Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investments:
Fixed maturities	$ 431,550	$ 445,669
Equity securities	145,828	107,582
Limited partnerships	68,988	59,954
Short-term and other	4,891	4,201
Total Investments	651,257	617,406
Cash and cash equivalents	59,297	71,549
Accounts receivable--less allowance (2013, $615; 2012, $538)	100,830	83,400
Accrued investment income	3,448	4,387
Reinsurance recoverable	195,568	175,191
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	1,057	2,679
Deferred policy acquisition costs	2,319	3,091
Property and equipment--less accumulated depreciation (2013, $15,835; 2012, $15,184)	36,329	12,257
Other assets	19,051	9,818
Current federal income taxes recoverable	3,114	3,246
Total Assets	1,072,270	983,024
Reserves:
Losses and loss expenses	474,470	455,454
Unearned premiums	36,693	37,273
Total Reserves	511,163	492,727
Reinsurance payable	39,122	32,798
Short-term borrowings	10,000	10,000
Depository liabilities	57,544	42,503
Accounts payable and other liabilities	55,866	49,706
Deferred federal income taxes	16,851	8,578
Total Liabilities	690,546	636,312
Shareholders' equity:
Additional paid-in capital	50,594	50,275
Unrealized net gains on investments	49,089	35,467
Foreign exchange adjustment	1,401	1,976
Retained earnings	280,003	258,358
Shareholders' equity	381,724	346,712
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,072,270	983,024
Class A (voting) [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	112	112
Class B (non-voting) [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 525	$ 524