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Museum · Amana, Iowa
Amana Heritage Museum
A museum occupying three 19th-century buildings in the village of Amana, which tells the origin of the religious community in Germany and communal life in the seven villages until 1932.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Amana Heritage Museum
The Amana Heritage Museum occupies three 19th-century buildings in the village of Amana, including the Noah House, built in 1864, which served as a communal kitchen and later as a doctor’s residence. It’s recommended to start the visit here with a film of about 20 minutes on the community’s history.
The Community of True Inspiration emerged in Germany in the early 18th century. Persecuted, its members emigrated to New York State in 1843 and, in 1855, moved to Iowa, where they founded seven villages. Everyone worked for the community, ate in communal kitchens and did not receive wages. In 1932, amid the economic crisis, the villages left the communal system and formed a company.
Exhibits display furniture, clothing, tools, quilts, maps and everyday objects, as well as documents from religious leaders. The museum is open daily from April to October and on limited days in winter. The Amana Colonies have been a National Historic Landmark since 1965.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to one-and-a-half hours.
Best time
From April to October, when it’s open every day. Start here before touring the villages.
How to get there
It’s in the village of Amana, on the main street, a few minutes’ walk from the workshops and bakeries.
Tip
The admission ticket usually also covers other museums run by the historical society, such as the Middle Amana communal kitchen.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Amana Heritage Museum
When is the Amana Heritage Museum open?
Daily from April to October; in winter only on some days. Check the website.
Who founded the Amana Colonies?
The Community of True Inspiration, a religious group from Germany that settled in Iowa in 1855.
Why did the Amana Colonies end communal living?
In 1932, amid the economic crisis, residents decided to separate church and business and formed a company, the Amana Society.