Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments:
Fixed maturities	$ 431,801	$ 431,550
Equity securities	160,270	145,828
Limited partnerships	79,583	68,988
Short-term	3,165	4,891
Total Investments	674,819	651,257
Cash and cash equivalents	79,576	59,297
Accounts receivable	97,651	100,830
Reinsurance recoverable	208,494	195,568
Other assets	62,614	62,204
Current federal income taxes	1,876	3,114
Total Assets	1,125,030	1,072,270
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	492,657	474,470
Reserves for unearned premiums	35,777	36,693
Short-term borrowings	20,000	10,000
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	157,473	152,532
Deferred federal income taxes	21,123	16,851
Total Liabilities	727,030	690,546
Shareholders' equity:
Additional paid-in capital	51,744	50,594
Unrealized net gains on investments	54,799	49,089
Foreign exchange adjustment	566	1,401
Retained earnings	290,252	280,003
Shareholders' equity	398,000	381,724
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,125,030	1,072,270
Class A voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	112	112
Class B non-voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 527	$ 525