Ottawa

Ottawa KS has a population of about 11,000 people. It has a 4 year university and a 2 year community college. The downtown has an interesting flavor with old buildings with varied styles. The courthouse is often photographed since it is one of the oldest, most beautiful ones in the Midwest. It has a huge clock that chimes at noon on the Main Street side. There is a rail trail along an old railroad bed that provides walking and cycling in town and 25 miles to the south. There are several walking parks as well. Ottawa has long drawn people from Kansas City to shop in the antique shops and flea markets. Welcome recent additions to the downtown area are a Tea Room and a Gourmet Coffee Shop as well as a totally remodeled movie theatre.

My street is a private lane the country that has only 3 houses on it. Everyone has 10 acres or more so we don't see our neighbors often. We are about 6 miles from town so it is close to go to shop, eat, etc., except that most things are on the other end of town so about 15-20 minutes for any shopping or resturants. But we like our entertainment! The deer, squirrels, turkeys, possum, coons, birds, etc. are much quieter, better behaved neighbors than some we have had of the human variety! We can sit on the decks and actually see the moon and stars without the city lights and hear the wildlife without the traffic and honking horns! WE LOVE IT and after 21 years here plan to stay forever!