A Journey Through Time: The Amish Countryside

As we set off from the Lancaster County Welcome Center, I couldn’t help but feel a familiar thrill of anticipation. Our guide, Dale, a local high school history teacher, greeted us warmly and ushered us into a comfortable sprinter van. The open road stretched before us, and I was reminded of the countless road trips I had taken in my youth, crisscrossing the vast American landscape with my family. This time, however, the journey was not just about the destination, but the stories and history that lay along the way.

Dale’s narration was like a living history lesson, weaving tales of the Amish’s origins as Mennonites and their unique way of life. As we drove through the rolling hills and patchwork fields of Lancaster County, I was struck by the simplicity and beauty of the landscape. It was a scene that could have been plucked from a bygone era, untouched by the relentless march of time. The church districts, each with their own subtle differences, were a testament to the rich tapestry of Amish culture.

A Warm Welcome and a Hearty Meal

Our journey culminated at the home of an Amish couple, where we were welcomed with open arms. Susie, the wife, greeted us with a smile and ushered us into the community room. The room was a hub of activity, with the aroma of freshly baked bread and homemade dishes filling the air. It was a scene that evoked memories of family gatherings and shared meals, where food was not just sustenance, but a way to connect and share stories.

The meal was a feast for the senses, with homemade bread, butter, and strawberry jam, alongside pickled beets and cucumbers. As we sat around the table, Dale continued to share insights into the Amish way of life, while Susie served us with grace and warmth. The main course of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and gravy was comfort food at its finest, and the shoe fly pie with vanilla ice cream was the perfect sweet ending.

A Glimpse into Amish Life

After the meal, we were given a tour of the barn and garage, where we saw the buggies and horses up close. It was a rare glimpse into a world that is often shrouded in mystery, and I felt privileged to have been given this window into Amish life. As we made our way back to the van, I reflected on the experience and the lessons learned.

The drive back to the welcome center was a time for reflection, as Dale continued to share his wealth of knowledge. The experience was more than just a tour; it was a journey into a different way of life, one that values simplicity, community, and tradition. As we arrived back at the welcome center, I couldn’t resist stopping by Sticky’s Sticky Bun, a delightful trailer next door, for a sweet treat to end the day.

This Amish Tour & Meal was a reminder of the beauty and richness of small-town America, and the stories that lie waiting to be discovered along the open road. It was a journey that nourished not just the body, but the soul, and one that I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Amish way of life.