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Kannst du Deitsch schwetze? Pennsylvania German dialect, commonly known as “Pennsylvania Dutch,” is prevalent among Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities in Pennsylvania. Historically, however, it was spoken widely by Lutheran, Reformed and other groups of German immigrants and it is currently used in Old Order communities as far west as Wisconsin. Pennsylvania German dialect classes, taught by Keith "Butch" Reigart, typically run for ten weeks each spring and fall. Classes are held in the LMHS conference room from 7:00–9:00 PM. Cost is $100 for Society members, $115 for nonmembers. All are welcome. The Society also offers Pennsylvania German folk arts classes. |
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About the Instructor A native of York County, Pa., and fluent Pennsylvania Dutch speaker, Butch was employed for more than 35 years as a foreign language specialist for the U.S. government. Also fluent in German and Russian, Butch has a good understanding of the language learning process. Butch is respected by Old Order Amish and Mennonites, and is in frequent conversation with these Lancaster native speakers. He draws on this expertise in his classes. Click here to watch Butch on WGAL-TV news. |
