2015 Ohio Amish Backroads Amish Life Magazine

Built to last Generations 11463 Harrison Road Apple Creek, Ohio 44606 Phone: 330-695-2249

F

amily owned and Amish run for over a decade our 10,000 Square Foot Show room displays as much as possible and is only high quality Amish made Furniture and accessories made in Wayne and Holmes County by local Amish craftsmen.

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00287597

Life Amish Life

2 0 1 5 OHIO AMISH BACKROADS

COMMUNITY GUIDE

Publishers Note Thank you for picking up the 2015 Ohio Amish Backroads Community Guide!

Robert Louis Stevenson once said, “There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.” We have made it our goal to help introduce the Amish community to visitors.

In this day and age of technology, information is often at your fingertips, but only if you know where to look for it. Do you go to the phone book? The internet? The Amish believe that many of these modern conveniences detract from a harmonious family and group life. They serve as a living reminder of a quieter time, a time when the horse and buggy was the mode of transportation and families lived and died in the same small communities.

That is where the Ohio Amish Backroads Community Guide comes in! We have condensed all of the vital information that you need into one publication. We have included: An overview of the culture and beliefs of the Amish, answers to the questions you may be asking and tips on what to do and see.

Whether you are just visiting for a day of shopping or staying for an extended vacation, we hope that you find this guide in good health and information helpful.

Please visit our local advertisers, as they make this publication possible.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Amish Facts................................10-12

Ohio Backroads Historic and Amish Country.............................. 4-5

2015 Calendar of Events............14-17

Visitors Etiquette............................. 6

Cover Photo Courtesy of: Andrew Albright

Q & A.............................................. 8-9

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CALL US TODAY! 877-443-8276 www.reachURmarket.com

All Design, Layout & Printing of the 2015 Ohio Amish Backroads Community Guide

by Integrated Marketing, LLC 719 Main St. • Peoria, IL 61602 877.443.8276 www.reachURmarket.com sales@reachURmarket.com

Integrated Marketing, LLC is not responsible for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this publication. Please contact Integrated Marketing, LLC with any additions or corrections. The information contained herein is for the sole purpose of information and education. Some information has been provided by third party sources.

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Holmes Co. OH

“The Largest Amish Population in the World”

Of the Holmes county’s 40,000 people, almost 18,000 of them are Amish! A virtual kaleidoscope of opportunities await you here. And one day will not afford you the time to even scratch the surface of the many attractions to visit and sights to see in Holmes County Ohio.

Holmes County Ohio has the largest Amish population in the world. Of the county’s 40,000 people, almost 18,000 of them are Amish!

According to the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies, there are 213 Amish church districts in the county.

Drink in the scenery, enjoy the relaxing pace, drive down the roads and lanes of yesteryear, where every major road is a designated scenic byway.

There are no interstate freeways in the county - yet millions of vistors find their way here annually to explore and experience the epic beauty of the area.

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But don’t just take our word for it, join with those who have discovered one of Ohio’s best kept secrects - until now that is!

It is one of the more prosperous and yet distinctly rural counties in Ohio. There is constant growth, but the beautiful countryside remains pleasantly unspoiled.

RAILS TO TRAILS

If you’re into fitness, love to hike, bike - or just want to take a stroll, be sure to check out the Holmes County trail. It’s a scenic trail that travels south from Fredericksburg to Holmesville then along the Killbuck Creek and on through the County Seat.

The Amish farms and businesses are so meticulously kept that they actually add to the scenery.

The plan some day is to go all the way through Killbuck and on west till it connects with the Mohican Valley Trail in Brinkhaven. It will cover approximately 29 miles.

Experience the uniqueness of Charm. Get the real bologna from Trail. Shop for bargains at the Holmes County Amish Flea Market.

The trail utilizes part of an old railroad bed that has been converted to use as a trail.

Tour the county seat of Millersburg. Stroll around the quaint shops of Berlin. Catch the view from Walnut Creek.

Partake of a dinning experience unique to the Amish way of life with generous portions and great tasting family-style meals. Guaranteed if you go away hungry it’s your own fault!

The beauty and grandeur of rolling hills, trees and farmland make this area a must see every season of the year.

Enjoy the freshness of spring, the bustle of summer, the beauty of the fall & harvest time and the serenity of winter.

Step back in time as you see farms worked by teams of horses and pass horse-drawn buggies along the way. Roadside stands, produce markets and Amish homes offering homemade goods are everywhere.

It’s great for getting out into nature for exercise, liesure or some great scenic pictures.

The Rails to Trails office is located just south of Holmesville. There’s even a restaurant near the office called the Route 83 Restaurant.

It’s open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and features a full menu. They serve breakfast all day as well as hand-dipped ice cream, milkshakes, rootbeer floats and gourmet pies alamode.

You must plan to spend a night or two in one of Holmes County Ohio’s many great lodging accommodations to fully experience this part of Amish Country.

The heart of Ohio Amish Country has something for everyone. You will continually discover new places of interest!

With all that there is to do, here is a general itinerary to help get you started on experincing the simple life.

