Wabash Plain Dealer: Cultivating Communication Throughout Wabash, Indiana 

Enlightening the community on relevant county-wide updates and current events is the backbone of Wabash Plain Dealer, who believes it is vital for community members to be well-informed. Wabash Plain Dealer prides itself on providing local news to the public and giving a voice to small town America. A foundation of knowledge begins with a devoted local newspaper, which Wabash Plain Dealer diligently strives to ensure.

Although the company has seen substantial growth and several location changes throughout the years, its rich history and impact has remained steadfast. Wabash Plain Dealer was established in 1859 and currently possesses a team of 12 talented storytellers. Wabash Plain Dealer is owned by Paxton Media Group LLC, which is headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky. This fourth generation, family-owned media company has overseen the operations of Wabash Plain Dealer since 1998.

Wabash Plain Dealer contributes to the community by reporting impartially while still championing the betterment of its citizens. Their team focuses on conveying factual stories while aiming to implement result-based journalism. This is achieved by asking essential questions that inspire solutions, which leads to a better quality of life for the community. Wabash Plain Dealer is published two days a week along with its weekly shopper, Current Bargains.

Throughout the years, Wabash Plain Dealer has persistently adapted to the ever-changing climate of mass media. Although the days of large newsrooms have since past, their journalists and storytellers have remained committed to adjusting alongside media shifts in order to deliver meaningful news to Wabash County. Although its team may seem small, Wabash Plain Dealer is a powerhouse of well-placed, talented individuals that produce quality publications each week.

Among those talented individuals is Managing Editor, David Nelson, who spearheads the longstanding legacy of Wabash Plain Dealer. Nelson can often be spotted with his camera and notepad amidst community events documenting the excitement. Whether it’s coverage for events like Jingle Jubilee, or an impromptu interview with community members, Nelson has been instrumental in the promotion of our incredible downtown district.

His skillful oversight and constant presence is a testament to his passion for serving Downtown Wabash and the entirety of Wabash County. Since transitioning into the role as Managing Editor, Nelson has greatly appreciated the warm welcome he has received.  

“I’ve spent 31 years as a journalist and I have never been in a more friendly community,” said Wabash Plain Dealer Managing Editor, David Nelson. “It is an absolute joy to come to work every day. The people of this community inspire me to produce the highest quality newspaper possible. I’m grateful for my experience here, and will always treasure these days.”

As a result of the effort completed by its outstanding writers and journalists, Wabash Plain Dealer has received an abundance of recognition over the years. The organization has won numerous awards for writing, editing, advertising, circulation, photography and typography. These award-winning publications regularly convey a trajectory of growth in Wabash, Indiana. 

Along with communicating essential news to the public, Wabash Plain Dealer advances local economic development through its promotion and celebration of county-wide projects and initiatives. Team members report on job opportunities and internship programs, cover stories on building renovations, feature new businesses and recognize awarded grants that have further advanced the development of our downtown region.

Downtown Wabash has greatly benefited from Wabash Plain Dealer’s unceasing devotion to serving the public, promoting local initiatives and featuring compelling stories surrounding the district. Their immeasurable contributions are vastly appreciated and do not go unnoticed. While flipping through the next edition of Wabash Plain Dealer, remember its extensive history and endless investment in our local community.

A special thank you to Wabash Plain Dealer for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.