Visit the nearby American Gothic House Center, which showcases Grant Wood's life and the house's history. Visitors are encouraged to pose in front of the historic American Gothic House and make their own unique American Gothic portrait using the props available. The center also has an art gallery featuring works by other contemporary artists. The Eldon City Museum is located just a few blocks from the American Gothic House Center at 120 N. Main St. It features exhibits on local history and inventions. Free admission. The American Gothic House was built between 1884 and 1886 for John and Amanda Knapp. They hired architect Leonard Gailenstern to design this distinctive home in rural Eldon, Iowa. The couple's only child died at age 10, so they built this house as a monument to him. In addition to Grant Wood, many other artists have painted portraits of the house over the years. Two of these paintings are displayed at the center next door. Eldon is about 20 minutes south of Cedar Rapids on I-380. There are daily bus tours that go directly through town from May through October. The cost is $10 per person. For more information visit www.americangothichousecenter.com or call 563-382-5300.