Iowa is known as the place where greatness begins, so it’s no surprise that many celebrities have called it home! Some famous people from Iowa 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 from 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 these Iowa celebrities even left museums behind them right where it all began!

1. Grant Wood, Anamosa

Grant Wood/Wikipedia
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.
Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance/Wikipedia

2. Meredith Willson, Mason City

Stage Company Promo Dept./Wikipedia
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!

3. Simon Estes, Centerville

Gage Skidmore/Wikipedia
One of the most acclaimed African-American opera singers of all time, Estes has performed for Presidents and figures including Nelson Mandela.

4. Walter Cunningham, Creston

NASA/Wikipedia
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.

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5. Donna Reed, Denison

RKO Radio Pictures/Wikipedia
The beloved actress of screen and stage had deep Iowa roots, and today, is best remembered for her role in "It's a Wonderful Life".
Her hometown is home to the Donna Reed Performing Arts Center, which includes a museum dedicated to her life.
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6. Norman Borlaug, Cresco

Ben Zinner/Wikipedia
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.

7. Dave Keuning, Pella

AnnaReese22/Wikipedia
The lead guitarist of the rock band The Killers, Keuning grew up in the charming small town best known for its massive windmills!

8. John Wayne, Winterset

Lone Star Productions/Wikipedia
Maybe the most famous face to come out of Iowa, Marion Morrison, "The Duke" was born in the town made famous by "The Bridges of Madison County".
It's not a surprise that his hometown views him with pride, and his childhood home has been turn into a museum and visitor's center.
Thaddeus Roan/Wikipedia

Have you visited any of the museums mentioned in this article? Tell us about your trip, and let us know which other celebrities from 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. And if you’re proud of your Iowa roots, why not show it off?

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