Cities and Towns in Wapello County, Iowa

Founded on Feb 17, 1843, Wapello County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Wapello County was formed from Native American lands. The city of Ottumwa is the county seat. With FIPS code of 179, Wapello County has a population of 35,256 and area of 432 square miles (1,119 km²).

List of all cities in Wapello County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Agency, IA	52530	641
Bladensburg, IA	52501	641
Blakesburg, IA	52536	641
Bridge Port, IA	52553	641
Chillicothe, IA	52548	641
Cliffland, IA	52501	641
Dahlonega, IA	52501	641
Dudley, IA	52501	641
Eddyville, IA	52553	641
Eldon, IA	52554	641
Kirkville, IA	52566	641
Munterville, IA	52536	641
Ottumwa, IA	52501	641
Ottumwa Junction, IA	52501	641
Rutledge, IA	52501	641
South Ottumwa, IA	52501	641

Major Cities and Towns in Wapello County, Iowa

Ottumwa

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 16.53 square miles
• Population: Approximately 24,500 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52501
• Latitude: 41.0203° N
• Longitude: 92.4110° W

City Location and History

Ottumwa is located in southeastern Iowa, along the Des Moines River, and serves as the county seat of Wapello County. Established in 1843, the city grew rapidly as a transportation hub due to its strategic location along the river and the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century. The name “Ottumwa” is believed to be derived from a Native American word meaning “rippling waters.” Historically, the city was a center for coal mining and meatpacking industries, particularly after the establishment of the John Morrell meatpacking plant in 1877. Today, Ottumwa has transitioned into a regional hub for healthcare, education, and retail while maintaining its historical roots in manufacturing and agriculture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ottumwa is served by the Ottumwa Community School District, with Ottumwa High School being one of the largest educational institutions in the region. Indian Hills Community College is also located in the city, providing higher education opportunities. Major landmarks include the historic Wapello County Courthouse, the Ottumwa Bridgeview Center (a popular venue for events), and the historic downtown district, which features restored 19th-century buildings. Another key attraction is the Greater Ottumwa Park, a large recreational area along the Des Moines River, and the nearby American Gothic House, made famous by Grant Wood’s painting.

Eldon

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.03 square miles
• Population: Approximately 900 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52554
• Latitude: 40.9194° N
• Longitude: 92.2224° W

City Location and History

Eldon is located in southeastern Wapello County, near the confluence of the Des Moines River and the Soap Creek. It was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town when the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad laid tracks through the area. Eldon grew as a small agricultural and railway community, with its proximity to the Des Moines River playing an important role in its early development. The town is perhaps best known for being home to the iconic American Gothic House, featured in Grant Wood’s famous 1930 painting “American Gothic,” which has brought the town international recognition.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eldon is part of the Cardinal Community School District, with Cardinal High School located in nearby Agency, Iowa. The American Gothic House and Center is the town’s most famous landmark, attracting visitors from around the world who want to see the site of the famous painting. Eldon also features several historic buildings, including the Eldon Depot Museum, which showcases the town’s railroad history. The city’s small downtown area retains its charming, rural feel, and the nearby Des Moines River offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.

Agency

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.62 square miles
• Population: Approximately 630 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52530
• Latitude: 40.9950° N
• Longitude: 92.3093° W

City Location and History

Agency is located just east of Ottumwa in central Wapello County. It was founded in 1843 and holds significant historical importance as the location of the Indian Agency for the Sac and Fox tribes, giving the town its name. The Agency played a key role in the interactions between Native American tribes and the U.S. government during the mid-19th century. After the Sac and Fox tribes were relocated, the town grew as a small agricultural and transportation hub. Over time, Agency has retained its small-town character, while benefiting from its proximity to Ottumwa.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Agency is part of the Cardinal Community School District, with Cardinal High School being the primary educational institution for local students. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Chief Wapello Memorial Park, which honors the Sac and Fox leader Chief Wapello, after whom the county is named. The park features a statue of Chief Wapello and serves as a place of historical reflection. Another notable landmark is the Agency Cemetery, where Chief Wapello is buried. The town also features several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century origins.

Blakesburg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.61 square miles
• Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52536
• Latitude: 40.9692° N
• Longitude: 92.6333° W

City Location and History

Blakesburg is a small town located in the southwestern part of Wapello County, near the border with Monroe County. The town was established in the mid-19th century, originally serving as a stop for travelers and a local center for agriculture. Over the years, Blakesburg has maintained its rural identity, with farming being the primary economic activity for the area. The town has remained small, serving as a quiet residential community with a close-knit population. Despite its size, Blakesburg is known for its strong sense of community and annual local events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Blakesburg is part of the Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns, including Eddyville and Fremont. A notable local landmark is the Blakesburg Historical Museum, which preserves the town’s history and offers exhibits on rural life in the area. The town is also home to several historic churches and buildings that reflect its 19th-century origins. Every year, Blakesburg hosts the Blakesburg Corn Carnival, a community event that draws people from across the region to celebrate local agriculture and heritage.

Chillicothe

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.26 square miles
• Population: Approximately 100 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52548
• Latitude: 41.0731° N
• Longitude: 92.4566° W

City Location and History

Chillicothe is a small village located along the Des Moines River in the northern part of Wapello County. Established in the mid-1800s, Chillicothe was originally a river town that benefited from the trade and transportation opportunities provided by the Des Moines River. The town was named after Chillicothe, Ohio, as many of the early settlers came from that area. Over time, the growth of railroads and changes in transportation reduced the town’s importance as a river port, leading to a decline in population. Today, Chillicothe remains a small rural community, retaining much of its 19th-century character.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Chillicothe is part of the Ottumwa Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ottumwa. One of the most significant landmarks in Chillicothe is its location along the scenic Des Moines River, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and nature exploration. The town also features several historic buildings, including old general stores and homes that date back to its early days as a river town. Chillicothe is a quiet village, with its rural landscape providing a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike.