Buggy Contrasts

BUGGY CONTRASTS: The Logan and Hardin County areas in Ohio are seeing their Amish populations grow.   The New Order Amish settlement near Belle Center is one growing community, while more conservative Amish elsewhere in the area are also seeing their numbers increase.  This is a buggy rattling down the road in the small crossroads settlement of Pfeiffer Station in Hardin County. Notice the lack of an orange safety triangle on the back?  This is not a Swartzentruber Amish church, but it is very conservative and the lack of a triangle is one obvious indicator. The reflective stripes on the back serve the same purpose, but in a more muted way. Also notice above the right wheel is a spot for a kerosene lamp to be hung at night for added visibility.  A similar buggy is seen here parked in a home's driveway, which also gives you a view of the more conservative colors worn in this church.  The colors tend toward blues, blacks, and grays and not some of the mustard and rust you'll see in more progressive settlements.  And speaking of more progressive, these are some buggies seen parked in a yard where a wedding is being held in the nearby community of Belle Center, Ohio.  Note how the buggies tell the tale.  The buggies at this gathering are also emblazoned with the orange safety triangle.  The New Order church is more progressive in outward ways of dress and buggy safety, but they can be more theologically strict than even the most conservative Old Order churches.  Thanks to reader Diann for sharing these super photos with us!