Colonies in Bloom: Gardens of the Amanas, ‘Heart Balm’

Two Amana Heritage events on one day

AMANA — Celebrate both Iowa theater and the gardening heritage of the Amana Colonies Saturday, June 28.

Begin with Colonies in Bloom from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Take a self-guided tour of selected gardens in the seven villages.

Then, enjoy a performance of “Heart Balm” by Iowa City playwright, Janet Schlapkohl, at the historic Homestead Village Church Museum at 7 p.m.

Colonies in Bloom is a free event that celebrates the rich gardening culture of the Amana Colonies. Gardening has always been a key part of the Amana Colonies and has flourished over time.

In the communal era, production of fruits and vegetables was a community endeavor. Hobby gardens were unknown. When the communal system ended in 1932, hobby gardening became popular.

Selected residences and businesses will open gardens to visitors for Colonies in Bloom. Each garden is unique, with both traditional and modern gardens as well as both native and exotic plants.

Maps for Colonies in Bloom will be available at the Amana Heritage Museum, the Amana Colonies Visitors Center, and each participating garden location as well as online as a PDF at amanacolonies.com and amanaheritage.org.

“Heart Balm,” a live performance by playwright Janet Schlapkohl at the historic Homestead Village Church Museum, is the story of a young German immigrant who discovers love, a new occupation, the Iowa court system and herself. The play poses the question, "What is the price of a broken heart?"

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p. Tickets are $25 with a $5 discount for Amana Heritage Society members. Tickets available at amanaheritage.org.

The Homestead Village Church Museum (4210 V Street, Homestead) will host to this performance to raise awareness about its future. Amana is planning a major historic preservation project to restore the structure to its former humble glory.

The church was built in 1865 and served as a worship space until the 1990s when it became a museum site for visitors to learn about the religious heritage of the Amana Colonies. Revitalization efforts will allow it to become a venue for educational and entertaining musical and theatrical performances, focusing on the history and heritage of the state of Iowa as a whole.

More information about the Amana Heritage Society and these two events can be found online at amanaheritage.org. Or call 319-622-3567 or email amanaheritage@southslope.net.