The Amish as a Tourist Attraction: Marguerite de Angeli's Influential Role

The Amish as a Tourist Attraction: Marguerite de Angeli’s Influential Role

The transformation of Lancaster County’s Amish community into a major tourist attraction can be largely attributed to Marguerite de Angeli, a Havertown-born author whose 1936 children’s book “Henner’s Lydia” played a pivotal role in bringing national attention to the Amish way of life1 6.

De Angeli’s Background and Early Career

Marguerite de Angeli, born Marguerite Lofft in Lapeer, Michigan, moved to the Philadelphia area in 1902 when her father, a photographer and part-time illustrator, was assigned to Pennsylvania by Eastman Kodak1. Initially pursuing a career in singing, de Angeli eventually turned to illustration in the 1920s, which led to her first children’s books in 19351.

The Creation of “Henner’s Lydia”

In 1935, following the success of her first two children’s books, de Angeli’s editor suggested she write about the Pennsylvania Dutch1. Despite living in Coatesville and having no prior knowledge of the Amish, de Angeli embarked on a research trip to Lancaster County1. Her observations of Amish schools, children, and daily life formed the basis for “Henner’s Lydia,” a story about a young Amish girl named Lydia Stolzfus1.

Impact on Amish Tourism

The publication of “Henner’s Lydia” in 1936 coincided with a controversy over Amish schools, bringing further attention to the community1. De Angeli’s book was a commercial success, particularly among Lancaster booksellers, and sparked a trend of Amish-themed literature and merchandise1.

Key developments following the book’s release include:

1937: Publication of “The Amish of Lancaster County,” the first of many visitor-oriented booklets about the Amish1
1939: Introduction of Amish dolls and novelties to the national market1
1955: Opening of the Amish Farm & House, Lancaster County’s first Amish tourist attraction1
1963: Establishment of Dutch Wonderland amusement park1

Growth of Amish Tourism

The post-World War II era saw a significant increase in Amish tourism, facilitated by:

133% growth in car ownership in the United States from 1945 to 19601
Opening of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in 1940, making Lancaster County more accessible1
Increasing visitor numbers: from 2 million in 1960 to 11 million in 20071

The Amish in Lancaster County Today

As of 2025, Lancaster County remains America’s oldest and one of the largest Amish settlements, with over 31,000 Amish individuals residing in the area4 7. The Pennsylvania Amish continue to maintain their centuries-old “Plain” lifestyle, characterized by:

Faith-based traditions largely unchanged for nearly 300 years4
Use of horse and buggy as a primary form of transportation4
Involvement in agriculture, businesses, and cottage industries4

Lancaster County’s landscape reflects this unique culture, featuring:

Roadside stands selling homemade goods and fresh produce4
Windmills harnessing natural power4
Rolling hills and expansive Amish farmland4

Visitors to Lancaster County can experience aspects of traditional Amish life through various tours and attractions, such as The Amish Village, which offers guided tours of an authentic 1840s Amish farmhouse and a 12-acre village2 7.

Marguerite de Angeli’s “Henner’s Lydia” played a crucial role in shaping the public’s perception of the Amish, presenting them as relatable yet idealized figures. This portrayal, combined with subsequent developments in tourism infrastructure, has transformed Lancaster County into a popular destination for those seeking to experience a glimpse of a simpler, more traditional way of life1.

The Amish as a Tourist Attraction: Marguerite de Angeli’s Influential Role