, with half pursuing a vocation other than farming. Jake’s Country Trading Post is known as “Everyone’s Favorite Country Store,” and sells loads of crafts made locally by Amish families who have become a part of what's referred to as “cottage industries.”
wooden buckets, even handmade wagon wheels are all produced by local Amish and are available at Jake’s. One of the most popular lines is the hand-forged wrought iron pieces. The classic wrought iron wine bottle holder is just one of many home enhancements you'll find at Jake’s. Jake’s Country Trading Post is located on Route 30 in Paradise at 2954 Lincoln Hwy. East, Gordonville. (717) 687-8980. JakesHomeAccents.com
Just one of a jillion flavors you can create, taste, and make a commercial for at the Turkey Hill Experience. Place your reservation and buy tickets now at TurkeyHillExperience.com. Columbia Exit of Rt. 30 | 301 Linden Street, Columbia, PA 17512 1-844-VISIT-TH (1-844-847-4884)
©2015 Turkey Hill Dairy
Night Life of Lancaster – A Deadly Experience By Clinton Martin
T
he pastoral surroundings of Lancaster County are peaceful and quaint by day, but when the sun sets, and the cool night air begins to swirl through the suddenly emptied streets, the spooky side of Amish Country grasps the imagination. Follow in the footsteps of notorious Lancaster County residents long since dead, but don’t go it alone. Luckily, you can keep close to the faint light of a creaky lantern, held by your own Ghost Tour of Lancaster guide.
script when all the chilling tales you can handle come from the macabre history of the Nation’s oldest inland city? Guides materialize nightly, but you’ve got to call ahead to make your reservation at 717-687-6687. If you’re too frightened to talk to anyone, go to GhostTour.com/lancaster. So, prepare yourself for haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses and star-crossed lovers as you experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City's thorny past!
It doesn’t feel like a bunch of made up stories, because they are not. Why write a
Spine-tingling story-telling in the heart of Amish Country! Ghost Tours of Lancaster
Shop in the Shade...
FineW ine
C elebrate
Mount Hope Wine Shop
Shupp’s Grove Bottle Fest July 18 & 19
(June 17, Early Buyers 3-7pm, $20 gate fee) July 4 & 5 • Paintings, Prints & Sculptures July 11 & 12 • Sports Memorabilia Junior Dealers - One Free Set-up Space is Given To Each Jr. Dealer (18 or younger) next to a table rented by an accompanying adult. July 25 & 26 • Christmas & Holiday August 1 & 2 • Postcards, Paper, Books, Comics, Superheroes & Film
Visit ShuppsGrove.com or Call 717-484-4115 Special themes or shows every weekend.
GPS: 607 Willow St. • Reinholds, PA 17569
Route 72 • 1/4 mile South of PA Turnpike Exit 266
2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim PA
Free Tasting • Open 7 Days a Week! 717-665-7021 • PaRenFaire.com
Present this ad when you sample at our tasting counter and take home our exclusive limited edition “Mount Hope” wine tasting glass for only $2.00 (reg. $3.95). One glass per tasting customer. Offer valid only for those 21 years of age or older and while supplies last. Offer Expires 12/31/11.
8 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Up, Up, and Away with the U.S. Hot Air Balloon Team By Brad Igou
Y
ou Baby Boomers will remember the iconic song of the sixties, recorded by the 5th Dimension. Thanks to the U.S. Hot Air Balloon Team, I was actually able to go “up, up and away” in their beautiful balloon a couple of weeks ago. On this particular evening, for our 6:30 launch, we were joined by two retired couples, including one gentleman whose 80th birthday gift was this balloon ride from his children.
Our pilot, Lucas, had done over 2,530 flights in the 13 years since getting his ballooning license. Lucas and assistant Chad were filled with all kinds of interesting facts and stories and a great sense of humor. I felt very much at ease. Watching the process of filling the balloon was fascinating, and the heat of the 30 million BTUs from the two burners warmed things up as we got into our launch positions in the basket. Once in the air, the next surprise was how smooth it all was. Being carried slowly with the wind, you really feel very little movement.
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We flew over what was for me familiar territory, but the perspective was so different, and I can only describe the checkerboard fields and picturesque farms, barns, and houses as truly majestic from above.
$5
Lucas decided to take us a mile high to climb over the low, thin “cloud deck.” Unlike sitting in a plane, here I felt the moisture on my face, and a little popping in my ears, as we emerged above the puffs of white. Unforgettable!
OFF *New reservations only, cannot be combined with any other discount or the $30 menu option. Coupon code: ACN6
Nearing an hour into our flight, it was time to come down, and we had the smoothest landing I could have imagined. Lucas knew his stuff. Once the van trailing us arrived, we got to see the interesting process of packing up a 650 pound, $100,000 balloon so it fit into a small trailer. Back at the starting point, we celebrated our adventure in the “oldest form of aviation” with a champagne toast. (Interesting fact: The first flight of any kind in America took place in Philadelphia in 1793 and it was in a balloon, of course.) The entire experience was above and beyond (pun intended) whatever expectations and fear of the unknown I had. So believe me when I say this is something that you really must do, whether it’s risen to your bucket list or not. It was “awesome.” You can schedule a flight by calling the U.S. Hot Air Balloon Team at 800-763-5987 or visit UsHotAirBalloon.com. There’s even a special offer in their ad on page 7 of this issue. Up, up and away!
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1-800-292-4301 • RainbowComedy.com AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 9
The Good ’n Plenty Experience Stop in at Good ’n Plenty today to enjoy our traditional Lancaster County home cooking and you’ll see why we’ve been chosen as one of AAA’s Top 10 BEST “down-home dining” restaurants in North America. Staffed with local cooks who have devoted years to preparing outstanding food, Good ’n Plenty is like no other restaurant in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch area.
Three Delicious Ways To Dine Family Style Dining Our traditional all you can eat family style dining is our most popular dining option with all the food brought to the table by our experienced and friendly servers.
Menu Dining Our menu dining area 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 dining features fresh made soups, garden fresh salads and made to order sandwiches. Takeout Want all the
delicious food but no time to sit down? The Good ’n Plenty takeout program is ideal for people on the go.
Please visit goodnplenty.com for current serving hours and valuable coupons
10 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Rt 896, Smoketown Lancaster County, PA 17576 (717) 394-7111
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 11
Who Are The Mennonites? By Uncle Amos
A full-sized reproduction of Moses' Tabernacle in the Wilderness is among the exhibits at the Mennonite Information Center.
P L A I N
&
F A N C Y
F A R M
At Its Best! g in ll e t y r o St
T H E A T E R
“This Is My Country!” PATRIOTIC SHOW June 26 - September 6
• Spectacular Images on the Big Screen • Professional Showman Amuses and Delights • Music, Song and Comedy Enliven the Experience • Victorian Special Effects Surprise and Amaze • Experience Our Nation’s Past and Join in the Fight for Independence!
Route 340 Between Bird-in-Hand & Intercourse
MAGICLANTERNTHEATER.COM ❤ 717.768.8400, EXT. 210
$3 OFF Each Adult
Present this coupon at time of purchase to receive $3 off each regular adult admission. Valid up to 6 adults. Not valid with any other offers or group pricing. Expires 9/6/15.
The Book All Readers of Amish Fiction Need to Have! There are many entertaining books about the Amish anywhere books are sold. Most are worthwhile, and provide hours of enjoyment. But, where does one turn to hear the voice of the Amish themselves? The Amish In Their Own Words, compiled by Brad Igou, brings together writings from 25 years of Family Life Magazine, which Igou organized into topics such as Faith, Family, Friends, and Fun. Purchase your copy today at your favorite outlet for books.
800-458-2772 (x2)
Available at the Amish Experience, Plain & & Fancy Farm, and LifeWay, by phone, and online at leading book web sites.
12 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
T
he short answer is that, in their beginnings, the Mennonites and the Amish shared the same origins …and today range from being similar to radically different in their lifestyles. Why? Allow me to direct you to the Mennonite Information Center, just off the Lincoln Highway (Route 30), where your questions will be answered with assured accuracy. You'll walk through a fascinating exhibit where you examine both Mennonite history and Mennonites today. Then head downstairs to the video “Who Are the Amish?” which not only provides an overview of the Amish, but compares and contrasts the Amish and Mennonites in a straightforward way. There is also another newly revised video focused solely on the Mennonites. Returning upstairs, you can travel back in time to Old Testament days with the reproduction of the Israelite Tabernacle. Everything is built to the scale specified in Biblical texts. Viewable through picture windows is the outside courtyard. Inside is a re-creation of the tabernacle itself, with the menorah and even the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies. The guided tour takes about 40 minutes and begins on the hour. The Mennonite Information Center is a familyfriendly and informative way to spend part of your morning or afternoon. The gift shop features unique fair trade items imported from around the world. The center is located at 2209 Millstream Road, Lancaster. Summer hours are 8:00AM to 5:00PM. Closed Sundays. More information can be found at MennoniteInfoCtr.org or by calling (717) 299-0954.
Can I See Candles Being Made? By Uncle Amos
I
’m so glad you asked! There is a fantastic place called the Old Candle Barn where you simply must stop. Make sure you go Monday-Friday, from 8AM-4PM, because this is when the magic happens. Head down to the basement to see candles made right before your eyes. While you definitely want to take away memories, please don’t take any pictures. It's mostly members of the Amish community making the candles, so please be respectful. And where can you buy the handmade candles? Well, just head right back upstairs to the awesome showroom. Talk about as local as it gets! While I was visiting, I perused the candles of all shapes, sizes and scents. One of my favorite scents was sugar cookie...reminded me of vanilla. Other scents that caught my attention were shoofly pie and butterscotch. You'll find more than candles here. Braided rugs, salt and pepper shakers, electric candles, towels, knick-knacks…you might feel a little overwhelmed (but in a good way). You'll also find seasonal items when you visit throughout the year. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention some of the dip mixes you'll discover for those outdoor barbeques --- caramel apple, chipotle garlic, and BLT. You can try some of these dips during the open houses Old Candle Barn sponsors on July 3-4, September 4-5, and December 4-5.
