A Freedom Bail Bonds owner JW Bear watches as the demoliton continues on the downtown square where his building and office once stood. A fire on March 16, destroyed the entire block on South 6th street. CCLP/DAVID MORRIS
DEMO day
Friday, June 19, 2026
As in the song about Jericho, “and the walls came tumbling down…” Following the devastating fire on the historic courthouse square three months ago, demolition on the remaining structures began in the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 16.News
THE DISPATCH
Gatesville Messenger Staff
The following is a breakdown of activity reported through dispatchers from June 24 – 30.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Messenger to hold Fourth of July photo contest
Ally Hinkle The Gatesville Messenger
As part of the Semiquincentennial, or America 250, celebrations, the Gatesville Messenger is...
Friday, July 3, 2026
Camp Hood relics on display in the military exhibit at Coryell Museum and Historical Center. Gatesville Messenger/David Scott
Camp Hood remembered
David Scott The Gatesville Messenger
In honor of America’s 250th birthday, the public needs to be encouraged to come by and see all of...
Friday, July 3, 2026
Sports
The Hornet’s Nest
Rickey Phillips Special To The Messenger
Although we are now into the fourth week of summer break, there are still plenty of activities,...
Friday, June 19, 2026
Varsity tennis players who participated as student coaches during the recent GISD tennis camp. Pictured left to right: Head Coach Wendell Jones, Lexi Bryant, Annabelle Lea, Elijah Tyson, Rogan Smith, Olivia Potts, Riley Butler, Paislee Moseley, Jillianna Kim, Donnovan Herrera, Quinton Ivy, and Assistant Coach Alex Scott. Courtesy photo
GISD Tennis Camp draws record numbers of students
David Scott The Gatesvlle Messenger
The Gatesville ISD tennis camp has seen a massive surge in popularity, regularly drawing over 60...
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Seniors left mark with Hornets, Program looks to continue success
Rick Mauch The Gatesville Messenger
Led by 10 seniors, the Gatesville Hornets baseball team advanced to the third round of the baseball...
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Obituaries
Kuzenka
Gatesville Messenger Staff
Linda Gail Kuzenka Jun 5, 1951 — Jun 28, 2026 Linda Gail Kuzenka, a wonderful mom and Mimi, passed...
Friday, July 3, 2026
Lewis
(not verified)
Donna Jean Lewis Sep 26, 1952 — Jun 22, 2026 Donna Lewis, age 73 of Gatesville, went to be with her...
Friday, June 26, 2026
Potter
Gatesville Messenger Staff
Marion “Sonny” Dee Potter Mar 1, 1943 — Jun 22, 2026 Sonny Potter, age 83 of Gatesville, passed...
Friday, June 26, 2026