The buggy is the Amish primary transport. A buggy builder is a respected and well-earning craftsman.
Construction
Frame: steel (welding — some communities allow gas). Body: wood (ash — steam-bent) + fiberglass (modern ones). Roof: canvas or fiberglass. Wheels: steel rim, wooden spokes, rubber tire. Axles: steel, with bearings.
Types
Enclosed: all-weather, with doors, windows, heater (propane). Open: summer, lighter. Spring wagon: for hauling. Courting buggy: roofless, for young people (dates).
Color
Depends on community. Lancaster: gray. Ohio: black. Indiana: black or dark gray. Yellow tops — only certain Big Valley communities. Color = affiliation.
Price and Business
New enclosed: $7,000-10,000. With heating and brakes: up to $12,000. Builder makes 15-20 buggies/year = $100,000-200,000 revenue. Used: $2,000-5,000.