A Journey by Amish Buggy

We hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying these beautiful late Summer days. As the fields begin to turn golden and the air carries a hint of the upcoming harvest, we are reminded of the simple joys and rhythms of Amish life. This week, we delve into the unique experience of traveling by buggy, a topic that has sparked much curiosity among our readers.

Traveling by buggy is more than just a mode of transportation for the Amish; it is a way of life that fosters a deep connection with nature and community. One of the most cherished aspects of buggy travel is the opportunity to observe wildlife and spend quality time together. Whether it's a leisurely ride to town or a visit to a neighbor, the journey itself becomes a moment of reflection and togetherness.

However, buggy travel is not without its challenges. In different weather conditions, especially in an open buggy, the cold can be quite biting, affecting the feet and face the most. Despite these challenges, the Amish have adapted well, often opting to hire a driver when the distance is too far, the weather too harsh, or time is of the essence. Hiring a driver also comes in handy when the route is unfamiliar, as drivers typically have GPS to navigate.

A typical day using the buggy for errands or visits starts with harnessing the horse and hitching it to the buggy, a process that takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Hitching up and taking the buggy allows for a more relaxed journey, free from the pressure of a driver waiting outside during visits along the way. Upon returning home, the horse needs to be unhitched and cared for, completing the cycle of the day's travels.

Longer journeys require careful planning. On warm days, carrying a spray bottle of water to cool the horse and extra water for hydration is a normal practice. Starting the journey slowly and allowing the horse to set its own pace helps prevent overheating. Watering the horse en route is also crucial.

There are many special memories associated with buggy travel. One such memory is the thrill of racing horses on gravel country roads, a practice that, while not entirely recomended, brings a sense of exhilaration and fun. Safety is always a concern, and well-lit buggies with flashers and battery lights are essential for visibility.

The benefits of using a buggy extend beyond transportation. It offers a chance to spend time together, observe nature, reduce pollutants, and conserve fuel. The care and training of horses for buggy use is meticulous, involving various techniques to ensure the horse is well-prepared and not easily spooked.

There are common misconceptions about Amish buggies, one being their cost. Contrary to popular belief, buggies are quite expensive to purchase. Using a buggy also strengthens the connection to the community and the environment. It encourages participation in local events and provides ample time to appreciate the surrounding scenery and wildlife.

Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on

AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.

The Mast Family

Last week, we shared Rosa Mast's method of making sauerkraut without heat processing, which sparked quite a bit of interest! Rosa kindly provided her process for those curious to try it:

"Shred cabbage and place it in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt per quart of cabbage, mix well, and let it stand for 10 minutes until water forms. Pack the cabbage into jars, ensuring the juice covers the cabbage. Fill to 1 inch from the top of the jars, cover tightly, and let stand for 3 days at room temperature. Then, move the jars to your basement or a cool, dark place. This sauerkraut should keep for up to 1 year."

Rosa's sauerkraut is a testament to the simplicity and effectiveness of traditional methods, preserving the fresh taste of cabbage for months to come.

The Yoder Family

The Yoder family has been busy with their harvest and canning efforts. Rebecca reported canning 52 quarts of sweetcorn this year. Alongside her daughters, she also processed 16 quarts of pickles and 40 quarts of green beans. Their pantry shelves are now brimming with the fruits of their labor. In addition to their garden bounty, the Yoders have been enjoying fresh fish, thanks to a generous neighbor who loves to fish. They received a couple of dozen bass and bluegills, which they cleaned and stored in saltwater in their ice house. This week, they've been savoring fried fish and fish patties, adding a delightful variety to their meals.

The Gingerich Family

The Gingerich girls had a busy Friday baking a dozen pies to share with friends and family. Their delicious creations included cherry, strawberry rhubarb, and apple pies, filling their home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. The Gingerich family is also in full swing with their canning activities. They processed 60 quarts of raspberry pie filling from their black raspberry patch and canned 14 quarts of peaches using peaches purchased from the local bulk food store. Their hard work ensures they'll have plenty of delicious treats to enjoy throughout the year.

"Apple butter, just like relationships, takes time to boil, time to cool, and time to turn out wonderfully."

— Amish Wisdom