The Amish Culture

The Amish movement was founded in Europe by Jacob Amman (1644-1720), from whom their name is derived. The beliefs and practices were based on the writings of the founder of the Mennonite faith, Menno Simons. The Amish living in the US initially migrated from Switzerland in the early 18th century.

Almost all members are born into and raised in the faith. Converts from outside of the Amish communities are rare. Some Amish groups have a restricted gene pool and experience several inherited disorders. About 80-90% of those who are born into the Amish communities decide to remain Amish.

Marriages outside of the faith are not allowed. Couples who plan to marry are published in late October. They are then married in one of their homes in November or December.

The Amish do not take photographs or allow themselves to be photographed. To do so would be evidence of vanity and pride.

 With very few exceptions, Amish congregations do not allow the owning or use of automobiles or tractors. However, they will ride in cars if needed.

The Amish do not use electricity, have radios, TV sets, personal computers, etc. In-home telephones are not normally allowed. This is to try to preserve the elements of late 17th century European rural culture.

They try to avoid many of the features of modern society by developing practices and behaviors which isolate themselves from American culture.

Members usually speak a German dialect called Pennsylvania Dutch (Deutsch). High German is used during Worship. English is taught in the schools.

Schools are one-room buildings run by the Amish. Formal education beyond grade 8 is discouraged, although many youth are provided further education within their homes.

Men usually dress in a plain, dark suit. Women usually wear a plain dress with long sleeves, a bonnet, and an apron. Men follow the laws of the Hebrew scriptures regarding their beards. They do not grow mustaches because of their long association with the military.

References
Slide 2-11: The Amish: Their history, beliefs, practices, conflicts, etc. (n.d.). Retrieved March 22nd, 2005 from www.religioustolerance.org/amish.htm Slide 1, 2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,11: retrieved March 22nd, 2005 from amishphoto.com Slide 7: Phone (n.d.) retrieved March 22nd, 2005 from abcamerica.net/Images/ Week09/Amish%20phone.jpg Slide 4: Coleman, Bill. (n.d.). Wedding. Retrieved March 22nd, 2005 from amishphoto.com Slide 5: Leahy, Robert F. (2003). Girl Walking. Retrieved March 22nd, 2005 from amishphoto.com