Government
Modern-day Pottawattamie County evolved out of the Pottawattamie Purchase of 1847. It was named after the Native American tribe Potawatomi, that once possessed the Iowa Territory. Potawatomi is a Native American term meaning “Keepers of the Council Fires,” or “Makers of Fire.” Pottawattamie County is honored to carry on their name as one tribe of many that was forged by the flames of settlement. Just like the Potawatomi rose from the ashes and found a home here, you too can Find Your Fire in Pottawattamie County. Pottawattamie County is located in the southwest corner of Iowa. The county seat is in the city of Council Bluffs. Other cities in Pottawattamie County include Avoca, Carson, Carter Lake, Crescent, Hancock, Macedonia, McClelland, Minden, Neola, Oakland, Shelby, Treynor, Underwood, and Walnut.