Exploring an Authentic Amish Residence in West-Central Pennsylvania
This remarkable Amish homestead, nestled in the rolling hills of west-central Pennsylvania near Luthersburg, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a large Amish family. The property features a charming, expansive farmstead with a distinctive blend of functional simplicity and aesthetic appeal. The home itself boasts a striking contrast: the downstairs living areas are visually captivating with elegant finishes, while the upstairs bedrooms and utility spaces maintain a plain and utilitarian style, characteristic of Amish traditions.
Situated on a picturesque 12-acre parcel in the vicinity of Troutville, PA—a community spanning both Clearfield and Jefferson counties—the property is set amidst lush greenery, with a scenic, hilly landscape. A notable feature is its inviting wraparound deck, partially shaded by leafy foliage, perfect for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.
The Heart of the Home: Downstairs Rooms
The main living areas on the ground floor are thoughtfully designed, combining beauty with practicality. The kitchen features stunning hickory flooring that adds warmth and durability. An eye-catching aspect is the use of tennis balls as protective pads on the chair legs, a simple yet effective way to preserve the pristine flooring. The kitchen is equipped with a classic bold black cast-iron cookstove, complemented by gleaming ceilings that contribute to a crisp, clean aesthetic.
Adjacent to the kitchen, a spacious pantry provides ample storage, while the living room exudes comfort with an array of hickory rockers arranged neatly along the walls, each covered with colorful cushions for added comfort. The room also includes a designated space with a folding table, a measuring tape, and a sewing box—a testament to the Amish commitment to self-sufficiency and handcrafted living.
Additional views highlight the cozy sitting area, which comfortably seats 12-14 people. The arrangement showcases the community-oriented nature of Amish life, emphasizing warmth and simplicity in design. Interestingly, above the seating, a cross-shaped decorative item is visible, though Amish homes typically prefer modest, non-religious decor in private spaces.
Bedrooms: Simplicity and Functionality
The upstairs bedrooms are noticeably plainer, reflecting a focus on practicality over ornamentation. The flooring, furniture, and decor are minimalistic, aligning with traditional Amish values. One bedroom contains a crib, indicating it is likely the parents’ chamber. A separate room serves as a nursing or children’s play area, furnished with a rocking chair and a soft cushion—an inviting space for nurturing and caring for young children.
Restroom Facilities and Plumbing
Regarding bathroom amenities, the home features basic facilities without modern plumbing fixtures. Inside, a simple toilet seat is present, but there is no water tank or elaborate plumbing system, consistent with Amish preferences for simplicity. Outside the home, an outhouse is located along a straightforward walkway, serving as an additional sanitation option.
Inside the house, a bathtub suggests some level of comfort, though the water supply system appears to be non-conventional. A pulley system connected to a suspended bucket hints at a manual method of water retrieval and heating, reflecting traditional practices. The adjacent washroom contains two wringer washing machines, indicating a large family that relies on manual laundry processes.
Functional Washroom and Water Heating System
The washroom area features a metal water heater, with piping leading from a wood-burning stove, demonstrating a simple yet effective water heating technique used in more traditional Amish settings. A box of firewood and the piping system for smoke ventilation are visible, emphasizing the self-sufficient lifestyle of the inhabitants.
Basement: Storage, Gatherings, and Utility Space
The basement is sizable and versatile, often used for storing canned goods, as a secondary kitchen for food preservation, or as a space for family activities and gatherings. The flooring appears to be faux-wood, providing a finished look, and a heating stove indicates the space can be comfortably used year-round. The basement’s design reflects the practical needs of a large Amish family, combining utility with modest comfort.
The Icehouse: Preserving Nature’s Coolness
An intriguing feature of this property is its built-in icehouse, characterized by thick insulating walls—at least a foot deep—to maintain cold temperatures. Ice blocks harvested from nearby lakes or ponds are stored here, capable of preserving perishable foods through the warmer months. Inside, packages of food, such as a reddish packet labeled “FRANKS,” are stored alongside the ice, illustrating the community’s traditional food preservation methods.
Property Value and Market Details
The entire property, including the home and its 12.6 acres of land, is currently listed for sale at $325,000. This price tag reflects the combination of scenic beauty, functional structures, and the traditional lifestyle offered by this authentic Amish homestead. The listing is managed by Khristina Brewer of Realty One Group Landmark, and the aerial view of the property showcases its spaciousness and natural surroundings.