Franklin County Business Community Supplement: A Photo Album of the Community’s Family Tree
The Franklin County Business Community supplement is a yearly publication that showcases the people and businesses that make up the community’s family tree. Over the last four decades, this supplement has become a tradition, reaching out to most households in Franklin County. The idea for this supplement was started by former Messenger editor and co-publisher Emerson Lynn in 1983, who wanted to highlight the energy, creativity, and commerce that drives the local economy.
From its inception until 2018, when Jim O’Rourke purchased the Messenger and continued the tradition of publishing the Franklin County Business Community supplement. In 2020, the format changed to a high-quality, all-color magazine format. Despite advancements in technology that make it easy to find businesses online, this supplement remains relevant today. It serves as a chronicle of family history, bringing back old memories and faces that may have been lost over time. The photos in this annual publication capture outfits, haircuts, family vacations and birthday parties, creating a lasting memory of the community’s vibrant history.
The first edition was published in 1983 and received an immediate positive response from readers who enjoyed seeing pictures of their friends and favorite businesses. It quickly became the Messenger’s premier product and was picked up by other newspapers throughout the state. Now in its 42nd edition in 2024, the Franklin County Business Community supplement continues to be a cherished tradition for many households in Franklin County.
The spirit behind this publication remains unchanged – to celebrate the unique energy and creativity of our community while also preserving our shared history through photographs. Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer to Franklin County, picking up a copy of this yearly publication is sure to bring back memories and create new ones at the same time.
In conclusion, The Franklin County Business Community Supplement is more than just a photo album; it is an essential part of our community’s identity. It serves as a testament to our resilience and determination as we continue to grow and adapt in today’s fast-paced world. As we approach its 43rd edition in 2025, let us take pride in knowing that this tradition will continue to inspire future generations with its vibrant pages filled with stories of our past and present achievements.
Overall, The Franklin County Business Community Supplement remains an important piece of journalism that highlights not only our community but also showcases what makes us unique as individuals within it.