In the United States, the term "Amish" refers to a number of related but distinct German-speaking religious groups, including:

1. the Old Order Amish, who live in rural communities in North America and are famous for their plain dress and limited use of technology; 

2. the Amish Mennonites; and 

3. the New Order Amish, a plain dress, horse and buggy group, formed in 1966, that is more liberal concerning technologies than most Old Order Amish.  

The Amish are known for simple living, plain dress, Christian pacifism, and slowness to adopt many conveniences of modern technology.  As a result, "Amish crafted" products are often hand-made and have a reputation for quality. 

When it comes to the production and sale of crafts, most Amish craftsmen follow the overarching cultural and religious precepts of humility and simplicity, eschewing the aggrandizement of individuals.  Therefore, the products of Amish crafts in Kentucky and elsewhere, when offered for sale, are often provided by marketing outlets that emphasize "Amish quality" but do not typically identify individual makers of crafted products.  

The total Amish population within Kentucky is around 8,000. There are many small Amish communities scattered throughout the state, but the largest settlements are located around Munfordville and Horse Cave, Guthrie in Todd County, Christian County, and Casey County.  Amish stores in those communities regularly offer "Amish-made" foods, quilts, furniture, and other crafted items for sale to the general "English" (i.e., non-Amish) population. 

Kentucky Amish Community Information:

• Hart County: Amish of Hart County

• Todd County: The Amish Experience

Amish Craft Outlets:

• Amish Hills Handmade Furniture (Jefferson Co.: Louisville)

• Detweiler's Country Store (Amish goods - Hart Co.: Cub Run)

• Pleasant View Furniture (Mason Co.: Mayslick)

Oral Histories about Amish Quilts

• Amish Quilts: Crafting an American Icon Oral History Project (Nunn Oral History Center Collection)