Where: Iowa · approx. 41.01, -92.41 (vicinity only)
Why this spot: 1880s+ Sanborn-mapped town on Des Moines River coal-and-packing city built on both banks around the old dam and mill race
What turns up: Meatpacking (Morrell) and coal-camp refuse, brewery blob-tops, Ottumwa soda Hutchinsons, embossed druggists, and stoneware along the river flats
Access: Gray area.
The Des Moines River is treated as navigable here, so the bed below the ordinary high-water mark is state public-trust land where artifact removal is restricted. Riverbank and townsite uplands are generally private and need the landowner's permission. Iowa law protects archaeological sites and unmarked burials.
Open in Mudlark Map →
Satellite view, historic-map overlays, tide/flow context and field notes are in the app. Exact research detail is part of Pro.
Pins are approximate by design. This page is historical research, not permission to dig. Check ownership and local law first.