DAY ONE

MORNING Buggy Ride: Discover the countryside the way the Amish do, with a ride on an authentic Amish buggy. A peaceful ride in a horsepulled buggy offers unique insight into the Amish way of life and gives new appreciation for the idyllic countryside.

AFTERNOON Farms, Roadside Stands and Farmers’ Markets: Play an easy game of go-seek on the backroads as you find numerous roadside stands selling everything from fresh tomatoes to homemade root beer. Farm and roadside stands can be found throughout Ohio’s Amish Country from late spring through fall harvest.

EVENING Dinner: This region has a wide variety of Amish restaurants with home style, locally flavored foods. Try award-winning locally made cheeses. Visit a butcher shop with specialized meats. Grab groceries for your campsite.

Float away with fresh baked goods. Watch candy being made. Pick up health foods and supplements. Buy bulk foods and avoid paying for the marketing. Take home fresh grown fruits and vegetables. Savor the tastes of the variety of ethic restaurants in the Ohio Amish Country region that will spice up any palate.

OVERNIGHT LODGING Maybe it’s the fresh country air…or the funfilled pace. Or all that down-home cooking!

Whatever the reason, when it’s time to turn in, cozy, comfortable accommodations get to be a top priority. Every visitor means so much to us here in Ohio’s Amish Country. We can make you feel at home. You’ll find Amish Country lodging to include several rooms in a wide variety of bed & breakfasts, inns, chalets, and hotels. There are also prime campground areas found in all counties for lodging.

DAY TWO

MORNING Visit a recreation of an Amish homestead or village: Tour a house, farm or village set up to look like a typical Amish homestead or community. You’ll learn how the Amish live and how they manage without electricity and other modern conveniences.

AFTERNOON Wineries: Ohio wines are growing in popularity and wineries are popping up all over.

For the unique taste of Ohio wines direct from the vineyards, memorable experiences for even the most discriminate palate await.

In Amish Country, you will find an elegant restaurant with a Tuscan flavor, where the finest food and wine blends to make the perfect combination. Another winery allows guests to grill their own steak and one even hands over the wine-making skills, so guests can truly experience the art of wine making.

EVENING Museum/Theatre: Indulge yourself with an evening where spectacular entertainment takes center stage. The museums of the area highlight the immigrants from a variety of cultures, locally handcrafted items whose manufacture long ago ceased. Lanterns and the history of the Appalacian people who settled the area. Live theater events abound and movies on the big silver screen. The downtown and historic districts will delight the history buff.

DAY TRIP SUGGESTION If you can’t stay long, here are some must do’s 8:45 Heini’s Cheese - Sample more than 50 varieties of locally made cheeses.

10:00 Lehman’s Hardware - See hundreds of rare items made for non-electrical living.

11:30 Berlin shops and lunch - Shop for crafts, quilts, fabrics, art, homemade jams, jellies, chocolates and much more.

1:30 Amish Broom Maker - Watch a local man demonstrate the art of broommaking.

2:15 Amish School - Visit a real Amish school where the children will have a small presentation for you.

3:00 Farm Tour and Wagon Ride - Tour an Amish home and barn. Take a narrated, 30-minute wagon ride through the farm.

5:30 Amish Wedding Feast - Enjoy an evening of great food and entertainment. Listen to tales of growing up Amish and participating in an Amish wedding.

Photo by Martin Pesek

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Beef • Dairy Horse Feeds • Calf Heifer • Poultry Turkey • Sheep Swine • Custom Mixes Show Feeds Minerals In Business Since 1905 Baltic Mill & Store

101 S. Ray St. Baltic, OH 43804

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Farmerstown Mill & Store

Coshocton Store

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2849 SR 557 95 Vine St. Farmerstown, OH 43804 Coshocton, OH 43812

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Butchering of Beef, Hogs & Deer

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Answering Service: 330-674-4466 Kitchen Cabinets Bathroom Vanities Fireplace Mantels Custom Furniture

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Pantry

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Steve Muscella Authorized Dealer

Known as the “Cha Man” since 1976

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Replacement Handles Available.

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Bake Shop Hours: Monday – Friday 6am - 6pm Saturday 6am - 5pm

7

VISITING

AMISH COUNTRY

Amish Etiquette DO’S AND DON'T’S

W

hether you shop for local Amish-made goods and furniture, stay overnight at a quaint bed and breakfast tucked under an authentic Amish quilt, stop by local roadside stands set up by the Amish to sell their farm produce, or explore the scenic countryside on a horse & buggy ride, a visit to Amish country can be a rewarding and fascinating experience.

From tranquil Amish farms and the clipclop of horse-drawn buggies to energy-

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producing windmills and tasty Amish foods, there are plenty of opportunities for a glimpse into the Amish way of life.

While visiting Amish country, it is very important to be considerate of the Amish and their lifestyle, however. Just like you, they do not solicit or encourage people to take their picture or knock on their door. The Amish are private people who avoid as much contact with strangers and the “outside world” as possible for important religious and cultural reasons.

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“While you talk and mingle with the Amish, please remember that they are not actors or spectacles, but ordinary people who choose a different way of life.”

• DO NOT stare or otherwise be disrespectful of the Amish.

