Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investments:
Fixed maturities	$ 432,621	$ 445,669
Equity securities	115,377	107,582
Limited partnerships	62,668	59,954
Short-term	3,740	4,201
Total Investments	614,406	617,406
Cash and cash equivalents	84,278	71,549
Accounts receivable	80,680	83,400
Reinsurance recoverable	177,482	175,191
Other assets	59,873	32,232
Current federal income taxes	0	3,246
Total Assets	1,016,719	983,024
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	456,246	455,454
Reserves for unearned premiums	33,055	37,273
Short-term borrowings	10,000	10,000
Accounts payable and other liabilities	145,299	125,007
Current federal income taxes	2,796	0
Deferred federal income taxes	10,751	8,578
Total Liabilities	658,147	636,312
Shareholders' equity:
Additional paid-in capital	50,264	50,275
Unrealized net gains on investments	36,358	35,467
Foreign exchange adjustment	1,790	1,976
Retained earnings	269,524	258,358
Shareholders' equity	358,572	346,712
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,016,719	983,024
Class A voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	112	112
Class B non-voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 524	$ 524