Yoder Family Baskets

An extended family where two households are united in a tradition of craftsmanship.

David and Rebecca Yoder’s story is one of heritage, hard work, and the joy of working side by side. Married for over 27 years, they are part of the second and third generations of Yoders to weave baskets, carrying forward a tradition that began long before they were born.

David was born in Ohio in a family where basketmaking was a way of life. Rebecca’s early years were spent in Minnesota, where she learned to weave at just 13. Both families eventually moved to our local Amish community here on the Iowa-Missouri border, settling on farms a short distance apart. It was here, while fishing as youngsters, that David and Rebecca first met.

Today, they make their home in the same house David’s father purchased when they first moved to our community. Now their own children, Lydiann, Barbara, Anna, Lana, and Mary, are growing up in the same home. Their deep ties to weaving have fostered a close‑knit extended family where siblings are also devoted to the craft and live nearby. David’s brother Jacob and his wife Sarah are just down the road, and their children often join in the work. It is truly a family operation, with multiple generations creating baskets together.

The Yoders’ 76‑acre farm is devoted mainly to hay, with horses, cows, and chickens adding to the daily chores. Their half‑acre garden overflows with tomatoes, onions, beans, sweet corn, strawberries, and melons. They especially enjoy the mild days of Spring and Fall when the air is gentle and the work feels just right.

A typical day begins with breakfast, followed by milking cows and feeding the animals. Then it is into the basket shop, where the family works Monday through Friday. Saturdays are for laundry and catching up on other household tasks.

Over the years, certain baskets have become their favorites. The Knitting Basket is loved for its intricate design and usefulness. They also enjoy the holiday spirit that the Santa Sleigh Centerpiece brings to their workbench. They also enjoy crafting the Large Vintage Picnic Basket, finding it to be a satisfying basket to complete.

Their favorite family meal includes dishes often served at an Amish wedding, and they affectionately refer to it as the “wedding meal”, with mashed potatoes, gravy, lettuce salad, and fried chicken. At Christmas, pecan pie is always on their table. A favorite family recipe is Grandmother’s Chocolate Cake, a treat that has been passed down through the years.

When someone receives a Yoder family basket, they hope the customer feels the quality in their hands and the satisfaction of owning something made with care by a family working together, just as their forefathers did.

 

The Yoder’s Favorite Family Recipe

GRANDMOTHER'S CHOCOLATE CAKE

1/2 c. butter, melted    
1 c. sugar    
1 c. packed brown sugar    
2 eggs    
1 tsp. vanilla    
2 c. flour    
1/3 c. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1/2 c. milk
1 tsp. baking powder

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars. Add eggs, vanilla and milk; beat well. Combine flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder and baking soda; add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in water; mix until smooth. Batter will be thin. Pour into greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake at 350° for 35 to 40 minutes or until cake is done. Dust with confectioners sugar, if desired.