Lancaster, Pennsylvania, located in the heart of Amish Country, is a city known for its rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful landscapes.
Founded in 1729, it is one of the oldest inland towns in the United States, and has since become a hub for tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Visitors to Lancaster can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, from visiting Amish farms and markets to exploring the city’s many museums and historical sites.
The area is also known for its scenic countryside, featuring rolling hills, farmlands, and covered bridges.
Overall, Lancaster is a unique and vibrant city with much to offer visitors and residents alike.
These are the 4 best books written about Lancaster, PA:
- The Big Book of Amish FAQs
- Plain Diversity
- Lancaster: The History & Heritage of a Pioneer Family
- The Susquehanna: River of Dreams
We’ll start with #1.
The Big Book of Amish FAQs: 53 Questions about Amish & Mennonites Answered by an Ex-Mennonite (C. D. Zook)
“The Big Book of Amish FAQs” by C.D. Zook is an essential guide to understanding the Amish way of life.
With 53 answers to common questions, the book covers a wide range of topics, from Amish beliefs and practices to their history and culture. It is a great resource for anyone who is curious about the Amish or who wants to learn more about this unique and often-misunderstood community.
One of the strengths of the book is its clear and concise writing style. Zook presents complex ideas in a way that is easy to understand, making the book accessible to readers with no prior knowledge of the Amish.
The author draws on his own experiences growing up in an Amish family, as well as his extensive experience in Amish culture, to provide an insider’s perspective on the community.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including Amish clothing, education, technology, and social customs. It also addresses some of the misconceptions that people often have about the Amish. It even dives into some taboo questions that are difficult to answer — like whether the Amish qualify as a cult.
Overall, “The Big Book of Amish FAQs” is an informative and engaging read that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Amish. It is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about this unique and intriguing community.
Plain Diversity: Amish Cultures and Identities (Steven M. Nolt)
“Plain Diversity: Amish Cultures and Identities” by Steven M. Nolt is a comprehensive exploration of Amish culture and society in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The book provides an in-depth analysis of the Amish way of life, examining the various subgroups and how they differ in terms of religious beliefs, language, dress, and lifestyle.
One of the strengths of the book is its focus on the diversity within the Amish community. Nolt highlights the fact that there is no single “Amish” culture or way of life, but rather a wide range of variations and subgroups within the community. This is reflected in the book’s detailed analysis of the different Amish affiliations, such as the Old Order Amish, the Swartzentruber Amish, and the Andy Weaver Amish.
Another important theme of the book is the role of identity and community in Amish culture. Nolt explains that for the Amish, identity is closely tied to their religious beliefs and practices, as well as their relationships with other members of the community. The book provides a nuanced exploration of the ways in which Amish individuals and communities negotiate their identities, and the tensions that can arise between different subgroups.
Overall, “Plain Diversity” is a well-researched and insightful examination of Amish culture and society. It offers a valuable perspective on a community that is often misunderstood, and provides a deep appreciation for the richness and complexity of Amish life in Lancaster County.
Lancaster: The History and Heritage of a Pioneer Family (James McClure)
“Lancaster: The History and Heritage of a Pioneer Family” by James McClure is a comprehensive account of the history of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, one of the oldest inland towns in the United States. The book provides a detailed and engaging narrative of Lancaster’s development from its founding in 1729 to the present day, with a particular focus on the city’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the strengths of the book is its attention to detail. McClure draws on a wealth of primary sources to provide a comprehensive and nuanced account of Lancaster’s history, with a focus on the people and events that have shaped the city over the centuries. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the city’s early settlement, its role in the American Revolution and Civil War, and its development as a center of industry and agriculture.
Another important theme of the book is the role of culture and heritage in Lancaster’s history. McClure emphasizes the city’s diverse cultural influences, from the early German and Swiss settlers to the more recent waves of immigrants from Mexico, Vietnam, and other countries. He also highlights the city’s rich architectural heritage, including its many historic buildings and landmarks.
Overall, “Lancaster” is a well-written and informative history of a city that has played a significant role in American history and culture. It offers a valuable perspective on the forces that have shaped Lancaster over the centuries, and provides a deep appreciation for the city’s unique character and heritage.
The Susquehanna: River of Dreams (Susan Q. Stranahan)
“The Susquehanna: River of Dreams” by Susan Q. Stranahan is a beautifully written and highly informative exploration of the history, ecology, and culture of the Susquehanna River. The book provides a detailed and engaging narrative of the river’s development from its origins in upstate New York to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay, with a particular focus on the people and events that have shaped the river over time.
One of the strengths of the book is its attention to the ecological and environmental issues that have affected the Susquehanna over the years. Stranahan highlights the challenges that the river has faced, from pollution and development to overfishing and habitat loss. She also examines the efforts that have been made to protect and restore the river, from grassroots activism to government initiatives.
Another important theme of the book is the cultural significance of the Susquehanna. Stranahan explores the river’s role in Native American cultures, as well as its importance to early European settlers and the development of the region’s economy and industry. She also examines the river’s role in American literature and art, from the writings of James Fenimore Cooper to the paintings of Thomas Cole and the Hudson River School.
Overall, “The Susquehanna: River of Dreams” is a well-researched and beautifully written tribute to one of America’s great rivers. It offers a valuable perspective on the forces that have shaped the Susquehanna over time, and provides a deep appreciation for the river’s natural beauty, cultural significance, and ecological importance.
We Recommend the Big Book of Amish FAQs
While all four of these books are good choices, we recommend The Big Book of Amish FAQs because of its point of view, the topics it covers, and its ability to spur conversation instead of simply delivering facts.
(It also makes a great coffee table book in hardback.)
Buy today!
Gents of Lancaster 