My long history with the newspaper

EXTRA!!

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EXTRA!! 〰️

The history of newspapers in America dates back to the early 18th century, with the first successful newspaper, the “Boston News-Letter”, published in 1704. During this period, newspapers primarily served as a means to disseminate news and information, often focusing on local happenings and colonial issues. The influence of the press grew significantly with the Revolutionary War, as newspapers became tools for political debate and dissent against British rule. By the 19th century, advances in printing technology, such as the steam-powered press, led to the rise of mass-circulated papers, making news more accessible to the general public. The penny press era in the 1830s further revolutionized the industry, allowing for more sensationalism and a wider variety of content. Over the years, newspapers played a critical role in shaping public opinion and covering major events, evolving into a cornerstone of American democracy and society.

My first experience with newspapers took place while sitting comfortably on my grandfather’s lap in the small town of Wellington, Ohio. There, he would read to me, starting with the bold headlines, and then moving on to the various articles that discussed the day’s significant events. After we finished with the news, which often sparked our conversations, it was time to turn our attention to the comic section. Favorites like Nancy, L'il Abner, and Grin and Bear It would elicit laughter and joy. Finally, he would conclude our newspaper ritual by tackling the daily crossword puzzle, which always seemed to present a delightful challenge. This experience provided us with a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together while absorbing knowledge about the world around us. I am certain that these cherished moments with my Grandpa, as we “read” the newspaper together, significantly influenced my lifelong yearning to learn more about everything that surrounds me.

Nancy by Ernie Bushmiller was first launched in the year 1938, making it one of the beloved classic comic strips of its time. This particular example from 1956 highlights both a spirited, willful little girl, who I often found myself relating to, and the rather archaic parenting practices that were prevalent during that era.

Later, my fascination with how newspapers were meticulously created began to grow deeper; it was not merely about the writing of the articles and ads, nor the drawing of the cartoons or the intricate design of the crosswords, but rather the entire process involved in bringing a newspaper to life. I would finally have the remarkable opportunity to see firsthand exactly how my local newspaper was produced. With eager anticipation, I approached a friendly individual at "The Chronicle-Telegram" in Elyria, Ohio, to inquire if I could possibly arrange a tour of the printing press. Much to my amazement and delight, they were more than happy to accommodate my request. The tour lasted approximately three hours, during which I not only witnessed the press in action, making the pages that would soon circulate through the community, but they also graciously took me to meet those dedicated individuals who meticulously reviewed, edited, and skillfully produced the layouts for the final product. Through it all, my camera was capturing every moment, documenting this incredible experience. It was truly a day filled with inspiration that I will never forget.

My transition from newspapers to the internet for news consumption marked a significant shift. As the internet became more accessible in the late 20th century, I confess I began to favor the immediacy and convenience of online news platforms over traditional print media. This shift allowed for real-time updates and interactive content, attracting an audience that increasingly values speed and accessibility. While newspapers maintained their role as trusted sources of in-depth journalism for many years, the rise of digital news outlets has transformed public expectations, encouraging swift reporting and diverse perspectives. As a result, newspaper circulation has declined, prompting many traditional outlets to adapt their business models and embrace digital platforms to keep pace with the evolving media landscape. Interestingly enough, I have found the marriage of print and digital newspapers, particularly in the form of Newspapers.com, or Newspaper Archive to be incredibly helpful in conducting my genealogical research focused on my grandfather’s history as well as my family’s broader background. This unique resource has allowed me to uncover fascinating stories and details that I might not have discovered otherwise. Needless to say I will always treasure the moments not just with my Grandpa but time spent with my various local newspapers where the world was always at my fingertips (even if they became a little smudgy).