FAQ About the Amish
April 15, 2016

Are you interested in learning more about the Amish lifestyle and culture? I recently came across a great article with answers to a lot of our guests frequently asked questions and thought I'd share it with you. I even learned a couple things! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. 


Q. What Are the Differences Between Amish and Mennonite Groups?

A. It is impossible to answer this question with a few simple sentences. There are so many varieties of Mennonites and Amish around the world that we cannot cover the many shades of belief and practice among them. However, most Mennonite and Amish groups have common historical roots. Both were part of the early Anabaptist movement in Europe, which took place at the time of the Reformation. A group led by Jacob Amman broke from the Mennonites in 1693 and became known as Amish. Amish and Mennonites are Christian fellowships; they stress that belief must result in practice. The differences among the various Amish and Mennonite groups through the years have almost always been ones of practice rather than basic Christian doctrine.


Q. What Are The Basic Beliefs Of The Amish?

A. The Amish believe that:

  • The Bible is the inspired word of God
  • There is one God eternally existing as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Romans 8:1-17).
  • God loved the world so much that he gave his only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for the sins of the world.
  • Through faith in the shed blood of Jesus we are reconciled to God.
  • Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ, a free gift bestowed by God on those who repent and believe.
  • As Christians, we should live as brothers.
  • The Holy Spirit convicts of sin, and also empowers believers for service and holy living.
  • The church is separate from the State
  • We are committed to peace.
  • Faith calls for a lifestyle of discipleship and good works service and holy living 


Q. Why Don't The Amish Use Electricity

A. Amish people interpret linking with electrical wires as a connection with the world - and the Bible tells them they are not to be conformed to the world (Romans 12:2). In 1919 the Amish leaders agreed that connecting to power lines would not be in the best interest of the Amish community. They did not make this decision because they thought electricity was evil itself, but because easy access to it could lead to many temptations and the deterioration of church and family life.

Most of us today think it impossible to live without the modern conveniences such as electricity and cars. What makes the Old Order Amish unique is not that they get along without modernity, but that they choose to do without it when it would be readily available. The Amish value simplicity and self-denial over comfort, convenience and leisure. Their lifestyle is a deliberate way of separating from the world and maintaining self-sufficiency. (Amish are less threatened by power shortages; caused by storm, disaster or war.) As a result there is a bonding that unites the Amish community and protects it from outside influences such as television, radios, and other influences.


Q. Why Will The Amish Ride In Automobiles If They Will Not Own Them?

A. Maintaining Amish standards, but accepting some modernization to meet needs of living, requires compromise that must not disrupt the social structure. By rejecting certain types of modernity and accepting others, some Amish appear to the outside world to be contradicting themselves - hypocrites. Hover, from the viewpoint of Amish culture, there is no contradiction. One of the more pronounced inconsistencies is the use of automobile...although he may not own a car, a member may accept rides and willing hires an automobile with a driver to transport him from place to place. There was little hesitation when the Amish decided no to car ownership. It would separate the community in various ways. If only wealthy members could afford it, the cr would bring inequality. Proud individuals would use it to show off their status, power and wealth. Cars would speed things up dramatically, disrupting the slow pace of Amish living. So, they will use them but now own them, for then things will surely get of of control.


Q. Do The Amish Use Modern Medicine And Doctors?

A. Most Amish and Mennonite groups do not oppose modern medicines. Their readiness to seek health services varies from family to family. Nothing in the Amish understanding of the Bible forbids them from using modern medical services, including surgery, hospitalization, dental work, anesthesia, blood transfusions, etc. They do believe, however, that good health, both physical and mental, is a gift from God and requires careful stewardship on the part of the individual. With few exceptions, physicians rate the Amish as desirable patients; they are stable, appreciative, and their bills will be paid. They do hot have hospitalization insurance, but they band together to help pay medical expenses for anyone of their group who needs financial assistance. A designated leader in the Amish community is given responsibility for their mutual aid fund.


Q. Do The Amish Pay Taxes?

A. Self-employed Amish do not pay Social Security tax. Those employed by non-Amish employers do pay Social Security tax. The Amish do pay real estate, state and federal income taxes, county taxes, sales tax, etc.

