This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
DeWitt Observer Founder A Longtime Community Advocate
The Centennial issue recalls publisher S. H. Shoemaker who built The Observer over 18 years, moved it to 7th Street in 1960, and fostered civic engagement through extensive community publicity. It notes awards, staff longevity, and future plans to upgrade printing and services amid a century of local journalism.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Observer
First National Bank
Martin
DeWitt American Legion Post
The
DeWitt Lions Club
Knights Templar
Masonic Lodge
Martin Shelstad
American Legion
New High School
Elizabeth Wheeler Shelstad
DeWitt
Ward
Gertrude Schlotfeldt) Shontz
M. F. McKinsey
Ward Shontz
David Phillips
B. P
the Observer
Iowa
S. H. Shoemaker
J.C. Benedict
Chas. E. Shelton
DeWitt School
Benedict
Shoemaker