The Amish are growing in this age of fast-paced living and changing technology. One big reason for their thriving is family. Building strong families is at the core of the Amish faith. It stands to reason that their furniture will also reflect this value in several key ways.
Generational Quality: Pass It Down to Those You Love
The Amish use solid wood furniture because it’s nearly indestructible. If scratched or dented, real wood can be restored. They purposefully use high-quality wood joining techniques like dovetailed drawers because they last decades longer than glued joints. In an age where some popular furniture lasts 2-5 years, this furniture builds bridges between generations.
Family Furniture for All Ages
The Amish are keenly aware of the many different types of furniture that a growing household will need. They build high chairs and cribs, pie safes, and curio cabinets. They’ve got rocking horses and padded rockers. They make tables that expand or can be compacted. Comfortable Amish dining chairs allow families to sit around the table for hours after a good meal, letting the conversation linger into the night.
They also expect their furniture to be used by people of all ages. The furniture is sturdy, meant to withstand everyday use and the lively activity of children and large families. Most Amish families have six children, and when they design furniture, they consider durability and high traffic.
Cherishing the Home
But most of all, Amish furniture encourages family priorities.
Amish furniture indicates your investment in your home. Surrounding yourself with beautiful furniture helps to make your home a place of comfort and peace. It also shows your family and friends that your home is a place that you care about. Instead of home being a “landing strip” or a “crash pad,” home becomes a place to explore hobbies, make meals, and share conversations.
Additionally, it can signal your investment in family. Making sure your family can fit around the table reinforces family dinners. Comfortable seating in your living room creates an enjoyable atmosphere for movie nights. Storage items like armoires and chests give you a place to store memorable items and keepsakes to give to the next generation.
Made by Families for Families
It’s clear by now that Amish furniture is made to be used by families. They make generational pieces for all ages and lived-in homes. But it’s really because of fathers’ desires to be close to home that the Amish began working in the wood industry. When land became scarcer for farming, they started looking for small business options, flexible enough to accommodate children roaming around. A small, home-based wood shop met their needs perfectly. Manufacturing Amish families are just as tight-knit as they were on the farm. Children play near their father and mother, and teenagers can learn essential skills — all while staying close to home.
