Amana Colonies Maifest

Quite by accident, we came upon Maifest in east-central Iowa's quaint Amana Colonies. It was, after all, May Day, so we shouldn't have been surprised. But we certainly weren't planning on finding entertainment, just the scenic way home from Iowa City to Des Moines.

The Amana Colonies are an Iowa and Midwest gem of a tourist attraction. The lovingly preserved and fiercely protected group of about 5 small towns used to be a communal community, founded by immigrants from Germany who fled both religious persecution and economic hardship in the 19th century. Not to be confused with the Amish, these Germans lived communally until economic conditions in this country proved that it would be better for individual families to live capitalistically. However, much of the simple industry and quality merchandise that grew the colonies remains, augmented by some savvy business owners who know a good place to plant their arts and craft gallery or coffee shop.

When we arrived at main Amana, the largest of the colonies, we stopped at Millstream Brewery, a picturesque shop along the canal that cuts across the farmland surrounding the village. In honor of Maifest, a gray haired man wearing lederhosen and woolen hat was serenading customers with a small guitar and a yodeling song; we listened to him while we ate bratwurst with sauerkraut and sampled the freshly brewed root beer. Further on into town, we discovered a Maypole dance in progress. The pretty women in colorful, authentic German dresses were weaving intricate patterns with their ribbons while sedately and primly stepping to what sounded like polka music. We passed on the horse-drawn carriage ride, but it looked like fun. The chocolate and coffee shop provided us with some great lattes and hand-dipped chocolates. We browsed the General Store for more treats and souvenirs, then ended the May Day at the bakery where we shared some crumbly crispy baked treats.

Had we decided to stay for dinner, we would have feasted on German specialties, such as sauerbraten or weiner schnitzel, with potatoes, sauerkraut, corn and slaw, followed by homemade pie. Most of the large restaurants in the area, such as the Ox Yoke Inn, serve copious quantities of similar food family style. Instead, we took home some locally made Havarti cheese and hard anise candies. The meats made by the local smoke shop are fabulous, as we have found from past experience. We were too full to continue shopping for other food items, so we called it quits and spent the rest of May Day driving back to Des Moines.

I am always fascinated by the history of the Amanas whenever we go there. I am awed by what people will do for their beliefs and way of life. I am grateful for the farsightedness of the Amana town leaders, who have preserved their original buildings and transformed them into a new use while celebrating their heritage. We who are lucky enough to avail ourselves of their industry and cooking prowess find quality meats, cheeses, preserved foods, furniture, clocks, woolens, and crafts much like the local villagers have been making for over one hundred years.