What would you do if you were searching for a lost calf… and instead stumbled into a hidden world 375 million years in the making?

In this episode of Roots & Riddles, Preston and Lenora take you just north of Spring Valley, where farmer John Latcham made an unexpected discovery on his own land—a sinkhole that led to one of southeastern Minnesota’s most fascinating underground wonders.

From the first cautious steps into the darkness to the excitement of early explorers mapping half a mile of passageways, this story has it all: mystery, science, and a touch of small-town ambition. Within months, what began as a chance discovery transformed into the Spring Valley Caverns—complete with guided tours, electric lights, and curious visitors from across the region.

But what lies beneath the surface? How did these caves form—and what might still remain undiscovered 100 feet below?

Join us as we uncover the story of the man, the moment, and the marvel hidden beneath Fillmore County.

For generations, people living along the Root River have whispered about something moving beneath its quiet waters.

Early settlers described a long, dark shape slipping silently below the surface. Fishermen claimed their boats were struck from beneath. Teenagers standing on bridges reported strange shadows gliding upstream at dusk.

Could Fillmore County have its own river monster?

In this episode of Roots & Piddles, Preston and Lenora investigate the strange sightings, old newspaper reports, and local folklore surrounding the mysterious creature said to inhabit the Root River.

But as with many legends, the truth may be stranger — or simpler — than the stories.

Happy April Fool’s Day!

On a fall evening in 1961, Fillmore County Deputy Sheriff Walter Kruegel set out to do something routine — transport a man under arrest back to Preston. But what should have been a simple drive to the county jail would become one of the most shocking tragedies in local history.

Just outside the city limits of Preston, gunshots rang out from inside the deputy’s car. Kruegel, a well-known and respected law officer, had been shot by the very man he was taking into custody.

Though wounded, the deputy managed to stop the car and stagger into a nearby grocery store for help. The suspect fled into the countryside, launching a massive manhunt across Fillmore County.

In this episode of Roots & Riddles, we explore the tragic shooting of Deputy Walter Kruegel — the investigation, the arrest, the court proceedings that followed, and the lasting impact the event had on the community of Preston.

It’s a story of duty, tragedy, and a moment that forever changed Fillmore County law enforcement history.

Sources:
Post-Bulletin (Rochester, MN) newspaper reports, court proceedings, and Fillmore County records.