For over 40 years, the annual Franklin County Business Community supplement has been a cherished tradition in the community. Initiated by former Messenger editor and co-publisher Emerson Lynn in 1983, the supplement showcases the people and businesses that make up the community’s family tree. The response to the first edition was immediate and positive, with readers eager to see pictures of their friends and the businesses they frequented. The supplement quickly became the Messenger’s premier product and was picked up by other newspapers in the state.
In 2018, 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 being easily accessible online, this annual publication remains relevant today. Holding it in both hands brings back memories of family history, old faces and outfits that may have been lost over time. It serves as a chronicle of community vibrant history through photos of family vacations, birthday parties and more.
Now in its 42nd edition in 2024, this photo album continues to be a beloved tradition among Franklin County households.