The Amish are respected, but not well-understood. Most people have heard about them, but few know enough about them to understand them.

Amish Families

Amish families are large, they usually have at least 6 children, and it is not unusual for a couple to have up 11 or 12 children. Women are encouraged to bear children for as long as they are able. The women do not work outside the home. After getting married, they bear children as soon as possible. The women stay busy by caring for a large garden, perhaps an orchard also. Summer is a very busy time for them as they can and freeze the extra vegetables, and fruit. The mothers stay busy during the rest of the year sewing and meding clothes, and caring for their large families. They also help their husbands with the family business- often farming.

The father keeps his sons busy helping him with his business- whether it be farming, making furniture, or other occupations. They spend their days working together.

Amish families are close. The absence of phones, radios, and televisions in their home means the family must depend on each other for entertainment. They spend long winter evenings playing games with each other.

Amish Economies

Although farming is the traditional Amish occupation, it is becoming less common. As the price of land and equipment rises, and the selling price for farm products decrese, it is less profitable to farm. Many young men getting married cannot afford to buy a farm, and the equipment necessary to get it started. Other occupations are becoming more popular amoung the Amish- custom furniture shops (they make beautiful furniture!), or working for local "English" employers