Upcoming Events Calendar: Amish Auctions (2024)

FAQs

Why do they call it a mud sale? ›

The name refers to early spring, when wet fields have begun to thaw but may not be ready for the plow. Gordonville's mud sale, one of at least a dozen being held this spring in the region, drew thousands of bidders and was expected to net the fire department about $100,000, about 10% of the total proceeds.

Mud sales are huge events where hundreds of items are offered up for bid. They are often called “mud sales” because they occur in the early spring when the ground has just begun to thaw. Here are some of the items you will frequently see for sale at an Amish auction: Quilts. Furniture.

Mud sales are country auctions that benefit volunteer fire departments across what the Amish community refers to as the Lancaster settlement, located some 70 miles (113 kilometers) west of Philadelphia where the devout Christian group began to settle about 300 years ago.

Amish sellers, like those in many cultures, may be open to negotiating prices, particularly in certain contexts such as markets or when dealing with goods that are crafted or produced by hand.

Contrary to certain myths or misconceptions, the Amish community is open to receiving gifts from those outside their community, whom they refer to as "English." In fact, the Amish greatly appreciate thoughtful gestures and acts of kindness from their English neighbors and friends.

Most Amish pay cash for things to avoid debt. While it is true that some Amish will indeed use credit cards for the reward points and convenience, the number who actually carry a credit card is only about 20%.

Earning renown as skilled entrepreneurs, the Amish generate income from a diverse array of businesses, ranging from carpentry and construction to retail shops and restaurants. While the Amish are most well-known for farming, community members also provide a variety of services including lodgings and furniture-making.

Materials are purchased or traded for by the family who will own the barn once it is complete. Generally, participation is mandatory for community members. These participants are not paid. All able-bodied members of the community are expected to attend.

Amish workers pay a unique premium on the quality materials they use. An Amish dining room table, for instance, can last for centuries. Their choice of solid wood species for each Amish-made furniture is sourced from local wood sources that guarantee longevity and durability.

Most Amish individuals use bank loans to acquire property. Amish people can easily secure loans due to their reputation as hard-working and dependable individuals. Some Amish people depend on Amish-run lending funds, which seek to provide capital to fellow Amish members at favorable rates.