Craft-Canning, Micro-Jarring, Canning with Glass. Whatever you call it, Intercourse Canning Company on Centre Street offers up delicious small-batch jams, jellies, relishes, and pickles in a store that’s also home to their demo kitchen. See it made and sample dozens of different products while you shop.
What makes this place perhaps most memorable is the atmosphere, with its wooden pillars, exposed beams, and a comfortably creaky floor. Some of the displays are works of art in themselves, with beautifully matched colors and objects. Don’t forget to stop by the sister location next door, The 1814 Gathering House Shoppe, a boutique with merchandise ranging
from pillows to handbags. I think it’s time for a visit, don’t you? Old Candle Barn is located on Main Street at 3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA, 17534. The store is open Monday-Saturday, from 8AM-5PM. Call 717-768-8926 for more information or visit OldCandleBarn.com.
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AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 13
Welcome to Intercourse PA INTERCOURSE Dutchland Quilt Patch
772
To Country Knives
Old Candle Barn
340
Esh Handmade Quilts
340 Intercourse Canning Co.
HARVEST DRIVE
P
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
QUEEN RD.
CENTER ST.
OLD PHILA. PIKE Best Western Intercourse Village Inn
772
To Gap
30 41
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. 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
14 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
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 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.
OLD CANDLE BARN
"SUMMER SPLASH" JULY 3 & 4 Join us as we show you that candles are not just for winter, with quick and simple summer decorating ideas. Be the first to get a sneak peak of what's to come for fall and Christmas. Enjoy the many quick and easy food samplings that will be served.
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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
& Guest House Take home a “Quillow”, a pillow that unfolds to a quilt! ONLY $42.00 Makes a super gift!
Come Stay in the Country! Guest House Available on our Amish Farm!
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Call For Info: (717) 656-8476
221 South Groffdale Rd. Leola, PA 17540 Proprietors: Chris & Katie Stoltzfus
Can accomodate up to 9 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths & Full Kitchen
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 15
This Summer Only…Rare Magic Lantern Shows at Plain & Fancy Farm By Brad Igou
I
n a departure from the exclusive showing of its critically acclaimed special effects production of “Jacob’s Choice,” the Amish Experience is producing a new non-Amish themed entertainment…Magic Lantern Shows. In fact, when the shows debuted June 26th, the Plain & Fancy Theater actually became the only permanent Magic Lantern Theater anywhere in the world in the last 130 years! But what exactly is a Magic Lantern Show? I investigated, saw one of the first shows, and this is what I learned. Over 100 years ago, there were no movies, and Magic Lantern Shows were seen by hundreds of thousands of people around the world. Just as audiences today enjoy a film at the multiplex, so back then did audiences share the stories, events, travels, and literature of the time brought to life through this new medium. The "magic" was accomplished with dramatic hand-painted glass “slides,” projected by “limelight” and later electricity, from large wooden and brass “lanterns” that projected multiple images onto the screen.
Battle of Gettysburg by Joseph Boggs Beale. With no recorded sound, it was the storytelling talents of a “showman” and the musical accompaniment that brought it all to life. As is true with movies of today, stories sometimes had the audience in uproarious laughter or fainting from emotion. And special effects, then as now, heightened the emotions. “This Is My Country!” is the current production at Plain & Fancy, and entertainingly allows the Showman to transport audiences back to the days of the settlers at Plymouth Rock, through the fight for Independence, and into the tragic struggle of North and South in the Civil War, as we witness how history has touched the lives of the generations of one family into the early 1900's.
Showman Mark Sullivan with the 1890’s “triunial” lantern. Bringing the stories to life is Showman Mark Sullivan, imposing in his authentic Victorian era costume. Mark is obviously a seasoned performer in his own right and captivated his audience from the moment he stepped out front to introduce himself. He depicts critical events in our Nation’s history weaving them into a fascinating narrative, with music and songs he personally selected for his soundtrack. Continued on Page 18
Join us for our 18 th annual
July Food Festival Featuring FREE tasting events from 11am - 3pm, exclusive sales every Saturday throughout the entire month of July and our micro-canning kitchen demonstrations Wednesday - Saturday from 11am - 3pm!
Patriotic Picnic Party
Salsa Saturday
Pickles & Dips & Chips, Oh My!
Hot Dog Days of Summer
Celebrate 4th of July with a picnic!
It’s a Mexican food fiesta! Featuring
Join us for fun contests, sales & giveaways
Summer is just the best for cookouts!
Enjoy sales to get your summer
our several varieties of salsa: Mild,
and meet our mascot, Kirby the Pickle!
We’re firing up the grill and serving
started and a plethora of recipes
Medium, Hot, Zesty Pineapple Mango,
Try one of our famous varieties of
up bite-sized weenies you can try with
that are perfect for any picnic.
regular Mango, Peach, Tangy Apple,
pickles: Garlic Dill and Kosher Style,
a spread of sauces and all the fixings !
Snack on homemade salads,
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appetizers and sweets you’ll
Savor a spread of Mexican dishes and
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want to savor all summer long !
take home recipes you’ll love.
up fast for any party or occasion!
sauces, relishes and more!
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Limit one coupon per family per day. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Not valid on sale items, website orders or mail orders. Valid thru 12/31/15.
13 Center Street Intercourse, PA • 717-768-0156 • intercoursecanning.com • Follow us and learn more:
16 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 17
Magic Lantern Shows
(Continued from Page 16) In watching his performance, the term ‘one man show” comes to mind, for Mark in his persona as Professor Phineas T. Firefly, plays many roles. In his role as “actor,” he portrays the many characters in the show, relying on audience interaction and different “voices” and accents to bring characters to life. As “magician,” he manipulates the scores of framed images, sliding them in and out of the lantern with grace, dramatic impact, and often humor, at times aided by animated slides that actually make the images move. In this tour de force, the talented Sullivan becomes the entire cast, stage manager, crew, lighting director, and music coordinator, with everything happening in full view right in the middle of the theater. I learned Mark has a long history in the theater, making him the perfect fit for this most unique storytelling performance. He performed for SAK Theater at EPCOT Center where he made a "mark" for himself (I couldn't help myself) in street theater/audience participation comedy shows in the Italy and England pavilions for over five years. He later directed at Disney and created the Congo Comedy Corp at Busch Gardens, as well as the Best of Broadway series with the Orlando Symphony Orchestra. He has performed with and owned several improvisational comedy troupes as well as
taught over 1000 performers the art of improv. Most recently he was Artistic Director of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, and continues to perform music with the Celtic groups Wyndfall and the Grammy nominated The Rogues.
The dramatic projected images of the Patriotic Show's stories, poems, and songs are provided by prized period illustrations, primarily by America’s foremost Magic Lantern artist of the time, Joseph Boggs Beale. Mark also uses period photographs, just as showmen did over a century ago, as well as illustrations by a local artist commissioned especially for the Patriotic Show. The limited run of "This Is My Country!” continues Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 7:00pm through September 5, plus special Sunday holiday weekend shows July 5 and
18 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
September 6. (The critically acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” continues to be shown on the hour daily 10am to 5pm.) Tickets for individuals are available online along with more information on the history of the Magic Lantern and each of the Plain & Fancy shows at MagicLanternTheater.com. You may also call 717-768-8400, Ext. 210 or email shows@MagicLanternTheater.com. "This Is My Country!” and other Magic Lantern Shows are available year round during the day or evening to adult and school groups of 20 or more by calling 800-555-2303, Ext. 214. I should conclude by letting those not familiar with the Amish Experience know that you'll be at the area's only complete Amish interpretative center. You can combine a show with an Amish countryside tour on a 14-passenger mini-shuttle, take a buggy ride, and tour an authentically furnished Amish house and one-room school. You can also enjoy a meal at the Plain & Fancy Farm Dining Room, home of Lancaster’s first all-you-care-to-eat family style restaurant. The Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm is located at 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Birdin-Hand (for GPS: Ronks), on scenic Route 340 between the villages of Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse. If you're like the thousands of visitors who have made the Amish Experience a stop on their travels, you are not likely to be disappointed, as you gain insights and take in sights you won't find anywhere else!
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 19
Discover Amish Heirlooms at Gish’s Furniture By Caleb Bressler
T
he phrase “they just don’t make things like they used to” has almost become an adage. You’ve probably said it yourself. But let me tell you of an exception... it's Gish’s Furniture, serving as a shining example that you still can find places selling products that are "built to last." Thus, Gish’s likes to label their furniture as “Amish Heirlooms.” The furniture is meant to become part of your family, to be handed down for future generations to treasure.
Of course, the furniture is crafted by skilled wood-workers of Amish and Mennonite communities. However, you’re not out of luck if your taste isn’t for traditional straightforward Amish designs. Gish’s has a remarkable selection of styles, ranging from modern to rustic. All the furniture is hardwood, with a variety of stains which can be custom-selected. Yet another thing that sets the furniture apart here is the special varnish remarkably resistant to water-stains or the occasional spilled drink. If you forget your iced tea on the table overnight, there will be no water stain when you remove the glass and wipe away the condensation ring the next morning.
