Amish families, which are a distinct group of people in the United States, have a unique way of life that is deeply rooted in their culture and traditions. They wake up earlier than most Americans, not only dairy farmers who work on a 4 AM-and-milking schedule but also those working in other jobs and businesses. The Amish community is structured around their strong sense of family, tradition, and unwavering commitment to their faith.
The Amish family is the most important social unit in the Amish culture, with large families with seven to ten children being common. Chores are clearly divided by sexual role in the Amish home, with the man usually working on the farm, while the wife does the washing, cleaning, cooking, and other household chores. The Amish family has authority over the individual, and they believe large families are a blessing from God.
The Amish community is known for simple living and plain clothing, and modern technology does not suit them well. The Amish family is known for having large families, raising them, and socializing with neighbors and relatives. They believe that large families are a blessing from God and that the family has authority over the individual.
As time has passed, Amish individuals enjoy large extended families, with dozens of cousins, numerous aunts, and uncles. Amish families approach life as a unit, and children learn a strong work ethic from the very beginning. Marriage and children are a part of every Amish adult’s life, and they get married and start families younger than in most other families. The wife fills her day with taking care of the younger children, livestock, cleaning, cooking, canning, shopping, and visiting others.
In summary, Amish families are deeply rooted in their culture and values, with a strong emphasis on family, tradition, and self-sufficiency.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Family – Amish Studies | Husbands carry the primary responsibility for the financial well-being of the family. Wives typically devote themselves to housekeeping and motherhood. As in … | groups.etown.edu |
| Pennsylvania Amish Lifestyle | The family is the most important social unit among the Pennsylvania Amish; those with seven to ten children are not uncommon. This high birth rate feeds the … | discoverlancaster.com |
| Everything You Want to Know About: Amish Families | The Amish home is the center of family life and reflects both the emphasis on family as well as the given community’s church standards (some … | dutchcrafters.com |
📹 The lives of the Amish in the US DW Documentary
A life just as it was 300 years ago: the Amish in the US. They live according to their own rules, reject technological advances, wear …
Do The Amish Have Social Security Numbers?
The Amish community generally does not object to having Social Security numbers (SSNs), which are assigned at birth or upon joining the Anabaptist church. While they are issued SSNs, the Amish typically opt out of Social Security benefits, viewing it as a form of commercial insurance, which their faith prohibits. As a result, although they pay various taxes, they do not pay Social Security taxes and do not receive related benefits. The Social Security Administration provides guidance on how SSNs are managed for religious exemptions for the Amish and Mennonites.
Not all Amish individuals have SSNs, but many choose to obtain one to facilitate tax filing and meet legal requirements. Amish children usually do not apply for an SSN until they begin working, and they do not possess traditional identification due to religious beliefs. Exemption from Social Security was formalized by Congress in 1965, recognizing that the Amish community believes in mutual support rather than government assistance.
To summarize, while Amish individuals may possess SSNs and pay various taxes, they refrain from utilizing Social Security benefits, consistent with their religious principles. They can apply for SSNs through the Social Security Administration when necessary.
Do Amish Marry More Than One Wife?
In Amish culture, monogamy is strictly upheld, with individuals permitted to have only one spouse at a time. While widows and widowers can remarry after a mourning period, the Amish community does not condone polygamy. This belief aligns with their Christian values, which emphasize the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman. Contrary to some myths, the Amish have never practiced polygamy; this misconception may stem from local lore but lacks factual basis.
Amish individuals typically marry in their early 20s, and baptism is a prerequisite for marriage within the church. The customary practice dictates that couples must marry fellow church members, ensuring that marriages are generally lifelong commitments. Unlike modern mainstream practices, Amish marriages are characterized by traditional gender roles and family values, and couples usually have the freedom to choose their partners without arranged marriages.
Only members of the Amish community can marry within it; non-Amish individuals are not eligible partners. Furthermore, Amish teachings equate polygamy with adultery, reinforcing the notion that only monogamous unions are accepted. Therefore, polygamy has never been a part of Amish customs or beliefs.
At What Age Do Amish Girls Marry?
Many Amish marriages occur when individuals are young, typically in their late teens and early twenties. Dating among the Amish generally begins around age 16, with most couples marrying between 20 and 22 years old. Amish females usually marry at a slightly younger age than males, typically around 20. Unlike non-Amish Americans, Amish individuals tend to marry at a younger age, commonly around 21 to 23. The courting process involves social activities within supervised settings, such as church events and family gatherings, allowing young couples to meet prospective partners.
The significant engagement and courtship process culminates in a wedding night that holds deep cultural and familial significance. While some Amish choose to marry slightly later, the majority tie the knot in their early twenties, adhering closely to their community's customs. The culture mandates that baptism within the church must precede marriage, emphasizing the relationship's spiritual commitment.