The Amish do not collect Social Security benefits, nor would they collect unemployment or welfare funds. Self sufficiency is the Amish community's answer to government aid programs. Section 310 of the Medicare section of the Social Security act has a sub-section that permits individuals to apply for exemption from the self-employment tax if he is a member of a religious body that is conscientiously opposed to Social Security benefits but that makes reasonable provision of taking care of their own elderly or dependent members. The Amish have a long history of taking care of their own members. They do not have retirement communities or nursing homes; in most cases, each family takes care of their own, and the Amish community give assistance as needed.


Q. Does Anyone Ever Join or Leave

A. Anyone is welcome to join the Amish and Mennonites as long as they are willing to meet the requirements for membership. These requirements vary, as they are more rigid among the Amish and conservative Mennonites and more relaxed among moderate and liberal Mennonites. It is very rare for someone to join the Amish, but it does happen occasionally. People also leave the Amish and Mennonites. Most people who leave the Amish become Mennonites. The Amish particularly try to keep their children within the church. Some sects will shun family members who choose to leave, even if they leave to become Mennonite. Others do not and they maintain good relationships with their non-Amish family members.


Q. Why Do Amish Men Have Beards, But Not Mustaches?

A. There are quite a few scriptures that mention beards in the Bible. An example would be Psalm 133:1-2. An Amishman does not shave his beard after he becomes married. A long beard is the mark of an adult Amishman. Mustaches, on the other hand, have a long history of being associated with the military, and therefore are forbidden among the Amish people.


Q. Why Do They Dress The Way They Do?

A. The plain and simple dress of the Amish is an outward show of their inner convictions of humility and modesty. They also believe it is important to differentiate the roles between men and women, which is why Amish and many Mennonite women wear dresses. The head covers of the women are related to a biblical reference in 1 Corinthians 11, which emphasizes a need for women to have their head covered.


Q. Why Don't They Use Modern Technology?

A. The Amish and Mennonites believe that God has called his followers to separate themselves from the world. They interpret that to mean that materialistic desires of the rest of the world should not be a part of their culture. Another important aspect of the Amish culture is the nature of their community. A more simple lifestyle, such as the use of horses and buggies for transportation, allows the Amish to maintain a close-knit community. Another big reason the Amish maintain a simple life without the addition of modern technology is simply because they understand that these new devices do not add any fulfillment to life.


Q. What Is Their Education System Like?

A. While the majority of Mennonites embrace high school and college education, the Amish and some Mennonites do not think higher education is necessary. All Amish children do go to school at least until their eigth grade year. When the American education system still used one-room schoolhouses, the Amish integrated into the public school system. Some Amish still do, but many have chose to send their children to parochial schools specifically designed for the Amish. Most are one-room schoolhouses emphasizing reading, writing and arithmetic. While most of these are private schools, in Holmes County, the public school district has several schools set aside specifically for Amish students.


Although many would view this lifestyle as very difficult, the Amish consider it a precious privilege to be able to raise their children in a home and community setting that is a little more shielded from the technology, images, and interruptions that are a constant part of life amongst the non-Amish.

