The Jesse James - Younger gang fled from Northfield, Minnesota after a failed bank robbery. Young Sorbel recognized the gang as they passed his Hanska farm. Bob, Cole and Jim Younger would eventually surrender to this seven-man posse 8 miles west of Madelia on the banks of the Watonwan River. Charlie Pitts died in the shootout.
Ashippun Post Office was the first in Watonwan County. It was built in 1857 and was located on Watonwan River's south branch in Rosedale Township. In 1925 it was moved to the City Park in Madelia by the local chapter of the D.A.R.
Noonan Hotel kitchen and staff. Pictured left to right: Mary Sague, Agnes Harrison, unknown, Mrs. Wagner, unknown, Mrs. (Cliff) Margaret Harrison Thompson (twin to Agnes Harrison), and Josie Haug.