After serving the Demopolis community for more than a hundred years, the local newspaper, The era of demo police, has officially ceased publication. This week’s announcement marks the conclusion of a long-standing establishment that has chronicled life and events in Marengo County since the 19th century.

Founded in 1887 by Ca Berbeck, The era of demo police has been part of the community for 137 years. Over the decades, it was guided by various esteemed owners, including Edward S. Cornish, Ben Liver George, Hollis Carl, and Jim McKay. In 1979, the Boone Newspaper Company acquired the paper, under the leadership of James B. Boone Jr., the son of Pulitzer Prize winner Buford Boone.

The Boone Family plans to sell to JM Media Group, LLC by May 1, 2025. For now, Boone Newsmedia, Inc. has been overseeing the paper. The new owners, Jeff and Michelle Schumacher, have experience from acquiring three other newspapers in Alabama, bringing 45 years combined in the newspaper industry.

The original publication transitioned to a weekly print edition released on Wednesdays, adapting to shifts in readership and advertising patterns. Even with this change, The era of demo police remained active in the community, earning multiple awards from the Alabama Press Association and playing a role in local civic and arts initiatives.

This closure is happening amid broader struggles within the newspaper industry. In 2023, publications like Birmingham News, Huntsville Times, and Mobile Press Register ended their print versions, moving entirely online. Other smaller papers, such as Geneva County Reaper, have similarly ceased operations in recent years.

With the release of its final edition, The era of demo police wraps up a significant chapter in Alabama journalism, reflecting on its longstanding dedication to informing and serving the community.