About Us
Serving Community Newspapers Since 1887
The WNPA represents 70 community and regional newspapers, including small nonprofit weekly and monthly publications, to the midsize family publications from corner to corner of Washington State, as well as the largest paper in the state, The Seattle Times. WNPA advocates for a free and independent press, provides legislative support, offers professional education and training, and fosters collaboration among publishers, editors, and journalists. Through advocacy, innovation, and shared resources, WNPA works to ensure that local newspapers remain trusted, sustainable voices serving their communities.
A Legacy of Local Journalism
Since 1887 the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association has been a unifying voice for community newspapers across Washington State. These publications are the lifeblood of local democracy—informing residents, holding institutions accountable, and preserving the unique stories of towns and regions across the state. WNPA supports its members through a statewide ad program, and publishing each community's legal notices in an online site for equitable access. We also provide newsroom training and an annual celebration of journalism excellence, helping our community newspapers remain financially viable and independent. WNPA also plays an active role in legislative advocacy. By working in close partnership with Allied Daily Newspapers of Washington and the Washington Coalition for Open Government, WNPA promotes open access to public records, defends First Amendment protections, and advocates for policies that safeguard the essential work of the free press. Together, these efforts reinforce WNPA’s enduring commitment to a robust, informed, and engaged Washington public.
Our Story
1887
The Beginning
In the late 19th century, Washington Territory was divided by the Cascade Mountains—both physically and culturally. The opening of the Northern Pacific Railroad on July 4, 1887, united both sides and symbolized a new era of connectivity. It was during this historic celebration that Charles W. Hobart of the Yakima Republic proposed the formation of the Washington Press Association, bringing together editors from cities like Seattle, Tacoma, Walla Walla, and Dayton.
1914
Early Structure and Growth
Initially managed informally by member publishers, the association evolved significantly in 1914 when journalism professor Fred W. Kennedy became its first part-time manager. Based on the University of Washington campus, Kennedy’s leadership lasted 38 years, earning him the affectionate nickname “Pa Kennedy.”
Subsequent directors included Clarence B. Lafromboise, Robert M. Shaw, Jerry Zubrod, Miles Turnbull, Diana Kramer, George Smith, Bill Will, Marcia VanDyke, and Fred Obee—each contributing to the association’s adaptation through the decades.
2014
Today
From UW’s campus to Seattle’s University District, Stone Way, and eventually Lake City, WNPA shifted locations to accommodate growth and financial realities. In 2012, the physical office closed due to economic pressures. A new office opened in Olympia in 2014, then relocated to Port Townsend in 2016 under Executive Director Fred Obee. Efforts were also made to preserve historical records by donating archives to the Washington State Library.
Today, like so many other organizations, the WNPA holds no physical office and its director works remotely from Tacoma.
What We Do Today
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