The Amish and Zoarites

Even if you're not from around these parts, I'm sure you've heard about the Amish. But who are these "Zoarites?" Well they didn't land here from a distant galaxy. They were a group of German Separatists who settled in northern Tuscarawas County in the early 1800's and built the communal village of Zoar. They had a lot in common with the Amish. They spoke German. They dressed alike. They lived off the land. They made furniture. And they wore big hats. But the Zoarites had one up on the Amish in the construction category. The Zoarites built their own lock on the Ohio and Erie Canal. Soon the canal turned Zoar into a tourist attraction and by the late 1800's, the villagers quit their communal-style living and went their own ways. Funny how history repeats itself. That's exactly what's happening in Ohio's Amish Country today because of the explosion of tourist stops along State Route 39.

But back to the real reason I wrote this post. Today's addition's to TMG's You Tube channel (TarulliVideo) are "The History of Zoar," "Weaver Leather," and "Coblentz Furniture." The Zoar video was created for the Zoar Community Association, a very hardworking and dedicated group that is trying to keep the village's historical significance alive. You owe it to yourself to pay a visit to Zoar, if for nothing else, to meet these people and let them share their knowledge and love of their village with you. You can purchase this video and others when you visit the Town Hall. Don't forget to go upstairs in the Town Hall to see some really cool artifacts.

Weaver Leather and Coblentz are two companies who take great pride in their Amish heritage. We hope you'll enjoy learning about them as much as we did.

Joel