Jon 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).  Now, the entire property will show daily life in one of America’s most successful communal religious societies.  Jon’s only full-time colleague is curator, Rebecca Dickman, who together are in the midst of transforming the Amana Heritage Society, its museums, and collections into one of the jewels of Iowa.  Jon earned an M.A. in German Linguistics & Literature and an M.B.A. from the University of Iowa.

Beginning in the 1840s, the Inspirationists were forced to leave Germany due to their beliefs and worsening economic conditions.  Living first in New York and later in Iowa as the Amana Society, they adopted a communal lifestyle to bond together a community of 2,600 members wishing to make the journey.  Seven villages were established in the Amanas, with leadership vested in a board of trustees who oversaw all aspects of daily life.  In 1932, the members voted to abandon communal living. 

Today, the Amana Community reflects its German heritage in quality and innovation to be the home of the world’s first microwave oven, one of the largest and most progressive farms in Iowa, and a traditional leader in Midwest tourism.  Many organizations are tasked with preserving the legacy and cultural heritage of the Community of True Inspiration.  With over 450 communal-era buildings, 26,000 acres of land, and a living community, there is no doubt that both triumphs and challenges occur in our efforts to keep the Amana Colonies relevant with the hope to ‘remain faithful’ to the past.