Jakob Beachy was an Amish boy who went into Philadelphia as part of his rumspringa. During his time there, he got addicted to drugs and a lifestyle of partying. Even though he ultimately became afraid of the "English World", his lifestyle meant that the Amish elders were unwilling to have him back. Eventually, after repeated attempts they gave him an ultimatum; clean up his act or never return. Lacking the strength to change, Jakob returned to Philidelphia, claiming that he preferred the English world. When Anna and Rachel came visiting, Jakob was willing to act as a guide to help them fit in.