A historic communal society founded on faith and shared resources, now a beacon of heritage and craftsmanship.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Pietism
Founder: German Pietists
Founded: 1855
Location: Iowa, United States
Other Names: Community of True Inspiration
The Amana Colonies, located in Iowa, United States, represent a distinctive chapter in the history of religious communal societies. Originating in 18th-century Germany, the Community of True Inspiration, or the Inspirationalists, as they were known, founded the Amana Colonies in 1855. The Inspirationalists were part of the Pietist movement in Germany, emerging as a reaction against the perceived spiritual stagnation within the Lutheran Church. The Community of True Inspiration was founded in 1714 by Eberhard Ludwig Gruber and Johann Friedrich Rock, who believed that God still spoke to the faithful through living instruments, or Werkzeuge, individuals who received divine inspiration directly. The group faced persecution in Germany, leading them to seek refuge, first in Hesse, then in Buffalo, New York, and eventually in Iowa.
The choice of Iowa was strategic, as it offered isolation from outside influences, fertile land, and a supportive political environment. Here, the Inspirationalists established seven villages, which collectively became known as the Amana Colonies, divided into Amana (or Main Amana), East Amana, Middle Amana, High Amana, West Amana, South Amana, and Homestead.
Life in the colonies
Religious life in the Amana Colonies was characterized by simplicity and piety. The Inspirationalists held services daily, and worship was a central part of life. They emphasized modesty, hard work, and mutual aid, with the religious leaders, or elders, played a critical role in the governance of the colonies, overseeing both spiritual and temporal matters.
Education in the Amana Colonies was also highly valued. Children attended community schools where they were taught both secular and religious subjects. The emphasis was on practical education that would benefit the community. Additionally, the colonies maintained a unique language, a dialect of German known as “Amana German,” which served as a unifying cultural element.
Economically, the Amana Colonies were self-sufficient. They engaged in agriculture, manufacturing, and crafts. The colonies were known for their woolen mills, calico prints, and furniture. The communal kitchens, an integral part of Amana life, were centers of culinary activity, where traditional German recipes were prepared and shared among the community members.
The Amana Colonies operated on a communal basis, an economic system where all property was owned collectively, and the community provided for the needs of its members. This system, often referred to as the “Great Change,” was initiated in 1932, transitioning from communal living to a joint-stock company, the Amana Society, Inc, largely due to external economic pressures and the desire to integrate more effectively into American society.
Tourism became a significant aspect of the Amana Colonies’ economy, especially after the Great Change. The unique history, preserved architecture, and cultural practices attracted visitors. The colonies became known for their restaurants, craft shops, and historical tours, contributing to the economic sustainability of the community.
In terms of governance, the Amana Society, Inc., established after the Great Change, manages the economic and administrative aspects of the colonies. This shift from communal living to a more capitalistic approach marked a significant transition in the colonies’ history. However, the society has strived to maintain the cultural and historical heritage of the Amana people.
Legacy
The Amana Colonies represent a successful experiment in communal living, reflecting the broader 19th-century utopian movement in the United States. The colonies have been designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing their historical significance. The colonies today are a blend of historical preservation and modern living. The residents, both descendants of the original Inspirationalists and newcomers, continue to uphold the traditions and values of their forebears.
image via Amana Colonies
