The Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center Is an Awesome Attraction
If you’re fascinated by history, the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center is a great attraction for you to visit while in Ohio Amish Country. Take a trip back in time by gazing at gorgeous murals that depict the story of how the Amish and Mennonite culture came to be. Then, use our complimentary Vacation Guide to discover more historical sites, outdoor excursions, and restaurants you need to visit during your stay. Get the guide to complete your trip to our beautiful area.
What You’ll Experience at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center
Take a Tour of Behalt Cyclorama
Taking a tour of Behalt Cyclorama is one of the the best things to do at the Heritage Center. The word Behalt means “to keep, hold, and remember,” and the Behalt Cyclorama does just that. This painting memorializes the Amish and Mennonite culture, heritage and experience.
Your eyes will widen as you take in this astonishing 10-foot by 265-foot circular mural painted with oils on canvas. Cycloramas are typically used to depict a long timeline filled with multiple stories. As is true in this case, the Behalt Cyclorama keeps, holds and remembers the development of Amish and Mennonite faith and how they achieved religious freedom.
The History Within the Behalt Cyclorama
The mural begins in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1525, depicting the first modern adult baptisms. As you move along, you travel through time watching the Anabaptist movement spread worldwide, bringing forth the Mennonites and Amish people.
The storyline continues up to the present day. This masterpiece is attributed to a sole artist, Heinz Gaugel, who created this piece in 1978 so visitors could better understand the Amish and Mennonite culture within Holmes County.
More Attractions
There’s even more to see at the Heritage Center. Get an up close look at an original Conestoga Wagon that transported early settlers and pioneers here to Holmes County! You’ll also enjoy learning about the onsite one-room schoolhouse and will marvel over the restored Pioneer Barn filled with Amish artifacts.
Unwind at the White Oak Inn
After a great day of cultural education at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage (Behalt) Center, make your way back to your comfortable accommodations with a deeper appreciation for Amish Country.
On the second floor of the Main House, you’ll find The Ash Room. Open the door to be greeted by two large windows overlooking the forest that stretches its branches toward the glistening sun. Take a seat in the rocking chair and gaze at the view, or simply cozy up in one of the two beds that look even more inviting as the sunlight peeks through the windows. Your relaxing stay in Ohio Amish Country begins with us at the White Oak Inn! We can’t wait to have you. Explore our selection of cozy rooms in the heart of Amish County, today!
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