Ames in Story County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Birthplace of the Computer
Iowa State University
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 17, 2025
1. Birthplace of the Computer Marker
The world's first electronic digital computer was built on the Iowa State campus from 1939 through 1942 by John V. Atanasoff, a professor of physics and mathematics, and Clifford Berry, and engineering graduate student. Principles used in the Atanasoff-Berry Computer are basis of modern computing, and Atanasoff is now considered the "father of the computer."
Erected by Iowa State University.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1939.
Location. 42° 1.741′ N, 93° 38.841′ W. Marker is in Ames, Iowa, in Story County. It is on Osborn Drive east of Morrill Road, on the right when traveling west. Marker is in front of Physics Hall, on the campus of Iowa State University. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 2332 Osborn Dr, Ames IA 50011, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Greater Des Moines. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: First Land-Grant Home Economics College (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); First Veterinary Medicine College (about 600 feet away); First Statistical Laboratory (about 700 feet away); World's Hardiest Roses (about 800 feet away); A Faster Fax (approx. 0.2 miles away); First Land-Grant (approx. 0.2 miles away); Jack Trice (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Farm House (approx. Ό mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ames.
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 17, 2025
2. Birthplace of the Computer Marker
Marker is in front of Physics Hall on the campus of Iowa State University
Credits. This page was last revised on June 24, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 24, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois. This page has been viewed 198 times since then and 41 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 24, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.