Article from 2015 Ohio Amish Life Magazine

The History of Berlin

By ALICIA DEMO • December 20, 2024
The History of Berlin, Ohio Berlin, Ohio stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of early American settlers and the Amish community that would later make this region famous. While the town's name might evoke thoughts of its German counterpart, this quiet village has its own unique story to tell. In fact, Berlin is the oldest existing village in Holmes County. A Name with Two Histories The settlement of Berlin began in the early 1800s, when hardy pioneers first carved their way into what was then the northwestern frontier of the young United States. John Swigert (from Berlin, Germany) and Joseph Troyer (from Berlin, Pennsylvania) were both integral players in the creation of the town. The town was officially established in 1816, taking its name from both Berlins. The original design included 108 lots spread over two streets. A majority of the earliest residents came to Berlin from Pennsylvania but were of German or Swiss descent. The Amish Influence The arrival of the Amish in the mid-1800s marked a significant turning point in Berlin's history. These industrious farmers, seeking religious freedom and fertile land, found both in abundance in Holmes County. The Amish brought with them not only their distinctive culture and agricultural expertise but also their own traditions of courtship and marriage, which continue to fascinate visitors to this day. A Rise in Importance For many years, Benton was the most important commercial center in Holmes County. Two important developments helped Berlin surpass its neighbor five miles to the northwest. The first development was the completion of the National Road. The major highway connected the Potomac and the Ohio Rivers. Around the same time, wagon access to Zanesville was improved with enhancements to Zane’s Trace. Berlin saw a period of exponential growth as a business center. The village was the proud home of machine shops, a foundry, dry goods stores, hotels, tailor shops, blacksmith shops, a tannery, and distilleries. The second big development was a thresher factory. Berlin holds the distinction of having the first real factory in Holmes County. Built in 1847, the factory brought jobs and increased Berlin’s economic foothold in the county. A Prominent Family The Pomerene Family is one of the most notable families in Berlin history. Dr. Peter P. Pomerene was born in Holmes County and moved in Berlin in 1855 to practice medicine. Dr. Pomerene was married twice and had 12 children. Four of his sons became doctors and two became attorneys. The most famous of his children was Atlee. Born in 1863, Atlee attended Princeton University and then Cincinnati Law School. He served as U.S. Senator and assisted in the creation of the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve System. In 1928, Atlee was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for president. The Pomerene House stood as a beacon in Main Street in Berlin until it was torn down in 2021. The Oldest Restaurant Visitors and locals can still partake in a meal at the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Berlin, Ohio. Boyd and Wurthmann has been open since 1938. It started as a grocery store but the demand for home-cooked meals and community kept growing. Within two years of opening, the green counter (which still stands today) was built so locals could enjoy lunch and pie. Boyd and Wurthmann is now open six days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When you go, be sure to save room for dessert. There are 15 to 20 different pie options available each day. Berlin Today Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of Berlin's history is how it managed to preserve its small-town charm while adapting to changing times. The arrival of electricity in the early 1900s brought modern conveniences, but the town retained its connection to simpler ways of life, largely due to the influence of its Amish population. Today, Berlin has approximately 1,500 residents yet it stands as one of Ohio's most visited small towns, drawing thousands of tourists annually. Holmes County, Ohio sees four million tourists each year. The town center, with its mixture of traditional architecture and modern amenities, tells the story of a community that has managed to embrace change while holding onto its core values and traditions. The romance of Berlin's history continues in its present-day charm. Local bed and breakfasts housed in historic buildings attract couples seeking to experience the town's nostalgic atmosphere. The clip-clop of horse-drawn buggies, the aroma of fresh-baked goods wafting from local bakeries, and the sight of rolling farmland create an atmosphere that seems drawn from a simpler, more romantic era. As Berlin moves forward into the 21st century, it remains a unique testament to the enduring appeal of small-town America. Its history, woven with threads of pioneer spirit, cultural preservation, and quiet romance, continues to captivate visitors and residents alike, making it much more than just another dot on the Ohio map.

A Tale of Two Theaters: Entertainment in Ohio's Amish Country

December 9, 2024
The Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek and the Amish Country Theater in Berlin offer visitors unique entertainment experiences in the heart of Ohio's Amish Country. These venues showcase different aspects of local culture and family entertainment, each with its own distinct character and charm. The Ohio Star Theater, housed in a historic building in downtown Sugarcreek, has long served as a community cornerstone for live entertainment and performances. This intimate venue specializes in family-friendly musical productions. The theater regularly features local talent alongside touring performers, creating a warm, hometown atmosphere that perfectly complements Sugarcreek's nickname as "The Little Switzerland of Ohio." Throughout its history, the Ohio Star Theater has been known for hosting holiday specials, particularly during the Christmas season, when the venue transforms into a festive destination featuring seasonal music and performances. The theater also serves as a gathering place for community events and occasionally screens classic films, maintaining its traditional role as a small-town movie house while embracing live entertainment. The Ohio Star Theater often offers a combined show and buffet ticket option. With one of these tickets, guests can enjoy dinner at the Dutch Valley Restaurant (conveniently located next to the theater), Berlin Farmstead Restaurant in Berlin, or Der Dutchman in Walnut Creek. It’s a full date night in Ohio Amish Country with one ticket. Meanwhile, the Amish Country Theater in Berlin takes a different but equally entertaining approach. This venue has built its reputation on family-friendly comedy shows that playfully celebrate and gently poke fun at the unique culture and lifestyle of Ohio's Amish Country. Their productions often feature a mix of music, comedy sketches, and variety acts that appeal to visitors eager to experience local culture. The Amish Country Theater is a great place to see tribute band concerts in Ohio Amish Country. The Amish Country Theater's shows frequently incorporate local themes and characters that have become audience favorites over the years. Their performances typically blend traditional values with contemporary humor, creating an experience that bridges the gap between Amish culture and modern entertainment. The theater is known for its clean comedy approach, ensuring that shows remain appropriate for audience members of all ages. One of the distinguishing features of both theaters is their commitment to maintaining strong connections with their communities. While the Ohio Star Theater often collaborates with local schools and community groups for special performances, the Amish Country Theater works closely with area businesses and tourism organizations to provide authentic entertainment experiences for visitors to the region. Both venues have become important parts of Ohio's Amish Country tourism landscape, offering evening entertainment options for visitors who have spent their days exploring the region's other attractions. They serve as cultural bridges, helping tourists better understand and appreciate the area's unique heritage while providing quality entertainment that brings people together. These theaters demonstrate how traditional venues can maintain their relevance in modern times while honoring their communities' values and traditions. Whether you're seeking musical performances at the Ohio Star Theater or comedy shows at the Amish Country Theater, both venues offer memorable experiences that capture the spirit and charm of Ohio's Amish Country.

