Visiting Amish Country in Holmes County By Will Allensworth At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

The Ohio General Assembly established the area that today is known as Holmes County, Ohio in 1824. Named after Andrew Holmes, an officer who died in the War of 1812 during an attack on Fort Mackinack in 1814, white German immigrants first settled the area between 1809 and 1810. At about this same time, smaller groups of eastern Pennsylvanian Amish Mennonites traveled across the Alleghenies in to settle near the Village of Sugarcreek, Ohio in Tuscarawas County near the Holmes County line.

Today, the area now has the largest population of Amish people anywhere in the world with nearly 18,000 out of 40,000 residents in Holmes County being Amish. While you're visiting the area, make sure that you take in the picturesque scenery. Spend time enjoying the county's relaxing pace and wander down the winding country back roads of yesteryear. You'll quickly discover that every major road through the area could be designated as a scenic drive.

The Amish People of Holmes County

The common misconception, which is totally false by the way, is that the Amish people are called as such due to their religious beliefs. The truth is that they are called Amish because of the oral traditions of their religion, called Ordnung, which has been passed down from generation to generation. Ordnung is a behavioral set of guidelines that they are committed to living their lives by. This lifestyle ethic is illustrated by their artwork, furniture, handmade quilts, and toys that can be found in the communities of Berlin, Millersburg, and Walnut Creek.

There will be some variance in culture and tradition depending on the community that you visit. Dating, dress, marriage, roles of both the man and woman in the community and households, as well as how much modern technology is acceptable will vary. The Amish have always believed that they are equal in the eyes of God and that all things are done for His glory and to serve no other purpose.

Things to Do in Holmes County

Vacationing in Holmes County will afford the traveler with a wide variety of dining, lodging, sightseeing, and shopping opportunities unlike anywhere else in the United States. If you want to relieve your stress, a trip to Holmes County and Ohio's Amish Country is just what the doctor ordered. Those who have grown weary of the din and stressful pace of city life in the larger metropolises can escape from it when they visit Holmes County. Here are a few recommendations for things to do while visiting there.

Amish Country Hot Air Balloon Rides - one hour flights by reservation only

Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center - features a bookstore, Conestoga wagon, gift shop, local crafts, and a one-room schoolhouse

Amish Country Riding Stables - Amish Country Riding Stables located at the Guggisberg Swiss Inn feature horse and buggy rides, as well as sleigh rides in winter (weather permitting)

This is just a small sample of what awaits you when you visit Holmes County. For more information on attractions, dining, local events, lodging, and shopping, there are a number of websites available online that are filled with all the information you need.

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