One trip to Ottawa and you will feel the history, see the historic landmarks and learn more about our country through this unique and interesting town. Ottawa is rich with history.

Where Lincoln's Voice was First Heard
The first Lincoln-Douglas senatorial debate was held in Ottawa's historic Washington Square on August 21, 1858. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas stood in this beautiful park to deliver the first of seven senatorial debates. It was estimated that 20,000 spectators gathered to witness this famous debate. The site of the debate is marked by a boulder and plaque, and a fountain topped by bronze statues of the "Railsplitter" and “The Little Giant” forms the centerpiece of the beautifully landscaped square.

Boy Scouts of America and W. D. Boyce
William Dickson Boyce was a resident of Ottawa. He is remembered as the man who brought scouting to America. He was inspired by a chance meeting with a British Scout in a thick London fog. The boy showed him the way, saying that he was a Boy Scout and their motto was "Do a good deed everyday."

William Reddick Mansion
The William Reddick Home stands facing historic Washington Square and was built in 1858 for the then-costly sum of $25,000. Mr. Reddick served as a state senator. Mr. Stephen A. Douglas was one of the many politicians entertained at the Reddicks' house. This mansion has been restored to its original splendor and is open to the public.

Murals
Celebrate an undying romance between a 19th century wife and her soldier husband. Relive the artistic vision of an Ottawa businessman whose talent and skills were legendary around the world. Follow the building of an ambitious state transportation project that symbolized the spirit and cultural diversity of a young state. Or join the parade of Ottawans marching through a pivotal decade, the 1950s, or get a glimpse of one of the exciting moments in the lives of some of Ottawa’s earliest settlers, the Native Americans.

I & M Canal
The Illinois and Michigan Canal is a historic landmark not to be missed. It is a favorite site for hiking, exploring history and taking in the beautiful scenic surroundings. The I&M Canal is a historic treasure.

Louis Joliet Camped Here
Louis Joliet was one of the first explorers to experience Ottawa's natural and scenic beauty. His panoramic campsite is today called "The Town of Two Rivers" because Ottawa is the site of the confluence of the Fox River and Illinois River, just east of Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock State Parks.

Civil War Heritage
One of that conflict’s greatest generals, W.H.L. Wallace, made his home here before the war. Wallace’s life story went beyond his military career; it was a love story: As he lay dying from wounds received at the Battle of Shiloh, his young wife – who had crossed the battle lines from Illinois to be with her husband – was at his side.

There are currently 6 History listing(s) available.

A Brush with History Public Art Murals Ottawa's Old Town District | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 888-OTTAWA-4 | Celebrate an undying romance between a 19th century wife and her soldier husband. Relive the artistic vision of an Ottawa businessman whose talent and skills were legendary around the world. Follow the building of an ambitious state transportation project that symbolized the spirit and cultural diversity of a young state. Or join the parade of Ottawans marching through a pivotal decade, the 1950s, or get a glimpse of one of the exciting moments in the lives of some of Ottawas earliest settlers, the Native Americans....Visit Website

Abraham Lincoln/ Stephen Douglas Debate Site Washington Square Park, Bordering Lafayette & Jackson Street | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 888-OTTAWA-4 | The first Lincoln-Douglas senatorial debate was held in Ottawa's historic Washington Square on August 21, 1858. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas stood in this beautiful park to deliver the first of seven senatorial debates. It was estimated that 20,000 spectators gathered to witness this famous debate. The site of the debate is marked by a boulder and plaque, and a fountain topped by bronze statues of the Railsplitter and The Little Giant forms the centerpiece of the beautifully landscaped square.

Boy Scouts of America & W.D. Boyce Memorial Ottawa Avenue & Boyce Memorial Drive | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 888-OTTAWA-4 | William Dickson Boyce was a resident of Ottawa. He is remembered as the man who brought scouting to America. He was inspired by a chance meeting with a British Scout in a thick London fog. The boy showed him the way, saying that he was a Boy Scout and their motto was "Do a good deed everyday."...Visit Website

Heritage Tour - An Illustrated Guide Pick up a copy of this illustrated guide to "the places, faces and ornamentation of Ottawa" and get ready for a magical history tour! Learn about the people who made Ottawa great and who built Ottawa's breathtaking and imposing skyline.

Illinois & Michigan Canal The Illinois and Michigan Canal is a historic landmark not to be missed. It is a favorite site for hiking, exploring history and taking in the beautiful scenic surroundings. The I&M Canal is a historic treasure....Visit Website

Reddick Mansion 100 W. Lafayette | , , | | Built before the Civil War, this ornate 22 room 50 foot tall Italianate mansion was constructed by leading philanthropist and state senator William Reddick. The building is open for self-guided tours on weekdays.