The Amazing Amana Colonies Story Comes to St. Lucas

Stay informed, stay empowered: invest in the journalism that invests in you. ST. LUCAS, Iowa— On Wednesday, July 9, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Jon Childers, executive director of the Amana Heritage Society, will present "The Amana Colonies Story" at the German American Museum, Library and Family History Center. Childers, an Amana native and longtime heritage advocate, leads a small staff with a big mission: to share the 300-year heritage of the Amana Colonies—a National Historic Landmark—with the world. His focus is the long-term sustainability of the heritage society while telling the Amana story in new and experiential ways. Since joining the Amana Heritage Society in 2016, Childers has successfully worked to grow membership, boost admissions, increase grant activity, and develop lasting programs to share Amana's unique culture. He recently led the successful acquisition of the Communal Kitchen Museum in Middle Amana, the only surviving kitchen house from Amana's communal era (1855–1932). The entire property will now be used to show daily life in one of America's most successful communal religious societies. Childers' full-time colleagues are curator Rebecca Simpson and program director Elise Heitman. Together, they are transforming the Amana Heritage Society, its museums, and collections into what organizers hope will become one of the cultural jewels of Iowa. Childers holds an M.A. in German linguistics and literature, and an M.B.A., both from the University of Iowa. The July 9 event includes refreshments, cake and cookies. The Amana story begins in the 1840s, when the Inspirationists—a religious group—were forced to flee Germany due to persecution and economic hardship. After living briefly in New York, the group moved to Iowa and adopted a communal lifestyle as the Amana Society. They eventually established seven villages, with leadership vested in a board of trustees who oversaw all aspects of daily life. In 1932, the group voted to abandon communal living. Today, the Amana Colonies continue to reflect their German heritage through innovation and tradition. The community is home to one of Iowa's largest and most progressive farms, a major tourism industry, and was the birthplace of the world's first microwave oven. With more than 450 communal-era buildings, 26,000 acres of land, and a living community, the Amana Colonies remain a powerful example of cultural preservation. Organizers say the July 9 program offers an opportunity to learn more about a fellow German-American historical society and celebrate a legacy that continues to evolve. Become a part of the exclusive circle! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and gain access to special offers, bonus content and insider perks.