Amana Documentary

Produced by WQPT PBS

The History of the Amana Colonies

Our latest documentary, premiering in December, takes viewers on a journey to the origins of the Amana Colonies.

Located in Iowa, about an hour and a half west of the Quad Cities, the Amana Colonies were founded by ‘The Inspirationalists,’ a religious group from Germany who, fleeing persecution, migrated to America in the mid-1800s.

They established a communal society centered on self-sufficiency, resource sharing, and cooperative labor grounded in their faith and values.

These seven historic villages in eastern Iowa are renowned for their unique communal lifestyle, rich cultural heritage, and deep-rooted religious traditions.

“We’re honored and excited to share this rich historical documentary about settlers to the region,” said Matt Sawyer, WQPT PBS Director of Productions. “We are grateful to the descendants who shared their stories and continue to preserve the communal society's unique cultural heritage, traditions, and history.”

The documentary features interviews with descendants who continue to live in the Colonies, providing an intimate glimpse into the history of a community that thrived through unity and shared purpose.

WQPT PBS Documentaries

WQPT PBS has expanded its regional productions with documentaries about Moline’s Wharton Field House, Pesāēhkiw: A Medicine Fish Healing Journey, Savannah, Illinois’ Havencrest Castle, Quad Cities Gospel, and the award-winning Your Dutch Friend.”

"At WQPT PBS, we're deeply committed to telling the stories that celebrate our region's people, places, and rich heritage," said Dawn Schmitt, General Manager of WQPT PBS. "We're excited to continue our mission of bringing these regional stories to life and connecting our communities through shared history and culture."

Explore our local productions.