Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments:
Fixed maturities	$ 434,042	$ 431,550
Equity securities	152,829	145,828
Limited partnerships	71,908	68,988
Short-term	5,095	4,891
Total Investments	663,874	651,257
Cash and cash equivalents	65,016	59,297
Accounts receivable	100,362	100,830
Reinsurance recoverable	199,783	195,568
Other assets	55,747	62,204
Current federal income taxes	823	3,114
Total Assets	1,085,605	1,072,270
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	480,425	474,470
Reserves for unearned premiums	35,479	36,693
Short-term borrowings	10,000	10,000
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	149,060	152,532
Deferred federal income taxes	20,430	16,851
Total Liabilities	695,394	690,546
Shareholders' equity:
Additional paid-in capital	51,789	50,594
Unrealized net gains on investments	54,272	49,089
Foreign exchange adjustment	900	1,401
Retained earnings	282,611	280,003
Shareholders' equity	390,211	381,724
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,085,605	1,072,270
Class A voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	112	112
Class B non-voting [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 527	$ 525