The Amana People: History of a Religious Community

by Peter Hoehnle, Joan Liffing-Zug Bourret (Editor), Dwayne Bourret (Editor)

This beautifully illustrated book gives an overview of the Amana community from its founding in Germany, first settlement in New York, and permanent dwelling in eastern Iowa. It focuses on Iowa's Amana seven villages that are the longest lasting of America's communal groups. It gives an up-to-date account of the Amana Society's successful reorganization into separate church and business organizations. A treasure! The German immigrants who settled the Amana Colonies of Iowa in 1855 brought with them a rich cultural heritage of arts and crafts. That heritage is explored and celebrated in this book. This comprehensive title explores everything from clock making, furniture, and woodworking to basketry, caning, and carpet weaving. Full-color photographs by photographer Joan Liffring-Zug Bourret show the beauty that abounds in Amana, including gorgeous gardens and architecture. Together, the text and photos become their own work of art.

96 pages, Paperback

First published May 15, 2003

Reviews

[Karalee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a quick read with several relevant photos, quotes, and other details. It provides a basic introduction to the life, religion, and politics in Amana, as well as how/where/when the community originated and how it has evolved since the Great Change.