Wapello County, Iowa
Wapello County is located in southeastern Iowa. It’s anchored by Ottumwa, which also serves as the county seat. The Des Moines River runs through the county from southeast to northwest.
U.S. Highways 34 and 63 intersect here, making the county an important regional crossroads. The American Gothic House, located nearby in Eldon, is a must-see for fans of Grant Wood’s famous painting.
Wapello County also offers plenty of green space, including the Wapello County Trails system for walking and biking. Wapello County may have seen better days, but the people here have helped make this corner of Iowa something special again.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Wapello County |
| County Seat | Ottumwa |
| Etymology | Named after the Wapello Native American tribe |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Ottumwa, Agency, Blakesburg, Eldon, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 63, U.S. Highway 34, Iowa Highway 16 |
| FIPS Code | 19-179 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 720 square miles (land: 715 sq mi, water: 5 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Mahaska County (Northwest), Keokuk County (Northeast), Jefferson County (East), Davis County (South), Monroe County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 35,000 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41.02°N, 92.42°W |
| Major Landmarks | Wapello County Courthouse, Memorial Park, and the American Gothic House in Eldon |