• DO keep an eye out for slow-moving Amish buggies (especially at night) while driving, and give them plenty of room when following or passing. Keep headlights on low-beam and stay away from the horn, except for a short toot when passing, to avoid spooking the horses.

• DO NOT enter private property without permission.

• DO NOT take photos or videos, please. Most Amish consider posing for photographs to be an unacceptable act of pride and do not allow pictures of themselves. If you must take pictures, consider a telephoto lens, and avoid taking any photos which include recognizable faces. A picture of the rear of an Amish buggy as it travels down the road probably won't offend anyone.

• DO NOT feed or pet horses that are tied to a hitching rail or harnessed to a buggy.

• DO respect for their privacy. It is best to avoid approaching the Amish unless they appear open to company. They are just like you and don't really appreciate strangers knocking at their door. When you do have a need to approach a group of Amish, it is polite to speak to a male, if possible. If you are sincerely interested in talking to the Amish to learn more about their culture, then your best bet is to patronize an Amish-owned business and talk with the shopkeepers. Most Amish people enjoy talking with outsiders, as long as they don’t feel as if they are on display.

• In our Amish Community all Amish owned shops are closed on Sundays, (and many of our non-Amish shops too) It’s always best to call ahead to check before making your travel plans.

8

Small, Large & Exotic Animals 2 Locations: 5503 CR 120 (S. Market St.) - Berlin 5101 TR 305 - Millersburg Eric M. Shaver, DVM • Ashley Misner, DVM Kristen Mierzwiak, DVM • Aaron Wise, DVM, MS Amity Wise, DVM

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Come in and see our selection of late model used sewing & embroidery machines.

• True Swiss Bernina Quality at affordable prices.

• One year Free service on new machines.

• Free guide classes with the purchase of a machine.

• Full line Bernina parts, feet, and accessories.

• Large selection of Isacord embroidery thread, OESD stabilizer, and Metrosene sewing thread.

• All brands of used sewing, embroidery, and overlock machines.

We have the full line of Bernina in stock.

We are a Bernina authorized repair center.

Also servicing and repairing all makes and models on site.

Custom made oak sewing machine cabinets in stock.

Our goal is to have outstanding customer service!

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11

Amish Life

FAQs

Q. What Are The Differences Between Amish And Mennonite Groups?

A.

It is impossible to answer this question with a few simple sentences. There are so many varieties of Mennonites and Amish around the world that we cannot cover the many shades of belief and practice among them. However, most Mennonite and Amish groups have common historical roots. Both were part of the early Anabaptist movement in Europe, which took place at the time of the Reformation.

A group led by Jacob Amman broke from the Mennonites in 1693 and became known as Amish. Amish and Mennonites are Christian fellowships; they stress that belief must result in practice. The differences among the various Amish and Mennonite groups through the years have almost always been ones of practice rather than basic Christian doctrine.

Q. What Are The Basic Beliefs Of The Amish?

A.

The Amish believe that: • The Bible is the inspired word of God • There is one God eternally existing as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Romans 8:1-17).

• God loved the world so much that he gave his only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for the sins of the world.

• Through faith in the shed blood of Jesus we are reconciled to God. • Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ, a free gift bestowed by God on those who repent and believe.

• As Christians, we should live as brothers • The Holy Spirit convicts of sin, and also empowers believers for service and holy living.

• The church is separate from the State • We are committed to peace.

• Faith calls for a lifestyle of discipleship and good works service and holy living.

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Q. Why Don’t The Amish Use Electricity?

A.

Amish people interpret linking with electrical wires as a connection with the world - and the Bible tells them they are not to be conformed to the world. (Romans 12:2) In 1919 the Amish leaders agreed that connecting to power lines would not be in the best interest of the Amish community. They did not make this decision because they thought electricity was evil in itself, but because easy access to it could lead to many temptations and the deterioration of church and family life.

Most of us today would think it impossible to live without the modern conveniences such as electricity and cars. What makes the Old Order Amish unique is not that they get along without modernity, but that they choose to do without it when it would be readily available. The Amish value simplicity and self-denial over comfort, convenience and leisure. Their lifestyle is a deliberate way of separating from the world and maintaining self-sufficiency. (Amish are less threatened by power shortages caused by storm, disaster, or war.) As a result there is a bonding that unites the Amish community and protects it from outside influences such as television, radios, and other influences.

Q. Why Will The Amish Ride In Automobiles If They Will Not Own Them?

A.

Maintaining Amish standards, but accepting some modernization to meet needs of living, requires compromise that must not disrupt the social structure. By rejecting certain types of modernity and accepting others, some Amish appear to the outside world to be contradicting themselves - hypocrites. However, from the viewpoint of Amish culture, there is no contradiction. One of the more pronounced inconsistencies is the use of an automobile...although he may not own a car, a member may accept rides and willingly hires an automobile with a driver to transport him from place to place. There was little hesitation when the Amish decided no to car ownership. It would separate the community in various ways. If only wealthy members could afford it, the car would bring inequality. Proud individuals would use it to show off their status, power and wealth. Cars would speed things up dramatically, disrupting the slow pace of Amish living. So, they will use them but not own them, for then things will surely get out of control.