Large weddings are common, often comprising 200 to 500 guests. The overall age of marriage for the Amish is considered relatively young, with the general observation that most individuals marry during their early twenties. This process takes into account the conservative values and traditions that guide romantic relationships within the Amish community.
What Is The Average Income Of An Amish Family?
The Amish community exhibits a diverse income distribution, with many families earning below $49, 000, while 23% have an average income of around $42, 000. Interestingly, an emergent mode at $75, 000 suggests some wealth within the community. In 2023, the average household income for Amish families was approximately $71, 000, with non-farming households averaging about $94, 000. Farming households typically earn between $50, 000 and $65, 000, while business owners may exceed $100, 000.
Despite there being Amish millionaires, many live modestly and prioritize experiences over material wealth. The scarcity of affordable farmland has led many Amish men to seek alternative incomes, with less than half relying on farming. Cottage industries have become prevalent. Although some Amish families live below the poverty line, the majority can be classified as middle class. The median household income aligns with the national average at about $73, 000.
Amish adults tend to save around 20% of their income, a stark contrast to the 5% saved by the average American. Despite their economic capabilities, the Amish culture values community, simplicity, and faith over wealth accumulation, providing a unique perspective on financial well-being within their society.
How Do Amish Afford To Live?
Amish communities prioritize living within their means and typically avoid borrowing money, often paying for their homes outright using savings. Families save over time to acquire cash for building materials and skilled labor sourced locally. Unlike traditional buyers, Amish people generally do not take out mortgages or loans from banks; instead, they purchase land and build homes independently. This approach allows for a self-sufficient lifestyle, significantly reducing living expenses compared to modern households.
While some Amish individuals may access bank loans due to their reputation for reliability, most transactions are done through cash, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility and a minimal debt approach. Their income stems from various sources, including farming, furniture sales, and small businesses. Young Amish typically live at home until marriage, which facilitates saving for future expenses; low-interest loan programs may also be available for land purchases.
The Amish avoid investments like stocks and bonds, focusing instead on real estate and businesses. Their cultural emphasis on wise financial practices encourages saving, timely payments, and purchasing only what they can afford. Overall, the Amish way of life promotes deeper values and community connections through their unique financial practices.
Do Amish Marry Within Their Family?
The Amish, a denomination of Anabaptist Christianity, view large families as divine blessings, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage within their community. They adhere to strict rules that permit marriage exclusively among members of the Amish Church, with recent prohibitions against marrying first cousins, a shift reflecting modern legal norms and health awareness. Typically, Amish individuals marry in their early 20s, requiring baptism for marriage eligibility. To mitigate inbreeding, they seek spouses from different Amish communities.
Amish engagements are private, lacking large ceremonies, and families may wait months to announce a couple's intent to marry. While traditional gender roles prevail, with men taking on farming responsibilities and women supporting the household, wives may also own businesses. Despite the tight-knit community, members are free to select partners from within their faith, contradicting perceptions of arranged marriages.
Marriages signify commitment; men grow beards upon marrying. Family formations start soon after, with a preference against birth control, resulting in sizeable families that reflect their procreative beliefs. Striving to maintain cultural identity amid modern pressures, the Amish remain steadfast in their rules prohibiting intermarriage with non-Amish individuals, reinforcing their commitment to community and family values.
What Age Can Amish Marry?
The Pennsylvania German term for "running around" signifies the transition from adolescence to adulthood, beginning around age 16 when Amish youth start socializing. This phase typically concludes with marriage, which for women is around 21-22 and for men around 22-23 on average. Amish individuals often marry younger than non-Amish Americans, with many marrying in their early 20s, specifically between ages 20-23. Girls typically marry a year younger than boys.
Amish courtship generally starts at age 16, with young men dating around this age and young women a bit earlier, about 14-15. Social gatherings like church events and community functions are common venues for meeting potential partners. The community emphasizes the importance of marrying within their faith, as the Amish believe that interfaith marriages could undermine their core values and community cohesion.
Marriage is considered vital for preserving family traditions and values, and individuals are encouraged to build a strong foundation before marrying, usually through a lengthy courtship process. The minimum legal age for marriage in most Amish communities is 18. Generally, Amish youth are baptized between 18-22, which is a pre-requisite for marrying an Amish partner. This ensures that marriage occurs within the community's religious framework while promoting societal stability.
📹 Who Are The Amish People of America? (Pennsylvania)
WHO ARE THE AMISH PEOPLE OF AMERICA? One thing I love about the USA is the diversity. You can pretty much find people …
I grew up in Amish country (Lancaster, PA) and can tell you that these are definitely not as conservative as Amish get. No traditional Amish community would ever allow news outlets or documentary producers to film them, their homes, their children, etc. There is a real conservative spectrum to “Amish” communities overall. These folks have definitely integrated much more modern technology and materials.
I worked in the Neonatal ICU & one of our patients was Amish. She was born premature and was very, very sick. She was with us for about 3 months and her hospital bills were hundreds of thousands of dollars. The whole Amish community came together for her & helped to pay off all of her medical bills. One of the most heartwarming stories I’ve ever witnessed.
