Preservation of the distinctive language tradition of early German immigrants to Lancaster County continues at the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society. “Butch” Reigart will serve as the instructor for two 10-week courses on different levels this spring.
Pennsylvania German originated in the southeastern region of the state, coming from the German-speaking Swiss, German and Alsatian immigrants who arrived between 1683 and 1808.
Today the language is often associated with Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities in Pennsylvania although historically, descendants of Lutheran, Reformed and other immigrant groups coming from southwestern Germany spoke it widely. Reigart notes that “the Amish percentage of current dialect speakers is ever increasing as the Amish continue to hold onto and teach it to their children as part of their efforts to maintain separation from the modern world.”
A beginner class will meet on Thursdays, March 10 to May 12, 7 to 9 p.m. An intermediate class is also offered Saturdays, March 12 to May 14, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Both classes take place at 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, on Route 30 (Lincoln Highway East), beside Tanger Outlet Center. Those familiar with German have an advantage and can usually start at the intermediate level.
Reigart, who lives in Columbia, Pennsylvania, grew up hearing Pennsylvania German in his childhood home in York County. He later became fluent, received degrees in German and Russian and served as a foreign-language specialist for the United States government for more than 35 years.
Registration can occur online at www.lmhs.org or by calling 717-393-9745. Basic instructional materials are included in the course fee. Supplemental texts, dictionaries, recordings and other study aids are available from the Society bookstore.
These classes are part of the Lancaster Roots 2016 program, which represents joint events organized by the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society and the 1719 Hans Herr House and Museum.