Why the name “Owatonna”?

Legend has it…

Chief Wabena heard of the curing waters called minnewaucan. His daughter, Princess Owatonna, was very frail so he moved his tribe to the site of the natural springs on the banks of Maple Creek. Princess Owatonna drank from the springs daily and recovered her health. Her kindly spirit hovers near the bubbling waters and beckons weary travelers to pause in the beautiful valley and drink of the magic waters.

True Origins…

For hundreds of years before the arrival of the first white settlers, Native Americans camped on the banks of a river they called “Ouitunya,” which means “straight” and is today the name of the major river in Steele County.

Owatonna welcomes you to visit the springs and the statue of Princess Owatonna at Mineral Springs Park.

For more itineraries and activities in Owatonna, contact the Tourism Department 800-423-6466.