I have a friend who is employed by an Amish family. She does certain things for them, which because of religious reasons, they cannot do for themselves. For example, she has driven them to hospital appointments, since they do not drive themselves. She also helps the family do some housekeeping chores. I met the family on an outing to some places in Chicago they visited. They were friendly and I enjoyed my time with all of them.
As a real estate appraiser in rural western NY, I inspected many Amish homes for bank mortgage purposes (yes, they sometimes borrow from banks). The appraisal order would sometimes include a phone number but sometimes I was instructed to just show up any day but Sunday. Some memorable visits included a pleasant conversation with a young Amish man who ran a small business. He lamented the fact that it seemed there was never enough time or money to do all that needed to be done…a lament that many of us “English” share when caught up in the pressures of modern life. I am reminded of another visit on a cold winter day. The wood stoves warmed the house so well that the kids were barefoot and the house was filled with the smell of fresh baked cookies. Upon finishing my appointment, two lovely kids presented me with two huge fresh cookies. I never accept so much as a glass of water during an appointment…but there was no way I could resist the charm and kindness of these little ones (the cookies were delicious!). I’m glad there was such candor in this documentary about the Amish being flawed humans. I’ve known of church splits and drug use. Tobacco use is very common. They are subject to the same frailties as you and I. Overall, these “very human” people are an admirable bunch. They do make the world a better place.
As a Deputy Sheriff in one of the largest Amish communities in Illinois i absolutely love my job. 20 years so far and i can safely count on one hand how many bad interactions I’ve had with them. Being a Chicago boy born and raised it was a very different experience patrolling out here and responding to calls. Side story. In the late 2000s i fell in love with one of the farmers’ daughters. Absolutely beautiful. I still see her to this day. With her 7 kids lol
My wife grew up Amish but no longer practices. It’s such a good blend between my wife and I as partners, parents, and citizens. I have the standard American childhood and enjoyed every second of it. I can now share all my childhood memories and knowledge with my wife who is still opening up to the American life. She also teaches me so much about traditions and ways of life that I have never heard or seen of in my life.
I enjoyed perusal this so much. Our society has become too tainted with social media and all the pressures and negative things that go along with it. I’m a mother with 2 kids in college, and seeing a closeup view of the Amish life makes my heart wish and long for a respectable and more simple way of life.
We hired the Amish when needed a new roof, new siding and a room added to the house. They do great work. Only negative is that you have to pick them up and bring them home and sometimes, take them to Walmart, lol. From April to October the local Amish community has a Haystack dinner once a month we enjoy going to. It provides a source of income for their medical fund. Theyre wonderful people.
Thank you to all who took part in this documentary. There is much to be learned from others who may not follow the same lifestyle as everyone else. The Amish views on family, work discipline and life holds wisdom that has been learned and passed down to the next generation are lessons that all should learn – all I am saying is that if we took time to see and understand their culture, the world would be a much better place. Learn a bit of patience, faith and dedication to family and community – and you might actually embrace life with a wider view of how rewarding life can be.
This has been very nice to watch. It was very calming. Practical smart REAL people, living honest lives. Speaking and living in Truth, aspiring to having COMMUNITY.. Pragamtists, living within common sense boundaries, supporting each other spiritually and communaly. Bravo, People. Total respect. Thanks..C…P. S…Edna !..I LOVE my Ebike !
I never hear Amish Marylanders mentioned in articles like these! We have a large Amish community in St.Marys County, the southern tip of the state. They have grocery stores and wonderful plant nurseries that locals like myself shop at often! They truly make the community so much more peaceful, they help it run smoother as well. You can always depend on them as neighbors and members of society.
It’s not as idyllic as people think. Unfortunately, there is also plenty of abuse that goes on as well. Sexual abuse, lack of education, lack of medical interventions that could save lives, and lack of justice for those abused because they “handle it in the community”. They have a great work ethic, they help one another and something can be said about a simple technology free life BUT it’s not a perfect life.
“Too much technology means too many problems”- where is the lie? What I find ironic is that many non- Amish Americans view them as a very strict, rigid community that is “stuck in the old ways”, when in fact one of their greatest qualities is their ability to adapt to the changing world. I’ve always admired them from afar. Thank you so much for this insightful feature.
