BEACH, ND — In a town where 73 local newspapers once dotted North Dakota, the Golden Valley News faces the same challenges as many small‑town publications: dwindling circulation and the high cost of printing. One resident has taken it upon himself to give the paper a lifeline.
Hand‑written history for a modern audience
Troy Tescher, a lifelong Beach farmer, volunteers his time each week to research and write a column called “A Step Back in Time.” He spends three to four hours combing through the newspaper archives stored at the local museum, pulling out headlines and stories that capture the unique moments of the past century.
“I’m always scanning for something different or unique that may have happened,” Tescher explained. “It’s my way of helping the paper out, maybe maintain the readers we have, maybe get more.” He does all of this without a computer, insisting he is “a low‑tech person.” Instead, he writes each article by hand, a skill he credits to a grade‑school teacher who taught him good penmanship.
A lifelong habit of record‑keeping
Tescher’s dedication to documentation runs deep. “I’ve always kept records,” he said, noting that he has logged personal details since 1974, from cattle pedigrees to daily weather observations. In 1982 he began preserving his own history on a calendar, writing each morning about the previous day’s activities for his children and grandchildren to enjoy.
His mother’s daily diary, kept for most of her adult life, also shaped his habit. After her passing, Tescher described her journals as “one of the best gifts” he received, passing the tradition of careful record‑keeping to his own family.
Supporting a community institution
The Golden Valley News, like many rural weeklies, relies on community support to survive. Tescher’s free column not only provides fresh content but also draws attention to the paper’s archives, reminding readers of the region’s rich heritage. By sharing stories from the past, he hopes to spark curiosity and encourage residents to pick up a copy.
“If I could help the paper out, maybe maintain the readers we have, maybe get more, it would be a plus,” Tescher said. His effort exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that keeps small‑town America thriving, especially in an era when many local news outlets are shuttering.
Looking ahead
While the future of print journalism remains uncertain, Tescher’s commitment shows that a single dedicated citizen can make a difference. His handwritten columns serve as a bridge between generations, preserving the stories that define Beach and the surrounding Golden Valley region.
As the community continues to rally around its newspaper, Tescher’s work stands as a reminder that preserving the past can help sustain the present—and perhaps inspire other towns to protect their own local voices.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
