WINTERSET — Over the past 30 years, more than one million visitors have journeyed to historic Madison County to tour the modest four-room home where American film icon John Wayne was born on May 26, 1907. Guests have included President Ronald Reagan, movie legend Maureen O’Hara, Wayne’s widow and all of his children and fans from 50 states and 40 foreign countries.
To provide a more meaningful visitor experience, the birthplace organization has announced the May 23 grand opening of the John Wayne Birthplace Museum, a brand new 5,000 square-foot facility which will offer a collection of artifacts from the screen legend’s life and career. The only museum in the world dedicated to John Wayne, it will feature the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne treasures in existence, including original movie posters, film wardrobe, scripts, contracts, letters, artwork and sculpture, one of his customized automobiles and a movie theater.
Providing patriotic fanfare for the opening ceremonies will be the 100-member Iowa Military Veterans Band in addition to rodeo queens, reduced price admission to the new museum, free John Wayne movies at the vintage Iowa Theater, food and merchandise vendors, cowboy-mounted shooters and much more.
A highlight for many will be the museum benefit dinner ($150 per person) headlined by country music legend and RFD-TV star Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives. Also featured will be an auction of unique and one-of-a-kind John Wayne items including artwork and film wardrobe.
For further information, call 877-462-1044 or visit the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum website www.johnwaynebirthplace.museum/birthday.