Farm, History, Ethnic -- Amish Farm and House

Thousands of people visit Amish Country throughout the year, and it is no wonder why. The way of life led by the Old Order House Amish presents us with a striking beauty and simplicity that may make our more modern societies seem harsh at best.

The Amish Farm and House provides a wonderful representation of Amish life. The tour begins in the front room of the stone house, where Sunday worship services are sometimes held. This lovely house is furnished in the traditional Amish way -- simple, clean, and very homey.

Outside the tour continues past some two dozen attractions, some of them quite marvelous. For instance a water wheel a good distance away operates a well pump via a unique system of wires strung along poles. In the Spring House a large water wheel powers an old "Peter Shirk Pump" which forces the cold spring water into the kitchen refrigerator. No compressor here!

An 1802 Limestone Quarry provided the stone for this house and barn. The barn is complete with hay mows and threshing floor, with overhead scaffolding for hanging and air-curing tobacco. The Tobacco Shed includes the stripping room, dampening cellar, prize tobacco, bailing press, and other implements. The working Blacksmith Shop includes a working Blacksmith who is usually on hand to shape a horseshoe for those who want to take home a little bit of luck.

Of course, this is a farm, and all of the requisite animals are here -- more than twenty species -- as well as the various buildings and equipment needed to support them. Visitors will also enjoy the Museum's collection of early Americana and the wagon and sleigh display.

A Gift Shop offers a wide variety of pretzels, jellies, Pennsylvania Dutch candies, and locally handcrafted items.

Tour the Amish Farm and House for a great educational experience and lots of fun. Bring a camera, too. Groups are welcome, naturally (15 or more for the group rate), and groups of 25 or more can take advantage of special menus in the Dutch Food Pavilion.

Hours: Opens at 9:00 am every day. except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. Closes at between 4:00 and 6:00pm, depending on the season (open later in summer). Call for info details.

Admission:

Adults $9.25
Seniors (60+) $8.25
Children (5-11) $6.26
Several tour packages are available, ranging from countryside bus tours to combination tours. Call for details.

Groups:

Call for Group Rates.

Group Reservations: Groups will be accommodated without advance reservation. However, some advance notice is advised.

Lunch: Food served on premises.

Handicapped Access: Partial. Call with your needs.

Directions: Rt. 30 West. After passing Rt. 896, watch for red wooden covered bridge and house on right. 60 - 90 minutes west of Philadelphia.