Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investments:
Fixed maturities	$ 379,103	$ 445,669
Equity securities	120,946	107,582
Limited partnerships	60,474	59,954
Short-term	4,226	4,201
Total Investments	564,749	617,406
Cash and cash equivalents	115,920	71,549
Accounts receivable	86,313	83,400
Reinsurance recoverable	181,584	175,191
Other assets	56,631	32,232
Current federal income taxes	2,523	3,246
Total Assets	1,007,720	983,024
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	458,342	455,454
Reserves for unearned premiums	34,710	37,273
Short-term borrowings	10,000	10,000
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	139,253	125,007
Deferred federal income taxes	8,175	8,578
Total Liabilities	650,480	636,312
Shareholders' equity:
Additional paid-in capital	50,374	50,275
Unrealized net gains on investments	34,038	35,467
Foreign exchange adjustment	1,495	1,976
Retained earnings	270,696	258,358
Shareholders' equity	357,240	346,712
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,007,720	983,024
Class A voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	112	112
Class B non-voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 525	$ 524