Lehman's: Tools for a Simpler Life

Lehman’s is a store that specializes in products for simpler, low‑tech living. If you’re interested in living more independently, reducing reliance on electricity, or preserving traditional crafts, Lehman’s can be a great source of inspiration and tools. In this guide I’ll walk you through who Lehman’s is, what kinds of items they carry, pros and cons, and whether it might be right for your home or lifestyle.

What is Lehman’s and Its History

Lehman’s began in 1955 in Ohio. Originally the store served the local Amish community by selling non‑electric goods.  Over time Lehman’s grew to serve people wanting a simpler life: folks interested in homesteading, hand tools, old‑fashioned cooking methods, and durable gear that doesn’t depend on power.  The company has remained committed to quality, craftsmanship, and keeping alive many tools and traditions that otherwise might disappear. 

What Kind of Products You’ll Find

Homestead Kitchen Gear
At Lehman’s you can get tools for cooking without electricity. Think cast iron waffle irons, hand‑powered grain mills, butter churns, canners, crockery and more. These items are built strong and meant to last decades. 

Non‑Electric Cleaning and Household Tools
Want to wash or clean without machines? Lehman’s has manual clothes washers, laundry wringers, drying racks, washboards, and more. Even items like hand tools for gardening or manual seeders are part of their range. 

Lifestyle & Preparedness Goods
If you're thinking about being ready for power outages or emergencies, Lehman’s has things like oil lamps, lanterns, trusted water filtration, storage containers, and other low‑tech gear. They also supply furniture made in traditional styles and materials, often by Amish craftsmen. 

Why People Like Lehman’s

Durability
One of the big draws is how well their products are made. Many tools are built to last, often handmade or by craftspeople using time‑tested methods. This means fewer replacements and less waste. Lehman’s emphasis on USA‑made or Amish‑made goods adds to that reputation. 

Reducing Dependency on Power
Using non‑electric tools means you’re less affected by blackouts, power failures, or needing special parts for electric appliances. It can also help reduce your energy bills and environmental footprint. For many people that’s a strong motive. 

Keeping Traditions Alive
Lehman’s does more than sell tools. It preserves old skills and tools, like butter churning, hand wringing laundry, or using cast iron stoves. If you enjoy heritage crafts or want to reconnect with how things were done in the past, Lehman’s gives you a way to do that. 

Things to Be Aware Of

Cost and Shipping
Quality often means higher cost. Many items are priced above mass‑produced alternatives. Also, because many products are large, heavy, or fragile, shipping can add a lot. If you live far from store or in another country, factor shipping into your budget. 

Function vs Modern Convenience
Non‑electric tools often require more physical effort or more time than powered versions. For example, a manual grain mill takes more work than an electric grinder. If speed or ease are priorities, these tools may feel slower. 

Limited Options in Some Categories
While Lehman’s has many non‑electric tools, some modern conveniences are still hard to replicate without electricity. For example, certain high‑output appliances or fine‑tuned electronics simply aren’t part of their catalogue. If you depend on those, Lehman’s won’t replace everything. 

Maintenance and Care Required
Handmade or heritage tools often need more care: seasoning cast iron, keeping wood parts oiled, replacing simple parts, tightening hardware. If you don’t mind tending to tools, this isn’t a problem. But if low maintenance is essential, consider that upkeep is part of the deal. 

Is Lehman’s Right for You?

Lehman’s is ideal if you’re someone who values durability, independence, tradition, and tools that are made with care. If you garden, cook from scratch, live in areas with unreliable power, or enjoy homesteading projects, this store offers many solutions. It’s less suited if you want modern tech, instant convenience, or minimal physical effort in every task.

Final Thoughts

Lehman’s is more than a store; it's a bridge between the past and a more self‑reliant future. Their non‑electric tools, strong construction, and commitment to craftsmanship stand out. While there are trade‑offs in cost, convenience, and speed, many people find the benefits well worth it. If you are curious about a simpler life or tools built to last, Lehman’s deserves a close look.