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Grinnell, Iowa:

Heart of the Heartland




Okay, I live in Istanbul. Where is Iowa?

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IA, huh? I see it there near the middle. So, where in the world is Grinnell, Iowa?

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Oh, I found it! Now, in case I come to visit, where is St. Mary's in Grinnell, Iowa?

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The little red cross? I found you! Please tell us something about Grinnell, Iowa, U.S.A.!



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First off: It is pronounced Gruh nell, not Grinle. And, do you remember Mr. Chekov from the original Star Trek series? The actor's name is Walter Koenig and his was one of many illustrious graduating classes from Grinnell College, one of the finest liberal arts colleges in the country. Gary Cooper? Yep, he use to do plays right here in good old Grinnell! How 'bout Peter Coyote? He's another fine actor, best known for his roles in Southern Comfort and The Keeper of the City. Herbie Hancock? He trod the ivy-covered halls of Grinnell College. You know that good old Pentium Processor lurking around inside your C.P.U.? Guess where the guys who invented that went to college?

See the balloons over on the side? Grinnell has a little show of beauty once a year as those magnificent airships soar skyward from the campus.

Peaceful and serene, this community of roughly 10,000 people is a closely-knit, thriving family which interacts wonderfully with the varied nationalities of students who come to Grinnell College each year.

One of the many stops on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War, Grinnell was known for its hospitality to fleeing slaves. An openmindedness and tolerance of other races, creeds, and religious beliefs has always been one of the most inspiring things about this Midwestern hamlet.

Each September, Grinnell has what is known as Happy Days. This tribute to days gone by will see cars of many makes, models, and manufactured years lining the streets as vendors dot the park with crafts and food items and a carnival spins its carousel in the the middle of Broad Street, a block South of St. Mary's. Collecting that year's Happy Days t-shirt is one of the most widely-known traditions of this 50's celebration.

Grinnell is a place where family values have survived the test of time.

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