While black carriages dominate most Amish settlements across Ohio, Indiana, and the Midwest, Lancaster County is famous for its distinctive **grey-topped buggies**. This unique design choice has been preserved for over a century as a signature mark of the local church district.
Why Grey Canvas Tops?
In the 19th century, carriage makers in Lancaster utilized water-resistant grey canvas cloth coated with linseed oil for top covers. As neighboring settlements transitioned to black rubberized materials, Lancaster bishops voted to maintain the traditional grey canvas to uphold simplicity and local identity.
Anatomy of a Lancaster Carriage
- Solid Grey Top & Black Body: A distinctive color contrast that clearly sets Lancaster buggies apart from Midwestern models.
- Hand-Cranked Windows: Enclosed carriages feature roll-up vinyl or sliding glass side windows for winter warmth.
- Battery-Powered Turn Signals: To comply with Pennsylvania highway safety laws, buggies feature battery lights and red rear reflectors.