The Tonawanda News: A Legacy of Local Journalism in New York
For over a century, The Tonawanda News served as a vital source of information for residents across the border of Niagara and Erie Counties in New York. Established in 1880, this daily broadsheet—a large-format newspaper—documented the growth and challenges of its community for 135 years.
The publication provided comprehensive coverage for North Tonawanda and parts of Niagara County, while also extending its reach into the Town of Tonawanda, the Village of Kenmore, and the city of Tonawanda within Erie County.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1880
- Format: Daily broadsheet
- Coverage Area: Niagara and Erie Counties, New York
- Final Owner: Community Newspaper Holdings Inc. (via Greater Niagara Newspapers)
- Closure Date: January 31, 2015
- Circulation: 6,443 daily (as of 2006)
Editorial Excellence and Recognition
Throughout its history, The Tonawanda News was recognized for its commitment to high-quality journalism. The publication earned numerous awards from the Associated Press (AP) and the New York Newspaper Publisher Association.
One of its most significant achievements was the award-winning coverage of the crash of Flight 3407 in Clarence, N.Y., demonstrating the paper's ability to handle major breaking news stories with accuracy and depth.
Operational History and Closure
The newspaper was headquartered at 435 River Road, North Tonawanda, New York. In its later years, it operated under the leadership of publisher Peter Mio and editor Eric Duvall.
The publication was eventually owned by Greater Niagara Newspapers, a division of Community Newspaper Holdings Inc. Despite its long history and journalistic success, the newspaper faced severe financial difficulties. Due to financial insolvency, The Tonawanda News officially shut down on January 31, 2015.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1880 |
| Headquarters | North Tonawanda, New York |
| Daily Circulation (2006) | 6,443 |
| Website | tonawanda-news.com |
| Closing Date | January 31, 2015 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas did The Tonawanda News cover?
The newspaper covered North Tonawanda and parts of Niagara County, as well as the Village of Kenmore, the Town of Tonawanda, and the city of Tonawanda in Erie County.
When was The Tonawanda News founded and when did it close?
The newspaper was founded in 1880 and ceased operations on January 31, 2015.
Why did the newspaper shut down?
The Tonawanda News shut down due to financial insolvency.
What major news event was the paper recognized for covering?
The paper won several awards for its coverage of the crash of Flight 3407 in Clarence, N.Y.
Who was the final owner of the publication?
The newspaper was last owned by Greater Niagara Newspapers, which was a division of Community Newspaper Holdings Inc.