Madelia was Watonwan's first county seat, from 1860-1878. The first courthouse building is the one pictured but was since razed. In 1878 the county the seat was relocated to St. James.
Picture of crowd during "Taft Day" in 1911. Hundreds of people attending President Taft's 30 minute stop in Shakopee, younger people and women are mostly visible in front of picture. The crowd is facing the platform where Taft stands.
A group of men await the arrival of President William Taft outside of the Shakopee Depot. The platform they are standing on is decorated with American flags, a map of the city, beverages from Rahr Malting, and stalks of corn. It is surrounded by spectators also waiting for the president.