Snowy Range Pass

Snowy Range Pass

Sunday, July 15, 2018

The Amana Colonies


We are here for the Iowa State Winnebago Rally at the Amana RV Park.  It has over 400 sites and several large meeting buildings. Since we have toured the colonies in 2010, we are enjoying our time just visiting with friends.







Yesterday, we took a group tour of Middle Amana with a guide who was born here and is a descendent of  members who settled here in the mid 1800's  He provided a very entertaining history of the community as we walked the streets.  It is a very interesting story and can be seen here. At the end of the tour, we experienced the communal dining that all members took part in until the great change of 1932 took place, abandoning the communal lifestyle and rules of the colony. All of the homes are now owned by individuals, many of them having no direct connection to the colony. 
































6 comments:

Gypsy said...

I've always thought the Amana colonies would be a very interesting place to visit and learn about. Unfortunately, in all my travels I never got there and I'm glad to see your photos and commentary.

Nickie and Jim said...

Over 400 sites at the Amana RV Park -- wow! I'd love to tour the town ... maybe the next time we're in Iowa.

Sherry said...

I've never been to the Amana Colonies but they sound very interesting especially if they were still in existence until 1932. We have visited several Shaker communities though and they were very interesting. If we can ever get west again, this will go on our list especially if they are on the way to Forest City and the Winnebago Factory.

John and Carol said...

I've never been there and enjoyed reading your post. You took some great pictures. Thanks for sharing.

Wanderin' said...

We've never been there. Looks like a very interesting place to visit. Enjoy your time and stay cool!

Karen and Al said...

Thanks for the post. We may make a trip there this summer.