Historic Iowa Amana Colonies

The Amana Colonies were established in 1856.  The included seven communal communities.  They were founded by Germans, who had left Germany because of religious persecution.  The called themselves "The Community of True Inspiration." They were able to maintain and independent lifestyle for over 80 years.  They made their own furniture and clothes.  They brought their craftsman skills with them from Germany, and then handed these skills down from generation to generation.   They used only hand, wind, horse and water power.
It was the depression that forced a change in focus.  Many of the communities during this time were having financial difficulties.  The communities were reorganized into two societies.  The religious would remain non-profit while the industry would reform as afor profit incorporation.