Washington Square

Historical marker location:

101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of Columbus Street (Illinois Route 71) and Jackson Street, on the right when traveling south on Columbus Street.)

Marker installed: 1996

Site of First Lincoln-Douglas Debate

The word "Illinois" comes from a Native American word meaning "tribe of superior men." The Illinois were a confederation of several Native American tribes that lived in the region.