Great, you say! So what are some especially popular items to get you started? One of the store’s biggest categories is its dining room tables. At the moment, one of the most popular is the Settler’s Trestle Table, a sturdy, rustic piece that would fit perfectly into any country farmhouse-style kitchen. Another popular item is a rustic bedroom suite, with the furniture tops made of re-purposed barn wood for a casual, country elegance. I must mention the extremely clever coffee table which caught my eye on my recent visit. The top of the coffee table lifts up and towards you making a terrific little “tray.” If you watch television and have dinner in your living room... this piece is a must-have. If you are from out-of-town and don’t want to haul your new piece of furniture in your car, not to worry. Gish’s in-house delivery service will ship to anywhere in the United States, handdelivering items to your door, so you can be assured that everything arrives in tip-top shape. So what are you waiting for? Head over to 2191 Lincoln Highway East (Route 30), Lancaster, or either of the other Gish’s area locations at 3424 Simpson Ferry Road, Camp Hill or 728 Loucks Road (Rt. 30) York, for that special piece of furniture today. The doors open Monday-Saturday at 10AM. Call for more information at 717-3926080 or visit online at Gishs.com.
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5
Anniversa
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ZOOK’S FABRICS 717.768.8153 3535 Old Philadelphia Pike • Intercourse, PA • Two Shops, Huge Selection
1965-2015
ONE FAMILY!
• Fabric Visit Our Online Store • Books SaudersFabric.com • Batting • Sewing & Quilt Supplies • More Fabric
Fabrics auder’s SSauder’s Fabrics 681 S. Muddy Creek Rd. • Denver, PA • 717.336.2664
20 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • 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
Wilkum to Our World Special to Amish Country News
exactly a mile and a half from either Bird-inHand or Intercourse. Completely surrounded by Amish farmland, there are at least seven different routes offered with different sights, stops, lengths, and prices. No reservations are needed. Just pick your ride when you arrive.
Family Tradition That Never Disappoints Ride Like the Amish Do!
A
aron and Jessica will be happy to take you. Jessica? Well, she’s the little girl who started it all. Her dad agreed to let her try her hand at giving buggy rides. She liked driving horses, and thought it would be fun to show the beautiful scenery and Amish farms to visitors. Aaron? You’re probably thinking that must be Jessica’s father. Nope. You just can’t have a buggy ride without a horse. That’s right, Aaron was Jessica’s horse. And that's how Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides was born.
Ride Through the Covered Bridge As Jessica always says, “We know you came here more than anything to see and understand how and why we live the way we do. Take a ride with us. Let us tell you all about it, too. After all, we live here.”
“You don’t pass one piece of ground that isn’t farmed with a horse when you take a ride with us!” —Jessica's Dad The buggy rides depart from the property of Plain & Fancy Farm. You’ll see a little red covered bridge along the side of Route 340, Aaron and Jessica's welcomes you, rain or shine, 7 days a week.
Summer Hours:
Jessica likes to stress the non-commercial nature of the rides. “We can take you between the house and the barn on a real Amish farm, on private roads, with no cars. You see real Amish life. We absolutely offer you more!”
All of the buggy rides pass through a covered bridge. Kids love buggy rides, especially getting to sit up front next to the drivers! As one visitor from Long Island said, “This is our fifth time here this year. We love it here. Since my son woke up this morning Aaron & Jessica’s is all I’ve heard” So, if your kids are driving you buggy, let Aaron & Jessica take over the reins for a while! Look for the little covered bridge along Route 340 at Plain & Fancy Farm, midway between Intercourse and Bird-in-Hand.
WIN A PRIVATE FAMILY RIDE WITH MIRIAM! Want to know what it's like? scan this QR Code and imagine you are on tour with her! Contest Rules:
Most of the drivers are our neighbors and are all Amish. Jessica’s dad, who has driven thousands of visitors down Amish farm lanes over the last 25 years, was three years old when he had his first recollection of a horse. He guesses he has driven a carriage more than anyone else in Lancaster County, about 10,000 miles a year! Enjoy the beautiful countryside of Lancaster County with its immaculately kept Amish farms and gardens. Experience for yourself a taste of Amish Country life here. All the rides are reasonably priced, starting at just $10.00 for adults and $6.00 for kids. The ride is "air-conditioned." You’ll be more than comfortable with the open buggy and the breeze. Jessica says, “In the summer, it’s a great way to cool off. My dad says it’s like sitting in the shade with the fan on... 409 air-conditioning... four wheels turning at nine miles an hour!”
Just "Like" us on Facebook before the end of August, and tell us why you would like to ride with Miriam for your family or friends. We will review all entries in a decidedly non-scientific way and choose a winner.
Rules: Ride has no cash value and must be taken or forfeited by August 31, 2015. Ride is not transferrable. Advanced reservation required. Private ride for one hour for up to 4 people; any additional will incur added charges. This does NOT include gratuity for the driver. NOT AVAILABLE ON SUNDAYS. Want to know what it's like?... Scan QR Code... Open All Year
See Our World Rain or Shine
From a Buggy
Mon.-Sat. 9am-6:30pm Sunday: 10am-4:30pm For more Info. about us, go to
amishbuggyrides.com. For more info, about Private Rides for you, your family, or your group, email
amishbuggyrides@gmail.com or call (717) 723-0478.
PRIVATE AMISH ROAD - REAL FAMILY CARRIAGES We take you to VISIT REAL AMISH FARMS. You’ll experience REAL AMISH LIFE!
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 21
Amish Farmlands • SuperSaver Tour • Visit-in-Person
Tours Since 1959
Amish Farmlands Tour
YOUR BEST VALUE!
Journey along back country roads, deep into the Amish Farmlands to discover sights rarely seen. Under the watchful eye of your certified guide, you’ll gain insights into the “how” and “why”of an everchanging culture, and see at-the-moment activities of the Amish. If you’ve seen the Amish portrayed on the various “Reality” TV shows, and you wonder what really is true and not true about the Amish, this is the tour you won’t want to miss! We’ll debunk myths about the Amish and provide accurate, respectful, and authentic information, just like we have done for over 50 years. Plus, now through November 30, 2015 we’ll provide each guest who purchases the Amish Farmlands Tour, when combined as part of your SuperSaver Tour, with a voucher for a FREE BUGGY RIDE at Aaron & Jessica’s, plus a free autographed Amish Cookbook.
The SuperSaver Tour includes the Amish Farmlands Tour, the acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” at the Amish Experience F/X Theater, and a tour of the Amish House & One-Room School. As a bonus, receive an Amish cookbook and a voucher for a FREE BUGGY RIDE from Aaron & Jessica’s on property. Buggy ride offer valid through November only.
Duration: 1 1/2 hours Mon-Sat, 10am, 12pm, 2pm & 4pm Sun, 10am, 12pm & 2pm
This is your Total Amish Experience!
Visit-in-Person Tour
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 of Lancaster. 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. Includes FREE BUGGY RIDE voucher.
Duration: 3 hours Now-October 31 Mon-Sat, 5pm (Saturdays only in November)
3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Rte. 340 Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505-0414
FREE AMISH BUGGY RIDE Receive a voucher for a free “Cookie Run Buggy Ride” just a few steps away at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides with the purchase, at the Amish Experience Theater Box Office, of a regularly priced Supersaver, Theater/House Combo, or Amish Visit-in-Person Tour.
at Plain & Fancy Farm
One voucher for each adult or child ticket purchased with this coupon. Not valid with any other offer or with group tours. Offer expires 11/30/15. Valid up to six people. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. BUGAN
(717) 768-8400 Ext.210 AmishExperience.com
Advance Tickets, including Free Buggy Ride Voucher, by Phone or Online:
Plain & Fancy — Farm to Table Since 1959 Where It All Began
fl>A
Preferred
. . . ·.
pla!s�c�9f.�ncy Home of the original Amish Farm Feast, as featured on
Travel Channel's Man VS Food Choose the Amish Farm Feast, or select from our Ala Carte Menu, with... Lunch Specials from $79s* Dinner Specials from $}Q95* Reservations, Call Ahead Seating & Walk-ins Welcome 717-768-4400• 7 days fromll:30 am* USA Today's Great Plate Award• ServSafe Award Theater, Country Homestead, Tours & Buggy Rides on premises
Get the whole story, and coupons, on our "mobile friendly" website
www.PlainAndFancyFarm.com
Route 340 between Bird-in-Hand & Intercourse
GPS: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand PA (ifproblem with Bird-in-Hand, try Ronks PA) • With this ad. Hours/ menus/prices may vary. Please call 717-768-4400 to verify before arrival. Open 7 Days.
.--.... ........
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011
Lancaster's Original
Amish Farm Feast
10 %011 OR
Feast includes entrees, sides, starters, beverages and desserts & is valid for up to 6 adults. Not valid Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving or with any other offer, special, or group rate. Not valid on ala carte menu. Expires 12/31/15 PLU 505
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Ala carte Menu
Valid for up to 6people (including children).
Not valid Easter, Mother's Day or Thanksgiving. Not valid on Amish Farm Feast. Not valid on alcohol or with any other offer. Expires 12/31/15 • Code: C' mon back
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. Today Plain & Fancy is a destination all its own, featuring the acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” at the Amish Experience Theater, Amish Farmlands and Visit-in-Person Tours, the Heritage Site Amish House & One-Room School, 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, has a brand new extension with great views and luxurious lodging surrounded by stunning Amish countryside.
