Amish Communities

Amish businesses in the Cashton Area: Amish directory

As you drive through the Driftless Area, there’s no doubt at some point you will see Amish farms, buggies, pedestrians, and businesses that include bakeries, quilts, maple syrup, greenhouses and woodworking. This isn’t surprising as Wisconsin has the fourth largest population of Amish in the US (behind Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana.) You may even see a horse and buggy parked outside a store in town. Here is a little more information on their communities nestled in the Coulee Region and some etiquette to keep in mind as you see or interact with them.

While there are some variances from community to community in their customs and traditions and New Order vs Old Order, most do not use any modern technology. In general they do not have phones, cars, electricity, indoor plumbing, computers, etc. If they own a business, a phone might be allowed, but not in the house. They do not want a phone to interfere with family time or conversations around the dinner table. A diesel generator might be allowed, too, depending on the need for their business.

The largest Amish community in Wisconsin is in the Cashton area. They are part of the Old Order Amish and have no indoor plumbing, dress plainly, use a dialect of the German language, church services take place in homes (on a rotation basis), and no electricity.

Businesses are typically open during the week. All Amish businesses and shops are closed on Sundays. Some are also closed on Thursdays as this is a common day for weddings. Remember when patronizing an Amish greenhouse, bakery, shop or any other business that they do not take credit or debit cards. They accept cash or check, but cash is usually preferred. Also keep in mind that there is no indoor plumbing or electricity which means no public restrooms. Some do have a port-a-potty available for customers to use.

The Amish way of life is certainly different from how most of us live our lives. It may be tempting to take pictures or stare. Here are some helpful tips for being in Amish country and interacting with them.

Be respectful. They are private people just going about their daily lives.
Typically taking photos of a buggy, a farm or farm fields is okay. The Amish do not like having their faces photographed. It’s generally okay to take pictures of an Amish person working in their fields or barns as long as it is from a distance and you do not photograph their face.
Do not ask Amish people to pose for a photo.
When driving, watch out for slow moving Amish buggies and pedestrians. It can be difficult to see them, especially at night or when it’s foggy. Give buggies plenty of room, slow down, use low beam headlights when approaching, do not blow your horn as this can spook or frighten the horses. Do not pass on hills or curves.
Do not enter private property without permission
Do not feed or pet horses that are harnessed to a buggy or wagon or tied to a hitching post.
Dress respectfully. Modesty is appreciated. Some stores have signage up requesting modest attire while shopping at their store.
Do not approach children or take pictures of their faces. Think how you would feel about a stranger approaching your children or family.