Amish Country (or Dutch Country), Pennsylvania is an interesting little area located in Lancaster County. Despite having grown up close to there and going to college just minutes away, I never had much of an interest in visiting the touristy hot spots that draw thousands of visitors every year.
The Amish are a sect of Christians who believe in things like simple living, wearing plain clothes and shunning modern conveniences such as cars, electricity, etc. They settled in this area of south-central Pennsylvania in the 18th century, and today there are around 30,000 Amish still living there.
There has been a lot of TV coverage in recent years about the Amish–some mafia show and shows about Rumspringa (which is when Amish teenagers leave the community for a period of time to decide if they want to return, or leave for the modern world, in which case they are never allowed to speak to their community again). It saddens me to see this community portrayed in such a way, as I’ve never seen such behavior (which is not to say it doesn’t happen, but it shouldn’t be the only thing they’re known for).
(Also, I just realized as I was uploading this photo that there was a sign there that said “no photos”. Now I feel like a total asshole. And for reference, you’re not supposed to take photos of Amish, but I totally thought it was fine for Mennonites.)
Because I’d never taken the time to explore this side of Lancaster County when I lived there, I took it upon myself to check it out when I was home for a visit last week. I convinced my friend and old roommate to explore the more touristy side of things, and we headed to Intercourse, PA, to see the Amish and check out the shops at Kitchen Kettle Village.
On the drive there from the city of Lancaster, you pass many Amish farms and are likely to see many horse-drawn buggies plodding down the sides of the road. Once you arrive in Intercourse (and get over your case of the giggles at its name), there’s an entire village of shops selling goods made by the Amish and Mennonites. Almost everything is locally made and in some instances, you can actually see people making things–baked goods, jams, spooling yarns, etc. While you’re there, be sure to pick up some jams, salsas, hex signs, and handmade ceramics. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are several places that offer horse-drawn buggy rides!
(Sorry for the photo quality–I only used my iPhone for these photos.)
Intercourse is quiet a name particularly for a sect that I always picture to be very conservative!
We have Hutterites where I’m from – similar but different. They’re German, live in colonies, wear simple clothing, farm but they are do use modern conveniences. They also sell fresh vegetables, eggs & homemade buns in town. I remember going to the colony on field trips when I was young but I’d love to learn a little more about the lifestyle & culture.
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Haha, I know! There’s also Blue Ball and Bird-in-Hand. All kinds of dirty in that area.
And you should learn more about their lifestyle and culture. It’s really fascinating, especially when you think you know enough having grown up close to a community like that.
I think your photo with the “No Photo” sign is funny. Innocent mistake.
Lance | Trips By Lance recently posted..A Day Out in the Niagara Peninsula
Ugh, I know! I felt so horrible when I realized it today. And my friend said she saw the sign while I was taking the photo, and I was like, “WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL ME?!” If I’d seen it, I wouldn’t have taken any photos.
Duuuude, I love Kitchen Kettle Village. There’s an Amish smorgasbord near it that has amazing Amish food.
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I know–Shady Maple. I heard allllll about it from Marshall. Just didn’t have a chance to go. But I’m going in September when I’m back!
Ok so… they shun modern conveniences but are still able to bottle and label their jams and products. How does that work? Or do the Amish/Mennonites make the products and other people package and distribute? I’m very curious!
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Loved Amish country. But it’s been a while since I’ve been there. I always thought the rumspringa was a period of time when teens displayed being … You know …. Teens. Not necessarily leaving their home, but like an acceptance of the fact that kids are a pain the patootie when they’re young adults. I’ve not seen the show. But I also don’t think it portrays the Amish community fairly.
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I’ve been there once too. I agree. Those folks live a simple life. I’m so jealous.
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