The Definitive Guide to Amish Culture

Transportation

One of the most iconic Amish images is that of the horse and buggy. You’ll probably be surprised to learn that the Amish actually have developed many new ways to travel, and they probably aren’t what you think. Yes, the buggy is the standard form of getting around, so this icon isn’t completely misplaced. That being said, there are a lot of other ways the Amish travel today.

All Amish households have one (or more) carriages or buggies. These buggies are only used for short distances. For instance, they’ll use them to travel to church or to visit neighbors, but never more than 20 miles at a time. For longer distances, the Amish actually use cars. That’s right, the myth that the Amish never use cars is not true at all. While the Amish object to owning automobiles or even just operating one, they are permitted to ride as passengers.

Because there are a lot of limitations to riding in a buggy (like needing to rest the horse), the Amish understand that cars are a necessary form of travel. They’re usually driven by friends or non-Amish employees, but there has recently been a new service appearing in these areas. This new service is for so-called “Amish taxis” which are offered by non-Amish people.

Besides buggy and automobile travel, the Amish are permitted to travel by train, especially when visiting relatives or other Amish communities. Travel by water is also openly accepted. As you can see, the Amish utilize many forms of transportation. This newfound mobility allows them to explore other communities and even work in nearby locations. While they still value the horse and buggy, they recognize the need to permit different types of travel.

Technology

Finally, let’s talk about the most misunderstood facet of Amish life: technology. Most know that the Amish reject modern technology, but things today aren’t the same as they were decades ago. Technology is changing rapidly, and the world is changing with it. The Amish, adverse to change as they are, have stumbled into some unexpected updates.

First of all: the Amish do not reject all new technology. NPR perfectly hit the nail on the head when they described the use of technology amongst the Amish as “thoughtful” instead of frivolous. While Americans are quick to assume new technology is always better, the Amish ask fundamental questions about how necessary a change is before accepting it into their community.

Not all Amish communities come to the same agreements on how technology should be used.In general, any technology that is seen as a threat to the community is not permitted. This means anything that provides easy contact with the non-Amish world or threatens community values is not welcome.

Common Amish Technology:

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  Battery electricity

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  Gas grills

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  Farm equipment

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  Community phones

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  Hydraulic or pneumatic systems to power equipment

The Amish aren’t as stuck in the time capsule as you might have thought. Though they use new technology selectively, they are willing to embrace changes that are necessary to modern living. Because the Amish value tradition, they don’t feel the need to search for new innovations in order to lead a happy life.