A Lancaster Original
Amos, Ben, Manny and Elmer are some of the Amish farmers who supply the 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 horse-andbuggy’s drive. These neighbors, and the neighbors before them, have helped Plain & Fancy 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, sweet shoe peg 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, where he went behind the scenes in the Plain & Fancy kitchen for one of his popular show’s episodes.
The New “a la carte” Menu
The restaurant also offers a new a la carte menu featuring mouth-watering appetizers, signature soups and salads, charbroiled burgers and sandwiches, and made-from scratch entrees and platters, including several PA Dutch specialties. Guests can “build a platter” with items from the family-style menu or choose one of the daily specials starting at $10 or less. You can do it all at Plain & Fancy, so why not come and “spend the day!”
People of Peace — Victims of Violence Part Three in a Series...
• The guard struck the Amish boy, “knocking him down and stabbing him with his bayonet. He made a cut in his pants and a gash in his hips about two inches long.” • A 45-mile rock-throwing spree resulted in damage to four carriages, nine homes, one school…and one dead Amish baby. • The arsonist managed to set fire to seven Amish barns in two hours, destroying six of them, killing 177 horses and cows, with damages estimated at one million dollars.
H
ow is it that the Amish who, by faith, lead a quiet and peaceful lifestyle, are at times the victims of unspeakable violence? These incidents are true and, in the case of the last two, really not from the distant past. They took place in 1918, 1979, and 1992, respectively. Our 2015 seven-part “Amish Series” offers an overview of the Anabaptist stance of non-resistance in times of war and peace, from their origins over 450 years ago through the start of the 21st century.
PART 3: World War I The “war to end all wars” spelled problems for the Amish and Mennonites, whose Pennsylvania German dialect made them suspect to some people. By this time, Amish dress and customs had also made them “different” than average Americans. Add the fact that the Amish declared conscientious objector (CO) status seeking exemption from conscription and otherwise participating in the war efforts. As Albert Keim writes in THE AMISH AND THE STATE, “CO’s were drafted into the army and posted to military camps with the hope that they would enter noncombatant service.” The question for the Amish became one of how much to “cooperate.” Their resistance to wearing uniforms rather than their plain clothes, and their refusal to bear arms, resulted in many cases in harassment, beatings, and humiliation. A book recounting these incidents, NONRESISTANCE PUT TO THE TEST was published in 1981. Particularly shocking were the experiences recounted by Menno
by Brad Igou
In Amsterdam in 1569, a ferry man was burned alive for allowing the non-resistant Anabaptists to have a secret worship service on his boat. -From the Martyrs Mirror
Diener at Camp Taylor, Kentucky, where he witnessed the bayonet stabbing of one Amish boy. During the course of his stay, Menno objected to having to wear a military uniform and to taking orders. Here is how he describes what followed... So the commander got a broomstick and beat me across the legs till he broke his stick. I had streaks and swelling on my legs. Then he got a 2x4 about three feet long that had four spikes in one end, and threatened to hit me in the face with it. He put it near to my face and then back again like a ball bat and said, “If it weren’t for the law, I would like to see how far I could sink these spikes into your face.” A few days later another Amish young man, his face black and blue from beatings, was placed on display by a public road. Someone placed a sign on him that read, “I refuse to fight for my country.” When camp officials were court-martialled for their actions, the Amish refused to testify against them because “it would be helping to punish them and cause ill feelings between resisting and nonresistance, and be a poor light of Christianity in our church and background.” NONRESISTANCE PUT TO THE TEST contains stories of suffering in many other camps, including one where a boy was pulled for half a mile on the ground by a horse. At another camp in Georgia, a man was hung by a rope until unconscious. According to Steven Nolt in his HISTORY OF THE AMISH, “Officers occasionally ‘baptized’ Amish COs in the camp latrines in mockery of their Anabaptist beliefs.” In Kansas, Amish bishop Manasses Bontrager wrote a letter urging his members not to buy
24 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Liberty Bonds, and urging support of the Amish youth serving in the camps. In his words... Many people can’t understand why we don’t want to defend our country. Christ said, “Render unto Caesar that which belongs to Caesar, and to God that which belongs to God.” Caesar protects our property, for which we should willingly pay our taxes as Christ asked us to.... But our coming in this world, our intellects, our physical powers --- these do not belong to Caesar. If he claims them to defend him, Christ’s laws strictly forbid our yielding to such a claim. A few months later, Bontrager was arrested by a U.S. Marshall and put on trial for Violation of the 1917 Espionage Act and was fined $500 for “inciting and attempting to incite subordination, disloyalty, and refusal of duty in the military and naval forces of the United States.” Again in NONRESISTANCE PUT TO THE TEST…The inner struggles and temptations which they overcame through faith can be worth more to us than the knowledge of the physical sufferings they endured… May our youth today compare their lot with those who were often abused, who suffered from cold, hunger, and lack of Christian fellowship. Through all this their main concern was to do the will of God. On the other hand, most of us today are provided with all the necessities of life; we suffer no bodily persecution, yet we are at times dissatisfied with our lot in life. May a look at their life and example awaken in us thankful hearts as we appreciate the privileges and freedoms we have today.
NEXT ISSUE: “World War II through the Gulf War”
Train Your Sights on Amtrak By Clinton Martin
N
ow arriving on track five, the 10:32am Keystone Train #669 en route from New York to Harrisburg. If you’ve ever taken the train from Lancaster, you’d recognize this as the heads-up that your adventure on the rails is about to begin. Get down to the platform so you don’t miss your ride to our state Capitol, Harrisburg, with its State and Civil War Museums, riverboat rides, and wonderful dining. Or, of course maybe you’re in Lancaster waiting for a train to Philadelphia or New York for live theater, historic attractions, major league sports, art galleries, or high-end shopping. Either way, Lancaster is connected to the best of the mid-Atlantic region by way of Amtrak’s comfortable and convenient passenger rail service. However, as the train’s doors open, you can’t just step right in. You’ve got to wait for all those passengers to exit, keen on experiencing Lancaster’s dining, attractions, heritage, and culture. No matter if Lancaster is your origin or destination, Amtrak is simply one of the finest ways to travel to or from our beloved “Red Rose City.”
Lancaster is a lovely city in the middle of the world-famous PA Dutch countryside, and stepping off the train your first experience is seeing one of the most beautiful stations in Amtrak’s network. Lancaster’s grand old station has withstood decades of golden age
travel, and after recent renovations provides all the modern amenities while still showcasing the railroading style you just can’t create without graceful aging.
As you step out of the station you can either walk into the city itself, or grab a short cab ride out into the Amish countryside. There are always local taxis waiting in front of the station, so just step right up and be on your way. Many Amtrak passengers looking to experience the Amish culture and way of life ride Amtrak from Philadelphia. For visitors wishing to see Amish Country without having to secure all the details, train, cab, attractions, etc. Connective Tours (a division of Philadelphia Trolley Works in Philadelphia) runs day trips to Amish Country via train to Lancaster. Transportation from the train station is included to the Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm. There, guests enjoy the Amish Experience Theater, the Amish Country Homestead, and the Amish Farmlands bus tour. Visitors return to Philadelphia in the early evening. Call 215-925-8687 for details or visit www. phillytour.com. All aboard!
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 25
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 breakfast property. The Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County states that the
CHURCH RD
26 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Plain & Fancy Farm Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides Amish Country Homestead Amish Country Tours Amish Experience Theater Amish View Inn & Suites Magic Lantern Shows Plain & Fancy Restaurant
Mt. Hope Wine Gallery
d
Bird-in-Han
IRIS
HTO
WN
RD
HARVEST DRIVE Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies
LEACOCK RD
30
Waters Edge Mini Golf
To
Bird-In-Hand Farmers Market Bird-In-Hand Family Inn & Restaurant
340
RONKS RD
Bird-In-Hand Bake Shop
RONKS RD
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
BEECHDALE RD
the Bird-in-Hand 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."
GIBBONS RD
N. HARVEST DR.
O
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 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.
MONTEREY RD WEAVERTOWN RD
Welcome to the Village of Bird-in-Hand 340
To Gordonville Bookstore
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.
What Exactly Is PA Dutch Cooking... Look No Further Than Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies
T
raditional PA Dutch Cuisine is simple, down-home, from-scratch cooking... farm-to-table a couple hundred years
Where the Amish Are Our Neighbors.
Flory’s
Cottages Camping Hosts: Claudette, Lou & Shelly
Level Shaded
before it was trendy. Amish-owned Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies is a fine example of today’s PA Dutch cooking. Pot Pie and the Amish are inseparable. But, this treasured menu dish has traditionally been more of a stew, like “chicken and dumplings.” Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies revolutionized and reinvented Amish Pot Pie, encasing it in a crust. The resulting "pie" appears like what most Americans recognize as pot pie, but tasting like
By Uncle Amos
an entirely new stratosphere of flavor compared to what is found in a grocer’s freezer. Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies is a take-andbake place, not a restaurant. I suggest you pick up your lunch or dinner, take it back to your RV, campsite, or microwave-equipped hotel room and taste some authentic, 100% homemade PA Dutch cooking. Call (717) 768-0239 for details, or to see if the pies are sold at a location near you.
*Campsites
E,W,S Cable TV & Wi-Fi Pet & Smoke Free
*Cottages *Guest Rooms
717.687.6670
www.floryscamping.com
*Camp Store *Pavilion *Laundry *Bathhouses
99 N. Ronks Rd. PO Box 308 Ronks PA 17572 Between US 30 & Rte. 340
Fun for Everyone!