Holiday Magic in Amish Country: A Romantic Winter Guide to Berlin, Ohio

By ALICIA DEMO • November 25, 2024
As winter descends on Ohio's Amish Country, the rolling hills around Berlin transform into a snow-dusted wonderland that seems lifted from the pages of a Christmas story. The clip-clop of horse hooves on crisp winter evenings and the warm glow of lanterns create an atmosphere that makes this season especially magical for couples seeking a romantic holiday escape.

A Romantic Thanksgiving Getaway in Berlin, Ohio and Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • October 28, 2024
Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of city life this Thanksgiving and retreating to the serene, picturesque landscape of Ohio's Amish Country. Nestled in the heart of this enchanting region lies Berlin, a charming town that offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic holiday getaway. This Thanksgiving, trade in the traditional for the extraordinary as you and your loved one embark on a unique adventure filled with rustic charm, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.

“Fall” in Love in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • October 11, 2024
Autumn is a time that many people seek out the changing fall colors in Ohio Amish Country. Imagine the photographs of covered bridges and Amish barns against the backdrop of stunning fall foliage. People often ask how to know the best time to schedule a trip to Berlin, Ohio for the fall colors. There are a couple helpful tools to assist with your planning: The Explore Fall Foliage Map has a handy sliding scale so you can see the predicted color for different parts of Ohio on specific days. The scale starts at “Little to No Color” and extends to “Past Peak Color.” According to this map’s estimates, “Peak Color” in Berlin will start around October 20 and end around October 30. The Farmer’s Almanac has a helpful animated map showing the predicted progression of the colors across the United States. The page also lists their choices for the top 21 places to see the fall foliage. Cuyahoga Valley National Park made the list and it is only about an hour north of Donna’s Premier Lodging. The entire drive will be filled with amazing views around every corner. Added bonus, if you need a short respite from your work day, take a few soothing minutes to just watch the colors spread across the map on the website.

Five Best Reasons to Visit Amish Country During the Week

By ALICIA DEMO • September 10, 2024
Many people take long weekends when they want a quick getaway. Have you ever considered taking a long “weekend” in the middle of the week? A midweek Ohio Amish Country getaway can be the perfect vacation. Arrive at Donna’s Premier Lodging on a Monday. Spend Tuesday and Wednesday exploring the sites. Head home on a Thursday before the crowds arrive. Of course, that is just a rough suggested itinerary. You can plan your trip however it works best for you. Here are five reasons you should plan your midweek getaway now.
Amish-Style Mashed Potatoes .

Favorite Amish Cooking Recipes

By ALICIA DEMO • August 8, 2024
One of the best reasons to visit Ohio’s Amish Country is the food. The Amish are known for hearty, delicious, family-style meals. At weddings they often dine on fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, salad, cake or cupcakes, fruit, and ice cream. With just a few recipes, you can enjoy Amish cooking in your own home. Here are a few to get you started. Donna’s Premier Lodging includes an authentic recipe every month in their newsletter. Sign up here to add to your list of Amish cooking recipes.  When you stay at Donna’s Premier Lodging, you are treated to a hot Amish-inspired breakfast every morning. Recreating these recipes together at home is a great way to remember all the fun you had on your Ohio Amish Country getaway.
Five Romantic Activities in Ohio Amish Country

