The Covington News: A History of Local Journalism in Georgia
The story of The Covington News is a reflection of the evolving media landscape in Georgia. From its origins in the immediate aftermath of the American Civil War to its current status as a community staple, the publication has undergone numerous transformations, mergers, and changes in ownership to remain a primary source of information for the region.
The Early Years and Formative Mergers
The roots of the publication trace back to 1865, when William L. Beebe launched a newspaper titled The Georgia Enterprise. Established just six months after the conclusion of the Civil War, the paper served as a critical voice during the Reconstruction era. As the local media market grew, competition led to a significant consolidation in 1902, when The Georgia Enterprise merged with its rival, The Covington Star. Under the ownership of Charles G. Smith, the combined entity was renamed The Enterprise.
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Evolution into The Covington News
A pivotal shift occurred in 1908 when Lon. L. Flowers purchased the paper and rebranded it as The Covington News. This name would define the publication for the next century. Following a period of various owners between 1908 and 1931, the newspaper was acquired by Belmont Dennis and his family, marking the beginning of a long era of family stewardship.
The Dennis family continued to expand the paper's reach, absorbing another local publication, The Citizen Observer, in 1957. Following the passing of Belmont Dennis in December 1961, his widow, Mabel Sessions Dennis, took over as editor and co-publisher alongside Mrs. Mallard. By 1974, Leo S. Mallard assumed the roles of president and editor.
Corporate Transitions and Modern Ownership
The late 20th century brought a series of ownership changes. In 1983, the newspaper transitioned to an employee-owned model, a structure that lasted for three years. In 1986, the publication was sold to Morris Multimedia, a media company based in Savannah, Georgia. During this period, The Covington News also took on the publication of The News and Advertiser.
The most recent chapter began in 2017, when Patrick Graham purchased The Covington News from Morris Multimedia. Graham, who also owns The Walton Tribune in Monroe, Georgia, currently oversees the publication's operations.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1865 as The Georgia Enterprise.
- Major Mergers: Merged with The Covington Star (1902) and absorbed The Citizen Observer (1957).
- Name Change: Became The Covington News in 1908.
- Current Owner: Patrick Graham (acquired in 2017).
- Affiliated Publications: The News and Advertiser and The Walton Tribune.
| Year/Period | Owner/Entity | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1865 | William L. Beebe | Founded as The Georgia Enterprise |
| 1902 | Charles G. Smith | Merged with The Covington Star to become The Enterprise |
| 1908 | Lon. L. Flowers | Renamed to The Covington News |
| 1931 | Belmont Dennis & Family | Acquisition and long-term family ownership |
| 1983 | Company Employees | Employee ownership period |
| 1986 | Morris Multimedia | Corporate acquisition |
| 2017 | Patrick Graham | Current ownership |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original name of The Covington News?
The newspaper was originally published as The Georgia Enterprise, starting in 1865.
When did the paper officially become The Covington News?
The name was changed to The Covington News in 1908 after the paper was sold to Lon. L. Flowers.
Who owned the newspaper during the mid-20th century?
The Dennis family owned the paper starting in 1931, with Mabel Sessions Dennis and Leo S. Mallard serving in leadership roles through the 1960s and 70s.
Was the newspaper ever owned by its employees?
Yes, the employees owned the newspaper for a three-year period starting in 1983.
Who is the current owner of The Covington News?
Patrick Graham purchased the newspaper in 2017 from Morris Multimedia.