Two Beautiful Golf Courses • Petting Zoo Fish and Duck Pond • Hand Dipped Ice Cream
717-768-GOLF
For over 100 years, the PA Dutch have been using
230 N. Ronks Road Bird-in-Hand, PA
(Located behind Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant)
Visit Our Ice Cream Parlor!
Buy One Round of Mini-Golf
Get One FREE
Not valid with any other discounts or offers!
acn
Expires October 18, 2015
BISMOLINE MEDICATED POWDER
containing unique combinations of active ingredients. Use BISMOLINE to treat and prevent minor skin irritation, prickly heat, chafing, itching, diaper rash, athlete’s foot, perspiration, wetness,and odor.
Available at these local stores
Zimmerman’s Hardware
306 Hartman Bridge Road, Strasburg
Plain & Fancy
3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand
Miller’s Smorgasbord
2811 Lincoln Hwy E, Ronks
Old Village Store
2705 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand
800.669.8795 Visit www.Bismoline.com AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 27
Welcome to New Holland • Blue Ball
Country Lane Quilt Shop
To Ephrata 322
897 23 RANCK AVE.
RD.
VOGA NVILLE
D ROA
T
ERS
Riehl’s Quilts & Crafts E. EBY ROAD
MAIN STREET Witmer’s Quilt Shop
PET
S. GROFFDALE RD.
23
N. GROFFDALE RD.
LEOLA
NEW HOLLAND
RAILROAD AVE.
Smucker’s Quilts
Flower & Home Marketplace
BLUE BALL
Country Home Blue Furniture Ridge Furniture
HILL RD. / WALLACE RD.
he instability in Europe in the late 1600’s spawned and nurtured the pioneer interest in the deep forest lands of Pennsylvania. 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. This entire century had been one of continued misery for the peasants of the Palatinate (western Germany). The Thirty Years War had
To September Farmruthlessness. Cheese raged across the area with barbaric 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.
28 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
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.
Do the Amish Have Air Conditioning?
Country Housewares Store Has the Answer
is completely self-contained, with what amounts to a tractor engine running a compressor, similar to how refrigerated trucks keep cargo areas cold.
silverware and silver sets, clocks, gas lamps, even a nice display of harmonicas, along with many other home goods.
Country Housewares Store is as close to an Amish department store as you'll find anywhere, stocking clothing, dinnerware, fine china, kitchen utensils, books and school supplies, toys,
Country Housewares Store is located at 589 Musser School Rd, Leola. 717-556-0985.
By Uncle Amos
A
mish homes aren’t connected to “the grid” and so air conditioning simply isn’t practical. Electricity also happens to be a creature comfort that is nice, but certainly not a necessity. Generations of Amish families have been doing just fine by opening the windows, or relying on battery powered fans when necessary. Yet there is one Amish business that has developed an ingenious way to create a comfortable shopping environment. Meet the Country Housewares Store. The air-conditioning system
Turkey Hill Experience Answers...Are All PA Dutch People Amish? By Uncle Amos
P
A Dutch refers to a broad spectrum of people with German-speaking ancestors. When they settled in Pennsylvania, their English-speaking neighbors asked where they came from. They replied, “Deutschland.” Although they spoke Deutsch (German), their English-speaking neighbors called them “Dutch.” As much as Lancaster is known for its Amish, the area has been home to many influential nonAmish PA Dutch residents. Take for instance Armor Frey. He founded Turkey Hill Dairy in 1931. Those weren’t easy times in America. The Great Depression was a horrible reality, and an entire Country suffered. Armor was a hard working dairy farmer, with a wife and eight children, plus hired farm hands to support. To make ends meet, he started selling his farm’s milk in bottles door to door. From there the business grew to homemade ice cream, iced tea, and other beverages. Eventually, second and third generations of the family business developed a network of convenience stores to sell the treats and drinks. Over 75 years later, Turkey Hill Dairy produces 30 million gallons of ice cream every year, and offers dozens of other frozen and refrigerated drinks nationally. The Turkey Hill Experience is the dairy’s family attraction, welcoming visitors to learn how ice cream is made, sit in a milk truck, milk mechanical cows, and learn about the Turkey Hill Continued on Page 31
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 29
Do the Amish Take Vacations? Find the Answer at Crystal Cave By Uncle Amos
Y
es, Amish people enjoy their leisure time. Crystal Cave, in nearby Kutztown, a short drive from Amish Country, has long been a popular attraction for Amish families. Crystal Cave offers a 55 minute interpretive tour, with an introduction in its theater.
Guides lead visitors through an array of spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and pillar and dripstone formations. Marvels of stone sculpture include the Cathedral Chamber, the Prairie Dogs, the Giant’s Tooth, the Ear of Corn and Tobacco Leaves, the Natural Bridge, the Indian Head, the Totem Pole, and the Crystal Ballroom. Remember, it’s nice and cool in the summertime! Call (610) 683-6765 or visit CrystalCavePA.com to begin exploring.
9 SHOPPES UNDER ONE ROOF!
• 2 Playgrounds • Basketball • Catch & Release Fishing Lake • Camp Store ($) • Game Room ($) • Gnome Café ($) • Golf Cart Rentals ($) • Horseshoes & Shuffleboard • Hiking & Fitness Trail • Miniature Golf ($)
RV HOOKUPS
• Indoor & Outdoor Heated Swimming Pools & Hot Tub • Child Swimming Pools • Laundry Facilities ($) • On-Site Storage ($) • Recreation Hall • Volleyball Court • BBQ & Picnic Area • Planned Activities • Shower Facilities
RENTALS
FAMILY CAMPING
Why Do Amish Dress That Way? Zook’s Fabric Store Can Tell You! By Uncle Amos
.
AND..
GOURMET PARTY GIFT & BARGAIN
THE CAFE IS OPEN! 196 Broad St. Blue Ball
717.351.0015
flowerandhome.com
30 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Mon-Sat 9a-7p
A
mish clothes are meant to foster a modest, humble, plain, and simple way of life. Our uniform garb holds our community together, and doesn’t easily allow braggadocios to boast of their wealth and influence. I still remember going with mom to Zook’s Fabric Store in Intercourse, where she’d pick out fabric to make our clothes. Sometimes me and my brothers and sisters would all be wearing the same colored fabric! But Zook’s Fabric Store also has thousands of bolts of fabric that are colorful and contemporary, which came in handy when mom would make a quilt. We’d see visitors from all across the United States shopping at Zook’s alongside our Amish neighbors. The store’s been on Main Street 3535 Old Philadelphia Pike) in Intercourse for 50 years and is still serving Amish and “English” alike. Learn more at (717) 768-8153 or at SaudersFabrics.com.
That Old Reliable – Bismoline Medicated Powder By Caleb Bressler
T
here aren’t many businesses that have lasted over 100 years. Times change, and most businesses and their products come and go. When you come across a product that has existed for over 100 years, you know there has got to be something special about it. Bismoline Medicated Power is one of those few, founded way back in 1902.
Bismoline is used to help keep skin comfortable and healthy, treating redness and itching. There are thousands of dedicated users, as the local owners of the business discovered when they purchased the Bismoline Company in the 1970s. In fact, there are people who swear by Bismoline, saying it has cleared up skin problems when scores of other methods had failed. Bismoline’s word-of-mouth reliability and reputation have long made it popular with the Amish community.
So where can you find Bismoline? Check your aple, free ase local drugstore. You can also purchase online at
Amazon.com and a number of other websites. But, for further information, call 717-394-8795 or visit www.bismoline.com.
Turkey Hill Experience
(Continued from Page 29) people and culture. You literally create virtual ice cream flavors, ice cream packaging, and even commercials. The Taste Lab even allows you to convert your custom flavor into an actual pint of ice cream! Plenty of free samples
are offered as well at this wonderful attraction for families, couples and children of all ages. The Turkey Hill Experience is located off Route 30 at 301 Linden Street, Columbia PA. Call (888) 986-8784 or make reservations at TurkeyHillExperience.com.
All American made Furniture & Mattresses
15th
Anniversary
…and the area’s largest selection of solid wood and Amish handcrafted products Worth the drive to the countryside of Lancaster County for savings. REGISTER TO WIN
FREE Gift Certificates TO SHADY MAPLE! FREE FURNITURE POLISH, No Purchase Necessary!
FREE GIFTS AND MORE!
30,000 sq ft of living, dining, bedroom, office, occasional, entertainment and upholstery collections
Located next to Good’s Store at Shady Maple • 717-354-2329 AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 31
.
Free Parking
Welcome Center Train Station
772
To Lancaster and
T
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 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.
30
501
S. BROAD ST.
Lititz Springs Park
MAIN ST.
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 non-Moravians were allowed to own their own homes. The complex of buildings comprising the Moravian congregation is well worth
Free Parking
Lititz Historical Foundation
Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery
LOCUST ST.
AV E
WATER ST.
LN
CEDAR ST.
CO
LITITZ
CEDAR ST.
LIN
501
N. BROAD ST.
TO BRICKERVILLE:
N. STURGIS LANE (Parking)
Historic Lititz • A Hometown Treasure Moravian Church Square
772
ORANGE STREET
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.
PRETZELS GALORE IN OUR
BAKERY STORE Sweet, salty, & savory gifts plus party treats
Open Monday — Saturday Bakery Tours 9:30am-4:30pm Bakery Store 9am-5pm Always Closed Sundays
32 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Amish Visit-in-Person Tour Garners Rave Reviews – But Why? By Brad Igou
S
o you come to Amish Country and you don’t really get to talk to any Amish personally. You see them in the field working, or the kids coming home from school. You stop at a roadside stand or furniture shop and exchange a few words. But meaningful, substantive conversation? That’s rare. And yet when we travel, we really do want to interact and get to know the people of that country or culture better. The Amish have always presented a special challenge. We’ve known for some time that the Amish Experience’s VIP Tour (departing from the Amish Expeirence Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm on Route 340 between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse) was created to fill that void of personal contact for visitors by actually (1) visiting an Amish farm at milking time, (2) stopping and meeting an Amish man in his craft shop, and finally (3) having an intimate chat with an Amish family in their home.
