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Amana Heritage Society: Preserving the Past

Discover the story of the Amana Colonies, a unique German communal settlement in Iowa, through artifacts, exhibits, and historic buildings.

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The Amana Heritage Society preserves and interprets the history of the Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark in Iowa. Explore the society's museums to discover the unique story of this German communal settlement and its enduring legacy of craftsmanship and community.

A brief summary to Amana Heritage Society

Local tips

  • Start your visit at the Amana Heritage Museum to get an overview of the history and culture of the Amana Colonies.
  • Check the Amana Heritage Society's website for special events, temporary exhibits, and updated hours of operation.
  • Explore the other museums and historic sites maintained by the Amana Heritage Society to gain a deeper understanding of Amana life.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Amana Heritage Society is located at 705 44th Ave, Amana, IA 52203. From Interstate 80, take Exit 225 and head north on Highway 151 for approximately 5 miles. Turn right to go to Amana. Parking is available near the Amana Heritage Museum. Parking is free.

  • Ride Share

    Utilize ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft for direct transport to the Amana Heritage Society. From nearby locations like Middle Amana, a short trip will typically cost around $10-$20, depending on demand and availability. Be aware that ride-share availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours.

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Discover more about Amana Heritage Society

The Amana Heritage Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Amana Colonies, one of America's longest-lived communal societies. Founded in 1855 by German Pietists seeking religious freedom, the seven villages of the Amana Colonies thrived for over 80 years under a communal way of life. The Amana Heritage Society maintains a group of arts-and-culture museums that display and interpret artifacts and photos of the history of the Amana Colonies. The Amana Heritage Museum, comprised of three 19th-century buildings set on spacious grounds, serves as the cornerstone of the society. Here, visitors can delve into the history and development of Amana, learn about the lives of its residents, and admire the diverse crafts and industries of the Inspirationists. The Noé House, originally a communal kitchen and later a doctor's residence, features updated exhibits that trace Amana's story. The Schoolhouse offers an audio-visual presentation on Amana's history, while the original washhouse/woodshed showcases wine-making and gardening displays. Beyond the main museum, the Amana Heritage Society encompasses other significant sites, including the Communal Kitchen and Cooper Shop Museum, the High Amana General Store, and the Amana Community Church. These locations offer a glimpse into various aspects of Amana life, from its communal dining traditions to its craftsmanship and religious practices. The Amana Heritage Society's collections include approximately 12,000 objects and 10,000 archival pieces related to the history of Amana and its associated religious group, the Community of True Inspiration.

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