Curtis, 57, retired Navy living in the Philippines. I was born in Ottumwa, but raised since age 3 as a southern California kid. I'd go on Iowa summer visits every few years of my childhood to visit my dad and his family. I LOVED those summers, the fresh clean smell of hay and corn fields, going to little league baseball games, river fishing and just the small town feel. (nearby Agency also) I haven't been back since 1987 (age 20) but I count Iowans as the best of us. Best wishes..
I grew up in Ottumwa; born at Ottumwa hospital in 68; lived on Hill st. close to Indian Hills, and Hamilton on the South Side. Moved to Colorado in 78, however, spent every summer with grandparents who lived on the north and south side. The absolute best childhood memories are in Ottumwa. Thank you for you video.
HEY!!! That's my old Black '06 Saturn Vue at 7:15. I really miss that car. Unfortunately, it had a lot of issues and I ended up having it crushed in November 2022.
The city is a shell of its former glory years. Its streets, evident in this video, are the worst in the Midwest. They will tear up your car. The city was booming in the 70’s/80’s, now it’s crumbling and sad.
I know this town really well. I was born there. I grew up in Oskaloosa. Went to school at Indian Hills. This town used to have so much to offer. My mom and I would go to the mall and Target all the time.
been looking at this city, it looks better than most affordable areas to live and the company I work for has a plant there so I can just transfer in instead of having to find a whole new job. Not ideal but there is nowhere nice that's affordable anymore.
Some areas are definitely better than others. The north side is a lot better than the south except for a few spots like North Court and Jefferson Street. South isn't great, but there are cul-de-sacs there that are really nice. I'd avoid the east and west ends
Church, bars and a live event center is about all we got for adults to do. Most adults spend their weekends drunk. It’s affordable if you don’t pick up an addiction
@@User_yhvz yea I kind of figured that's why Iowa is still affordable despite the good economy. not much going on, still I really do prefer my own company so that shouldn't be to bad.
I really like Ottumwa and it may not be an inner city slum but it definitely isn’t clean or pristine, it’s gritty and full of character (though some parts are clean.)
I'm from Iowa, born and raised. Still here. Ottumwa is full of drugs and crime and has been, most of my life. And I'm almost 60 yrs old The last 50yrs being the worst.