Assumption Abbey is a community of monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, popularly known as Trappists. The monks first came to Ava, Missouri from New Melleray Abbey in Iowa in 1950 to establish the monastic life here. The Assumption Abbey is popular for its fruitcakes. The fruitcake recipe they use was developed in its bakery, with the help of world class chef Jean-Pierre Augé, who at one time served in the royal employ of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
The Abbey, is located some twenty miles south of the small town of Ava, seventy-five miles east of Springfield, Missouri