Madelia, MN - Younger Brothers Capture Celebration

Festival or Event in Madelia, MN

After a failed attempt at robbing the Northfield Bank in Sep. of 1876, The Jesse James/Younger Brother Gang fled with citizens in hot pursuit.

The gangs separated near Mankato and headed west. Wounded, tired and on foot, The Younger’s purchased breakfast at the Sorbel Farm. Upon recognizing the bandits, 16year old Oscar Sorbel rode to Madelia and informed the businessmen of their whereabouts.

The first encounter was momentarily at Hanska Slough with guards strategically posted, The Younger’s hunkered down on the Watonwan River with the plum bushes for cover.
A short, fierce gun battle ensued, with Madelia’s brave citizens capturing the gang on Sep 21, 1876. Upon the captured gang’s arrival in town, their wounds were tended; they were clothed, fed and guarded.

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Madelia, MN - Younger Brothers Capture Celebration

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Watonwan County, MN


Watonwan County, MN

Visit our county page and you will find information about our town and county's points of interest, festivals/events and faith community. You also will find stories about the contributions made by farmers/ranchers located throughout our county and of course you will learn about the community organizations that have built and continue to build strong communities (chambers, community groups, and departments, etc) and much more when you visit the Watonwan County, MN page.