In 1681, William Penn, an English Quaker, received ownership of the land that would eventually become the state of Pennsylvania. He decided to try a "holy experiment:" to establish a colony that would allow religious toleration. This was a relatively novel concept at the time. Amish, Quakers, Mennonites, Moravians, Schwenkfelders and others in Europe responded to the opportunity by moving to the area.
On rt 340 Lancaster Pennsylvania near White Horse.
Near the Village of "Intercourse", rt 340 Lancaster Pennsylvania
rt 340 Lancaster Pennsylvania , Mount Hope wine gallery and free local wine tasting.
Amish plow scenes Lancaster Pennsylvania
Gathering straw for the Winter
Amish and Mennonites meeting in Strasburg Historic Railroad Pennsylvania
Amish kids in Lancaster county Pennsylvania
The Amish movement was founded in Europe by Jacob Amman (~1644 to ~1720 CE), from whom their name is derived. In many ways, it started as a reform group within the Mennonite movement -- an attempt to restore some of the early practices of the Mennonites.
The beliefs and practices of the Amish were based on the writings of the founder of the Mennonite faith, Menno Simons (1496-1561), and on the 1632 Mennonite Dordrecht Confession of Faith. The Amish who split from Mennonites generally lived in Switzerland and in the southern Rhine river region. During the late 17th century, they separated because of what they perceived as a lack of discipline among the Mennonites.
Some Amish migrated to the United States, starting in the early 18th century. They initially settled in Pennsylvania. Other waves of immigrants became established in New York, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri Ohio, and other states.
The faith group has attempted 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.
Young Amish boy traveling on a road near Parkesburg Pennsylvania.
Lots of Amish buggys on the road. Possibly just after a funeral.
Amish tractor with a six horsepower engine :-).
Two young Amish girls with a miniature pony and cart.
Young and old Amish guy working together in the field.
Winter scenes with plow horses.
Amish Children playing in the snow. They have sling made of elastic material to launch snow balls :-).
Amish children at school during recess playing games.
Winter snow scene of amish farmland
