About Us
For more than 120 years, The Tidewater News has been telling the stories of the people and communities of Franklin, Southampton County, and Isle of Wight County. Founded in 1905, our newspaper began with a simple goal: to provide readers with reliable, impartial, and meaningful local news. That commitment remains at the heart of everything we do today.
A Tradition of Journalism
Founded by Paul Scarborough, who served as editor and owner until 1947, the newspaper established its roots deeply within the Western Tidewater region.
In 1957, a new era began when Kenneth R. Byerly acquired the publication. Shortly after, in 1960, Hanes Byerly took the helm as publisher, guiding the paper for nearly 50 years and overseeing the publication of 4,772 issues.
A significant milestone occurred in 2006 when the newspaper was sold to Tidewater Publications LLC, an affiliate of Boone Newspapers Inc.
Today, continuing its legacy of steady and reliable reporting, The Tidewater News proudly publishes every Wednesday, ensuring the community stays informed week after week.
A Tradition of Journalism
Based right here in Franklin, Tidewater Publications LLC extends its reach
far beyond the printed page. We are a modern media company deeply
rooted in traditional values.
In addition to our flagship newspaper, we publish three dynamic websites
to keep our community updated in real-time, and produce Western
Tidewater Living, a premium quarterly lifestyle magazine celebrating the
unique culture of our region.
