Winnebago Media Group celebrates 50 years of community journalism

Nonprofit collective of three local newspapers marks milestone anniversary

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:22pm

The Winnebago Media Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit collective of three locally owned and operated newspapers - the Oshkosh Herald, Neenah News, and Winneconne News - is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The group has provided accurate, community-focused reporting on local government, schools, businesses, sports, arts, and the people who make the Winnebago County communities strong.

Why it matters

In an era of consolidation and the decline of local journalism, the Winnebago Media Group has remained committed to its mission of serving the information needs of its readers through independent, community-oriented reporting. The group's longevity and continued relevance underscores the value of locally-owned media outlets that prioritize the unique stories and issues facing their communities.

The details

The Winnebago Media Group was founded in 1976 with the goal of providing high-quality, hyperlocal journalism to the Winnebago County region. Over the past five decades, the group has weathered industry changes, adapted to new technologies, and maintained a steadfast focus on covering the news that matters most to local residents. Through its three newspapers, the group reaches readers across Oshkosh, Neenah, Winneconne, and the surrounding areas, ensuring that important community stories are told.

  • The Winnebago Media Group was founded in 1976.
  • The group is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Winnebago Media Group

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit collective of three locally owned and operated newspapers: the Oshkosh Herald, Neenah News, and Winneconne News.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is a remarkable milestone for a community-focused media organization like ours. We're proud to have served the people of Winnebago County for half a century, and we're committed to continuing our mission of providing accurate, in-depth reporting on the issues that matter most to our readers.”

— Jane Doe, Editor-in-Chief, Winnebago Media Group

What’s next

The Winnebago Media Group will be hosting a 50th anniversary celebration event on June 1, 2026, featuring special guest speakers, a retrospective on the group's history, and a look ahead to the future of local journalism in the region.

The takeaway

The Winnebago Media Group's 50-year milestone is a testament to the enduring value of community-focused journalism. In an era of media consolidation and the decline of local news, the group's commitment to serving the information needs of its readers through independent, hyperlocal reporting is a model for other community-based media organizations to emulate.