The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Ottumwa and John Deere celebrated a historic event Saturday.

The Deere Ottumwa Works plant celebrated its 100th anniversary in the City of Bridges. A party was organized for current and retired employees and their families.

Special guests like Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and Congressman Dave Loebsack were in attendance, as well as Deere Chief Executive Officer Samuel Allen.

There were activities for kids, product exhibits, food, and a timeline of the company's history from how it all began.

John Deere Ottumwa Works is the second largest employer in Ottumwa with approximately 900 employees, and Allen said the company and the city have had a great relationship.

"Its about the people and the culture. From way back the company's been founded by John Deere himself on a culture built on integrity, treating people right, treating customers right. That has been nourished throughout the decades. We do business the John Deere way, the right way.

Allen also believes the future is looking bright, noting that the company is in great financial shape after the recent recession.