My jaw dropped at $400 for a set of shoes for his mare! I pay $80 a set from a young, female non-Amish farrier. When you think about it though, its equivalent to good tires on your car. I don’t need to travel seven miles on my horses so an $80 set is fine for them but his mare needs really good tires. And her feet looked healthy! Props to the ones shown for taking good care of their animals 👍
Grew up around Amish and always felt bad for them thinking they were lacking the freedoms we have…. and in some ways they do, but the older I’ve gotten the more I’ve realized they’re not missing anything at all! They have it all figured out, solid family & community values, education built on faith and actual life skills. Work ethic unmatched! Amazing people
My parents left the Amish when i was 2 years old. I live in Tusc County Ohio, which Is next To Holmes County, Ohio. One of the largest communities. I speak the language and work with Amish on a daily basis. There are so many different types of Amish and big differences in even in the same communities. For example the last people that were interviewed ( i happen to know) live in Holmes county and are members of the New New Order Church which wouldn’t fellowship with the New Order, Or Old Order, Dan Church or Swartzentruber Amish. Basically the main differences in the different groups are in what they allow with modern conveniences. The Old Order in Holmes County allow E Bikes. The New Order aren’t allowed to use them,but then drive tractors for farming and driving on the road. The New New order would allow electric in there homes, while the Swartzentruber wouldn’t allow indoor plumbing. Huge differences that are hard to explain unless you grow up in the system or in the same area as them. Good People hard working but have the same issues as other people just not quite as exposed to the rest of the chaos that most people live with.
I never grew up Amish but my family lived within the community. It was a hard adjustment into the community as the Amish family was broken and we ended up buying one of their houses. We went to church with them and hung out with the younger kids. I absolutely loved it. To not have technology and grow with them. We still went to public school and of course had internet and cars but it was a good experience to have as a child.
I drove for the Amish in Norwich Ontario. There are lots of Amish in Canada. Mostly Ontario. Besides business, I’d drive them to the train station, grocery shopping, appointments and when someone died I’d drive them around to let people know. Even late at night. These Amish were even more old order. No solar panels but the guys always to have a secret cell phone. They have a much heavier accent than the American ones. They won’t use our free healthcare. But even if you pay it’s much cheaper than the USA. A week with an infant in an incubator with the mother staying to feed was $5,000 cdn. They don’t believe in any form of insurance. They help each other out if a barn burns down. There are no mirrors, photos or buttons on dresses. They are vain. I found women have their own domain and small business. I bought milk to make cheese, butter, eggs, preserves, fruit and vegetables, baked goods. All that money was hers. Sewing as well. Like the lady at the end said, they do have social problems. And they do smoke and drink. The men just hide it from the women and the’white beards’. They did some construction for me and if an old man came down the road all the power tools and radio disappeared.
l can totally understand them. Whenever l feel stress or can not get over a problem l like to visit my 90 years old grandmother and listen her village life where there was no electricity or water at home. She tells even sky was different many stars there like you could catch one if you try. No chemical food, colour or textile. Everything was organic even people:)
I am Amish! New order ! And I love the way these ppl responded and the way they answered the questions ! There are many diff styles of Amish and some ppl treat it as a culture others are concerned about their faith ! However the Amish way isn’t the only way,but I am thankful I grew up In an Amish christain home ! Thankyou for documenting this !😊
This was so interesting and well done! We had a home built by the Amish here in Ontario, Canada where Simon built the house on his property and transported it to our land about six miles away. It was a solidly built home and because he was 2 weeks longer in completing it, he insisted on giving us money back. That was so very, very impressive. The house was built on two long steel beams which fit into the basement window wells after being lifted up by two cranes. It was a site to see!! Amazing!!
I admire the Amish community so much Ohio born and raised and its always beautiful seeing their homes, farms, craftmanship and way of life in general. The beliefs and traditions are 100% worth preserving and protecting, anyone who isn’t Amish benefits from their work and skills and we could benefit a lot more if we were as committed to our own communities and well being.
More and more now young Amish adults are abandoning their traditional lives and opt for a new life outside of the Amish communities. Within this article the elderly residents talk about respect, — but ultimately respect is about giving younger generations the freedom to choose without the stigma of being ostracised and abandoned by your family for those who choose a life outside of Amish settlements
This summer I took my boys on a Canadian road trip. I remember about 4 or 5 hours north of Toronto i was perusal a man with a 4 horse team harvesting a field. My boys were from 12, 16, 17 and they had had no interest in that lifestyle. As a 55:year old man i found it extremely intriguing living that lifestyle. Being born and raised in a big city Toronto i find the little things so interesting. Just seeing a horse and buggy sign was practically alien to me. I have to admit I didn’t know if they were old or new Amish or mininites. They look all the same to me, and I wish I had a few minutes to talk to some of them. If you live in the USA or Canada taking a road trip would be your best vacation ever. The landscape from Saskatchewan pararies to Alberta badlands and the mountains in British Columbia. But the best was when me and achilldhhood buddy went to the Dawson City Yukon. We panned for gold on a gold trip. The moose, grizzly bears we saw there and never mind the wild life in BC like big horn sheep and all types of deers.. Im glad i took thousands of pictures. It was the best vacation i ever been on. Its nice going to a all inclusive resort but that gets boring really fast. Take a road try and meet the different ways of life in your own country. One day I hope to meet a true Amish and see how they live
It’s interesting to see comments about people enjoying pretty simple but core concepts of Amish community like just knowing your neighbors/community, being altruistic as opposed to selfish or individualistic. You can implement these concepts in your own daily life just as easily folks. Check out local community organizations in your neighborhood. Try talking to your neighbors. Volunteer. Everything in moderation. Just be kind.
