Amish in the News: Amish and RVs, Mitigating Buggy Road Damage, Church Lady Recipes, and More!

By Kevin Williams

THE AMISH AND RVS:   This is an interesting article that sort of traces the history of the Amish entanglement with the Recreational Vehicle industry in northern Indiana.  The one thing the article doesn't mention is the huge impact the Great Recession had on the Amish.  For a time - now 10  years ago - the Amish in northern Indiana were just throttled by a massive hit that industry took.  But many Amish have returned to the factories so I guess the impact that it had might be muted as time goes by.  Anyway, the factories have had an undeniable influence on the the Amish in northern Indiana.  Sociologists and others can decide whether that impact has been good or bad.  Click here to read.

MITIGATING ROAD DAMAGE IN AMISH COUNTRY:  An Ohio University professor is studying different asphalt blends and horseshoe manufacturing techniques that might cut down on road wear and tear in Amish country.  Click here to read more.

A scene from our breakfast meal with the Millers

AMISH HOME BURNS TO THE GROUND:  Well, these are actually Amish Mennonites in Partridge, Kansas and, for me, what makes this story noteworthy is that I know the people.  Rachel and I stayed with them for a couple of nights about 5 years ago. Very hospital people.  They didn't have a bed and breakfast back then, we just slept in their basement.  I hate to see that they are going through this. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers, I know they'll bounce back better than ever and I'm just glad no one was hurt. Click here to read more.

Related Posts:  Photos and stories from my stay with the Millers,

KUTZTOWN FOLK FESTIVAL:  More about this unique annual summer showcase of Pennsylvania Dutch culture and history here. Click here to read more.

TIRED HORSE AFTER BEING ON THE LAM:  I'm surprised this doesn't happen more often.  But police near Walnut Creek, Ohio had to chase down a riderless buggy after the horse went on a bit of a joyride.  Glad it all ended okay. Read more here.

CHURCH RECIPES:  Old church cookbooks are a lot like old Amish cookbooks. Most are spiral bound collections of recipes from the congregation. Honesty, from a culinary athropological perspective, these can be treasure troves of information and history.  Check out recipes for butterscotch pie, mayonnaise cake, and more right here!

Related recipe: Butterscotch Cream Pie