Fire destroys historic church in Martensdale

MARTENSDALE, Iowa (AP) — A fire has destroyed a more than 100-year-old church in the south-central Iowa town of Martensdale.

Officials say fire trucks were first dispatched to St. Paul Lutheran Church around 8:45 p.m. Thursday. Firefighters from seven departments had to be called in to battle the flames.

No injuries were reported. Fire officials say the building is a total loss.

The Rev. Ron Mohr says the congregation had put a lot of work into the church, which has about 110 members.

The building was originally built in Churchville. It was moved to Martensdale about 75 years ago.