The Amish are a traditional Christian group that originated in Switzerland in the late 1600s and settled in Pennsylvania in the early 18th century. They are known for simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many modern conveniences. Amish dolls are unique in that they typically do not have facial features. This stems from the Amish belief in humility and the avoidance of pride or vanity. In this article, we will explore the history and customs behind the faceless Amish doll tradition.
History of the Amish and Their Beliefs
The Amish trace their origins to the Anabaptist movement in Switzerland in 1693 led by Jakob Ammann. This was during a time of religious persecution, and the Anabaptists emphasized adult baptism over infant baptism. Amish followers of Ammann split and migrated to Pennsylvania in the early 1700s to escape persecution and practice their faith freely.
The Amish live by the teachings of the Bible interpreted literally. They emphasize humility, community, and separation from the modern world. Technology and modern conveniences are avoided if they could lead to pride or weaken bonds within the community. The Amish believe in living simply, dressing plainly, and staying separate from non-Amish (“English”) society.
Key Beliefs
– Adult baptism
– Literal interpretation of the Bible
– Rejection of technology that could lead to pride
– Simple living and plain clothing
– Community and separation from modern society
Amish Lifestyle and Customs
There are several key aspects of Amish lifestyle and customs:
Clothing
Amish clothing is very plain and simple, usually in dark colors. Women wear dresses and aprons. They wear a white head covering once married. Men wear dark suits and hats. Mustaches are common but beards are prohibited. Clothing is usually handmade. Buttons, zippers, and patterned fabric are avoided as too flashy.
Transportation
Horse and buggy is the main transportation. Bicycles are also used. Cars are avoided, although some Amish may ride in cars or taxis driven by non-Amish. This keeps them humble and tied to the community instead of independent travel.
Technology
Most modern technology is avoided, including electricity, telephones, computers, and radios. These could lead to contamination from outside influences. Some exceptions like gas stoves or battery powered lights may be allowed. The emphasis is living simply.
Education
Amish children attend school through 8th grade. The curriculum focuses on practical skills and Amish values. Very few go on to high school or college, which could expose them too much to outside influences.
Amish Dolls as Teaching Tools
For Amish girls, handmade dolls are an important part of growing up. They are teaching tools to prepare young girls for motherhood and running a household. Amish dolls portray Amish culture and values. Making them is an important bonding experience between mothers and daughters.
Why Amish Dolls Have No Faces
According to Amish belief, dolls should not have detailed faces because only God can create human faces. Painting distinct human features could be seen as vain or self-aggrandizing. The lack of facial features emphasizes the religious focus on humility. Plain faceless dolls prevent inappropriate attachment and follow the Amish practice of unassuming plainness in all aspects of life.
Typical Features of Amish Dolls
– No painted face, or just small simple dots for eyes/mouth
– Handmade from cloth and stuffing
– Hand sewn and clothed in plain Amish dress
– Bonnet or prayer cap head covering
– Simple hairstyle or just a knot of yarn
– Accessories reflect Amish life like aprons, quilts, baskets
Role of Dolls in Amish Culture
For Amish girls, handmade dolls teach important skills:
– Sewing
– Crafting
– Mothering skills
– Amish values of humility and plainness
Caring for dolls prepares young girls for running a household and raising a family within the Amish tradition. It passes down skills and values from generation to generation. Mothers and daughters sew dolls together, deepening family bonds.
The Doll Making Process
Amish dolls are completely handmade using simple materials. Here is an overview of the traditional doll making process:
1. Create the Body
Two pieces of plain fabric are cut into an oval shape for the front and back. Cotton stuffing is added for fullness. Simple stitching attaches the front and back pieces.
2. Sew the Face
Facial features are very minimal. Usually plain cloth with just small stitches for simple dots as eyes and mouth. No distinct human features are painted.
3. Make the Clothing
The doll is dressed in traditional Amish clothing. Apron and bonnet for girls, pants and shirt for boys. All clothing is painstakingly sewn by hand.
4. Add Accessories
Small baskets, quilts, or other Amish items like produce from the garden can be made in miniature for the doll to hold. These reflect daily Amish life.
5. Finishing Touches
Yarn is used to create hair tied in a simple knot or braid. Small booties or shoes are sewn to finish the Amish doll’s outfit.
Examples of Amish Dolls
Amish dolls are usually very similar since creative embellishment is avoided. Some common examples include:
Amish Girl Doll
– Blue or green dress
– White apron and cape
– Matching bonnet
– Yarn braids or bun
– Black shoes
– Small basket of flowers
Amish Boy Doll
– Black pants and vest
– White or blue shirt
– Black hat
– Yarn hair
– Black boots
– Horse or tools from the farm
Amish Baby Doll
– White gown
– Matching bonnet
– Yarn wiggle or braids
– Booties
– Rattle or tiny quilt
Buying an Authentic Amish Doll
Many mass-produced Amish-style dolls are sold as decorations or collectibles. However, to get a true handmade Amish doll:
Source
– Visit an Amish community and find a doll artisan directly
– Amish dry goods stores may carry local dolls
– Reputable Amish craft online shops with verified sources
Authentic Features
– Hand sewn and crafted from basic cloth and yarn
– Simple plain dress in Amish style
– Minimal facial features
– Accessories reflect Amish life
– One of a kind, not mass produced
Cost
– $20 to $50 or more for intricate designs
– Reflects time and handcrafted quality
An authentic Amish doll makes a wonderful keepsake and connection to Amish heritage. Supporting Amish doll artisans helps preserve this unique tradition.
The Future of Amish Dolls
Many Amish communities continue the doll making tradition just as it has been done for generations. However, some challenges impact this custom:
Increased Contact with Outsiders
The tourist industry provides income for some communities. But more interaction with non-Amish could lead to some dilution of traditions. Store bought dolls may replace handmade ones.
Pressure of Modern Society
The Internet, factories, and mass media challenge Amish values. Some youth may be less interested in learning doll making skills. Factory-produced toys are more available.
Expense of Supplies
The rising costs of cloth, yarn, and stuffing reduce profits for doll makers. Less incentive exists to invest extensive time handcrafting toys.
To preserve this tradition, Amish must intentionally pass down skills and instill the values symbolized by the faceless doll custom. Demand for the dolls as collectibles and Amish ambassadors also helps keep this folk art alive. Although practices may simplify, the essence of the plain Amish doll endures.
Conclusion
Amish dolls have endured over centuries as teaching tools reflecting Amish values. The lack of facial features stems from the Amish focus on humility and plainness as religious ideals. Hand crafting and dressing the dolls provides important life skills training for young Amish girls. The dolls symbolize identity within the Amish community and separation from modern vanity. Authentic Amish dolls capture the beauty in simplicity and provide a tangible connection to this unique American subculture. With intentional effort, the Amish are likely to preserve this tradition despite pressures from the outside world. The faceless dolls continue exemplifying core Amish beliefs.