What language do Amish speak in Iowa?

The Amish in Iowa, like most Amish communities, primarily speak Pennsylvania Dutch. This unique language is considered their first and native language, serving as a cornerstone of their distinct culture and heritage.

The Primary Language: Pennsylvania Dutch

Pennsylvania Dutch, also known as Pennsylvania German, is the everyday language used by the Amish in their homes, communities, and for their daily interactions. It is a German dialect that originated from various German dialects spoken by the Anabaptist immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania in the 17th and 18th centuries. While it shares roots with modern Standard German, it has evolved uniquely and is not mutually intelligible with it.

For the Amish, speaking Pennsylvania Dutch is more than just communication; it's a vital part of maintaining their communal identity, religious traditions, and separation from the surrounding modern world.

How Pennsylvania Dutch is Used

The use of Pennsylvania Dutch is deeply integrated into every aspect of Amish life:

• Home and Family: It is the primary language for conversations among family members and within the household.
• Community Interactions: All social gatherings, discussions, and interactions within the Amish community are conducted in Pennsylvania Dutch.
• Church Services: While some sermons might incorporate elements of High German for scriptural readings, the main language of their worship services and religious instruction is Pennsylvania Dutch.

English as a Second Language

While Pennsylvania Dutch is their native tongue, most Amish individuals also learn to speak English. English is typically learned in their private, one-room schools, which often teach up to the eighth grade. The acquisition of English is crucial for practical purposes, allowing the Amish to interact with the "English" (non-Amish) world.

Contexts for English Use

• Commerce: When buying or selling goods with non-Amish merchants or customers, English is predominantly used.
• Formal Education: English is the language of instruction in their schools, particularly for subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic.
• External Communication: For interactions with government officials, doctors, or anyone outside their immediate community, English serves as the bridge language.

Here's a brief overview of how these languages are primarily utilized:

In essence, the Amish in Iowa maintain a bilingual existence, where Pennsylvania Dutch reinforces their internal cultural and religious identity, and English facilitates their necessary interactions with the outside world.