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The City
of Madelia is rich in History. |
Madelia, "Pride of the
Prairie" was established September 10, 1857. It was
originally named Wapaca, however, within a year the name was
changed to Madelia in memory of the deceased daughter of one
of the founding fathers, Philander Hartshorn.
The history of the area is preserved by historical markers
at Fort Cox, Fort Slocum, Fort Hill, and the Ashippum Post
Office. Fort Cox was constructed in 1862 during the Sioux
Indian uprising. Just west of Madelia is a historical marker
erected where the Younger brothers, members of the Jesse
James gang, were captured shortly after the Northfield bank
robbery.
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The Watonwan County Historical Center
is located in Madelia and contains a cabin and a covered
wagon dating back to 1857, as well as artifacts, books,
papers, and pictures that tell the history of the early
pioneers in this area. |
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Another historical landmark of Madelia is the Warren Truss
Bridge, believed to be the oldest of this type of bridge in
the state. |
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Christensen Building on the corner of Main Street and Benzel
Avenue is the oldest brick building in Watonwan County. |
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A
mural depicting the Capture of the Younger Brothers is
painted on the west side of this building. |
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The Farmers State Bank is on
the National Register of Historic Buildings.
We
invite you to meet the friendly people and visit the
historic buildings and landmarks of Madelia |
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