Do you know what language the Amish speak in their day to day life? Undoubtedly if you have been to Amish country you will have heard them communicating in something other then English. You will hear a language that is called "Pennsylvania Dutch" or "Dutch" by some. This is not the same language spoken by the great people from Holland. It is a language originating from regions of Germany and Switzerland.  
 As you can appreciate, languages are under different influences in different regions and different time periods. So common language spoken in the 1800's would differ greatly from the common English spoken today. This is the same with Pennsylvania Dutch".

So I had the idea to reach out to people in the community. I ask them for words that were common in years past. Words that are not used as much today. I got some interesting responses that I hope you enjoy. I hope to share the word, how to say it phonetically and the context of the word. I hope this sparks your imagination, as it has mine. This will equip you more for your next journey to Amish Country, where you can practice these words. In context of course.

Today's word is kåschta. Pronounced "Kesh-tah"

In a sentence:


"Kåschta un rosta iver un feuer"   Chestnuts roasting over a fire. 

"Kesh-tah  un  rrosh-tah  iv-voh  un  fie-yoh.   (my best attempt at writing this phonetically)

So as I discover more words that are interesting or less used then in days past, I will share them with you guys. The friendly faces reading this. Hope this makes your day more interesting!

Happy Holidays

Amish Country Insider