How to choose Unique Amish Fireplaces

Did You Know?

The Amish produce great looking fireplaces. I suppose the title gave that away, but the spoilers end here. Not only do they look good, they’re also portable fireplaces that are probably more technologically advanced than your own fireplace at home. While we’re here clicking away at keyboards, Amish craftsmen are hand carving the wooden mantles that are the hallmark of their fireplaces. I’ll guide you through some background information about the Amish people and what makes their fireplaces so unique.

Background

The Amish migrated to Pennsylvania primarily from France and Germany starting in the 18th century, and continued to settle in many other states as well. Each community varies in their adherence to tradition and retention of their cultural identity. Many, but not all, communities primarily speak Pennsylvanian German, for example. Generally speaking, the Amish are known for their strong emphasis on family, community, pacifism, self reliance and faith. Many dress in plain clothing, which varies based on gender, age, and weather. Long dresses and aprons are common for the women. Men usually wear suspenders and dark trousers with their shirts.

Often times their avoidance of most modern technologies is misinterpreted as an irrational fear. In reality, they simply want to maintain community and family cohesion, which is arguably weakened by relying on some modern devices. They rely primarily on resources and services available in their community, which strengthens the community. Electrical devices that reduce human interaction are limited to foster personal communication. The self reliance they maintain requires them to have an excellent work ethic and dedication to their craft. The Amish are regarded as expert craftsmen of wooden furniture, especially portable fireplaces.

Fireplace Mantles

Amish woodworking skills are passed on through generations. Their mantles are made from actual wood, as opposed to particle board or laminate. Materials are carefully selected for the specific piece being carved, which results in a higher quality fireplace mantle. Almost everything is handcrafted by them, with the rare aid of pneumatic devices. Nothing is mass produced however, which means each Amish fireplace is unique and beautiful. The Amish make several different styles of fireplaces. Some are carved with mostly straight accents and other clean lines for a modern look. Others are ornately carved with intricate details on the face of the mantle. Lighter hued mantles are usually made of oak, while cherry and mahogany create a darker but richer look. Some fireplaces sit flush with the floor, while others are supported by carved legs or wheels for easy portability.

Quartz Heaters

Amish produce mantles for electric fireplaces, but do not produce the components of the quartz heaters. These heaters are powered by standard home outlets, without the need for installation. This means you do not have to worry about having firewood available, or cleaning up ash and debris around the fireplace. For people with respiratory complications, they are a great way to avoid agitation by smoke while still enjoying stylish home heating.

Quartz bulbs provide the heat for these fireplaces. They are mostly made of a tungsten filament surrounded by a quartz bulb. The heat they provide is in the form of infrared energy, which can be directed by reflective surfaces, without the need for a noisy fan. Quartz heaters are ideal for heating small rooms and spaces quickly where large heating systems would be wasteful. The heaters are disguised by artificial logs with different lighting effects to produce the look of dynamic flames and glowing embers. These features can even be turned on without the heat if you’re already comfortable and just want to enjoy the atmosphere it creates.