Named after Bishop Moses M. Beachy following a 1927 division in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites occupy a unique position between traditional Old Order Amish and mainstream Mennonites.
Key Distinctives of the Beachy Amish
- Ownership of Automobiles: Beachy Amish members own and drive black, plain personal automobiles for daily transport.
- Dedicated Church Buildings: Services are held in simple, dedicated meetinghouses rather than private homes.
- Grid Electricity and Modern Technology: Grid electricity, home telephones, and modern appliances are permitted for family and farm use.
- Preservation of Plain Dress: Despite driving cars, members maintain distinct plain dress, including head coverings for women and beard requirements for men.