TINSMITH ITEMS

In the communal period in Amana (1855-1932) there were many craftsmen that designed and made tools and utensils especially for the needs of the gardener and kitchen workers.  The tinsmiths held a vital role in the community as he shaped metal into pots, pans, pails, wash tugs,, cups, cooking ladles, and much more.  He also repaired tin items.   Most pieces were made to be functional as were the creative tin cookie cutters.  Geometric shapes, flowers, animals, and fish were inspiration for the cutters used in the home and community kitchens.  At Christmas and Easter the tinsmiths, turned artisan, would form special shapes as stars and bunnies.   All are very treasured pieces to behold and some still made today.