Ottumwa is the only city in the United States with this name. The town was first settled in 1843 near three Indian villages, Chief Wapello’s village, Chief Keokuk’s village and Chief Apponoosa’s village. Chief Wapello was second in command to Chief Keokuk of the Sac and Fox nation.
There are several possible meanings of the Sac Indian word “Ottumwa.” Two commonly accepted meanings are “place of perseverance or self will” and “land of rippling waters.” Either of them probably sums up the area quite well.
The city began, in 1845, with three stores, a tin shop, blacksmith shop, tailor shop, two hotels, a whiskey shop, and bout 15 log houses. There was a jail but no churches or schools. The town really began to grow in 1848 and by 1854 it had become a rather substantial community. In 1860 Ottumwa had a population of 1,632 which grew to over 5,000 by 1870. Today (according to the 2000 census) there are 24, 998 residents of the community.
Taking the history of the community into consideration and looking at where the community is now allows for the appreciation of the vision of the leaders of the town, whether that is the governmental agencies of groups of people promoting the community like the Chamber of Commerce and the Convention and Visitor Bureau who’s job it is to let people know about all the things there are to see and do in the community.
Whether you are coming to Ottumwa for pleasure or business you can get information on the available activities and events from the CVB on such things as dining, lodging, shopping, golf and year-round festivals, concerts, theatre and entertainment. Even though you might be in for work, enjoy the beautiful City of Bridges at the end of the day.
Maybe you will want to relax at Beach Ottumwa or play a game of basketball, baseball or tennis (lighted courts) at Ottumwa Park. Grab your clubs and go for a round of gold at the 18 hole championship Cedar Creek Golf Course. Maybe you want to go ghost hunting! If you do go to Mars Hill Church and cemetery located southeast of Ottumwa where it is said there are ghosts that haunt the place.
Whatever you decide to do, stop in at the CVB and get a map of the area and a brochure telling you about the different opportunities there are. You will have a chance to meet some super people that will be more than happy to help you with your plans whether you are going to be in town for a day or longer.
Give them a call at 641-682-3465 or stop in and see them at 217 East Main Street in Ottumwa. You can also find out more by going to www.iowabeautiful.com/south-central-iowa-tourism/ and clicking on the ad which will take you directly to the CVB website.
Enjoy your visit to Ottumwa!
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