Q. Do The Amish Use Modern Medicine And Doctors? Q. Why Do Amish Men Have Beards, But Not Mustaches?

A. A.

Most Amish and Mennonite groups do not oppose modern medicine. Their readiness to seek health services varies from family to family. Nothing in the Amish understanding of the Bible forbids them from using modern medical services, including surgery, hospitalization, dental work, anesthesia, blood transfusions, etc. They do believe, however, that good health, both physical and mental, is a gift from God and requires careful stewardship on the part of the individual. With few exceptions, physicians rate the Amish as desirable patients: they are stable, appreciative, and their bills will be paid.

They do not have hospitalization insurance, but they band together to help pay medical expenses for anyone of their group who needs financial assistance. A designated leader in the Amish community is given responsibility for their mutual aid fund.

Q. Do The Amish Pay Taxes?

A.

Self-employed Amish do not pay Social Security tax. Those employed by non-Amish employers do pay Social Security tax. The Amish do pay real estate, state and federal income taxes, county taxes, sales tax, etc.

The Amish do not collect Social Security benefits, nor would they collect unemployment or welfare funds. Self sufficiency is the Amish community’s answer to government aid programs. Section 310 of the Medicare section of the Social Security act has a sub-section that permits individuals to apply for exemption from the self-employment tax if he is a member of a religious body that is conscientiously opposed to Social Security benefits but that makes reasonable provision of taking care of their own elderly or dependent members.

The Amish have a long history of taking care of their own members.

They do not have retirement communities or nursing homes; in most cases, each family takes care of their own, and the Amish community gives assistance as needed

Q. Does Anyone Ever Join Or Leave?

A.

Anyone is welcome to join the Amish and Mennonites as long as they are willing to meet the requirements for membership. These requirements vary, as they are more rigid among the Amish and conservative Mennonites and more relaxed among moderate and liberal Mennonites. It is very rare for someone to join the Amish, but it does happen occasionally. People also leave the Amish and Mennonites.

Most people who leave the Amish become Mennonites. The Amish particularly try to keep their children within the church. Some sects will shun family members who choose to leave, even if they leave to become Mennonite. Others do not and they maintain good relationships with their non-Amish family members.

There are quite a few scriptures that mention beards in the Bible. An example would be Psalm 133:1,2. An Amishman does not shave his beard after he becomes married. A long beard is the mark of an adult Amishman. Mustaches, on the other hand, have a long history of being associated with the military, and therefore are forbidden among the Amish people.

Q. Why do they dress the way they do?

A.

The plain and simple dress of the Amish is an outward show of their inner convictions of humility and modesty. They also believe it is important to differentiate the roles between men and women, which is why Amish and many Mennonite women wear dresses. The head coverings of the women are related to a biblical reference in I Corinthians 11, which emphasizes a need for women to have their head covered.

Q. Why don’t they use modern technology?

A.

The Amish and Mennonites believe that God has called his followers to separate themselves from the world. They interpret that to mean that the materialistic desires of the rest of the world should not be a part of their culture. Another important aspect of the Amish culture is the nature of their community. A more simple lifestyle, such as the use of horses and buggies for transportation, allows the Amish to maintain a close-knit community. Another big reason the Amish maintain a simple life without the addition of modern technology is simply because they understand that these new devices do not add any fulfillment to life.

Q. What is their education system like?

A.

While the majority of Mennonites embrace high school and college education, the Amish and some Mennonites do not think higher education is necessary. All Amish children do go to school at least until their eighth grade year. When the American education system still used one-room schoolhouses, the Amish integrated into the public school system. Some Amish still do. But many have chosen to send their children to parochial schools specifically designed for the Amish. Most are one-room schoolhouses emphasizing reading, writing and arithmetic. While most of these are private schools, in Holmes County, the public school district has several schools set aside specifically for Amish students.

Although many would view this lifestyle as very difficult, the Amish consider it a precious privilege to be able to raise their children in a home and community setting that is a little more shielded from the technology, images, and interruptions that are a constant part of life amongst the non-Amish.

13

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14

Bakery Cafe, Bulk Foods & Ice Cream Parlor Featuring Panini Grilled Sandwiches

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3270 CR 114 • Sugarcreek, OH 44681 • VM 330.893.4519 Mon. 8-7 • Tues., Wed., Thurs., Fri., 8-4:30 • Sat. 8-3 15

History of the Amish in America

The Amish people in America are an old religious sect, direct descendants of the Anabaptists of sixteenth-century Europe. Not to be confused with the term anti-Baptist, these Anabaptist Christians challenged the reforms of Martin Luther and others during the Protestant Reformation, rejecting infant baptism in favor of baptism (or re-baptism) as believing adults. They also taught separation of church and state, something unheard of in the 16th century. Later known as the Mennonites, after the Dutch Anabaptist leader Menno Simons (1496-1561), a large group of Anabaptists fled to Switzerland and other remote areas of Europe to escape religious persecution.

During the late 1600’s a group of devout individuals led by Jakob Ammann broke away from the Swiss Mennonites, primarily over the lack of strict enforcement of Meidung, or shunning - excommunication of disobedient or negligent members. They also differed over other matters such as foot washing and the lack of rigid regulation of costume. This group became known as the Amish and, to this day, still share most of the same beliefs as their Mennonite cousins. The distinction between the Amish and Mennonites is largely one of dress and manner of worship.

