Wapakoneta (Images of America)

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.