Although Fort Dodge, Iowa, had enjoyed the services of several short-lived amateur community bands before 1900, the local band movement acquired stability when Carl Quist formed the Fort Dodge Military Band in 1901.   Many members of the Concordia Band joined the new organization, and the Fort Dodge Military Band became the group the city hired occasionally for Fort Dodge functions.   The present Municipal Band in Fort Dodge which now bears the name of Karl King traces its history directly from this combined ensemble.   Carl Quist rehearsed this group in the Doud building as there was no municipal tax support and all members were amateurs who worked regular jobs.   Later in 1903, the group also became the Fifty-Sixth Infantry Regiment Band.   Becoming a regimental band brought desperately needed funds and also helped secure a new armory in Fort Dodge.

Carl Quist was appointed Chief Musician of the Fort Dodge Regimental Band yearly through 1909.   Also, in 1903, the band won national attention by becoming the Grand Champion Band at the Modern Woodmen of America National Encampment held in Indianapolis.   In 1904 the band was the winner again when the encampment was held in conjunction with the St. Louis World's Fair.