The second day we stopped at an area in Iowa known as Amana Colonies. The story of this colony is interesting to those who enjoy history. See http://www.AmanaColonies.com for more details.
Two men in Germany had mutual religious beliefs. They began in 1714 to travel about and writing throughout Germany and 
Switzerland. Their actions resulted in forming small congregations. they became known as the Community of True Inspirations or the Inspirations. They advocated freedom of speech and were persecuted. Remember Europe was a hotbed for persecution’s.
Later, in 1842 this group bought 5,000 acres in New York. They developed a communal system of living that would last eighty-nine years.
they eventually decided to move farther west settling in Iowa. This would become known as Amana Colonies. (Amana means to remain true.) Beginning in 1855 the villages were constructed with communal living being the normal way of operations. Their way of living lasted until 1932.
Many of the original buildings are still in place. many have become localized shops and homes. Some buildings have been added on to with time.
I enjoy old buildings and barns and weathered wood so I took many photos. I grew up in a climate of old weathered barns and fences. Most are in black and white to give a sense of age.
Westward Ho the Wagons boys and off to spend the night in Nebraska.
The Amana Colonies are registered as a national historic Location.
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
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