The First School This Famous Artist Attended was Near Anamosa Iowa

Grant Wood, a prominent American artist best known for his iconic painting American Gothic, was deeply influenced by his roots in Iowa. Born in Anamosa, Iowa, in 1891, Wood’s work often reflects the rural charm and cultural essence of the Midwest. American Gothic, completed in 1930, features a stark portrayal of a farmer and his daughter, embodying the spirit of American rural life during the Great Depression. Wood’s art remains a quintessential representation of Iowa’s landscape and heritage, capturing the heart of American farming communities.

On our way to wherever, a weekend or two ago, my wife and I passed this roadside attraction.  We love these types of landmarks, do you?  You learn a little something and hopefully, it's a great place to take a few pictures.  I understand why Grant Wood fell in love with the surrounding area.  It has rolling hills and it's very scenic.

This is Grant Wood's first school.  The Antioch School, located just outside Anamosa, Iowa, is situated near the area where Grant Wood was born and raised on a farm. Although his family's farm no longer exists, it was once located a few miles northwest of the school.  The land has since been converted into fields.

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No word on what this building was used for but if I had to guess maybe a place they went to let off steam.  It was the only heated building and the plumbing was outdoors.

It may have been rough then but they did have a few amenities like an outhouse and propane heat.  Who knew delivery outhouses were a thing then, but as you can see here, it was.  Historically accurate was what they were looking for and they've nailed it.

You can learn more about the art gallery and the couple that had it built, Mildred and Dr. Jerry Brown.