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The Tradition of Amish Furniture
By Leon Tuberman
In North America there are approximately 150,000 Amish, these individuals have large communities in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Iowa and Indiana but can be found in smaller settlements throughout the United States. They are known for their clothing, which is always of plain color, and they tend to avoid contact with individuals outside their communities. They are characterized by their language, which is often called Pennsylvania Dutch, and by the fact that they do not allow the conventions of modern technology such as electricity, cars and telephones into their daily lives. The Amish are part of the Christian heritage in regards to faith. Their main book of study is the bible though they do take the bible in a more literal sense than most. They do not take pictures for instance since that is considered to be a graven image and may promote self-pride, something not allowed within their belief system. The Amish adapted from the Mennonite religion, which is responsible in part for their belief in taking a non-violent approach to life. The leader of the Amish and his followers broke from the Mennonite tradition over the belief that those that violate the rules of the faith should be banned from the community. The Mennonites and the Amish do keep a close relationship despite their separate views and because of their commonality often build communities together. Other than their simple ways and clothing, they do have other things that they are known for. The Amish are known for producing some of the finest furniture in the world. Amish furniture is made completely of solid hardwood. They do not use less expensive materials such as particleboard or laminate. They also pay a great deal of attention to the details of the wood itself. The furniture is often labeled as heirloom quality and is an investment that can be based down generation after generation while maintaining its strength, beauty and quality. While the Amish have been making furniture for themselves for centuries it was not until the 1920’s when folk art became popular that Amish furniture became popular outside of the Amish communities. Since the Amish do not make use of modern technology, the furniture is made by hand using techniques passed down generation after generation. Depending on the community, you may find diesel powered generators at mills and other mass production locations in order to speed the milling and raw material processing along. However, the majority of the work is done by hand and you can find evidence of this in the five piece dovetail joints that the Amish use as well as the drawer guides that make use of steel ball bearings.
The Amish begin learning these techniques early in life and usually work with their family or relatives. They do not however deal often with the outside world and they do not make use of things such as phones or internet they often rely on middlemen to sell their products for them. Retailers who deal with the Amish usually visit their farmer markets and expositions. This helps to bring these two people together so that they can easily forge business relationships. This allows Amish furniture to be delivered, shown, purchased and enjoyed all over the world.
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Solid Oak Amish Dining Set
PLEASE VISIT THE CONTRIBUTOR'S WEBSITE
Wood Bookcases
Fine Oak & Wood Furniture Since 1945
www.barnfurnituremart.com/office/bookcases.aspx
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The furniture is truly beautiful. Is it comfortable?
CONTRIBUTOR'S REPLY
Yes. Many of the chairs built by Amish craftsman are ergonomically designed and offer excellent lumbar support.
I used to live close to both Amish and Mennonite communities in Northern Indiana, and it was very cute to see the horse and carriage transport, as well as the people in the shops and markets. A very interesting lifestyle, and definitely great furniture.
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This content may not be copied, distributed or adapted by anyone under any circumstances.
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