These 8 Celebrities Hail From Some Of Iowa’s Most Charming Small Towns
Iowa is known as the place where greatness begins, so it’s no surprise that many celebrities have called it home! Some went on to make an impact all over the world – and even beyond – while some stayed true to their roots and made greatness happen from right here in the Hawkeye State. From painters, to actors, to musicians, and even a Nobel Prize winner, these eight celebrities born in Iowa all have one thing in common – they came from some of the best small towns in Iowa. From humble beginnings, they left quite a legacy – and several of them even left museums behind them right where it all began!
One of the most famous American artists not only was born in small-town Iowa, he spent much of his career portraying the rural life he knew best.
His biggest legacy is in Cedar Rapids, where a massive collection of his work is on display. His boyhood home has been preserved, and an American Gothic House visitor center is a popular attraction.
Best known for composing the music to the iconic musical "The Music Man," Willson was an acclaimed composer. His most famous musical's movie adaptation was filmed right here in his hometown!
The first Iowa resident in space, Cunningham served as a lunar module pilot on the Apollo 7 mission in 1968. He accumulated over 4,500 hours of flying time.
Less of a household name but maybe even more significant, Borlaug won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in agriculture that led to a massive increase in production. He's known best for helping to develop disease-resistant wheat varieties.
Have you visited any of the museums mentioned in this article? Tell us about your trip, and let us know which other celebrities born in Iowa you’re a fan of in the comments section! For more on the legacy left by one of these celebrities, check out the world-famous Grant Wood collection in Cedar Rapids.
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Address: American Gothic House Center, 300 American Gothic St, Eldon, IA 52554, USA
Address: John Wayne Birthplace Museum, 205 S John Wayne Dr, Winterset, IA 50273, USA
Address: Donna Reed Theatre, 1305 Broadway, Denison, IA 51442, USA
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