Iowa History Daily: On March 9, 1984, the horror-film “Children of the Corn” released in theaters. Mainly filmed in northwestern Iowa around Sioux City, the film led many viewers to never look at corn field quite the same ever again.
In the adaptation of Stephen King’s 1977 short story of the same name, the story features a malevolent creature referred to as “He Who Walks Behind the Rows,” and a cult of children who do his bidding. The film starred Linda Hamilton and Peter Horton, and featured guest appearances by many Iowans who filled out call sheets for the film.
Although set in Gatlin, Nebraska, film rolled in the Iowa towns of Hornick, Salix, Sergeant Bluff, and Whiting during the fall of 1983. While local papers warned residents not to worry about a large explosion planned for the film, many Iowans eagerly anticipated the debut of the film the following year. The film made about $14.6 million in theaters, leading producers to make nearly a dozen additional “Children of the Corn” movies.
Many of the buildings featured in the film still stand, and continue to draw attention for eager horror-fans visiting northwestern Iowa. A 2009 remake of the original 1984 also filmed in several of the western Iowa towns featured in the original movie. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar
