Month: July 2025
What is Trail Bologna, and Why We Love It
What is Trail Bologna, and Why We Love It
What is Trail Bologna?
Trail Bologna is a type of smoked ring sausage that hails from the small village of Trail, located in Ohio’s Amish Country. Known for its unique shape, rich smoky flavor, and all-beef content, Trail Bologna has become a beloved staple in Ohio households and a favorite across the Midwest.
Made with coarse-ground, lean beef and seasoned with a traditional spice blend, It is slow-smoked over hardwood, which gives it its signature flavor and deep color. Unlike typical store-bought bologna, Trail Bologna is dense, hearty, and free of fillers—perfect for slicing, snacking, or serving on a charcuterie board.
The History Behind Trail Bologna
The original Trail Bologna was developed in the early 1900s by the Troyer family in Trail, Ohio. Their goal was to create a high-quality, preservative-free sausage that would stand the test of time. And it did—Troyer’s Trail Bologna is still made in Trail to this day, using the same time-honored methods.
Over the decades, the popularity of Trail Bologna has grown well beyond Holmes County. What started as a local specialty has become a sought-after delicacy for those who appreciate traditional meat craftsmanship.
Why We Love It
There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about Trail Bologna. For many, it’s tied to family gatherings, road trips through Amish Country, or simple evenings at home with cheese and crackers.
We love Trail Bologna because:
- It’s made with 100% beef
- It has a smoky, savory flavor that’s hard to beat
- It pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar cheese and mustard
- It’s versatile—great for snacking, sandwiches, or appetizers
It’s also a popular choice for holiday gift boxes and party platters, especially when paired with local cheeses and preserves.
Where to Buy Trail Bologna
Authentic Trail Bologna can be hard to find outside Ohio, but thankfully you can order Trail Bologna online at Cheesehouse.com. We stock only the finest, freshly made bologna sourced from Amish Country producers.
Looking for a perfect pairing? Try it with our Amish Baby Swiss Cheese or add it to a Cheese Gift Box for a delicious Ohio-made treat.
Final Thoughts
Trail Bologna is more than just a regional specialty—it’s a tradition. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying it for the first time, this savory smoked sausage delivers an authentic taste of Ohio’s food culture.
Order your Trail Bologna ring today and experience why so many people can’t get enough of this local favorite.
Image Alt Text: “Sliced Trail Bologna ring with cheese and mustard on a rustic wooden board”
Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio: Tradition, Taste, and Swiss Excellence
Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio: Tradition, Taste, and Swiss Excellence
Nestled in the rolling hills of Amish Country, Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio has been a local treasure since 1928. Known for producing world-class Swiss cheese and a variety of award-winning dairy products, Pearl Valley is a shining example of what happens when generations of skill meet a passion for tradition.
A Family-Owned Legacy Since 1928
Pearl Valley Cheese was founded by Swiss immigrant Ernest Stalder and has remained a family-owned business ever since. Located in Fresno, Ohio, just outside Holmes County, the heart of Amish Country, the company still follows many of the same methods and recipes that Ernest used nearly a century ago.
Today, the fourth generation of the Stalder family continues to oversee the business, maintaining a firm commitment to quality, consistency, and community values. This dedication has helped Pearl Valley become one of the most respected names in Ohio cheese making.
Image Courtesy of Pearl Valley Cheese
Award-Winning Swiss Cheese
The signature product at Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio is their classic Swiss cheese—famous for its creamy texture, mild nutty flavor, and iconic holes. Made with milk from local, pasture-raised cows, their Swiss cheese has won multiple national and state awards, including honors from the World Championship Cheese Contest and the Ohio State Fair.
In addition to Swiss, the company offers a wide range of cheeses including:
Each variety is made with care, using time-tested techniques that result in authentic, flavorful products.
What Makes Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio Special?
One reason Pearl Valley Cheese stands out is their commitment to using only the freshest local milk, delivered daily from small, family-run farms. This not only supports the local agricultural economy but ensures top-tier quality in every batch of cheese.
Visitors to the Pearl Valley Cheese factory can watch the cheese-making process through large viewing windows and sample their fresh cheeses at the on-site retail store. It’s a must-visit stop on any tour of Ohio’s Amish Country.
Where to Find Pearl Valley Cheese
You can purchase Pearl Valley Cheese products directly at their factory store in Fresno or order online through specialty retailers like Cheesehouse.com’s Pearl Valley Collection, which offers a curated selection of their most popular cheeses for nationwide shipping.
Looking for a gift? Check out the Cheese Gift Boxes section for perfect holiday or corporate gifting options that showcase the best of Amish Country cheese.
Final Thoughts
Pearl Valley Cheese Ohio is more than just a cheese company—it’s a testament to tradition, family heritage, and the art of quality cheese making. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Holmes County for the first time, a bite of Pearl Valley’s award-winning Swiss cheese is a taste of Ohio’s finest.
Exploring the Amish in Holmes County Ohio: Culture, Community & Tradition
The Amish in Holmes County Ohio: A Living Tradition
Holmes County, Ohio, is home to the largest population of Amish in the United States. The Amish in Holmes County Ohio represent a vibrant and deeply traditional way of life that continues to draw visitors from across the country. With rolling hills, horse-drawn buggies, and handmade goods, Amish Country offers a peaceful, culturally rich experience rooted in simplicity, faith, and community.
A Brief History of the Amish in Holmes County
The Amish first arrived in Holmes County in the early 1800s, seeking religious freedom and fertile farmland. Originating from Switzerland and Germany, the Amish are part of the Anabaptist movement, which emphasizes adult baptism, pacifism, and separation from worldly influences.
Over generations, the Amish in Holmes County Oh
io have maintained their beliefs and way of life despite the pressures of modern society. Today, the county is home to more than 36,000 Amish residents, making up about half the county’s total population.
Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash
A Way of Life Rooted in Faith
At the heart of Amish life is faith, family, and community. The Amish adhere to a code of conduct called the Ordnung, which governs everything from dress and technology to social behavior and business practices. Most Amish in Holmes County belong to the Old Order Amish, the most conservative group, known for rejecting electricity, cars, and modern technology.
Amish homes are simple but well-kept. Families are large, often with 7 to 10 children, and education typically ends at 8th grade. Children then begin learning trades or farming skills at home. Church services are held in homes and rotated among community members, reinforcing strong social bonds.
Agriculture, Craftsmanship, and Business
Farming is central to the Amish economy, but over time, many Amish in Holmes County have diversified into craftsmanship and small business. You’ll find Amish-owned furniture shops, bakeries, quilt stores, and markets offering homemade cheeses, preserves, and handwoven goods.
Holmes County Flea Market, Amish Country Theater, and Yoder’s Amish Home are just a few popular attractions that give insight into Amish life. However, many Amish prefer to remain out of the spotlight, and visitors are encouraged to observe their customs respectfully, including not taking photographs of Amish people, which is considered intrusive.
Visiting Amish Country in Holmes County Ohio
Tourism plays a major role in the region’s economy. Visitors are drawn to the peaceful rural atmosphere, horse-drawn buggies, roadside produce stands, and traditional meals at local restaurants like Der Dutchman and Boyd & Wurthmann.
Key attractions include:
Berlin, OH – The heart of Amish Country, full of quaint shops and bakeries
Walnut Creek – Known for its scenic views and antique stores
Millersburg – The county seat with historical landmarks and cozy inns
The Farm at Walnut Creek – A family-friendly spot to see farm animals and learn about Amish farming
Driving through the winding backroads offers a real sense of the beauty and simplicity of life among the Amish in Holmes County Ohio.
Respecting Amish Customs
While the Amish are welcoming and friendly, it’s important to approach your visit with sensitivity. Here are a few simple guidelines:
Don’t photograph people – It goes against their religious beliefs
Drive carefully – Horse-drawn buggies share the roads
Dress modestly – Especially if visiting farms or family-run shops
Ask before entering private property – Some businesses are home-based
Understanding and respecting these practices ensures a more meaningful experience and supports sustainable tourism in the region.
Why the Amish in Holmes County Ohio Matter
The Amish in Holmes County Ohio offer a living example of how tradition and community values can endure in a rapidly changing world. Their quiet resistance to modern technology, deep religious faith, and commitment to one another create a culture that many admire and seek to understand.
As more people search for simplicity and purpose in their own lives, the lessons from Amish Country—slower living, meaningful work, and close-knit community—resonate deeply. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Amish Country invites you to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with the essentials.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Amish in Holmes County Ohio is not just a scenic getaway—it’s a cultural experience unlike any other. With its timeless traditions, scenic farms, and warm hospitality, Holmes County is a place where the past is still very much alive. Whether you’re looking for handmade goods, peaceful countryside drives, or a deeper understanding of a unique American subculture, Amish Country has something truly special to offer.
Would you like to try some of our Amish made and inspired delicacies? Try our Amish Country Sampler Gif Box
The Rich History of Streb Meats: Ohio’s Family-Owned Meat Legacy
The Rich History of Streb Meats
Founded in 1936 by Victor Streb, Streb Meats began as a humble meat processing operation on the family farm along Hackett Road in Dalton, Ohio. What started as a small-scale local service has since grown into one of the region’s most respected names in smoked and specialty meats.
From the beginning, Victor was committed to two things: quality and community. He built the business on delivering fresh, local products and establishing strong relationships with local grocers. In fact, Streb’s began as a “store door” distributor—meaning they delivered directly to grocery stores using their own fleet of trucks. This ensured unmatched freshness and reliability in every delivery.
Growth and Expansion
By the mid-1980s, demand for Streb products had grown beyond what the original location could handle. In 1986, the company moved to a larger facility near State Route 30. This modern meat processing plant allowed for increased production, improved efficiency, and easier distribution to a growing customer base.
Despite the expansion, Streb Meats remained a family-run business, with successive generations maintaining Victor’s high standards for product quality and customer care. The brand became especially known for
Streb Meats Ham. Courtesy of https://www.strebmeats.com/
its hickory-smoked meats and locally raised pork products, which developed a loyal following throughout Ohio and beyond.
A Legacy Preserved
In December 2021, Streb Meats experienced a major milestone when Coblentz Distributing Inc., better known as Walnut Creek Foods, acquired parts of the business. This included the Streb’s brand, the popular meat sticks, and the specialty ham line.
However, this wasn’t the end of the Streb family’s involvement. The family retained rights to certain products and continued operating at the Dalton facility, ensuring their rich legacy remained intact. Their continued presence in the local market underscores a commitment to the community and to the product excellence that customers have relied on for generations.
Today’s Streb Meats
Today, Streb Meats is a symbol of Ohio’s agricultural roots and dedication to artisan food. Whether it’s their famous smoked sausage, ham products, or the increasingly popular meat sticks, Streb Meats represents quality, tradition, and family values.
Their products are now available through various local retailers and specialty food stores, including Cheesehouse.com, and remain a staple in many Ohio homes, especially during holidays and celebrations.
Conclusion
From a farmhouse operation to a beloved Ohio institution, Streb Meats has proven that hard work, family values, and dedication to quality can build a lasting legacy. Nearly 90 years after its founding, Streb Meats continues to satisfy customers with the same passion and care that Victor Streb started with back in 1936.
*Images courtesy of strebmeats.com
**Hungry? Shop for Streb’s Ham, Bacon, Sausage, and infamous Cracklins’ on our website.