I am a builder and have build lots of homes and all kinds of things and seeing the house they were building. Wow.. I would say they are incredible builders. Super clean cuts and everything looked beautiful. All day I see cheaply built million dollar houses being built and you can tell the difference. I’m a good builder and take pride in my work.. you can see they are at a level I expected from them honestly. Lol. There’s this thought in my head about them. They work so hard and they take massive pride in a job done correctly. Probably sone of the most respected people. For the most part everyone in the world understand that they don’t hurt or bother anyone. And in turn basically nobody bugs them. I’m sure there’s some times but for the most part they are respected fully by everyone. Where I live in Canada it’s hutterite and Mennonite. No Amish.. I 100% admire and respect there ways of living. Not easy in our ways of easy that’s for sure.
These people actually live better lifes than most of us trying to “make it” in the big cities. They’re connected with each other through actual contact, not social media. They grow their food, work with their hands (which will be in big demand in the coming years bc of AI). They just seem happy living a simpler life. However I do think that having a car will have lots of benefits for them, given the distances in the US as well. Just a simple non-smart car.
This documentary on the Amish lifestyle presents a visually appealing yet overly romanticized view of their simple living, glossing over the darker aspects of their patriarchal and insular community. While it captures the peacefulness and communal spirit, it significantly downplays the issues of abuse and lack of education, resulting in a portrayal that feels more glorifying than truthful. A more balanced depiction acknowledging both the serene and the severe aspects of Amish life would have offered a more honest and comprehensive insight.
As I explore the Amish way of life even more, it’s evident that their strong sense of community and mutual support is something that strikes a chord with me. It’s almost reminiscent of the ideals put forth by philosophers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who emphasized the importance of coming together as a community for the common good. The Amish truly embody the essence of communal living, but iam apprehensive the next generatons may not hold anymore. The “center will not hold” as they say.
I grew up close to an amish community and some of my parents friends lived in amish country when I was a kid and before I actually interacted with the kids I assumed their lives were boring but let me tell you those kids know how to play outside and have fun way more than most kids who grow up in typical households, at least the family of kids we were allowed to play with. They were awkward but they got to do things I never got to experience again, they let us ride a donkey and my cousin got bucked by a billy goat. Fun times lol
The Amish shunning electricity and modernity was never about the technology itself; it was about protecting the integrity of their community. There’s only so far you can go with a horse and buggy; but with a car, you could leave the state/country in a day. Phones are allowed in business, but not at home, because a phone at home would detract from family life. It only seems hypocritical if you think that technology was banned for the sake of technology, and not for the sake of the community.
I recently hired a “Yoder crew” to complete some exterior work on my 144 year old historic house. A 16 year old was running the machine for all my seamless gutters while 2 other boys of similar age installed them, under supervision of the one boys father. The preceeding job was completed by 3 brothers, the oldest being 20 years old and owner of the construction company. They understood the work being done on this historic home, and treated her with care. They will return this summer/fall to complete other projects including a standing seam copper metal roof.
My extended family is from Lancaster, Pennsylvania which is like Amish central in the US. Many don’t know this, but Amish people are a sect of the US Mennonites. They’re basically the more hard-line, strict Mennonites that split off a few hundred years ago due to disagreements with their church. Mennonites dress traditionally like Amish and are very community-oriented, but they allow for more modern conveniences like cars, radios, they’ll go out to a chain restaurant to eat, etc. My dad and I play a silly game every time we visit called “Amish or Mennonite?” where we guess a person’s religion and we’d make our call based on the cues like if they were dressed Amish but had an Apple smart watch or something like that lol
A wonderful documentary.I very much enjoyed it and learned a good deal about the contemporary Amish.I was especially impressed by the filmmaker’s inclusion of the lady who spoke frankly about some of the darker aspects of Amish life: which is of course,true of all groups and people. The only thing that saddened me was when we were seeing the nice antique shop and a black-faced,huge red-lipped figurine was shown.As an African American I was hurt to see that ugly item for sale.But otherwise,I give high praise to this excellent film and I have the highest respect and admiration for the Amish people.
We have tons of Amish in Kansas and I work in agricultural appraisals and I get to do a ton of work for the Amish because they lend alot at the bank and it’s a pleasure to go out to the families because out here they are so kind and giving. I chat some of them for hours; however, they never stop working.
$400 for all 4 shoes on a horse is crazy high! Most Farriers around here, Delaware would charge $175-200. Here Amish Farriers charge less but have a reputation of not doing a very good job and being rough on the horses I know lots of Amish, I even used to do some Blacksmith work for an old Amish wheelwright and wagon maker, they are just like anybody else
My oldest Son’s father is half Amish. He still lives in Amish country Middlefield Ohio. My Mom and I want to drive out before winter hits(it’s about an hour away from where I live now) and go to an Amish restaurant. Ya just haven’t had a good meal until you’ve eaten at an Amish restaurant. Everything fresh and from scratch. Best pie you’ll ever eat.