Amish Dress

Symbolic of their faith, Amish clothing styles encourage humility and separation from the world. The Amish dress in a very simple style, avoiding all but the most basic ornamentation.

Clothing is made at home of plain fabrics and is pri-

MOST COMMON

Amish Settlements in America

The first sizeable group of Amish arrived in America around 1730 and settled near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, as a result of William Penn’s ‘holy experiment’ in religious tolerance. The Pennsylvania Amish are not the largest group of U.S. Amish as is commonly thought, however. The Amish have settled in as many as twentyfour states, Canada, and Central America, though about 80% are located in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana.

The greatest concentration of Amish is in Holmes and adjoining counties in northeast Ohio, about 100 miles from Pittsburgh. Next in size is a group of Amish people in Elkhart and surrounding counties in northeastern Indiana. Then comes the Amish settlement in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The Amish population in the U.S. numbers more than 150,000 and growing, due to large family size (seven children on average) and a churchmember retention rate of approximately 80%.

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CALORIE REQUIREMENTS FOR AN AMISH BARNRAISER

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Amish Orders

By some estimates, there are as many as eight different orders within the Amish population, with the majority affiliated with one of five religious orders - Old Order Amish, New Order Amish, Andy Weaver Amish, Beachy Amish, and Swartzentruber Amish. These churches operate independently from each other with differences in how they practice their religion and conduct their daily lives. The Old Order Amish are the largest group and the Swartzentruber Amish, an offshoot of the Old Order, are the most conservative.

All aspects of Amish life are dictated by a list of written or oral rules, known as Ordnung, which outlines the basics of the Amish faith and helps to define what it means to be Amish. For an Amish person, the Ordnung may dictate almost every aspect of one’s lifestyle, from dress and hair length to buggy style and farming techniques. The Ordnung varies from community to community and order to order, which explains why you will see some Amish riding in automobiles, while others don’t even accept the use of battery-powered lights.

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7CHILDREN

AVERAGE

AMISH CULTU & LIFE

marily dark in color.

Amish men in general wear straight-cut suits and coats without collars, lapels or pockets. Trousers never have creases or cuffs and are worn with suspenders. Belts are forbidden, as are sweaters, neckties and gloves.

Men’s shirts fasten with traditional buttons in most orders, while suit coats and vests fasten with hooks and eyes. Young men are clean shaven prior to marriage, while married men are required to let their beards grow. Mustaches are forbidden. Amish women typically wear solid-color dresses with long sleeves and CUSTOMARY a

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CLOTHING

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ELECTRICITY TELEPHONE MODERN TOOLS WELFARE SOCIAL SECURITY AUTOMOBILES CAMERAS

Married men are expected to grow a beard, but shave their upper lip.

MARRIAGE

ged in Amish communities, but both partners mbers of the same Amish church before the ace. Though the Husband is the ‘head of the view their marriage as a partnership and are nvolved in decision making.

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Technology & the Amish

The Amish are averse to any technology which they feel weakens the family structure. The conveniences that the rest of us take for granted such as electricity, television, automobiles, and telephones are considered to be a temptation that could cause vanity, create inequality, or lead the Amish away from their close-knit community and, as such, are not encouraged or accepted in most orders.

Most Amish cultivate their fields with horse-drawn machinery, live in houses without electricity, and get around in horse-drawn buggies.

It is common for Amish communities to allow the use of telephones, but not in the home. Instead, several Amish families will share a telephone in a wooden shanty between farms. Electricity is sometimes used in certain situations, such as electric fences for cattle, flashing electric lights on buggies, and heating homes. Windmills are often used as a source of naturally generated electric power in such instances. It is also not unusual to see Amish using such 20th-century technologies as inline skates, disposable diapers and gas barbecue grills, because they are not specifically prohibited by the Ordnung.

Technology is generally where you will see the greatest differences between Amish orders. The Swartzentruber and Andy Weaver Amish are ultraconservative in their use of technology. Old Order Amish have little use for modern technology, but are allowed to ride in motorized vehicles.

The New Order Amish permit the use of electricity, ownership of automobiles, modern farming machines, and telephones in the home.

Amish Schools & Education

WHO ATTEND HIGH SCHOOL

7-9 MARRIAGE AGE

URE, BELIEFS ESTYLE

fastened with straight pins or snaps, stockings are black cotton and shoes are also black. Amish women are not permitted to wear patterned clothing or jewelry. The Ordnung of the specific Amish order may dictate matters of dress as explicit as the length of a skirt or the width of a seam.

full skirt, covered with a cape and an apron. They never cut their hair, and wear it in a braid or bun on the back of the head concealed with a small white cap or black bonnet. Clothing is

The Amish believe strongly in education, but only provide formal education through the eighth grade. The Amish are exempt from state compulsory attendance beyond the eighth grade based on religious principles, the result of a 1972 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. One-room Amish schools are private institutions, operated by Amish parents. Schooling concentrates on the basic reading, writing, math and geography, along with vocational training and socialization in Amish history and values. Education is also a big part of home life, with farming and homemaking skills considered an important part of an Amish child’s upbringing.