I imagine that it is because of these rare and special experiences that the VIP Tour has received
two distinct honors. The first is its designation by the County of Lancaster as a “Heritage Tour.” To date, it remains the only tour in Amish Country so honored. Secondly, last year, based solely on the reviews of people who have actually experienced the evening tour, it was awarded Trip Advisor’s coveted Certificate of Excellence. So, like any good investigative reporter, I felt it would be interesting to check out different reviews I found online. Fortunately there were many and, not surprisingly, they were overwhelmingly positive. In this first one, a visitor named David actually provided what appears to be an excellent summary of the tour content in his online review….
VIP Tour offers visitors the opportunity to sit and chat with Amish people.
My wife and I took the VIP 3-hour tour, and really enjoyed every minute. My wife has been an avid reader of Amish life for many years and I surprised her with this tour for our anniversary. We first went to see the evening milking on an Amish farm. This was so enlightening and informative. Our Amish host was so pleasant
and ready to answer all our questions. We next went to a buggy shop, and were shown the various horse pulling buggies, their interiors, wheels, and how they are manufactured. Our last stop was to enjoy an hour within the home Continued on Page 40
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Visit www.EdenResort.com for special packages and promotions!
222 Eden Road, Lancaster, PA 717-569-6444 Toll Free 888-477-7754 AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 33
Dutchland Quilt Patch
Miller’s Smorgasbord
RONKS RD.
Welcome to Our Paradise PARADISE
V
isitors to Lancaster from the east on RT 30 travel through Paradise. 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.
Strasburg Rd.
S. Vintage Rd.
741
30
Not Cackleberry Just Farm Antique Baskets Mall d. nt R mo Bel
Dutch Haven LINCOLN HWY. EAST 30 Killer Hats Jake’s Country Trading Post
Historic Revere Tavern
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 “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 Suwannee 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!
The annual Rough & Tumble Threshermen’s Reunion draws visitors from local Amish families to international enthusiasts. Antique steam and gas engines are brought to life to puff and pull through tough tasks – an iron and steel living history. Now in its 67th year, the 2015 event takes place August 12-15.
34 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 35
(717) 687-8980 • www.jakeshomeaccents.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 8/31/15) Cookbook valued at $2.00.
FREE COOKBOOK
Strasburg Rail Road… Like You’ve Never Imagined Special to Amish Country News
W so fun.
hether through the eyes of families, couples, railfans or steampunks … the early 20th century never looked
Imagine riding the train to nearby Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, where you can disembark, enjoy all the fun activities like the giant jumping pillow or hay chute slides, then travel by train back to your car. Imagine looking out the window to a view of antique cars racing alongside the train. Imagine disembarking at Leaman Place Grove – a picnic grove along the track where Amtrak may just whiz right by!
You’ll find this and more at Strasburg Rail Road. Choose from air-conditioned First-Class, the popular and breezy Open Air car, or any
of the one-of-a-kind Coach cars. Upon your return to the historic East Strasburg station, Continued on Page 39
We have a large selection of baskets, quilted throws, men’s and ladies’ everyday accessories and gift items, which includes luxury bath and spa cosmetics, jewelry, cookbooks, kitchen linens, candles, pottery, pet fancies, home decor, framed prints, and many more special items. Choose your basket and gift items and we will customize a lovely gift basket for you. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir for yourself while you are there.
With $15.00 purchase or more and this coupon. Only at: Not Just Baskets Limit one coupon per purchase. (Expires 9/30/15.)
36 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
National Toy Train Museum… Capturing the Imagination by Clinton Martin
T
rains have captivated our imaginations since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in the early 1800s. Toy counterparts of magnificent “iron horses” came not long after, with wooden and metal toy trains built in Europe in the 1860s. By the 1950s it seemed like nearly every little boy in America had his own toy train set, and American manufacturers were enjoying a golden age of toy train enthusiasm. Today, toy trains remain a joy for people of all ages, from those wishing to play and have fun with their own set at home, to those who collect trains with an expert eye for spot-on scale models. The National Toy Train Museum celebrates both ends of the spectrum, and in so doing contains one of the most extensive toy train collections in the world.
The museum is far from simply an array of displays to view and plaques to read. You can operate five train layouts by simply pushing buttons, with the controls placed so that even the youngest visitors have an excellent view of the action. Special exhibits, such as Harry's Hardware Store window and a Lionel Dealer's Exhibit present arrangements of toy trains as they would have appeared in the old department stores. Throughout the museum, toy trains are arranged by themes, such as old and rare historical, by track gauges, and many as they would be seen in a hobbyist’s layout. The National Toy Train Museum is located just north of Route 741 on Paradise Lane. For GPS directions, use 300 Paradise Lane, in Paradise Township, PA. Without a GPS, just drive east on Route 741 out of Strasburg, and turn left at the first traffic light leaving town, which is Paradise Lane. You’ll cross the Strasburg Rail Road tracks, pass by a motel, and the museum will be immediately on your right. Call 717687-8976 or visit NttMuseum.org for more information.
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 37
Strasburg - A Town of Trains & Heritage 30
BACHMAN TOWN RD.
Hershey Farm Restaurant & Motor Inn
RO N K S RD .
HERR RD.
V FAIR
J & B Quilts & Crafts NORTH STAR RD
Parking
896 Ghost Tour
741
A
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, Ghost Tours of
896
DECATUR STREET
To Village Greens Mini Golf
Hershey Farm Smorgasbord just north of Strasburg on Route 896 is famous for not only a delicious buffet, but also walking trails, a pond, a family inn, and other attractions.
For over 50 years, visitors of all ages have enjoyed the realistic detail and creativity of our layout. • A work of art for the entire family to enjoy… so much more than “just trains”! • Huge layout with 22 operating model trains • Over 150 hand-created animated figures & scenes
Choo
STRASBURG
Lancaster, National Toy Train Museum, and the Choo Choo Barn. But you may not know much about the interesting history of "Train Town."
Family
50+ owned for
YEARS!
Visit Traintown, U.S.A® at choochoobarn.com Route 741 East, 226 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA (Two blocks from the Strasburg Rail Road) 717-687-7911
Choo
Strasburg Rail Road
Barn
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.
Air-conditioned luxury aboard the Parlor and Lounge Cars. Upcoming EvEnts: Wine & cheese train: Various dates July and Aug. Rolling Antique Auto Event: July 18 great train Robbery: July 25 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 866-725-9666
38 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
741
National ToyTrain Museum
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.
RELAX iN FiRSTCLASS ComFoRT!
StrasburgRailRoad.com
IEW
Lil Country Store & Mini Horse Farm
PARADISE LANE
To
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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 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 connecting Strasburg with the Philadelphia and Columbia Rail Road main line near Paradise. Finally in the 1850’s, trains were hauling freight and passengers. 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 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.
VillageGreens.com
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Rt. 741 • 1.5 Miles Exceptionally landscaped courses on 13 serene acres Lancaster County’s BEST Miniature Golf courses! West of Strasburg
TRAIN FUN FOR
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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!
ADMISSION!
717. 687. 8976
CHECK WEBSITE OR CALL FOR HOURS
P.O. Box 248 300 Paradise Ln. ♦ Ronks, PA 17572 Strasburg, PA 17579
www.nttmuseum.org m.nttmuseum.org
Strasburg Rail Road
(Continued from Page 36) kids can run, jump and climb in a train-themed play area while parents rest their feet and enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi at nearby shaded café tables. Enjoy the popular Fun Extras such as
the Pump or Cranky Cars or take a ride aboard the Pint-sized Pufferbelly, a genuine, miniature steam engine. To experience the Strasburg Rail Road that you never imagined, please visit us online at StrasburgRailRoad.com or call 866725-9666.
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 39
VIP Tour
(Continued from Page 33) of an Amish family. We loved being able to interact with this family. They were friendly, cordial and patient with us, as some people asked very personal questions. As part of this trip, you are also given free tickets for a buggy ride, which we took advantage of the next day... Loved every bit of it.
their work and family life to us and to answer our questions about them... and everyone was friendly and sincerely forthcoming. Absolutely outstanding - I would not hesitate to go on this tour again and take my guests for an unforgettable experience! The next reviewer looked at the tour from the perspective of an educational cross-cultural learning experience, what I think most of us seek when we travel…
Some visitors not only praised the tour, but called it the highlight of their visit….
VIP Amish Tour
Unforgettable evening!
The tour was conducted with loads of educational information and cultural sensitivity. Our guide provided the guests with great background and insights to ensure the in-person visits were enriching for both the guests and our Amish hosts… I sensed that their curiosity about us was also piqued by the nature of our questions and the interchange provided opportunities for laughter and learning. Very well-done and highly recommended for anyone who is interested in bridging cultures.
Review by Dianne on 4/22/15 What a privilege to be so warmly welcomed into the lives of three Amish families for an evening! The V.I.P. tour is an unforgettable way to share a slice of life with real people living real lives within a culture we rarely get to experience first-hand. I would do it again in a heartbeat and I count it far and away the highlight of my Lancaster County adventure.
Highlight of Our Trip to Lancaster County!
