The History of Wapakoneta

Wapakoneta, Ohio, has a unique history among Ohio cities. Wapakoneta’s history can be traced from arrowheads to aerospace. Archeological evidence places native Americans hunters in the area as far back as 11,490 years, beginning as a Shawnee Indian village. Wapakoneta was originally established in 1833. 'Wapak' prospered with the arrival of the railroad system. More recently known as the home of Neil A. Armstrong, the first person to step on the moon. Wapakoneta’s streets bear the names of Indians who first inhabited the area; other streets and businesses reflect the community’s ties to the space program, honoring native son Neil Armstrong, first man on the moon on July 20, 1969. Wapakoneta’s streets bear the names of Indians who first inhabited the area; other streets and businesses reflect the community’s ties to the space program, honoring native son Neil Armstrong, first man on the moon on July 20, 1969.