Amish Family Life

The family is the most important social unit in the Amish culture.

Large families with seven to ten children are common. Chores are clearly divided by sexual role in the Amish home - the man usually works on the farm, while the wife does the washing, cleaning, cooking, and other household chores. There are exceptions, but typically the father is considered the head of the Amish household. German is spoken in the home, though English is also taught in school. Amish marry Amish - no intermarriage is allowed. Divorce is not permitted and separation is very rare.

FACT:

Symbolic of their faith, Amish clothing styles encourage humility and separation from the world.

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The Amish separate themselves from others for a variety of religious reasons, often citing the following Bible verses in support of their beliefs.

Because of their religious beliefs, Amish try to separate themselves from “outsiders,” in an effort to avoid temptations and sin.

They choose, instead, to rely on themselves and the other members of their local Amish community. Because of this self-reliance, Amish don’t draw Social Security or accept other forms of government assistance. Their avoidance of violence in all forms, means they also don’t serve in the military.

Each Amish congregation is served by a bishop, two ministers, and a deacon -- all male. There is no central Amish church. Worship services are held in community members’ homes where walls are designed to be moved aside for large gatherings. The Amish feel that traditions bind generations together and provide an anchor to the past, a belief that dictates the way they hold church worship services, baptisms, weddings and funerals.

Amish Baptism

The Amish practice adult baptism rather than infant baptism believing that only adults can make informed decisions about

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their own salvation and commitment to the church. “Rumspringa” has been widely publicized. A youth who is not yet baptized is not officially bound by church standards.

Though many groups or families discourage “wild” behavior, there are Amish youth who go to extremes, just like their non-Amish counterparts. It is unfair to imply this is a common practice or approved of. There are many Amish youth who do not participate in “rumspringa” both because of parental or church standards and because of personal convictions.

Amish Weddings

Amish weddings are simple, joyous events that involve the entire Amish community.

Amish weddings are traditionally held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A couple’s engagement is usually kept secret until just a few weeks before the wedding when their intentions are “published” in church. The wedding usually take place at the home of the bride’s parents with a lengthy ceremony, followed by a huge feast for the invited guests. The bride typically makes a new dress for the wedding, which will then serve as her “good” dress for formal occasions after the wedding.

Blue is the typical wedding dress color.

Unlike most of today’s elaborate weddings, however, Amish weddings involve no makeup, rings, caterers or photography.

Newlyweds typically spend the wedding night in the bride’s mother’s home so they can get up early the next day to help clean up the home.

Amish Shunning

An adult church member who chooses to leave the Amish church might be “shunned,” but this practice varies greatly from group to group. In most cases, the “shunned” person still remains in contact with friends and family and might still attend family functions and social occasions but might be served at a separate table or the family might choose to eat informally while seated in individual chairs. I know of no group that requires a shunned individual to sever all ties with family members and friends, though some individual families might react more strongly than others.

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2015

OHIO AMISH Calendar of Events

AMISH COUNTRY THEATER

RECURRING EVENTS: May through September

The Amish Country Theater is a rib ticklin’, knee slappin’, side-splittin’ comedy adventure for the whole family! Experience a 12,000 sq ft. live performance theater with a 325 seat auditorium with professional sound, video, and lighting. Purchase your tickets soon to ensure best available seating!

Seating is Reserved. Trouble ordering tickets? Call us at (888) 988-7469. www.amishcountrytheater.com

AUGUST:

WARSAW FARMERS’ MARKET Every Thursday from 4-6:30 p.m .

River View Community Park Contact: Gary Kilpatrick Ph: 740-824-3158

COSHOCTON FARMERS’ MARKET Every Saturday morning 8:30 a.m. until noon - May thru October. (Except Fair Week) Coshocton County Fairgrounds, 707 Kenilworth Avenue Contact: Dick Mullett, 740-824-3915

May through October FRESNO FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays, 8am-noon Downtown Fresno at Mark McCoy’s Auto Contact: Mark McCoy 740-545-0997 or Julia Brown 740-545-0849

May through September SECOND SATURDAY IN THE “BURG” Free movie on the Courthouse Lawn the 2nd Saturday of each month May-Sept. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a night under the stars! June-BoxTrolls, July-Echo, Aug-Big Hero 6, Sept-Back To The Future! www.historicdowntownmillersburg.com

August 29 BREITENBACH WINERY FUN DOG SHOW Bring your dog to the winery for a fun dog show! Prizes will be awarded for Prettiest female, Most handsome male, Best costume, Owner/dog look alike, Largest, Smallest, Bets Trick. There will be vendors, food, wine and fun! Proceeds go to the Tusc.

County Humane Society! Registration begins at 1:00 pm with Half the Nation performing.

The Dog Show begins at 4:00pm.