Review by Three Travelers on 8/27/14 We were so pleased and privileged to be able to speak with these families and get a glimpse of their daily lives. All the families were welcoming, very hospitable in their willingness to describe
Review by Curious Interculturalist on 8/24/14
And, finally, this review seemed to summarize the overall tour experience best in just a few words…
VIP Tour Review by Thor on 7/25/14 8:32 PM This is the best tour by far we have taken since
we arrived in USA/Canada on 3rd July. We have visited many places on two previous trips and this one, but if you want to understand (and I hope you do) what it is like to live and work in an Amish Community, this is the place and the tour to take… Real people speaking freely about their lives. Not one sided but just like a real visit. Brilliant. We will remember this night for a long time. Thank you. I’m sure that the folks at the Amish Experience, in spite of their long-standing relationship with many in the Amish community, nonetheless work hard to put this tour together every year and running it six days a week from April all the way through October. This tour is definitely not about re-creating another culture, visiting a replica Amish farm, or having people dress up and impersonate characters. Most simply, it’s about people from very different backgrounds and cultures getting to know each other. The Amish VIP Tours operate Monday through Saturday. The tours depart at 5:00 pm from the Amish Experience Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm, Route 340, between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse. Guests also receive a voucher for a free buggy ride for earlier the same day or the following day. Because seating is limited to just 14 passengers per tour, I suggest tickets be purchased in advance either at the Amish Experience Theater, by phone (717) 768-8400, Ext. 210, or most conveniently online at AmishExperience.com.
Live Piano Music! Every Friday & Saturday Evening
Stay and Dine Aboard a Steamboat! tripadvisor
®
At The Corner Of Rt 30 & Rt 896 | Lancaster (Across from Rockvale Outlets)
FultonSteamboatInn.com | 717-299-9999 40 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Huckleberry’s Restaurant: casual dining in a Victorian atmosphere ■ Huck’s Tavern: pub fare and full menu service in a nautical atmosphere ■ 97 Victorian and nautically themed guest rooms ■ Heated indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness center ■ Kids’ playground ■ Serene landscaping with koi pond and fire pit ■ Country Store ■
15%off entire food bill for lunch or dinner
Fulton Steamboat Inn - Huckleberry’s At The Corner Of Rt 30 & Rt 896 Lancaster • 717-299-9999
AMISH CO NEWS
Certificate Of Excellence On
Not valid with any other discounts or on holidays, Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Excludes alcohol. Valid on parties up to 6 guests. Expires 12-30-15.
When It is Time to Mini-Golf, It’s Time to Village Greens By Clinton Martin
Kids Eat
A
lmost all of us enjoy a game of miniature golf – be it once a month when the weather’s nice, or once a year just to keep in practice. Others can’t get golf off the brain. Sure, they go along quietly without a fuss when the rest of the family wants to browse in a farm market or take an Amish Country Tour, but all the while, they have that little pock-marked white ball spinning through their minds, unable to shake the feeling that they’d rather be carefully lining up that daunting putt. Oh, and did I forget to mention that daunting putt happens to be sending the little round ball through the swinging arms of a windmill? Ah yes, our day-dreaming friend is of course the avid mini-golfer. The good news is, once the tour is over and the shopping bags have been stuffed, there’s always time for a round or two of fun and relaxing mini golf. Village Greens, just west of Strasburg on Route 741, has been satisfying visitors with that wonderful plunk of a well-hit putt dropping into the cup for generations. The courses are landscaped beautifully with trees, flowers, shrubs, and artfully done water features. It is definitely not your average mini golf course trek. The scenery, the course designs, and even the snack bar, are all a step up from what you might see along the boardwalk at the beach or in “the strip” of other destinations. Truly, you owe it to yourself to play a round at Village Greens. For those of you traveling with a GPS, use 1444 Village Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. Call (717) 687-6933 or visit villagegreens.com for more information.
Free Breakfast & Lunch Smorgasbord. Everyday.
R O$3 OFF
*Exclusions Apply
Adult Dinner Grand Smorgasbord or
$2 OFF Adult Lunch Grand Smorgasbord
800-827-8635 www.hersheyfarm.com
Not valid Holidays, on Family Style Dining, or on parties of 8 or more. Please show coupon. No other discounts apply. Exp 01/31/2016 ACN15
800-827-8635
Dining • Shopping • Lodging Rt 896 240 Hartman Bridge Road Ronks, PA 17572 www.hersheyfarm.com AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 41
An Amish Quilter Speaks By Uncle Amos
A
forth. Mom made quilts for the family, for the boys and the girls when they got married. There were eleven of us. I think maybe the boys got one quilt and the girls got two. Mom’s sister pieced the tops together, and then she had a quilting bee with her sisters or aunts or cousins to finish the quilt. At a quilting bee you can almost do a quilt in a day, rather than the three to four weeks working alone. Most people have no idea how much time it takes to make a quilt, to do each stitch by hand.
while back I spent some time with an Amish lady who owns a quilt shop discussing how she got started and the “meaning” of quilts to the Amish themselves… “I started quilting because I loved to sew. When I was a kid with Mom, she’d sit at the quilt frame beside me and show me how to do it. Actually, I started by sewing on the treadle sewing machine first, on my own, making doll dresses and so
The Very Best of Amish Country Quilt Buying
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Country Gift & Thrift.............................................717.768.3784 Country Lane Quilts ...........................................717.656.8476 Dutchland Quilt Patch Intercourse .................717.768.3981 Dutchland Quilt Patch Ronks .......................... 717.687.0534 Esh Handmade Quilts.........................................717.768.8435 Miller's Quilt Shop .............................................. 717.687.8439
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42 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
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The Amish nowadays use the traditional colors less, and use prints more. But I want to make sure that my boys get a “Sunshine and Shadow” quilt. I don’t want to lose that. For the boys, I also like the “Log Cabin” and the “Irish Chain” patterns. I hope to make three quilts for my daughter and two for each of my three boys when they get married. Grandmother has also been giving quilts to her grandchildren when they turn 15 or 16. Now, we can make quilts to sell. But I’ll always hang onto my mother’s “Sunshine and Shadow” quilt. My aunt pieced that one together, and she’s not here anymore. It’s got sentimental value to me and I’ll keep it.”
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7. J & B Quilts & Crafts ............................................717.327.0707 8. Riehl’s Quilts & Crafts ........................................717.656.0697 9. Smucker’s Quilts..................................................717.656.8730 10. Witmer Quilt Shop ..............................................717.656.9526 11. Zook’s Fabric Store .............................................717.768.8153 12. Piece by Piece Quilt Shop.................................717.738.6983
Our Advertisers ATTRACTIONS *Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides (S)....................48 *Amish Country Homestead (S)............................2 *Amish Country Tours (S).................................. 2,22 *Amish Experience Theater (S)..............................2 Amtrak......................................................................... 25 Choo Choo Barn (S)............................................... 38 Crystal Cave (S)...........................................................8 Dutch Apple Dinner Theater...................................6 Dutch Haven (S)..........................................................3 Ghost Tours of Lancaster....................................... 39 Hershey’s Chocolate World (S)........................... 12 Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery................................. 32 Lil Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm.......................................... 39 *Magic Lantern Shows at Plain & Fancy........... 12 *Mennonite Information Center............................8 *National Toy Train Museum................................ 39 *Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (S)................ 18 *Rainbow's Comedy Playhouse.............................9 Strasburg Rail Road (S).......................................... 38 Turkey Hill Experience (S)........................................7 U.S. Hot Air Balloon Team.......................................7 Village Greens Mini Golf........................................ 39 *Water's Edge Mini Golf......................................... 27
LET'S EAT Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop....................................... 27
An (S) after the name denotes Open Sunday. An * before the name denotes a coupon. *Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord...................................................... 26 Good 'N Plenty (S).................................................. 10 *Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn (S)................. 41 *Huckleberry's Restaurant & Tavern (S)...........40 Lancaster Beer & Wine Gallery (S)..................... 19 *Miller's Smorgasbord (S)..................................... 37 Mount Hope Wine Shop (S)...................................8 *Olde Mill Restaurant............................................. 14 *Plain & Fancy Farm (S)......................................... 23 Revere Tavern (S)..................................................... 34 September Farm Cheese....................................... 29 Union Barrel Works (S).............................................6 Zook's Homemade Chicken Pies....................... 15
LODGING *Country Inn of Lancaster .................................... 13 Eden Resort............................................................... 33 Flory's Cottages & Camping.................................. 27 Fulton Steamboat Inn.............................................40 Intercourse Village Inn........................................... 14 Lake In Wood............................................................ 30
SHOPPING *Aimee & Daria's Doll Outlet (S)............................4 Art from Amish Country......................................... 11 Bismoline.................................................................... 27 Blue Ridge Furniture............................................... 28 Cackleberry Farm Antique Mall (S).................... 36 Deadline: Dec 31, 2015
Photo Contest
We will accept photos via email, and request that no more than 10 photos by the same person be submitted, so pick All submitted photos become the property of Amish Country News and the Amish Experience. your best! Each photo submitted should Photos may also be used in upcoming issues, in contain the name, address, phone # and other publications, and/or for other promotional email address of the photographer, so they purposes. Photos will be judged on quality, color, can be contacted. Any details on the location, date, or subject matter of the subject matter, etc. Keep in mind that these photograph should be included. To enter, photos are for publication, cannot be returned, send photos in .jpg or .tiff format to: and should depict a scene, aspect, event, or editor@amishnews.com (Please put “2015 activity typical to Lancaster or the Pennsylvania photo contest” in the subject line) Dutch Country region.
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Amish Peanut Butter Schmier...
