Fairmount Historical Museum in Fairmount, Indiana The Home of James Dean
It’s no secret what famous actor once called little Fairmount, Indiana home–James Dean posters, murals, and events are pretty much here, there, and everywhere. Signs and parks and small businesses are devoted in their following. Based on the number of people that turn out for the annual James Dean Festival, it’s a smart move and a nice way to honor his memory.
Fairmount, Indiana is so very proud of their local boy turned famous actor and it shows, especially inside the Fairmount Historical Museum.
Fairmount Historical Museum in Fairmount, Indiana
Don’t worry James Dean fans, there’s a lot of James Dean memorabilia here for you! You won’t believe the things you’ll find inside! In fact, for this article, I’m only talking James Dean.
I’ll revisit the Fairmount Historical Museum in a different article in the next few weeks when we delve into town history. All of you long time readers know that if you want to get a great feel for a town, you have to check out the museum, right?
But for now, let’s check out what the Fairmount Historical Museum has when it comes to James Dean. It isn’t every day that someone with small Indiana town roots skyrockets to fame and fortune.
Fairmount, Indiana Attractions
Fairmount Historical Museum in Fairmount, Indiana The Home of James Dean
In such a short time he went from just a person to a “Rebel.” Here at the Fairmount Historical Museum, there’s quite a few surprising artifacts from James Dean’s youth.
You’ll find an actual sink basin from his New York apartment. I thought that was kind of neat. I couldn’t help but wonder if he hated cleaning sinks as much as I do.
There’s a set of his footprints and handprints that were cast back when he was 11. His trademark glasses and watch sit in another display case. A rocking chair, a part of the Winslow family since at least 1887, quietly sits with an image of James Dean perched on it while chatting on the phone.
Go There
The Hand and Footprints of James Dean at the Fairmount Historical Museum in Fairmount, Indiana
The Fairmount Historical Museum in Fairmount, Indiana is a great peek into the formative years of this young celebrity.
They’ve got some neat things. Awards, motorcycles, and images–there’s a lot of big things that are rather surprising to see. If you are a fan of James Dean, go. If you are a fan of town history, well, stay tuned but I can at least tell you now that you will want to visit this Indiana museum for that one, too. Add the Fairmount Historical Museum to your Indiana travel plans.
Small Towns: Destinations, not Drive-Thrus! I’m Jessica Nunemaker and THIS is Little Indiana.
Just don’t forget to tell them that Little Indiana sent you.
Fairmount Historical Museum
203 E Washington Street
Fairmount, IN 46928
765.948.4555
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