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What are Amish Women Really Like?
by Vannetta Chapman
I’m often asked this question, and of course the answer is the same as it would be in regard to Englisch women—they’re all different! It’s true. We are all uniquely and gloriously made, and in some ways, we are all different. But I think the question relates more to the stereotypical role of women in Amish communities, so I’ll try to answer that.
- Are the women usually stay-at-home moms? Yes! The average Amish household includes 8 children, and I’ve seen many with 10-12, so Mom is definitely at home. It wouldn’t be financially beneficial to work outside the home, and believe me there’s plenty to do even if the children are in school. Think of all that laundry and hanging it on the line … plus cooking for so many, making lunches for school (all children bring their lunch to school), etc. Amish moms are super busy!
- Do Amish women ever work outside the home? Of course. You see this more in areas like Shipsehwana, Indiana than you do in Beeville, Texas. Many of the stores and restaurants in Shipshe like having Amish employees. Also, they’re willing to work around a mom’s schedule and agree to letting them have Sundays off. Most of the Amish women I’ve met who do work outside the home don’t have children yet.
- Are Amish women subservient to their husbands? The first time I heard this asked, the husband grinned and said, “Stick around and see who helps with the dishes—I do!” The Amish couples I’ve spoken with also emphasize that they work as a team, in raising their children, working the farm, and caring for the home. However, when there’s a decision to be made, the final decision is often made by the husband.
- Do Amish women have bank accounts? Many do, especially if they work outside the home. However, when a woman marries, it would be a joint account with her husband. And, of course, there are still other women who prefer that their husbands deal with the financial side of things.
- What are women’s role in church? A woman cannot serve as a deacon or pastor in an Amish church—at least, not in the communities I’ve visited. However, they do serve other very important roles, such as helping with benevolence, etc.
I address some of these things in An Amish Baby for Christmas. Abigail Yutzy is a young soon-to-be mom and widow who knows very little about how the farm is run or her own financial situation. While the church steps in to help her, Abigail has to overcome her own fears and doubts in order to find the courage to be independent and to trust that God has a plan for her. I hope you enjoy her story!
Purchase links…
My review…
This is an enjoyable Christmas-themed Amish novel. It’s part of a series (Indiana Amish Brides), but it could easily stand alone.
Chapman has crafted relatable and realistic characters, and you can’t help but root for Thomas and Abigail. Their struggles and concerns for the future will likely resonate with many readers.
This sweet romance is a quick read, and the holiday season just adds to the overall charm of the story. I look forward to reading more books in the series (and from Chapman).
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
About Vannetta…
Vannetta Chapman writes fiction full of grace and is the author of over 25 novels. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Vannetta is a Carol award winner and a Christy award finalist. She lives in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full time. She and her husband spend their time doting on their Labrador, beagle, and herd of deer. When she’s not writing, Vannetta loves to knit, quilt, hike, camp, and travel.
Where you can find her online:
Rules for giveaway can be found here.
I really enjoyed this post because it answered so many of my questions. Thank you!
You’re welcome, Danielle. Good luck!
Thanks for stopping by, Danielle.
I love reading about the Amish and their way of living. The blurb sounds good. Thanks for the chance.
You’re welcome, Lynn. Good luck!
I love reading about their way of life too, Lynn. So many of the things they do we can try in our own lives to simplify and slow down.
0always love inside info on Amishlifestyle
I agree, Lori. Good luck!
Thanks for stopping by, Lori.
Some of my questions were answered, but I also wonder about how Amish women are allowed to decorate their homes. Do they use floral arrangements? What style of chinaware do they have? I know that quilting is very popular among the Amish. Do they enjoy other kinds of needlework such as embroidery or needlepoint?
Hmm, I’m not sure. Good questions. I believe I’ve read some books which mention needlework.
Good luck, Roxanne!
DoAmish families celebrate Thanksgiving with just their immediate family or large family gatherings at mom’s , grand mom’s aunts, & cousins? Thank you!! Have a great Thanksgiving!
Good questions! I’m not sure. Perhaps Vannetta will be able to stop back by and answer.
Good luck, and have a blessed Thanksgiving, Marilyn.
Hi Roxanne. I can only speak about the homes that I’ve been in — decorations are minimal, definitely no floral arrangements though you might find wildflowers in a jar. Dishes are plain and utilitarian. And yes–they do needlework as well as knitting and crocheting.