02-07-2025
Z-fest to celebrate heritage of Amish Mennonites
Jun. 30—CROGHAN — The Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Association (AMHA) is hosting the 33rd Zwanzigstein (twenty stones) Fest of "...strangers and pilgrims on the earth." Hebrews 11:13b from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 5 — rain or shine — at the Mennonite Heritage Farm. The farm is located at 8778 Erie Canal Road, one half mile north of Kirschnerville, east of Croghan. Admission is on a donation basis.
The book "Strangers and Pilgrims — History of Lewis County Mennonites" by past historian Arlene Yousey will be available in the gift shop at a discounted price.
The purpose of Z Fest is to preserve, celebrate and accurately portray the religious and cultural heritage of the Amish Mennonites in Lewis County. Since 1991, the Heritage Farm has provided the site for visitors to learn about the Anabaptist faith legacy and rural life of years past through stories, exhibits, tours, singing, some outdoor activities with children and some demonstrations.
The pavilion will be a welcome addition to the site for the fest with a focus on the farm's place in the history of the Anabaptist churches in Lewis County and the resources it holds. The dedication of the pavilion will occur about 11:45 a.m. followed by serving the noon meal.
To remember our Anabaptist history of 500 years (1525-2025), there will be a local panel discussion on the "Evolution of Amish Mennonite Congregations in Northern New York" at 10:30 a.m. Two Yousey families who immigrated to Northern New York in the early 1840s will be recognized this year at the Z Fest and throughout the season. At about 1:30 p.m., there will be a panel interview with Yousey family members. One can also take advantage of the hiking and nature trail.
A chicken barbecue meal, hot dogs with sauerkraut, ice cream and pie, and baked goods will be available.
Other Saturday Fests are being planned for the season from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. which will include more demonstrations, tours, food, on the following dates:
Fiber Arts Fest on July 26 — Demonstrations of weaving, spinning, knitting, crochet, embroidery, quilting, comforter tying, will be occurring. Two workshops are planned — in the morning on dyeing yarn with Kool-Aid and afternoon demonstrating making a sock on the circular sock machine.
Children's Fest on Aug. 16 — Come learn about "Summer's Bounty" that will feature activities specifically geared for children at any age and those young at heart. Visitors will pick up a passport upon entry and receive a stamp for each activity they complete as they explore the farm.
Fall Fest on Oct. 4 — Enjoy a fall day at the farm for activities such as cider making, bread making, making sauerkraut, food preservation and wagon rides in the woods.
The Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Farm is a historical farm, recognized by the National and State Registries of Historic Places, built by the Moser brothers who settled in Lewis County in 1834. Today the farm is operated by AMHA as a historical learning center dedicated to the preservation of Mennonite faith and culture and the way of life of Lewis County farmers.
For more information, visit and Facebook or call 315-346-1122.
The Mennonite Heritage Farm is open for visitors on Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from July to October and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in July and August. Appointments may also be made through the end of October. You may call 315-346-1122 or e-mail info@
