The Secrets of the Salt Mine and Amish Life: What Lies Beneath American Soil and the Technology-Free World of the Amish

“Whatever enters the mine, stays there.” This was one of the phrases uttered by the guides at the Kansas Salt Mine, one of the largest in the world.

As a child who grew up watching the series Lois and Clark – Superman, I was fascinated to see the costume worn by Dean Cain in the role of Superman, a costume designed by Judith Curtis. Across from it stood Batman’s costume, along with many other outfits preserved from Hollywood in this mine, which has now been transformed into a vault for the treasures of the United States.

In addition to costumes, the mine also houses numerous U.S. documents, as well as artifacts and historical facts that constitute the fabric of American life. Among them are precious items, such as Mike Rowe’s car, or film negatives from famous movies, which require ideal conditions for long-term preservation.

One of the most surreal experiences was in the section known as Dark Inside, a place where not a single ray of light penetrates. In that complete darkness, within just a few minutes, people begin to feel drowsy or even experience hallucinations. The absolute darkness and silence create a unique experience, disconnecting the visitor from the outside world and deeply affecting their senses.

Have you ever imagined that the ceiling above you rises by one centimeter every ten years? This occurs due to the geological formations and natural pressure within the Strataca mine in Kansas.

The train ride through the tunnels was simply fantastic. The images of costumes, documents, and historical items stored in those deep underground spaces gave me the feeling of traveling through time, as though visiting a secret vault preserving precious pieces of American cultur.

On the way to the mine, traveling from Wichita, on both sides of the road, one could see the homes of the Amish, a group that lives disconnected from many elements of modernity, preserving old ways of living, farming, and craftsmanship.

According to Diane, they do not use any modern technology, do not drive cars, and build everything with their own hands, relying on nature and community. The Amish way of life stands in stark contrast to the world we live in, where technology has permeated every aspect of our lives.

Between the darkness and mysteries of the mine, and the simplicity and peace of Amish life, I found myself reflecting on modern life. In today’s world, we are often caught in a constant race for technology and scientific advancement, and sometimes we forget to pause and appreciate simplicity.

Yet, one question lingers: what is life like for young Amish people in this century, where for most of us, our work and entire lives are condensed into a smartphone?