Exploring the fascinating world of the Amish: faith, family, and cheese-making
Who Are the Amish?
Have you heard of the Amish? They are a religious group that began in Switzerland in the early 16th century. Their leader, Jakob Ammann, believed the church should remain a separate and distinct community from broader society. As a result, the Amish emphasized strict adherence to biblical teachings, along with simplicity, humility, and faithfulness in daily life.
The Amish Journey to North America
In the 18th century, many Amish families migrated to North America in search of religious freedom and affordable farmland. They settled primarily in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana—regions that remain home to some of the largest Amish communities today. Today, there are approximately 350,000 Amish people living in the United States and Canada.
A Life Rooted in Simplicity
What sets the Amish apart from the rest of modern society—often referred to by the Amish as the “English”—is their intentional rejection of many modern technologies. Amish communities focus on agriculture, manual labor, and traditional crafts. They dress plainly, use hand tools for farming, and rely on horses and buggies for transportation, all as expressions of their commitment to simple living.
Amish Dairy Farming and Cheesemaking
The Amish are especially well known for their dairy farming and cheese-making skills. Since first settling in North America, they have used traditional European methods passed down through generations. Cheesemaking allowed Amish farmers to preserve surplus milk—an important and valuable farm resource—and turn it into a product that could be stored, shared, sold, or traded within their community.
Faith, Family, and Community
Beyond farming, the Amish place a strong emphasis on faith and family. They believe the family is the foundation of society and that individuals are called to serve both their family and their community. The Amish value humility, simplicity, and contentment, viewing excessive material possessions and worldly pursuits as distractions from their faith.
Strong family relationships are nurtured through shared meals, regular gatherings, worship services, and daily life centered around working together. These values shape not only how Amish families live, but also the care and craftsmanship they bring to everything they produce.
Our Amish Cheese Partners
Simply Cheese is proud to partner with an Amish farmer-owned dairy cooperative in Northern Ohio. Every time you purchase cheese from us, you help support these families and their commitment to faith, tradition, and quality craftsmanship.
