Do Amish People Still Use Horse-Drawn Carriages?

Yes, I've had the opportunity to visit Lancaster County, PA and Holmes County, OH, where many Amish people live. What they ride in, that are pulled by horses, are

actually called buggies.

Members of older Amish communities adhere to a belief in using non-motorized means of transportation. This includes not using motorized vehicles or farming equipment; instead, they rely on horse-drawn buggies.

Observations and Experiences in the Field

During a recent visit to one of our local Amish/Mennonite areas, I counted 8 buggies on the road. Three were parked at schools waiting for children, while another was a dogcart drawn by a pony that a group of children were learning to hitch and drive. If you're curious about this, it would be more efficient to look up the information on your own using a search engine like Google.

The Modernization of Amish Buggies

While the core principle of using horse-drawn carriages remains unchanged, some modernizations have been introduced. The buggies now come with better wheels and improved suspension, although the fundamental design and functionality have stayed largely the same since I first learned about them.

The buggies are used for various purposes, including family transportation and businesses. Wagons are used for the delivery and pickup of supplies, and the horses often leave a trail of road apples.

Interestingly, some Amish teenagers even enjoy listening to music on their buggies, often incorporating a built-in stereo system. The flashers on the modern buggies help reduce the risk of accidents.

Age and Context of Horse Drawn Buggies

The average Amish-owned horse and buggy in Lancaster County, PA, travels within a 20-mile radius. Beyond that distance, the horse would become too tired to continue. While they are not opposed to driving automobiles, recognizing their practicality, the Amish prefer to use horse-drawn carriages as a matter of religious and cultural tradition.

Types of Horses and Buggies

The horses used in Amish buggies typically include:

Former Standardbred race horses that are no longer racing Saddlebreds that were previously part of a show career as a Fine Harness Horse

These horses are used for family transportation and can also be seen pulling wagons for various purposes.

It is a fascinating aspect of Amish culture that adds a unique charm to the region, making it a popular tourist attraction and a topic of interest for many.