I have had a long and strong friendship with the German Baptist church, so today is an exciting day for me as we roll out a new column by a member of this fascinating faith. Western Ohio, where I live, is home to the largest concentration of German Baptists in the world. The Amish and Mennonites get most of the media fascination and public interest. “German Baptist Mafia” probably wouldn’t bring in ratings. But the German Baptist brand of plainness has many of the same appeals as the Amish: an adherence to simplicity, a rich faith, strong families, and diversity within the faith. On one end are the Old Order German Baptist Brethren who still use horse and buggies and on the other are much more progressive German Baptists who use computers, cars, and the internet.
The German Baptists live in many states, with the largest concentrations being in Ohio, Indiana, Kansas, and California. Rosanna Bauman of Cedar Valley Farm in Garnett, Kansas is being kind enough to share a bit of her world with us. Over the next couple of weeks I’ll share a few of her columns. If you like them, I’ll continue to post them. If not, then just consider it a fun glimpse in another plain way of life.
Rosanna’s column is my attempt to offer a variety of Plain perspectives to visitors of this site. The Amish Cook column is strengthened by drawing as many people as possible here. I look forward to adding another Plain voice or two in the weeks ahead. We’re calling Rosanna’s column “Plain Kansas” because she’ll give us a taste of plain life from her state.
14 Comments
Bonnie
Kevin, I look forward to reading your new stories about the German Baptists. I too think it is absolutely fasinating to learn about the plain people. Thank you.
Zelka Cani
Kevin, please keep Rosanna’s column going. I am fascinated. As I mentioned, my family line comes from the German Baptist line and it is a fascinating way of life coupled with their deep faith. Look forward to reading more.
Carol Morris
The column is interesting and informative. It helps people see that the dress alone does not always reflect who we are.
SueAnn
YES! Post her writings as often as she wants to do them…you need the diversity…for understanding….wonderful idea!
Susan
I enjoyed your “guest” columnist and hope she will become a regular. No one could replace Lovinia ever, but the addition of a different expression of “plain” is welcomed.
Kevin
Thank you, Susan. Yes, Rosanna is N-O-T a replacement for Lovina,but a complement to her writing…
don
Yes I agree. Hope we see many posts. thank you.
brenda
We will be reading both each week??????added info great but Lovina and family is our interest
Betty Gentry
Thanks, Kevin, for posting articles on the Amish and Lovenia’s weekly column. I have enjoyed it for years and several years attended an Elderhostel program on Amish life in Lancaster, PA. We feel as though the Eichers are our friends.
Denise
I like the new column.
Patti
After reading the first Plain Kansas article, I believe I will enjoy reading Rosanna Bauman’s articles as much as Lovina’s.
Joy Hill
Welcome, Rosanna! I look forward to your contributions. Farmhouse Barb, please contact me at ggof8@yahoo.com about your pickles. Thanks.
Hannah
This is so nice! I grew up knowing Rosanna 😉 can’t wait to see more!
Kevin
Welcome, Hannah! She is a wonderful writer!