1971 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee
September 10, 1894 – August 11, 1972
Arthur Brewster “Art” Parsons, born on September 10, 1894, in Grinnell, Iowa, was a pivotal figure in the development of high school wrestling in Iowa. His dedication to education and athletics left an enduring legacy in the Eagle Grove community and beyond.
Parsons’ early life was marked by a diverse educational journey. He attended schools in Pasadena, California, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, before graduating from high school in Des Moines in 1913. He pursued higher education at Grinnell College, earning his degree in 1917. His commitment to service was evident as he enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 3, 1917, serving with the Ambulance Corps in Italy during World War I until his honorable discharge on May 2, 1919.
In 1922, Parsons began his long and impactful teaching career in Eagle Grove, Iowa. Over 37 years, he became a cornerstone of the educational community, retiring in 1959. Notably, he was Eagle Grove High School’s first wrestling coach, laying the foundation for a program that would influence countless young athletes. His exceptional coaching earned him two Wrestling Hall of Fame awards, reflecting his significant contributions to the sport.
Entrepreneurially, he co-founded the Eagle Grove Ready Mix Concrete Company with Durwood Miller and the North Iowa Stokol Company in partnership with John Potgetter, contributing to the local economy and infrastructure.
Parsons’ personal life was marked by his marriage to Lorene Wright of Ames on July 30, 1923. The couple had three children: Walter, Mary (Mrs. Charles Burkett), and Patricia (Mrs. Kenneth Light). His family remembers him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
On August 11, 1972, Parsons passed away at the age of 77. In honor of his commitment to wrestling and education, memorial gifts were directed to the Iowa Central Community College, Eagle Grove Center, wrestling scholarship fund, ensuring that his legacy would continue to support aspiring athletes.
Arthur Brewster “Art” Parsons’ life was a testament to dedication, service, and community involvement. His pioneering efforts in high school wrestling and his broad contributions to Eagle Grove have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence both on and off the mat.
Arthur was inducted into the 1971 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame with fellow wrestling pioneer, Nels Anderson.
Additional Honors & Achievements
- Eagle Grove High School’s First Official Wrestling Coach
- Produced legendary wrestling coach Bob Siddens at West Waterloo High School
- Produced legendary wrestler (NCAA Champion at Iowa State) and coach, George Martin
- 1971 ISHAA Wrestling Hall of Fame
- 1972 Alumni Award – Outstanding alumnus of the class of 1917 at Grinnell College
