Arcadia News — award winning neighborhood news since 1993
June 2016
June 2016, page 38

Representing students of Arizona universities, community colleges and high schools, as well as other emerging Arizona artists since 1993. 480.946.5076 . artonegalleryinc.com 4130 n marshall way . scottsdale Representing students of Arizona universities, it ll d hi h h l ll 480.946.5076 . artonegall art ne gallery ARTWALK! THURSDAY NIGHTS SCOTTSDALEGALLERIES.COM concentration • judith dauncey • 48” x 48” x 1.5” • acrylic on canvas Page 38 June 2016 By Jean Hodgson When planning a trip to the northeastern part of our country, the options for your itinerary can be overwhelming. Which of the significant historic sites should be a priority? What route would enable me to include as many as possible? Maybe in the midst of major cities and activities, a contrast is appealing to you. If that is the case, consider the agricultural setting and unique culture of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This is Amish Country, where fields are cultivated with horse-drawn machinery, residents live without electricity, and horses pulling black buggies are the chief means of transportation. The farm properties are immaculate. You know you’re looking at an Amish house when you see the laundry hanging from the line that stretches from the house toward the windmill, which helps supply water to the home. There are Amish settlements in 23 states, but primarily in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. The largest is in Lancaster County, which also is the home of many Mennonites. This group is closely related to the Amish in beliefs but less conservative. They share a common history of emigration from Europe in the early 18th century. Both groups are distinctive by their plain and conservative clothing, but also by their priorities of the importance of family, religious convictions and community relationships. An attraction for visitors, besides observing this simpler way of life and the beauty of the farmland, is the “cottage industries” that allow many Amish to supplement their farm incomes. Our favorite village for enjoying local food and crafts is Bird-in-Hand located on Old Philadelphia Pike. Unique names are a characteristic of many villages in Amish Country, and this one dates back to 1734. The legend is that surveyors were at a local inn, trying to decide whether to stay there or return to Lancaster. One of them said, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” The expression resulted in the eventual name of the inn and then the village. This inn is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and residents say the symbol of the bird nestled in the human hand indicates friendship, comfort and hospitality. Plan ahead to eat outstanding local treats, especially baked goods such as shoo fly pie, but also leave room in your luggage for canned goods and all kinds of locally made crafts. The craftsmen are particularly known for creating high quality furniture, but my priority is admiring the exquisite quilts that are like fine art pieces. Another favorite destination in this area is Strasburg – otherwise known as Train Town. Taking a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road is another way to view this picturesque area and the steam engine feels like a trip back in time. This town is also home to the Rail Road Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, and a fun shop called the Choo Choo Barn, making it a family friendly attraction as well. During your visit, you may occasionally hear an unfamiliar language being spoken among family and friends. This area is known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country, but the language is not from the Netherlands. It is similar to German and most commonly used at home. It’s one more reason why, every time I visit Lancaster County, I think of it as “a culture within a culture.” Exploring the unique culture of Amish Country Handmade quilts and horse-pulled black buggies are a few of the items visitors will see in Amish Country. RETIREMENT NOW WHAT?

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