Five Romantic Activities in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • June 10, 2024
Ohio’s Amish Country offers many romantic date ideas. The area is associated with a slower way of life. Most of the Amish community does not use electricity or travel via automobile. Instead, they focus on family, community, and the joy of a quiet life. Exploring that lifestyle allows for gentle moments together as you sip coffee or wine, look at the stars, or travel in a buggy or wagon. If you are looking for a romantic getaway filled with opportunities to connect with your loved one, come to Ohio Amish Country and try some of these activities.
Top Nature Activities in Ohio Amish Country

Top Nature Activities in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • April 22, 2024
When people picture Ohio’s Amish Country, they see Amish markets and buggies and bucolic barns. Those are truly iconic features of the area. However, when some people go on vacation, they want to squeeze as many unique activities as possible into their getaway. They want history, culture, food, theater, shopping, and fun exercise. That last desire is why we recommend some spectacular activities that will bring you closer to nature. Rails to Trails can be accessed in Millersburg, OH approximately 10 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. 23 miles of paved trails run through Holmes County as part of the Great American Trail Rail. The Great American Trail Rail is 3,700 miles of trails connecting Washington state with Washington D.C. The trail is used by hikers, bikers, and walkers. An adjoining lane is used by horse and buggies. The 15-mile Fredericksburg to Killbuck part of the trail runs directly through Millersburg. Guests can access the trail at the historic Hipp Station train depot. The Hipp Station is the headquarters and visitor center for the Holmes County portion of the trail. The visitor center features wildlife displays, trail information, restrooms, and a covered picnic area. Scenery along the route includes scenic swamplands where visitors may spot turtles, snakes, and birds. The trail also uses old railroad bridges to cross over streams. Guests who want more mileage can travel to the Glenmont to Brinkhaven section of the trail. At this time, the 7.5-mile section is not linked directly to the Fredericksburg to Killbuck section. Beach City Wildlife Area is approximately 20 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. The highlight of the 393-acre state wildlife area is Dundee Falls. The 15-foot falls can be enjoyed year-round. Do not forget to look down into the rocky gorge below the falls. This stunning view can be missed if hikers focus only on the streaming water. The trail to access the falls is approximately one mile. The trail is an easy hike but can be slippery if it has recently rained. Bring your camera so you can take sweet selfies together by the waterfall.  The Wilderness Center is approximately 20 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. There are lots of trails to hike. Most are a mile or less so you can combine multiple trails to see a large portion of the Wilderness Center. The Wildlife Observation Room boasts a wall of windows overlooking multiple feeders and a water feature. Visitors are almost guaranteed to spot birds at the feeders but other animals occasionally visit the area. Want a guaranteed animal spotting? Visit with the rescued animal ambassadors including a couple turtles. Visit on the first Friday of each month when the Astronomy Club sets up multiple telescopes. The digital planetarium will aid in your enjoyment of the vast evening sky. For those looking for a romantic picnic there are lots of picnic areas. Create your own picnic or request a snack basket from Donna’s Premier Lodging. Up for a little friendly competition? There are scavenger hunts that you can complete both inside the Interpretative Building and outside on the trails. Be sure to check the events calendar for upcoming activities during your Ohio Amish County getaway. Recent events include a chance to sip local beer while learning about plants, a group of knitting/crocheting enthusiasts who met in the Wildlife Observation Room to work on their individual projects, and a 5K or 10K run along the trails. If you are traveling with children, the Nature Playscape is a playground built with natural materials. It is the perfect spot for kids to strengthen their imagination. The TWC Interpretative Building is open Tuesday through Saturday. The trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. Mohican State Park is approximately 30 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. The park boasts three distinct fishing areas where anglers can find the favorite catch. Clear Fork River is stocked with brown trout. Smallmouth bass frequent Wolf Creek. All the other streams in the area are home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and white crappie. Several hiking trails are available for all abilities. Get striking views of the lake along the easy 0.75-mile Pleasant Hill Trail. Take photos at two waterfalls along the moderate 2-mile Lyons Fall Trail. Reward yourself with a covered bridge at the end of the difficult 2-mile Hemlock Gorge Trail. National Geographic Explorer Magazine has designated the 25-mile Mohican Mountain Bike Trail as a “must ride” trail. This is another great place for a picnic at one of the park’s six picnic areas. The Mohican River is a popular spot for water activities such as tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Several equestrian trails meander through the park.
The History of Donna's Premier Lodging

The History of Donna's Premier Lodging

By Digital Support Team Web • February 25, 2024
We often times get guests wondering how Donna's Premier Lodging started. I sat down with Donna Marie this week and got the scoop...
More Posts
Share by: