The American Gothic House, also known as the Dibble House, is a house in Eldon, Iowa, designed in the Carpenter Gothic style with a distinctive upper window. It was the backdrop of the 1930 painting American Gothic by Grant Wood, generally considered Wood's most famous work and among the most recognized paintings in twentieth century American art. Grant Wood, who observed the house only twice in his lifetime, made only an initial sketch of the house—he completed American Gothic at his studio in Cedar Rapids.Plan to see American Gothic House and other attractions that appeal to you using our Eldon holiday planner.
First owned by Eldon resident Charles Dibble after its construction in 1881 and 1882, the home was (with one 1897 exception) a private residence until the late twentieth century. After a thirty-year preservation effort culminated with the donation of the house in 1991 to the State Historical Society of Iowa, the site now includes the original house in its 1930 form and a visitors center. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Since 1991, various caretaker-occupants have continued to rent the home privately.
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American Gothic House reviews
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If you love art and the iconic painting "American Gothic," then this place is for you and worth the trip out if you are in Iowa. The house is the one seen in the background in the "American Gothic...
If you love art and the iconic painting "American Gothic," then this place is for you and worth the trip out if you are in Iowa. The house is the one seen in the background in the "American Gothic... more »
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That’s awesome little detour was actually a great experience. The welcome center is very neat and well organized and the staff is very helpful. The overall appearance of the stop was very clean. I have a little gift shop to get a few things and a 30 minute video that is worth the time. Overall a great experience to do at least once
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A unique experience in the small town of Eldon, Iowa! Nice little museum and lovely grounds allow visitors to step into American art. Kudos to this little town for making preservation of this hidden gem a priority!
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