Wapakoneta

Wapakoneta has a unique history among Ohio cities, being one of the few towns that can trace its history from arrowheads to aerospace. Archaeological evidence places Native American hunters in the area as far back as 11,490 years. Later this site became home to a major Shawnee Indian village and a famous regional Native American council house. Wapakoneta was officially established in 1833, prospering with the arrival of the railroad, German craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit. It has flourished since and more recently become known in the international spotlight as the hometown of Apollo 11 commander Neil A. Armstrong, the first person to step on the surface of the moon. The Armstrong Air and Space Museum, resembling a futuristic moon base, is dedicated to all Ohioans who have explored space.

Dianne Dodds Knipp is a retired teacher who has authored three family history books, finding her niche in the literary world intertwining her love of genealogy with local history. The Downtown Wapakoneta Partnership is a group of business and civic leaders that works toward the preservation, revitalization, and enhancement of Wapakoneta’s historic downtown. Working with public and private photographic collections, Knipp has compiled photographs representing the many citizens who have shaped Wapakoneta’s proud history.

The Images of America series celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns, and cities across the country. Using archival photographs, each title presents the distinctive stories from the past that shape the character of the community today. Arcadia is proud to play a part in the preservation of local heritage, making history available to all.