Amish

The Amish are a denomination of Anabaptists and noted for their restrictions on the use of modern devices such as automobiles and electricity. The Amish are a tight-knit cultural and ethnic group, descending from predominately Swiss German immigrants. Most Amish speak at home a distinctive High German dialect (Deitsch or "Pennsylvania Dutch)", although the so-called "Swiss Amish" speak an Alemannic dialect which they call "Swiss". Note that the Amish are just one group of the "Pennsylvania Dutch," who are generally of German descent; the word "Dutch" being an archaism. Finally, more "progressive" Beachy Amish, especially those who were born roughly after 1960 tend to speak predominately in English at home.

Amish split in two

Most Amish communities which were established in North America did not ultimately retain their Amish identity. In fact, many more of the early communities eventually lost their Amish identity and took on gradually a Mennonite identity. The original major split which would result in the loss of identity occured during the 1860s. During the 1860's conferences were held in Wayne County, Ohio concerning how the Amish should deal with the pressures of modern society.

Related Topics:
1860s - Wayne County, Ohio

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The Amish eventually split into several divisions, partly a result of the decisions of these conferences. The divisions which chose to accept more change, would eventually see their churches and communities become Mennonite.

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