Ottawa

Ottawa is a city in Franklin County in eastern Kansas that spreads across both sides of the Marais des Cygnes River. Located at an elevation of about 275 meters, it functions as the regional administrative center.

The city was founded in 1864 after the Ottawa Tribe donated 20,000 acres of reservation land to the area. This contribution enabled the establishment of Ottawa University and marked the start of the city's development.

The Old Depot Museum, built in 1888, displays exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Franklin County's development through the generations.

The city follows a grid pattern with mostly flat streets that make it easy to navigate on foot or by car. Visitors should note that the downtown area is compact and most destinations are within a short drive.

The Plaza Grill and Cinema is one of the oldest continuously operating movie theaters in the country, showing films downtown for generations. The building preserves the feel of a classic American picture house with original architectural details.

Location: Franklin County

Inception: 1865

Elevation above the sea: 275 m

Website: http://ottawaks.gov

GPS coordinates: 38.61190,-95.26640

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:23