Founded in 1854, Owatonna is now a city of just over 24,000 people and is the heart and the heartbeat of a greater community known as Southern Minnesota. Owatonna is known for its quality of life, and upbeat community living.

Owatonna is located at the crossroads of Highways U.S. 14, U.S. 218 and Interstate 35. At this location, according to the legend, 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. Princess Owatonna drank from the springs daily and she recovered her health. Her statue stands in Mineral Springs Park today, overlooking the bubbling water. Weary travelers, parents, and children often stop to drink from the fountains.