Winterset, Iowa: John Wayne Birthplace Museum

You've read the book, seen the movie, now see the bridges! Well, at least the ones that haven't been burned down by a crazy arsonist a few years ago. Actually, a replica of the original Cedar bridge has just been built! The bridges are indeed historic, charming, surrounded by the beautifully classic rolling hills of Southwest Iowa. The Winterset townsfolk are as friendly as they come. Have a coffee and a slice of pie in the Northside Cafe near the town square and get a good feel for Iowan hospitality.

After taking a million visitors to see the bridges of Madison county, we must reveal that the John Wayne museum can be viewed entirely by standing in the entryway and making small talk with the guard. Just peak around her and then look at the gift counter. A greater adventure is going to the cafe, in the Winterset town square, and sitting on the barstool that Clint Eastwood did during the filming of Bridges. The actual movie actors (local waitresses) serve you. Love that open faced turkey sandwich swimming in gravy.

Marion Morrison (later known as John Wayne) and his family lived in Winterset until he was three, when they moved to Earlham, another town in Madison County.

He was always pround of his Midwest heritage, and certainly did not deny that Winterset was his birthplace.

In a recent trip to Madison County, we found more than just bridges. We soon learned that Winterset, Iowa is the birthplace of John Wayne. If you watch signs going into town, they will lead you to the house where he was born. Of course, the best part of the story is that John and his parents moved out of town before John had his first birthday! He never claimed Winterset to be his home. But, there is not much else to do in Winterset after seeing all of the beautiful bridges!