Book Release (Virtual)

Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society hosts author Beth Oberholtzer and photographer John Herr in an exclusive online event to unveil their new book, Working Horses of Lancaster County, and the companion children’s book, Mares & Foals, on Tuesday, April 27 at 7 pm. The presentation will be streamed live, it will not be recorded for later viewing. Zoom login information below.

Signed copies of the book will be available at our museum store. Pick up the book at our redesigned retail space and browse the new products. (Shipping and curbside options available as well.)

Every day in Lancaster County, thousands of Plain sect farm families hitch up draft horses to work their fields and carriage horses to take them from place to place. Old Order Amish and Mennonites choose horses over automobiles and tractors because of their desire to live simple, agrarian-based lives nurtured by faith, family, and community. Working with horses is foundational to their way of life. They are as defined by their affection for and commitment to horses as they are by their conservative dress and penchant for hard work.

The author and photographer sought this book to celebrate the Plain sect people’s connection to their horses. Readers will find over 240 candid photos depicting the most common horses at work in Lancaster County. They include six draft horse breeds and five carriage horse breeds—from foals frolicking at their mothers’ sides to six Belgians hitched abreast as they work in the field.

Oberholtzer and Herr previously collaborated on Plain Meetinghouses.