In Bear River, Wyoming, a group of Amish men is constructing a horse barn with methods that may surprise some, Cowboy State Daily reports.
While traditionally associated with hand tools and a simpler lifestyle, these Amish workers are using power tools, heavy machinery, and even cellphones to get the job done. Despite their modern approach to building, they maintain their more traditional practices at home.
Under the clear October sky, the sound of a nail gun rang out as Albert Mast, an Amish man from Ohio, led his team in raising the barn. Wearing an Under Armour T-shirt and carrying a cellphone in his pocket, Mast defied typical Amish stereotypes. He skillfully operated power tools and an aerial work platform, while his crew handled forklifts and rotary drills to dig deep support beam holes. This blend of modern technology and traditional values reflects the changing face of some Amish communities today.
Mast explained that while Amish homes are still built the old-fashioned way with hand tools, for commercial jobs, they adapt to the competitive environment.
“If we did everything by hand, we couldn’t compete,” Mast said.
At home, the Amish still avoid electricity, and cellphones are only for business use. However, they have adapted to modern conveniences like running water, indoor plumbing, and diesel-powered equipment.
The balance between tradition and practicality also extends to clothing. While Mast’s wife still makes much of their clothing, they buy some items to save time.
“We still make 70% of our clothes, but she doesn’t have time to make everything,” Mast said.
This adaptability is part of a wider variation among Amish groups today. Some allow more modern conveniences, like children driving their parents or the use of power tools for work. Others remain more conservative. Mast shared that while his father never used a nail gun or circular saw, younger generations like his are more open to these tools when necessary.
Mast, who grew up in Ohio and attended a one-room schoolhouse, emphasized the importance of practical learning.
“We learned from our dad how to build and farm,” he said.
While college is not common in Amish culture, hands-on experience takes its place.
For Mast and his crew, the barn-raising in Wyoming feels like a paid vacation. The Amish workers travel by vehicle and take the opportunity to explore new places while working.
“A lot of the Amish love to see the country,” Mast said.
He noted that the money earned from the job helps cover their travel expenses.
Once the barn is complete, the group plans to explore more of the country, potentially visiting Yellowstone National Park. This blend of work and travel is becoming a tradition for Mast, offering both a change of scenery and a way to connect with the world outside their community.
