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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Friday marked a historical day for the city of Ottumwa and one of the most recognized companies in the U.S.

The John Deere Ottumwa Works factory marked their 100th anniversary of business in the City of Bridges. The company came to Ottumwa in 1911 when it was purchased from the Joseph Dane Manufacturing Company and merged into John Deere.

The Ottumwa plant makes a variety of products; including bailing and mowing equipment, self-propelled wind rowers, and harvesters.

Factory Manager Andrew Hansen said a central location and the mutual relationship they have with the city of Ottumwa are reasons for the rare occasion.

"Mostly its about the type of people we can hire as employees. There's a long, strong tradition of working for John Deere. We love to hire second and third generation employees because they understand what our company values and our company culture. And frankly, Ottumwa has done a nice job of hosting us."

Hansen hopes to diversify and hire more employees with various skill sets. The company will host a celebration for retired and current employees and their families on June 11.