A Mission to Subscribe To: Hudson Herald Launches Online Presence

By Danielle McCulley 

After 117 years of bringing local news to Hudson, Iowa, the Hudson Herald has officially launched an online  presence—allowing new readers to subscribe and current subscribers to renew their printed newspaper with  ease at www.hudherald.com. The site also features select articles and updates from around the community. 

“This is an exciting moment not just for the Hudson Herald as a business, but for the town itself,” said  Managing Editor Danielle McCulley. “Our goal is to connect the community through shared voices—and to do  that well, we had to modernize how people access and support their local newspaper.” 

Connecting the Dots 

At a time when local journalism is under threat and national media continues to erode public trust, McCulley  sees the Hudson Herald as something different. 

“We’re not just reporting on the community—we’re built by the community,” she said. “Our contributors  include students, coaches, churches, local organizations, and residents who each bring something meaningful to  the table. We’re connecting the dots between city government, schools, public safety, the business district, and  everyday families. That’s what makes the paper a hub, not just a publication.” 

More Than a Subscription 

While the online site features a handful of weekly stories, full printed editions are mailed directly to subscribers’  homes. Subscriptions are open to residents in Hudson and Orange Township, as well as out-of-state readers who  want to stay connected to the heart of the community. 

But McCulley emphasized that subscribing is about more than receiving a newspaper—“it’s an investment in a  mission.” 

“When you subscribe, you’re not just supporting content—you’re supporting connection,” she said. “You’re  keeping local news local. You’re helping mentor students who are learning real-world writing, photography, and  design skills. You’re making sure churches, nonprofits, and underrepresented voices are part of the weekly  narrative. You’re choosing transparency, clarity, and care over clickbait and chaos.” 

To build excitement and introduce more people to the mission, all online articles will remain free for the rest of  2025. Beginning in 2026, online access will be available via a subscription or add-on plan—ensuring long-term  sustainability while keeping the platform accessible today. 

A New Era, Rooted in Legacy 

The recent transfer of ownership has sparked a wave of progress behind the scenes. From updating internal  systems to streamlining billing and subscription tools, the Hudson Herald team is focused on building a strong  foundation for growth—without losing sight of what makes the paper special. 

The Hudson Herald is also proud to remain the official legal newspaper for the City of Hudson, the Hudson  Community School District, and Black Hawk County—ensuring critical public notices remain accessible and  accountable.

“The response from the Hudson community has been so encouraging,” McCulley said. “People understand how  vital it is to have a voice that reflects who we are. We want to keep showing up for Hudson—and this is just the  beginning.” 

To subscribe, renew, or explore the new online content, visit www.hudherald.com.