News Summary
The Demopolis Times, a historical newspaper serving Marengo County since 1887, has officially ceased publication as of June 4, 2025. JM Media Group announced the closure, citing limited community support. The final issue marks the end of an important chapter in local journalism, leaving many residents reflecting on the newspaper’s significant contribution to the community’s history and information dissemination.
Demopolis, Alabama – The Demopolis Times, an award-winning newspaper that has served the Marengo County community since 1887, has officially ceased publication as of June 4, 2025. The decision to close the newspaper was announced by JM Media Group, which assessed both the status and business outlook of the longstanding publication. This closure marks the end of an era for local journalism in the region.
According to Jeff Schumacher, who, along with Michelle Schumacher, acquired the newspaper in April, the decision to discontinue the paper was primarily due to limited community support. The Demopolis Times was once a daily publication but had transitioned to a weekly format in recent years.
The final published issue of the Demopolis Times was dated June 4, 2025, which has left a profound sense of loss within the community. Many residents have expressed their heartfelt sentiments, recalling fond memories and expressing gratitude for the newspaper’s historical significance and contributions to local life.
The Demopolis Times was established in 1905 when the Demopolis Express and Demopolis Dispatch merged under the initiative of local businessmen. This rich history is filled with notable events, including the tenure of Edward Cornish, who was associated with the paper from 1910 until his death in 1936. In July 1941, a significant fire, caused by gasoline used to clean a type machine, devastated the newspaper’s offices and printing plant, resulting in damages amounting to $15,000. Despite this setback, the publication continued to operate temporarily from Selma until the office was restored.
In 1979, the Demopolis Times was acquired by Boone Newspapers, continuing its legacy as a crucial information source for the local community. Over the years, the newspaper cultivated a reputation for excellence in reporting and was instrumental in acknowledging and supporting various local initiatives, including programs for the Boy Scouts.
The closure of the Demopolis Times has left a notable void in the community, historically known for its active involvement in covering local news and events. A recent column by Tom Boggs praised the contributions of the Times, reflecting on the essential role of local journalism in fostering community relationships and informing residents. The newspaper played a vital part in community initiatives, highlighting local achievements and events that defined life in Marengo County.
As the community comes to terms with the loss of the Demopolis Times, many are voicing their hope that the spirit of local journalism continues in some form, even as the traditional paper has ceased operations. The impact of the Times goes beyond mere newsprint; it is woven into the very fabric of local history and culture, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by generations to come.
In summary, the cessation of the Demopolis Times signifies a poignant chapter in local journalism and reflects broader challenges faced by print media across the country. The community now looks toward the future, hoping to sustain the values of communication, local reporting, and community spirit that the newspaper represented for over a century.
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