News Summary
The Savannah Tribune marked its 150th anniversary with a lively celebration in the Plant Riverside District. The event featured a sneaker ball, recognized five honorees for their contributions to media, and emphasized the importance of the Black press in America. Guided by the legacy of its founders, the Tribune continues to serve as an essential voice for the African American community.
Savannah celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Savannah Tribune on Saturday, marking its status as the oldest Black newspaper in the city. This significant milestone was honored with a vibrant celebration in the Plant Riverside District, featuring a sneaker ball and brunch event that brought together community members and notable figures.
The sneaker ball encouraged attendees to sport their favorite sneakers, adding a creative twist to the formal gathering. Participants were also urged to contribute to a worthy cause by donating gently used shoes for homeless facilities in Savannah, fostering a spirit of community support and engagement.
At the event, five distinguished honorees were recognized for their considerable contributions to the world of media. Among them was Dawn Baker, who made her mark as the Tribune’s first intern during her college years. Baker’s accomplishments set a precedent for future interns, exemplifying the vital role of mentorship within the industry. Shirley Barber James, the current publisher of the Tribune and an integral part of its history, emphasized the continued importance and impact of the Black press in American society during her address.
The Savannah Tribune has a rich and storied heritage that dates back to its founding in 1875, originally known as The Colored Tribune. It was established by three African-American civic and business leaders: John H. Deveaux, Louis B. Toomer, Sr., and Louis M. Pleasant. The paper has not only chronicled the history of African Americans in Savannah but has also served as a platform for advocating for civil rights and addressing pressing community issues.
Throughout its 150 years, the Tribune has faced various challenges, including periods of closure. However, since 1973, it has operated continuously under the stewardship of the James family. This enduring presence underscores the publication’s commitment to documenting the African American experience and contributing to the broader narrative of the Black press in the United States.
The significance of the Savannah Tribune goes beyond its age; it stands as a critical source of African American history, vital to understanding a pivotal aspect of American history as a whole. Past publishers have lauded the newspaper for its unwavering dedication to serving the community, informing its readers, and advocating for their rights.
This centennial celebration highlights the ongoing mission of the Savannah Tribune to uplift and represent the African American community while addressing the challenges they face. As it enters its next century of service, the Tribune remains a cornerstone of information and advocacy, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the community it serves.
As the festivities concluded, the spirit of camaraderie and commitment to community welfare filled the air, reminding attendees that the legacy of the Savannah Tribune is not just a celebration of its past but also an inspiration for the future.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Savannah Tribune Celebrates 150 Years
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- Savannah Tribune: 150th Anniversary Celebration
- Google Search: Savannah Tribune
- WTOC Video: Savannah Tribune Celebrates 150 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black Press
- WTOC Video: Savannah Tribune Celebrates 150th Anniversary
- Google News: Savannah Tribune
- Savannah Tribune: Hosts NNPA Conference 2025
- Google Scholar: Savannah Tribune
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