Contact: Ph: (330) 343-3603 www.breitenbachwine.com

SEPTEMBER:

September 4-5 OHIO HAITI BENEFIT AUCTION The Haiti Benefit Auction is a cooperative effort of many of churches and individuals to bring relief to the hungry, the sick , the naked, and homeless people of Haiti. Our ultimate goal is to win them to Christ. Relief is given without regard to religion, race, or creed FRIDAY:Open House 4:00 pm Quilt Inspection 4:00 - 9:00 pm FOOD STANDS OPEN Singing Program A cappella singing by: Garment of Praise7:00 - 9:00 pm FREE WILL OFFERING

September 12 HARVEST FESTIVAL PARADE AND RIB COOKOFF Saturday, All day event.

Enjoy the streets of Berlin “while the delicious scent of BBQ Ribs temps your taste buds.” Samples available or buy a whole rack and then you can vote for your favorite so a winner will be crowned. Food available includes Amish noodles, dressing, ice cream, apple dumplings, and kettle corn.

Plus sales throughout town, kids’ activities, bouncy house and the Harvest Fest Parade will close out the day. As always, bring a bag as there will be tons of candy thrown during the parade.

Contact: 330-403-3050, www.heartofamishcountry.com

September 12 AMISH COUNTRY CHALLENGE BIKE RACE Join us in at the Millersburg Depot along the Holmes County Trail Saturday, September 12 for the Amish Country Challenge (formerly the Holmes 100), an organized bike ride including 25/60/100 mile routes touring the scenic countryside of Holmes County. Enjoy long stretches of Amish country’s winding roads, beautiful valleys, and rolling hills.

Aid stations, lunch, and post-ride Amish meal provided for the 60 and 100 mile route riders.

Contact: 330-674-2412 www.amishcountrychallenge.com

SATURDAY: FOOD STANDS OPEN ALL DAY Sale Begins - 8:00 am Furniture & Specialty Items - 8:00 am Tool Auction - 8:30 am Locally Made Quilts - 10:00 am Outside Auction - 10:00 am

June­through November Photo courtesy of: www.amishcountrybiketour.com

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2015

OHIO AMISH Calendar of Events

2015 WAYNE COUNTY FAIR SEPTEMBER 12-17

OCTOBER:

October 2-3 THE 63rd OHIO SWISS FESTIVAL This annual festival is more than 60 years old and celebrates the Swiss heritage of Sugarcreek’s original settlers. Activities include the Swiss Cheese contest, Steinstossen (stone throwing) contest, yodeling, alphorns, live music (both Swiss and contemporary), 5K and 10K Run, and lots of good food (don’t miss the apple fritters!)

Photo courtesy of: http://thesettlersinn.com

September 12-17 166TH WAYNE COUNTY FAIR $3 adult/senior, under 12 free, except Thu. Seniors free until 4pm. Entertainment is Vince Gill, Clint Black and David Nail.

Wayne County Fairgrounds, 10 AM-10 PMgates open at 8 AM. Contact: 330-262-8001 www.waynecountyfairohio.com

September 17-19 AMISH COUNTRY QUILT SHOW Thursday-Saturday, 10am-5pm.

Quilt seminars, workshops, contest, quilt guilds, hundreds of quilts on display, an Amish Quilting Bee, demonstrations, Project Linus Sew-In and a special Trained Sewing Instructor 3-Day Program.

Contact: 412-372-8130 www.amishcountryquiltshow.com

September 18-20 20th ANNUAL WINESBURG FALL GATHERING Saturday, 8am-6pm.

Full day of food, music, and craft vendors located throughout the village. At approximately 3pm. the annual auction begins with quality Amish furniture, craft, occasion baskets, etc. all donated by local artisans.

Contact: 330-231-0091 www.winesburgoh.com

Billed as one of the most popular outdoor festivals in the state, the Ohio Swiss Festival brings old world charm to life and gives visitors plenty of opportunities to experience uniquely Swiss culture Enjoy the Friday afternoon Kiddie Parade or the Saturday afternoon Grand Parade Contact: 330-852-4113 www.ohioswissfestival.com

September through November 1 RAMSEYER FARM’S FALL FESTIVAL Saturday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Spend the day on the farm, exploring the giant corn mazes or enjoying fun activities for all ages.

Special events vary from week to week.

Food concessions are available on weekends featuring fresh homemade French fries and potato chips. A variety of other food options such as Sandwiches, donuts, BBQ, and ice cream are also available.

Create your own scarecrow to take home and visit the friendly farm animals. Pick your own pumpkin or choose from the many already picked.

Join the fun with the entire family!

Photo courtesy of: www.facebook.com/pages/Amish-Country-Quilt-Show

Photo courtesy of: www.serenabmiller.com

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2015

OHIO AMISH Calendar of Events

November 27-29 DEBORAH’S GARDEN MARKET HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE October through November 1 THE HAUNTED ORCHARD Every Friday and Saturday 7:30pm to 11:00pm. The Old Melrose Orchard Haunted Attraction. Benefitting the Wooster Fireworks Foundation. Check out our Facebook page for $3 off coupons! Share with your friends and get the word out about this unique attraction in your own backyard. To help in any capacity with The Haunted Orchard please contact: Michael Dhayer @ 330-7630880 or mddhayer@yahoo.com www.thehauntedorchard.com

Wine and cheese surrounded by poinsettias Fri night. Light refreshments, prizes, workshops, demonstrations. Deborah’s Garden Market Fri 5-8 PM, Sat 8 AM-6 PM, Sun 10 AM-6 PM 330-601-1027 Website: www.deborahsgardenmarket.com

November 28 AMISH COUNTRY HALF MARATHON 2-Person Half Marathon Relay - You must purchase two tickets together to be a part of this relay. Includes a short sleeve Brooks Dri-Wick t-shirt.

