The Amish have this homesteading thing figured out! And they do it all without electricity or Amazon. We should pay attention because we might learn a few homesteading lessons from the Amish.
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Following a Rabbit Trail
I get on kicks where I will follow a rabbit trail of thought right to the very end. At some point in my life, the rabbit trail I chose to wander down was the Amish way of life. By the end of my lengthy research I was able to tell you a lot about the Amish way of life despite never having lived it. The simplicity yet difficulty of daily life in an Amish community fascinated me. A few years later I discovered the homesteading lifestyle. It took me back to my fascination with the Amish. I realized that I could learn many homesteading lessons from the Amish to apply in my own life.
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Homesteading Lessons from the Amish
Put God First
The Amish are very religious people. Although the work might be tough and the days long, they always make time for God. They pray before meals, attend church service, and get together for regular fellowship.
And Family Second
After God comes their family. In Amish country you will see multi-generational farms. The children are working alongside their grandparents. The elderly are taken care of by younger family members. The knowledge and skills needed to continue to live their way of life is passed on in the most tangible way. But we can also learn from shunnings, that nothing is thicker than blood. We shouldn’t allow our differences to destroy our families.
Many Hands Make Light Work
Have you ever seen a barn raising? There are men, women, and children everywhere. The community comes together to do in a day what would have taken a family many months. When somebody falls ill or injured their community comes around to support them by helping with chores, children, and the farm.
Frugality is a Good Thing
The Amish do not waste money on unnecessary things. They do not go into debt for anything. Instead they work hard and save in order to purchase what is needed. You won’t find them wasting their money on the hottest new item. Instead they use what they have to create a beautiful life with all of the things that they need. If you’re looking to live more frugally check out these tips from my grandma!
Big Gardens Feed Big Families
One major homesteading lesson from the Amish is to plant a big garden. A big garden will provide fresh produce during the summer with enough left to preserve for the winter. We aren’t talking about a little raised bed in the backyard. They take gardening very seriously.
Waste Not
When you work so hard for food, you’re sure not to let it go to waste. But that’s not all the Amish use wisely. They do not waste a bit of daylight. You will see them up early in the fields and out late in the barns. Money isn’t wasted on the newest gizmo or gimmick. Everybody should take this homesteading lesson from the Amish. Society would be better for it.
Treat Your Animals with Care
Have you ever seen how the Amish care for their horses? It is how many of us would treat a luxury car. Of course when your life depends on your animals, it would make sense to take utmost care of them. If you feed the chickens well, then they will lay lots of good quality eggs. When the cats are well cared for, they will keep the mice away.
Shoes are Optional
I know this isn’t really a homesteading specific lesson, but I thought it was worth mentioning anyways. The Amish, especially children are often seen barefoot. This actually makes perfect sense. Good shoes don’t get ruined. Feet are easier to clean than shoes. Going barefoot allows the feet and ankles to grow strong and form correctly. I actually prefer to garden barefoot because I don’t step on any plants that way. Who am I kidding, I’m barefoot as often as possible.
Diversify
The Amish do not depend solely on a single source for anything. They may use batteries, propane, and generators for power. Ducks, chickens, and quail may provide eggs. Money may come from farmer’s markets, carpentry, furniture making, baked goods, or even a store. Homesteaders who wish to make a full time living or live self-sufficiently should also learn to diversify.
Everybody Has Job
Everybody on an Amish farm has a job. The mother keeps the home, cooks the food, and raises the children. The father tends to the animals, provides an income, and maintains the fields. The children each have chores and responsibilities alongside school. When everybody has a job that means everyone is a necessary and important part of the family. Adults and children both need to feel that their role is necessary.
The site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As a Revive EO Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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