Collection: Borntrager Family Baskets

A family rooted in our local community, now teaching their children the craft.

Alton and Dorothy Borntrager’s home is a place where family, faith, and craft come together. Married for over 17 years, they share a life built on the values they learned as children growing up here in the same Amish community they still call home today.

Alton was born in Minnesota, and Dorothy was born in Delaware, but both moved to the local community when they were very young. Growing up in the same close‑knit community meant their paths crossed often, and over time, friendship grew into the partnership they now share.

Their children, including Regina Fern, Rosanna, Emma Sue, Savilla, Luella, along with Verna Mae and Verda Kay, who are twins, bring energy and joy to the household. Dorothy’s sister lives next door and lends a hand in the basket shop, making the work truly a family affair.

The Borntragers’ 13‑acre farm is a blend of pasture and fruit trees, and in their large garden, they like to grow tomatoes, squash, green beans, and popcorn. Summer is their favorite season, when the garden is in full swing and their table is continually filled with fresh vegetables. Shared meals are a cornerstone of their days as they find time to talk, laugh, and plan together.

Basketmaking is more than a livelihood on the Borntrager farm; it’s a way to keep the family close. The shop is a place where skills are passed down, patience is learned, and enjoyment in workmanship is shared. Their favorite baskets reflect both beauty and practicality: the Large Table Centerpiece for display and serving, the Lazy Susan Basket for family meals, and the Nesting Storage Baskets for keeping the home tidy.

They especially appreciate holiday meals of mashed potatoes, gravy, turkey, and pie. One of Dorothy’s favorite family recipes to make and serve the family is a rich brownie pudding that’s always met with smiles. Beyond the holidays, the Borntragers enjoy the simple pleasures of Amish life, highlighted with evenings spent visiting neighbors, tending to the garden as a family, or watching the children play in the yard while the sun sets over the schoolhouse that sits on the farm next to theirs.

For Alton and Dorothy, basketmaking means having everyone at home, working toward a common goal. They hope each basket they complete brings happiness to its new owner… Not just for its usefulness, but because it carries the appreciation of their family. In every weave and handle, there’s a piece of their life here in the Heartland, waiting to become a part of someone else’s memories.

The Borntrager’s Favorite Family Recipe

BROWNIE PUDDING
 
1 c. flour    
2 tsp. baking powder    
1/2 tsp. salt    
3/4 c. sugar    
3/4 c. brown sugar    
1/4 c. cocoa    
1 c. milk
1/3 c. cocoa
1 tsp. Vanilla
2 Tbsp. shortening, melted
3/4 c. chopped nuts (your choice)
1 3/4 c. hot water

Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and 1/4 c. cocoa. Add milk, vanilla and shortening. Mix until smooth. Add nuts (optional). Pour into 13 x 9 inch greased pan. Mix brown sugar and 1/3 c. cocoa. Sprinkle over batter. Pour hot water over entire batter. Do not mix. Bake at 350° for 40 to 50 minutes.