July 2012 - Compass Iron Works

A Tribute to Samuel Yellin

It is seventy years ago this month that Samuel Yellin passed on to his reward. The work of his hands, however, is still with us and is just as beautiful and inspiring as it was in the 1920’s. Born in Poland in 1885, Samuel entered an arts and crafts school at the age of seven,…

Demystification of an Amish Tradition

One of the most misunderstood facets of Amish culture is the practice of “rumschpringa,” a period of adolescence commonly thought to be a rowdy, a time when youth are “allowed” to do non-Amish things before settling down to the traditional Amish lifestyle. The truth is that while some rowdy elements do exist, their behavior is…

Grandma’s Lemon Sponge Pie

1 lump butter, the size of a walnut 3 tablespoons flour heaping 1 cup sugar 1 lemon, including rind (juice and grind) 2 egg yolk 2 egg whites 1 cup milk Cream the sugar and butter together. Add flour, lemon juice, rind and yolks. Stir well and add milk. Beat egg whites to a stiff…

Blacksmiths in History

Patrick Lyon was a well-known locksmith in post-revolution era Philadelphia, and a suspect in the largest bank robbery of that time. In late summer of 1798, a deadly yellow fever plague was spreading throughout the city, including the state and national capitol, and America’s largest city. Those who could, fled. Patrick Lyon made plans for…

The Amish Parochial School System

One room school houses are a thing of the past in most areas, but in Lancaster county this venerable institution is more plentiful than ever. The Amish youth are taught by Amish school teachers in their Amish private schools. The grades are from one to eight, after which boys and girls enter the work force…

Susie’s Chocolate Whoopie Pies

3 cups all purpose flour 1 cup cocoa 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 2 cups white sugar 1 teaspoon salt Put these six ingredients in large mixing bowl and mix well. Add 1 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons vanilla ¾ cup yogurt ¼ cup water Blend well. Beat 4 eggs and blend…

Curious

Many people are curious why the Amish do not use modern conveniences such as electricity. Actually they do, but within strict guidelines. For example, electricity itself is not regarded as “bad” but certain things it can do definitely are. Also they do not use electricity from the “grid” because that is regarded as being inter…

John’s Favorite Homemade Grilling Sauce

1 cup ketchup ½ cup brown sugar (packed) 1/3 cup regular sugar ¼ cup honey ¼ cup molasses 2 teaspoon prepared mustard 1-1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke 1/8 teaspoon pepper Marinate the meat in this mixture for at least two hours before grilling. Apply periodically while grilling to keep…

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