Amana Meatshop and Smokehouse Now and Then

Iowa's number one tourist attraction is the Amana Colonies - a confederation of seven villages that recall their 1850's communal living by German immigrants. Part of the colonies' food tradition is the Amana Meatshop and Smokehouse. The meatshop is still in operation today offering fresh meats, cheeses and related products that can be purchased in the store or online.

Hanging inside the front door is a collection of photos showing what the building looked like throughout its history. This one looks to be from the 1930s or 40s. The stone building was built in the 1860s and still greets customers. While the Amana Colonies experience visitors throughout the year to its woolen mill, German restaurants and general stores, the main push of tourists occurs between Maifest and the Christmas festivals. Be sure to stop by and take in all seven villages while munching on the meatshop's cheese and meat sticks. Know that.