Amish families in the area have increased in population throughout
the past years. Among the marshlands filled with cranberries in
central Wisconsin live over 200 Amish families. The average family will
have as many as 10-14 children.
The Amish community consists of several church districts. Each
church district is led by a Bishop, two Ministers, and a Deacon. Most
Amish are farmers, but many have taken up a craft or trade to make
their living.
The Amish way of life revolves around the family and their church
community. Quilting, bees, barn raisings, and Sunday services in the
home are just a few of the ways.
The Amish school consists of all eight grades taught in a one-room
schoolhouse. The children start school at age six and will usually
complete all of their schoolings by the time they are 13 or 14. Higher
education is not allowed, as this might lead to losing them to the
English culture. The three basics: Reading, writing, and arithmetic are
the primary curriculum required in Amish schools.
While on your driving tour of the Amish countryside south of Tomah,
please use caution and watch out for horse-drawn buggies that travel
slowly. Sundays are especially heavily trafficked due to Amish families
attending religious services or visiting relatives.
Amish homes, typically painted white with windmills, are easily identified
by their lack of modern machinery. Also, take note of the "additions" to
their homes, which generally means a son has married, and the family
now needs an additional room for a new couple.
GIFT SHOPS &
AMISH TOURS
12651 St. Hwy. 33, Cashton, Wi 54619
downacountryroad.com • 608-654-5318
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