Looking Back at an Eventful Year in Amish Life
As we prepare to turn the page on another year, it’s incredible to consider how much has transpired over the past 365 days. Time truly does fly. Each year, we take a moment to revisit some of our favorite posts from the previous year, celebrating the diverse stories, unique moments, and memorable events that have captured our attention.
Some of these articles garnered immense readership, resonating with many of you. Others sparked meaningful discussions and responses, fostering a deeper understanding of Amish culture and life. Not all stories are cheerful; for instance, the ongoing Rebekah Byler case, which is scheduled for trial in March 2025, reflects serious legal and social issues facing the community.
On a brighter note, many features highlight inspiring acts and heartwarming stories, such as the Montana Amish man who lent a helping hand to an English neighbor’s garage, or the courageous trooper who saved a young Amish child from a runaway buggy. These narratives exemplify kindness, bravery, and the strong sense of community that defines Amish life.
Taking time to look back like this offers a wonderful opportunity for reflection and nostalgia. It reminds us of the richness and variety of experiences within Amish communities across North America. So, here’s to a joyful new year, and thank you for making this site a part of your routine. Your engagement and support are truly appreciated.
Highlights by Month
- January: Discover a Colorado Amish home with breathtaking views, revisit a Mennonite bakery, explore Emma’s Popcorn in Lancaster County, and delve into Amish beliefs about their Christian identity.
- February: Explore the milestone of one million Amish babies, enjoy humorous insights from Ben on Amish weddings, get a glimpse inside a modern Amish home, and hear from Amish woman Marlene Lehman about her typical day.
- March: Ben Riehl shares his personal story, discuss the significance of Amish first names, hear about a Marine who rescued an Amish toddler, and update on the Rebekah Byler case.
- April: Visit Amish farm stands at Spring Bank Acres, see Amish collaborate with English neighbors to move a garage, understand Amish bishops’ decision-making, and enjoy Lancaster Amish spring scenery.
- May: Take a look at an $18,400 Amish buggy, learn about Amish experiences with crime, explore a Tennessee Amish prepper’s home, and visit an Amish farmer’s new NYC store.
- June: Witness Amish and horse rescues after flooding, question the authenticity of some Amish groups, and see Marlene’s handcrafted seed bombs and other crafts.
- July: Discover intriguing facts about “extinct” Amish communities and watch a hero trooper’s act of bravery in rescuing a child in a runaway buggy.
- August: Tour the Amish community in Cass City, Michigan; note that the Amish population surpassed 400,000 in 2024; and see Amish forgiving harassment from local high school football players.
- September: Remember Rosanna King, a survivor of the 2006 Amish school shooting, explore a picturesque Minnesota Amish home, and witness a local effort to prevent accidents at Amish schools.
- October: Examine an unusual Amish community phone with before-and-after photos, and explore a simple Amish country store.
- November: Consider the impact of Amish church divisions, their voting influence in the 2024 election, and the unique lifestyle of living in Amish sheds; also, visit an Amish cheese maker and learn about COVID-related fines faced by some Amish communities in Canada.
- December: Follow ongoing Amish legal battles over buggy light laws, enjoy a possible Amish country music video, explore Amish stores in Iowa, bid farewell to a well-known Amish business, understand the meaning of “Circle Letters,” and take a snowy tour of Amish in Michigan.