bshea@messengernews.net Fort Dodge, originally called Fort Clark, had been in existence since 1850. But the northern area of Iowa it was intended to secure was peaceful, and soldiers were needed elsewhere. So in 1853, the Army closed the fort, and its troops, members of Co. E, 6th U.S. ...

Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of 12 weekly stories focusing on America’s 250th birthday, as told through the lens of our communities and the role many of the places we call home played in shaping the nation before, during and after the Revolutionary War. This week we ...

An experienced outdoorsman’s insights on what can be found along Iowa’s waterways will highlight the largest annual fundraiser for the Friends of Webster County Conservation. Larry Stone will be the keynote speaker at the April 22 Call of the Wild event at the Matt Cosgrove River’s ...

U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley said he is using his position as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate eight major tech companies which he said are not doing enough to report child sexual exploitation. Additionally, the Iowa Republican is releasing new information from the ...

Around the area LEHIGH — The Lehigh Methodist Church will serve Second Sunday Supper from 5 to 7 p.m. SUNDAY for a freewill offering. The menu is chicken and noodles on top of mashed potatoes, dessert and a drink. Carryouts are available by calling 515-359-2329 after 4 p.m. Sunday. GILMORE ...