For people who don’t know, the Amish people are super rich. They do pay federal taxes, but not high as others bc it’s under report anyway. They have a lot of children, so they earn a lot child credits as well. Most of them don’t go to the dentist. Their cheese is the best. Their race is first before anyone else.
Why is no one talking about the animal abuse and puppy mills run by Amish. Their horses are worked to death/injury and then dumped into auctions where they likely go to slaughter. Kids are their free labor. As much as they eschew technology, there are Amish horses on all the mainstream auction sites now and in breeds that are garnering the most cash, not the traditional farm horses
I descend from the 1st Amish Bishop in America in the 1700s on the Northkill Amish settlement in Lancaster, Pennsylvania where they suffered a deadly attack by some of my other ancestors which are the Lenape tribe (the Delaware). My Amish ancestors eventually came west to Holmes County and its surrounding counties where they still are. I dont know any of them because my great-grandpa broke away from the Anabaptist, not wanting to be Amish, mennonite, Dunker, etc. He lived his life as a free man, worked hard, paid his bills, made sure his wife and kids had what they needed. He still got to see his family. His wife and kids did not speak the language so they felt out of place. I wander if they did not teach the kids English as much back then? I wish my great grandpa had taught his kids both English and Pen-dutch. They say when he got mad at something he was working on in the barn he would start yelling at it in Pen-Dutch 😂. His example of hard working under difficult circumstances stuck with his kids and grandkids and even into his great grandkids and farther. He taught them well. Laziness was not permitted. But he also took time to play and have fun with the family. The grandkids got to stay the weakends or the summers there and helped with chores on the farm and got to play a lot too. He died about 20 years before I was born. I was born and raised in nothern Indiana where my dad moved for a better job in the 1950s. I have lived amongst the Amish my entire life. The nearest Amish are just like everyone else with the same types of issues but without as much drama.
Do they allow their children to study medicine for example so they have doctors who follow the way of life? It seems a little hypocritical to say that they don’t want to be dependent on others outside their community if they don’t allow further education. I can appreciate that their way of life has many advantages
The Amish people are AWESOME!! We have an Amish family that lives about 6 or 7 miles from us and MANY other Amish families scattered throughout the county. They are the most courteous, polite and hard working folks you will ever meet. I have told several people that if I ever came into a sizeable amount of money I would have the Amish people build me a house and every stick of furniture in the house would be built by them. Their workmanship is prime, top notch, you will not find a better quality product than what the Amish build. I had the privilege of experiencing a lot of how the Amish people live through my paternal grandparents and great aunts and uncles. My great uncle done his farmwork with horses and done his own blacksmithing. I remember helping him get the bellows out building a hot fire and getting the horseshoes so hot they turned a bright orange and then taking a hammer and beating them into shape, and then dipping the horseshoe in water and hearing that shhhhhhh sound and perusal the steam roll, and taking each leg of the horse and trimming their hooves and then putting the horseshoe on. (There is A LOT of work to horseshoe a horse) I remember helping my great aunt make home made lye soap (Whew man did that ever stink) I remember doing our own butchering (Hogs) and making our own sausage, curing the hams and rendering our own lard. I remember my grandmother and me sitting out in the yard late at night with a fire under a big metal pot with one inch squares of the hog fat cooking (Rendering lard) with forks and a salt shaker dipping into the pot and getting a crackling out with meat on it and tearing off the meat salting it and eating it, man what a time.
This is not how most Amish live. I also have never understood how you can have a communal culture but don’t want to support social security, which is for the communal good. This doc also paints their life as carefree and away from wordly good but fails to mention the significant sexual and physical abuse that occurs.
There is a fair amount of less nice stuff going on behind the door, as you might expect in a closed-off community. You can find a lot of ‘leaving the Amish’ content here on YouTube. Also tons of evading, bending or abusing the rules, like secretly trading forbidden items with the English neighbours and all kinds of shenanigans that all people do.
Why didn’t the documentary also talked about the domestic violence and children sexual abuse in many Amish homes? A documentary should always cover the good, the bad and the ugly. Many of these abused victims do not report the violence as they are only kept within their communities and forced to live with their abusers.
My cousin married an Amish girl and she was forever rejected by her family. They had 2 children that her parents have never seen. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldnt know anything about their way of life. I do know this though: they are money hungry people, that do not value the animals they use to make their living. They will buy shire horses and absolutely work them to death, then sell them at the market, to the slaughter pipeline for money. They push them well past their 20’s (which is getting old for a horse). She told me they would not feed them the amount they were supposed to have, so they always stayed a little on the skinny side. I’m not one for treating dogs, cats, horses or any animal like they’re human, because they’re not. They are simply JUST an animal, but you shouldnt deliberately hurt anything. If you’re going to have animals, you should be able to afford to care for them and that includes vet’s visits. The amish that live close to me have cars so….whatever.
