Ottawa, Illinois Home Attractions Famous Residents Recreation Restaurants/Hotels/ Bed & Breakfast Day Trip Index

Ottawa, Illinois _________________ Driving Directions From Quincy, take I-172 south for 15 miles to I-36. Take I-36 east 100 miles to Springfield. Take the I-55 North exit and stay on I-55 for 72 miles then take I-39 North for 60 miles. Take I-80 East for 13 miles to Ottawa. Approximately 260 miles. Calendar of Events For a list of events in Ottawa visit the Ottawa site for up-to-date calendars. History Ottawa is known as “The Town of Two Rivers” because of its picturesque location at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers. By 1823, this location had enticed settlers to the area, especially trappers and traders who did business with local Indians. In 1831 Ottawa was named the county seat for La Salle County. Ottawa flourished with the completion of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in 1848. The canal enabled Ottawa to become an important industrial center. Ottawa is also famous for its role in Abraham Lincoln’s Illinois history. On August 21, 1858, Lincoln and Stephen Douglas held the first of their seven debates in Ottawa’s Washington Park. Today, visitors can stroll through the park or visit numerous other historically significant sites throughout Ottawa. For additional information about Ottawa call (888) 688-2924. Back to Top QuincyNet Home Copyright© 2002 - 2009 by QuincyNet, a division of HCW Ltd. All Rights Reserved