by Iowa might seem like a peaceful, pastoral state filled with cornfields and small-town charm—but look closer, and you’ll uncover a darker layer hiding beneath the surface. From chilling murders and strange creatures to paranormal activity and UFO sightings, here are 10 eerie stories that have cemented their place in Iowa’s creepiest lore.
10. The Villisca Axe Murders
In 1912, the small town of Villisca was rocked by the brutal slaying of eight people—including six children—murdered with an axe while they slept. Despite multiple investigations and suspects, the crime remains unsolved. The house where the massacre occurred still stands and is rumored to be haunted.
9. The Iowa State Penitentiary Executions
Located in Fort Madison, the Iowa State Penitentiary witnessed numerous executions, including the botched hangings of convicted criminals. The final execution in 1963 involved Victor Feguer, who kidnapped and killed a doctor. His case marked Iowa’s last death penalty use before abolition in 1965.
8. The Gitchie Manitou Murders
In 1973, three brothers posed as narcotics officers and ambushed five teenagers camping in Gitchie Manitou State Preserve. Four were killed, and a 13-year-old girl was raped and left for dead—but survived and testified. It’s one of Iowa’s most horrific crimes.
7. Ed Gein’s Iowa Roots
While Ed Gein’s gruesome crimes happened in Wisconsin, his mother Augusta—who deeply shaped his twisted psychology—was from Iowa. Her religious fanaticism and harsh moral teachings had a haunting influence on Gein, who later became infamous for murder and grave robbing.
6. The Rathbun Lake Monster
Early 1900s reports described a massive, eel-like creature surfacing in Rathbun Lake. Though unverified, the legend persists, especially since the lake covers the site of the submerged village of Griffinsville. The mystery still draws intrigue.
5. Iowa’s UFO Flap of 1978
In the late 1970s, Iowa experienced a wave of UFO sightings. Hundreds—including law enforcement—reported strange lights and flying objects. A rumored crash in Council Bluffs in 1977 only added to the frenzy. It remains one of Iowa’s most documented UFO events.
4. The Van Meter Visitor
In 1903, the town of Van Meter was terrorized by a glowing, winged creature said to resemble a half-human, half-bat monster. Despite attempts to shoot it, the creature reportedly vanished into an abandoned mine. The town now hosts an annual festival honoring the legend.
3. The Jodi Huisentruit Disappearance
News anchor Jodi Huisentruit vanished in 1995 while heading to work in Mason City. Her car was found with signs of a struggle, but no trace of her was ever found. The mystery of her disappearance still haunts Iowa and remains one of the state’s most baffling cold cases.
2. The Tainted Corn of 1971
A pesticide known as Zinophos contaminated thousands of acres of corn in 1971, leading to massive crop destruction and alarming health issues. Farmers suffered heavy financial losses, and many still believe the crisis was the result of negligence or cover-up.
1. Edinburgh Manor – Iowa’s Most Haunted Place
Once a poor farm and mental institution, Edinburgh Manor in Jones County has a terrifying history. Over 230 deaths occurred on the property, and it’s believed many spirits never left. Visitors report disembodied voices, shadow figures, and even physical attacks—especially in the sinister basement.
Final Thoughts
Behind Iowa’s serene landscapes lies a history filled with mystery, tragedy, and the paranormal. These chilling tales serve as a reminder that even the quietest places can hide the darkest secrets.