I just came from a documentary by the same website in Pakistan around levels of near slave labor. I felt no more depressed from that than I do from how little opportunity they provide these children. I love how the teacher had to look to her side to remind herself what exactly the curriculum is and that no child remembers ever having homework. The only thing sustaining this culture is slave labor for children in a different country
I absolutely love the Amish. They live a life that is free of the worldly bs that we endure daily. I’m from Philly and I remember going through the mainline and visiting them and purchasing products from them. They made me feel comfortable and they provided knowledge. I’m a black man and not once did they show racism or hate towards me or my family. Just awesome people with an awesome culture. The true definition of family and homesteading
It’s sad that so many people romanticize the Amish but don’t realize how oppressive and abusive this culture is. The kids are well behaved because they are beat into submission. Most women have encountered some sort of SA and are made to believe it’s their fault. There is so much wrong here in these cults that people need to open their eyes to.
Amish are extremely friendly people and are amazing at their craft. If you ever need something built, let an amish do it. They do not cut corners and you can trust them in your house while you are out. However, there are many people who have left the amish community and they have a horrible relationship with their parents. The amish community completely demonises people that leave for their own goals and interests. It’s irreparable. These young ex-amish are left to fend for themselves, emotionally and fiscally. It is a horrible way to treat your own blood. Very conflicted on the Amish because of this. Keep them on your side and they’re great, leave them once and you’re dead to them.
Ty great article and valuable insights, anything that is documentary material these days are nothing about nothing! I do like the vintage material more then ever on yt and love this one too, ty dw and yes y-all Amish folks are more rich then anyone today at heart ❤️ I don’t mean to say anything negative I hope!
It all seems a bit arbitrary. They can use machines and batteries, but not computers. It seems like they do not want their children to know about the modern world and notions beyond the Bible. Not unlike a cult, however friendly they are. They also come off as sanctimonious. They benefit from modern technology while also disavowing it. How many go to modern hospitals when suffering from severe illness? The father at the beginning could have benefited from seeing a dentist. He is missing most of his teeth.
I live in an area who has an Amish community. I drive for them occasionally, what bothers me is they love to use your cell phone but don’t understand that a cell phone requires you to buy airtime. They will ask to use your phone for “A” call and then it turns into several #’s later with no offer to compensate you for your expense.😕 Another thing that bugs me is they have No concept of time. You get there to take them to appointment and they are never on time. If you don’t have to wait 15-20 min you’re doing good and if you are late for the appointment it’s you’re fault.😖😣😊
i love how everyone works together… i feel like traditional gender roles would be so much easier if there was always help around. thats what i admire about the Amish people. the community working together as one, for one purpose and goal. thats why it works. while people may not enjoy the life, i hope it never disappears. its beautiful that they are thriving. the older i get, the more i understand. Chester really seems like a happy man. he seems like hes got it together and the right idea.
My problem with this type of communities, specially the more secluded ones, is that they are very vulnerable to bad people among them that could take advantage of their innocence. In general they seem quite humble and noble. I know the justice system is not the best in our society, but the way society works, in general, helps to keep in check creeps and authority abusers, although abuse do exist of course.
I respect a great deal about the core principles of community, and mutual support, and hard work that goes into cultures like this one… where I struggle is the firm traditional definition of gender roles (limiting girls/women to majority time spent housekeeping and childrearing, and occasional teaching will always leave a sour taste in my mouth), and such limiting of what children are allowed to learn and for how long (desire for education beyond 14 being “unheard of” is laughable—kids follow their peers and their parents, and are very unlikely to seek something out that is shown to never be much encouraged or appreciated). Such a restriction of education undeniably handicaps a child’s ability to understand themselves, their peers, and the world they live in, never mind their ability and freedom to determine their own futures. I do what I can to contextualize it in the way I do every culture and/or religion that is not my own and that has aspects I disagree with… but it’s hard not to be angry at the idea of a child’s life and mind being so dictated for them from birth. I know, I know: they have their getaway times to see what the outside world is like… but that’s almost worse. Because they give them none of the tools to survive much on their own, outside of a very insular way of life, then if their time away from their community is predictably overwhelming and/or goes badly because of their lack of understanding going into it, then that’s such a skewed experience that then has them recommit to an insular life.
Very strange way of life. I cannot understand why they pretend to be living in old fashioned way. Whatever old things they are using now today, once a upon a time used to be a new thing some 100 years ago. Or, they are not using taxi for shirt distances, whereas using taxi for long distances. What is the explanation then? 🤦🤦🤦
That is exactly like The Laestadian Lutheran Church (LLC) in Finland. No TV, no makeup, no no no for anything but going to church and signing their own songs. They do drive a car and live among normal people but have their own communities, mainly in bible belt in Finland. The cult is nowadays vanishing despite they practice no birth control and most of the families have 10-20 kids. However due to harsh economical situation during couple of decades more and more families have only 2-3 kids. It is simple impossible to raise 20 kids in modern world. And as they stated unofficially more than half of the members will leave the cult before of age 25. There is only 100k of them left, mainly in Finland and handful in US.
Great documentary! Enjoyed perusal and learning about the Amish thru this vid. I admire their way of life and central belief in Jesus. Though I think tt it is a waste for kids who are academically inclined to not be able to pursue higher education, for they could be the next scientist, doctor, engineer etc and make significant impacts for the world. Still, I love their God and family oriented values. Much to learn from them.
The Amish don’t have strong connections with their horses. They are used as a tool and thrown to a slaughter auction when the abuse that they are put through finally breaks them. I have seen horses severely underweight, with no muscle, and their leg muscles damaged beyond repair. It has gotten so bad that those set of injuries has earned themselves a name and my local horse rescue, “Amish Syndrome”.
It must be shocking to be raised in an Amish society and then suddenly meet people living modern lives in the city. I assume a few have done this. I would argue it’s not really fair to the kids growing up in these places because it’s essentially a disadvantaged start in life. A young Amish man or woman exploring the world for the first time is going to be alarmed by modern life. They’ll either reject it entirely and just remain Amish because that’s all they know, or they’ll decide to leave Amish society because they see the appeal in a modern lifestyle, but they’ll be behind everyone and will probably struggle in some aspects of their life.
I like Edna. Respect her views on children, limit family size and ways to prevent a pregnancy. Also she is Frank when she discusses abuse in some Amish families. She is correct saying are they perfect ? Also she knows that these behaviours do happen in other faiths as well. Some of the documentaries I have seen on the Amish gives the viewer a pious statement to the effect that no that doesn’t happen. It was the view of the males, females were more reserved and refused to answer. Edna seems quite honest. Refreshing.
The amish will work a horse to death and then eat it. Or work a horse to death, then starve it and ship it to slaughter. My opa swore he’d never sell livestock to the amish and he never did. You can always tell an amish workhorse at the auction too because its hips, knees, teeth and hooves are shot. Along with thier spirit. They even cut the tails off so the poor horses can’t swat flies. The amish motto is ‘if it can’t work its not worth feeding.
As a Non Amish, I must say that I agree with most of their values.. Especially putting God first and foremost and trusting and depending on Him for all guidance. I love the fact that they teach their children about respect.. I’ve been to two Amish markets when visiting my daughter in Maryland and I was blown away with the quality of their products and goods.. ❤ May the Good Lord continue to bless and protect them, they seem like pretty good people to me 👍🏼 #TEAMJESUSHERE❤
I used to think they were very weird and different when I was younger, but not that I’m begginning adulthood, I can really appreciate how their lives aren’t disrupted by technology, hate, politics, but rather defined by a sense of love, compassion, and most importantly, community. These are things modern America is greatly lacking.
I have never met an Amish person although we do have a Hutterite Colony here in Alberta and have seen some of their produce in local markets And see the ladies in their polka dot dresses in the market on occasion. Its nice to Know they will make some exceptions for business and even the kitchen work with regards to using phones and electricity. Although a little sad that they could be ex communicated from the community if they do not conform . Over all big respect for them to live a life of peace and purity, of the world but not In it. Especially in a world gone nuts with to much technology. And those Baked goods looked delicious. 🤠
I was born and raised in Florida, in a place where all the Amish come down to visit and sometimes live. The ones in Florida are a bit more relaxed in their views but they work just as hard and their food is amazing. They excel at almost anything they’re given. The quality of their services is top tier. Nothing but respect for them.
I live in Amish & Memonite Country, out here in extremely rural Pennsylvania. I’m in contact with more memonite community members than Amish & I’m a member of The Church of The Brethern. The Amish order is definitely the most conservative. The memonites are not as conservative as Amish, but the Memonite community often drive vehicles, have electricity in their homes, & are allowed some modern conveniences. Yet, they are definitely still very conservative, with strict male & female roles. In my area, memonite people are extremely hard working people, many farmers, dog breeders, traditional craftsmen & women, including woodworking, metal workers, quilting, clothing, growing & canning tons of fresh vegetables, fruits, jams, cheeses, & other skills. It’s always comforting to know that if our economy/dollar/society ever unfortunately collapsed or some other major event threatened the area’s survival, then most people in my community will know how to survive & work together for survival. It’s just an extra layer of peice of mind & security.
Amish notorious for their abuse to animals. Lancaster Pa known for the amish puppy mills, and many closed down. Also, for working their horses to near death, maimed & then selling them to slaughter. My mother is Pennsylvania dutch(not amish/Mennonite). Her parents spoke low German dialect. She can understand some of the Amish language. She was raised on farm in Pa.