5k Race - Includes a short sleeve Dri-Wick t-shirt.

1 Mile Kids’ Fun Run - Includes a cotton t-shirt.

The Amish Country Half Marathon is returning to Berlin, Ohio for our 3rd season!

The 5k and certified 1/2 marathon are run on township and county roads of Ohio’s Amish Country. www.runinamishcountry.com

NOVEMBER:

November 09-14 POMERENE AUXILIARY CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Location: David Warther Carvings Contact: Rebecca Ragon (330) 674-1584 ext. 1763 or rebeccar@pomerenehospital.org

November 27 BERLIN NATIVITY PARADE Celebrating the true meaning of the season, you will find no Santa Claus in this parade.

The Live Nativity Parade comes down main street and concludes on the square where there will be candle lighting and caroling.

Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies provided by Operation Christmas Child.

Berlin Mainstreet Merchants Berlin, OH Website: www.heartofamishcountry.com Photo courtesy of: /www.facebook.com/AmishCountryHalfMarathon

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DECEMBER:

December 11 CHILDREN’S NIGHT & CHURCH CANDLELIGHT WALK IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MILLERSBURG Historic Downtown Millersburg, www.historicdowntownmillersburg.com 330-674-2412

December 12-13 CHRISTMAS COOKIE TOUR OF INNS Amish Country Lodging Council, www.christmascookietour.com 330-674-3975

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Wayne Co. OH

THE GATEWAY TO AMISH COUNTRY The rural charm of Wayne County’s rolling hills, lush woods, and scenic farmland is only the beginning of the offerings available to visitors and residents.

An abundance of cultural activities and events make Wayne County a great destination any time of the year. From the Ohio Light Opera’s nationally recognized theater in the summer to the Wayne Center Ballet Company’s Nutcracker in the winter, there is something to satisfy every taste year round.

Known as the “Gateway to Amish Country,” Wayne and the surrounding counties are home to the world’s largest Amish population. Famous for their beautiful quilts and high-quality craftsmanship, the Amish people are also known for their peaceful ways and timeless lifestyle. A large number of restaurants, shops and stores feature authentic Amish products, from food to furniture. Numerous world-renowned companies call Wayne County home including The J.M. Smucker Company, Wooster Brush Company, and The Cat’s Meow Village, creators of the popular two-dimensional wooden collectibles. Shop at one-of-a-kind retail stores such as Lehman’s Hardware, P. Graham Dunn Gallery, Simply Smuckers, Everything Rubbermaid, and The Cat’s Meow MarketPlace.

Wayne County provides a wealth of educational opportunities as well, from 10 local historical societies rich with local history, to major colleges including The College of Wooster, University of Akron Wayne College, and The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute (ATI), and Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC). The Secrest Arboretum on the OARDC campus offers Ohio’s largest collection of old-world roses, and a spectacular rhododendron display garden.

A rich agricultural community, Wayne County was founded in 1796 and was the third county in the Northwest Territory. The county, which had a strong connection to the Revolutionary War, was named for “Mad” Anthony Wayne, a war colleague of George Washington. Wooster, the county seat since 1808, was also named for war hero General David Wooster. Today, Wayne County is the 13th largest county in Ohio covering over 550 square miles.

Wayne County’s rich soil and plentiful water supply supports a strong agricultural community. Dairy farms and roadside produce stands are still present and thriving in the county today. In the late 1800’s, Wayne County began to expand industrially with a presence in the coal mining industry and access to the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne, and Chicago Railroad (which later became the Pennsylvania). Even today Wayne County is home to many world-renowned businesses such as Wooster Brush Company, Gerstenslager’s, LuK USA LLC and The J.M. Smucker Company.

The Lincoln Highway Historic Byway runs through Wayne County. Designated by red, white and blue signs, this route follows the original 260 mile Ohio alignment of the 1928 U.S. Route 30 that stretched from New York City westward to San Francisco. U.S. Route 30 opened the Western portion of the county to development in the early 20th century.

Today, as you travel this scenic route through Wayne County, you will experience some of “Main Street Across America”, the Highway’s original slogan. Downtown Wooster and Dalton, both on the Highway route since 1913, let visitors experience tree-lined streets, historical buildings and replicas of the original posts that designated the Lincoln Highway route.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful get-a-way to a cozy bed & breakfast, a shopping experience in a wide variety of stores, or an entertaining cultural event, you can find PENNSYLVANIA AMISH 2011 Community Guides just what you’re looking for in Wayne County.

Explore the Simple Life

PENNSYLVANIA AMISH 2011 Community Guides

For More Informtation Contact:

Explore the Simple Life Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau 428 W. Libery St. Wooster, OH 44691 Phone: 330-264-1800 Toll Free: 1-800-362-6474 www.waynecountycvb.org

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