THE HISTORY CENTER
Grant Wood: Seriously Silly
You know American Gothic —but did you know its painter was also a notorious prankster? Long before fame found him, Grant Wood was a local teacher and community organizer who mixed seriousness about art with a healthy dose of humor. Come learn more about the artist behind the pitchfork—and the punchline.
Special Thanks to our Exhibit Co-Sponsors: David Maier & Matthew McGrane and Nancy Miller
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Feeding the Nation: Quaker Oats & 150+
Years of Innovation
For more than 150 years, Quaker has been more than a breakfast staple but
a cornerstone of Cedar Rapids. From
the vision of early founders and fierce industry competition to groundbreaking innovations that transformed how Americans eat, this exhibit traces the rise of an iconic company. Visitors will explore how Quaker helped invent the modern breakfast, fed a nation during wartime, pioneered new technologies, and built a workplace culture defined by loyalty, hard work, and community.
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Open April - September 2026
Party Like It's 1976
In 1776, the United States declared its independence. At that time, the land we now call Linn County was home to Indigenous people and not yet part of the United States. Two hundred years later, in 1976, people across the country celebrated America’s birthday—right here in Linn County, too! There were parades, special events, and lots of red, white, and blue. Try on clothes, make a flag, read a book, and imagine what it felt like to be part of a big national birthday party.
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