New York Amish: Life in the Plain Communities of the Empire State

Abstract

In writing this book, I drew on personal connections in Old Order Amish communities across New York and in other states, including Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Missouri. My approach to the study of Amish culture is called “participant observation,” which means that I supplement my constant questioning by joining in diverse ordinary activities such as canning peaches, butchering, correcting spell-ing papers, and going to church. I have stayed in Old Order Amish homes, eaten meals with Old Order Amish families, and accompanied them on shopping trips. I learned much while drinking coffee and peel-ing vegetables. When I go into an Amish home, I take a notebook with me. I ask permission before I write down what people are saying and rephrase what they have said in follow-up conversations to ensure that I have understood what they have told me. Letters from Amish friends told me much about community activities, providing a window through which to view daily life in Amish homes. Amish friends in different set-tlements have read and commented on these chapters, and I am grateful for all they have taught me.