"It's an Icon": Historic Jonesborough Herald & Tribune Ends Publication

A Legacy of Journalism in Jonesborough

Jonesborough, Tennessee, is a town steeped in history, and the closing of the Jonesborough Herald & Tribune marks the end of an era. On a quiet Wednesday afternoon, Lynn Richardson and Marcy Hawley gathered on the porch of Hawley’s historic home, reminiscing about the paper that had been a cornerstone of their community for 156 years. Despite moments of laughter, there was a palpable sense of loss in the air.

Richardson, who served as the paper’s publisher for 15 years, described the news as devastating. “I’m sad to see 156 years of history go by the wayside,” she said, referring to the final issue set to be published on August 13. The Herald & Tribune, one of Tennessee’s longest continuously operating newspapers, will now be absorbed into the Johnson City Press.

The decision by Six Rivers Media has left many in the community questioning what the future holds. Richardson, who has always been passionate about the paper, called it an “icon.” She emphasized that the Herald & Tribune was more than just a newspaper—it was the voice of Jonesborough. “It was the yes and the ears and the voice of Jonesborough, Tennessee,” she said.

Hawley, who contributed editorial cartoons for over a decade, echoed similar sentiments. She acknowledged the challenges faced by print media but expressed concern over the void left behind. “There’s always a need and a hunger for information,” she said. “The community is worth having the information. And just like there are food deserts, there are news deserts.”

A Unique Voice in the Community

The Herald & Tribune was known for its unique blend of community boosterism and hard-hitting journalism. Richardson recalled how the paper would cover local events with enthusiasm while also holding leaders accountable when necessary. One of her favorite stories involved an investigative piece on school access, where the paper’s editor ventured into schools under the guise of a student to uncover issues. The story sparked public support and led to changes, proving the power of journalism.

Hawley’s editorial cartoons were another highlight of the paper. Her character “Clayton” became a beloved figure, offering witty commentary on local politics and events. Her accidental debut as a cartoonist came during a Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting, where she sketched a humorous take on the board members’ proposal for volunteer-only staffing at the water park. The cartoon was so well-received that it launched her career as a regular contributor.

The Impact of a Weekly Newspaper

For Richardson, the weekly newspaper was more than a business—it was a relationship. She remembered a mentor’s advice: “If you take care of your little town, it will take care of you.” This philosophy guided her approach to publishing. The Herald & Tribune aimed to uplift the community while still delivering the tough stories when needed.

“We had bad ones. We had investigative pieces that won awards. We did all of that,” she said. “But our main theory was to tell the story of Jonesborough, and now there’s no one to tell that story in the storytelling capital of the world.”

Hawley shared similar concerns. She admitted that fewer people are reading the paper these days, and it’s a challenge to keep the community informed. “It’s so sad,” she said. “Integral part of Jonesborough. This is happening all over the country, but how can this happen in Jonesborough?”

Looking Ahead

Despite the uncertainty, both women remain hopeful. They believe that Jonesborough, a town known for its resilience, could find a way to preserve the connection that the Herald & Tribune provided. Whether through online platforms or a new print publication, they urge the community to value the importance of local journalism.

“I would hope that the people of Jonesborough, the leadership of Jonesborough value that connection and that voice enough that they find a way,” Richardson said. “And I will tell you one thing, if there is one town that will find a way, this is it.”