Wapello County Freedom Rock: A Tribute to Valor
A vibrant and patriotic tribute to Wapello County's veterans, featuring detailed murals honoring their service and sacrifice.
The Wapello County Freedom Rock stands as a powerful and colorful tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Located outside the Bridge View Center in Ottumwa, Iowa, this large boulder is part of artist Ray 'Bubba' Sorensen II's mission to place a Freedom Rock in every Iowa county. Sorensen began this project after being inspired by the movie 'Saving Private Ryan'. Dedicated on November 11, 2014, the Wapello County Freedom Rock features meticulously painted murals that honor local veterans and military history. The rock includes depictions of a Gold Star Banner, the American flag, a bald eagle, and the Tuskegee Airmen. It also recognizes the 833rd Engineer Company, which was based in Ottumwa, and the former Ottumwa Naval Air Station, a WWII flight training facility. The front of the rock displays a soldier clutching a folded American flag next to a Gold Star banner with the words “Never Forget”. The Freedom Rock project aims to create a unique veterans memorial in each of Iowa's 99 counties. Sorensen researches each county's military history to create meaningful and relevant tributes. The Wapello County Freedom Rock is a key stop on the Wapello County Freedom Trail, which links several military memorials throughout the county. The site provides a place for reflection and appreciation of the sacrifices made by local heroes.
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detail and artistry of the painted murals.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Wapello County Freedom Trail to see other veteran memorials.
- Take time to reflect on the stories and sacrifices represented in the artwork.
A brief summary to Wapello County Freedom Rock
- 102 Church St, Ottumwa, Iowa, 52501, US
- +1641-684-4303
Getting There
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Walking
From the Ottumwa Public Library at 102 W 4th St, head east on W 4th St towards S Market St for about 0.2 miles. Turn left onto S Market St and continue for 0.1 miles, then turn right onto E 3rd St until you reach Church St. Turn left onto Church St, and the Freedom Rock is at 102 Church St. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From the Ottumwa Transit bus stop at Main St & 2nd Ave, take any bus heading towards the Wapello County Courthouse. Get off at the stop near the intersection of Church St and 1st Ave. Walk north on Church St for about 0.1 miles to the Wapello County Freedom Rock at 102 Church St. Ottumwa Transit Authority (OTA) operates bus transit services throughout Ottumwa. A single ride fare is approximately $1.00.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Ottumwa. From a location in downtown Ottumwa, a taxi ride to the Wapello County Freedom Rock at 102 Church St would be a short trip. Taxi fares in Ottumwa start at approximately $1.40 per mile. Expect to pay around $5-$10 for a short taxi ride within the city.
