Kalona, Iowa - Quilts, "Sporks", and the Amish!

For one of our days off, we visited Kalona, Iowa. It was settled by the Amish and Mennonites in 1846. It's a quaint little town with many fun things to see.

We quickly learned about the goodies at the Kalona Bakery! Cinnamon rolls and berry pies! Delish!

In one of the historic houses, we admired this beautiful organ. The old hymn book on the organ looked well used. 

We thought the "spork" was an innovative idea! 

This is the sign on the original well shown below. 

This is where Grandma and Grandpa would live after they'd moved out of the "big house" when the next generation moved in. (Don't get any ideas you kids). Grams and Gramps now live in this cozy dwelling. Inside it didn't look too bad. They'd eat their meals at the "big house" with the rest of the family if they wanted. 

This was the train station. The office was on the main floor and the station master and his family lived upstairs. They'd sure have to learn to sleep through anything!!!

Bryce was trying to get some information but "Mr. Manne Quin" wasn't too helpful. 

We liked these old train lamps. 

This buggy pulled into the local hardware store. We saw several Amish around town. 

We also saw some other forms of transport and agricultural equipment. 

I'm sure this was a few steps up from the horse and plow but not quite a John Deere yet!

The John Deere factory is in Iowa and their patented color started early. 

These are butter pats that are placed on the dinner table - one for each person to put their butter on. Various types and qualities. I thought they were so cute that when we found some with roses on them at a Kalona antique store, we bought them.  

Lost Bryce for a while then found him wearing this. Didn't know I should have been looking for Abe Lincoln!