An Intercourse Canning Company Specialty by Clinton Martin
Calling All Pho tographers! 2015 Amish Country News
Country Home Furniture....................................... 31 Country Housewares Store.................................. 28 Country Knives.......................................................... 15 Country Lane Quilts................................................ 15 Dutchland Quilt Patch............................................ 20 Esh Handmade Quilts............................................ 20 Flower & Craft Warehouse.................................... 30 Gish's Furniture & Amish Heirlooms ................ 13 Gordonville Bookstore........................................... 15 Intercourse Canning Company........................... 16 J & B Quilts and Crafts............................................ 38 *Jake's Country Trading Post (S)......................... 35 *Killer Hats (S).......................................................... 34 *Not Just Baskets (S).............................................. 36 Old Candle Barn....................................................... 15 Renninger's Antique Market (S)............................8 Riehl's Quilts & Crafts............................................. 17 Sam's Man Cave..........................................................7 Shupp's Grove (S).......................................................8 Smucker's Quilts....................................................... 29 Unclaimed Freight (S)............................................ 47 Witmer Quilt Shop................................................... 31 Zook's Homemade Chicken Pies....................... 20
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)
Q
uite fitting, actually, that at the Intercourse Canning Company the Amish Peanut Butter Schmier sells like hotcakes – it spreads ever so perfectly when added to the light and fluffy breakfast bite. In fact, the locally adored Schmier is the perfect accompaniment to just about any member of the bread family.
The folks at Intercourse Canning Company have been packing jars with the rich and creamy peanut-buttery spread for years, steadily bringing the sweet Pa Dutch indulgence to a wider audience. The recipe, while a closely guarded secret, is typical of most Amish goodies. Simple goodness mixed with a touch of this and a dash of that. The finished product captures the rich taste of roasted peanuts with an added hint of sweetness to create a spread that is one part hearty topping, one part decadent dessert. See it, taste it, and take some home from the Intercourse Canning Company. 13 Centre Street, Intercourse (across the street from Stoltzfus Deli). Call 717-7680156 for summer store hours.
AmishNews.com • July 2015 • Amish Country News • 43
To Hershey
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July 2015 COVER STORY Aimee & Daria's Doll Outlet.......................... 4-5
FEATURE ARTICLES
Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides.................... 6,21 Amish VIP (Visit-in-Person) Tour...................... 33 Amtrak............................................................ 25 Art from Amish Country................................... 10 Bismoline........................................................ 31 Crystal Cave.................................................... 30 Ghost Tours of Lancaster................................... 8 Country Housewares........................................ 29 Ghost Tours of Lancaster................................... 8 Gish's Furniture............................................... 20 Intercourse Canning Company.......................... 43 Jake's Country Trading Post............................... 7 Mennonite Information Center.......................... 12 Magic Lantern Shows....................................... 16 National Toy Train Museum.............................. 37 Old Candle Barn.............................................. 13 Strasburg Rail Road........................................ 36 Turkey Hill Experience..................................... 29 Union Barrel Works........................................... 6 U.S. Hot Air Balloon Team................................ 9 Village Greens Mini Golf.................................. 41 Zook's Fabric Store.......................................... 30 Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies....................... 27
REGULAR FEATURES
Publisher's Message
M
any years ago, Amish Country News created a character, a bit like a fictional advice columnist, to answer commonly asked questions about the Amish. We named him “Uncle Amos.” In reality, he was modeled on an Amish friend of mine who often reviewed many of the articles I wrote. So for this issue, we decided to bring him back to answer some typical questions, while at the same time featuring several of our favorite businesses. As you read along, we hope you’ll learn a little more about both of them. Here's one of the many questions Uncle Amos has answered over the years… Q: How do you become a minister in the Amish church? A: As you may know, the Amish divide their settlements into church districts and have church services in member homes. Each church district usually has two or three ministers, one bishop (often shared between two districts) and one deacon.
Who is Uncle Amos?
Brad Igou’s Amish Series................................. 24 Dutch Haven Lancaster Landmark...................... 3
AREA MAP & GUIDES
Advertiser Index.............................................. 43 Amish Country Map.................................... 44-45 Bird-in-Hand.............................................. 26-27 Intercourse................................................. 14-16 Lititz............................................................... 32 New Holland/Blue Ball .............................. 28-31 Paradise ................................................... 34-37 Strasburg ................................................. 38-41
by Brad Igou
(717) 768-8400, Ext. 218
Published by Dutchland Tours Inc. Brad Igou • Editor-in-Chief brad@amishnews.com
Clinton Martin • Director: Sales & Marketing
clinton@amishnews.com Kirk Simpson • Graphic Designer Caleb Bressler • Editorial Assistant
For Advertising Information Contact Clinton Martin (717) 768-8400 Ext. 217. 450,000 copies distributed annually by subscription, and at over 300 motels, information centers and businesses in PA Dutch Country. Copyright ©2015. All contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without prior approval of the publisher.
Typically, the men who have received three or more votes become the candidates. The ministers announce the men chosen to be in the lot, usually around seven or eight. They go to a table on which an equal number of hymnbooks have been placed. Each book has a rubber band around it, and hidden inside one book is a slip of paper. In the Lancaster settlement, on the slip of paper in German is written, “The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord” (Proverbs 16:33). This reminds everyone that the final choice is made by God. Each man selects a book, usually oldest through youngest, and he who picks the book with the paper inside becomes the new minister. Because of the solemn procedure and great responsibility, when the chosen man’s name is announced, the emotion of the event causes many to weep. The bishops and ministers greet the man with the holy kiss and shake his hand. (Deacons are chosen by lot as well. The bishop is chosen from the ministers in the district.) The minister receives no formal training in his new position, and all are encouraged to pray for him. The Amish feel that God’s hand is involved in this process. Indeed, there are even some stories of men who tried to pick a certain book, but felt their hand was “held back.”
PO Box 414 • Bird-in-Hand • PA 17505
AmishNews.com
The selection usually comes at the end of the day-long Communion service, which only baptized members attend. Chapter 3 of I Timothy is read, describing the qualifications and character these men should have. Then the bishop and other ordained men go to a private room. Each member, beginning with the men and then the women, goes to the door of the room and whispers the name of the man who they feel is best suited to be their new minister.
The Amish do not believe in going to college or a seminary to become a minister in the church. No one is “brought in” or feels they are “called” to be a preacher. Rather, ministers are chosen from among the men in the church district. They normally serve for life and receive no salary. The procedure comes from the New Testament, Acts 1:23-26, in which lots were cast to decide who would replace Judas as one of Christ’s twelve apostles. In most Amish settlements, a young man cannot be baptized into the faith unless he is willing to become a minister should the lot fall on him some day.
46 • Amish Country News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com
Becoming a minister is not viewed as an honor, but rather a heavy and serious responsibility. So you don’t ever “congratulate” an Amish man for being chosen. I trust you found the Amish Minister selection process interesting. If you want to learn more about our Amish friends, page through this issue of Amish Country News. You'll find everything from magnificent Balloon Rides over our majestic Amish farmlands to the opportunity to actually visit with an Amish family in their home as part of Lancaster County's only officially designated Heritage Tour.
NO RESERVATIONS NEEDED WE ABSOLUTELY OFFER YOU MORE 7 DIFFERENT ROUTES, MORE MILES, MORE SCENERY. ALL IN THE COUNTRY in ALL AMISH AREA
Bring the whole family!
Ride through our covered bridge!
PRIVATE AMISH ROAD Real Family Carriages www.amishbuggyrides.com
Tours & Pricing “The Cookie Run” Adults $10 Child $6 A 3 Plus Mile Ride Thru an
Amish Farm, with a Brief Stop for Optional Drinks and Cookies. Feel the Country. (20-25 minutes)
Visit a real Amish farm. Get off the buggy and see the cows and Clydesdale-type work horses.
We Absolutely Offer You More!
Visit us first! Here’s what you can see on your ride! • Amish Schools • Quilt Shops • Harness Shop
• Amish Farm Stands • Amish Buggy Factory • Amish Shoe Store
• Amish Hat Shop • Furniture Shops
Free Parking...Lots of It!
NO RESERVATIONS REQUIRED!
Ride Into Summer!
Located in the country at:
Plain & Fancy Farm midway between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse
GPS: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike Ronks PA 17572 ADULT FARES ONLY. Coupon must be
For More Information or Group Tours of 20 or More Call
given time ofCountry ride & can't be combined 48 •atAmish News • July 2015 • AmishNews.com with any other offer. All riders must take the same tour. Expires 8/15/15
717-723-0478
Ask about our longer rides!
“Amish Town Tour” Adults $14
Child $7
A 4 Mile Tour Passing Several Amish Businesses in Our Community; and an All Amish Farm Area. Experience Real Amish Life. (30-35 Minutes)
“Amish Farm Tour” Adults $21
Child $11
Visit a Real Amish Farm. Tour the Barn. See the Cows and Big Clydesdale-type Work Horses. America the Way It Used to Be. (50-60 minutes) Our Customer Preferred Ride!
Come See Us and Ask About Our Longest Tour...
“The AMISH JOURNEY RIDE” Tour a Real Working Amish Farm, an Amish Quilts and Crafts Store, and Learn About Amish Life Riding Through the Countryside. (1-3/4 hours)
ASK FOR INFO. ABOUT PRIVATE RIDES! Book a private ride by August 15 & Mention this Ad to get a Laser cut wooden Buggy Ride Wooden Ornament! Email us for details:
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Monday-Saturday 9am-6:30pm | Sunday 10am-4:30pm Child Rate is 12 yrs. and Under | UNDER 3 is Free!