With the turn of another page, the Sullivan County Democrat newspaper has turned another year older — reaching the outstanding age of 135 years young. 

Since 1891, this publication has pushed for the empowerment of local business, celebrated in its readership’s victories and mourned in defeats, has been the source of laughter and the root of understanding, even when it hurts.

For the past 135 years, the Sullivan County Democrat has been printing local news and community interests, and we only have our loyal, smart and dedicated reader base and loyal advertisers to thank for our ability to still be in print today. 

Of its long history, 97 of these years have been underthe guidance of the Stabbert family, with Fred Stabbert Sr. first acquiring the newspaper on February 2, 1927. Currently, it rests in the hands of publisher Fred Stabbert III.

Community journalism remains the tie that binds and the hand that uplifts countless areas around the world, and Sullivan County is no different. It is an undeniable truth that a newspaper is only as strong as its reader base allows it to be, and all of you lend a strength that has outlasted time and trial. It’s not only us that have stood the test of time. Give up some love for The Callicoon Cooperative Insurance Agency in Jeffersonville, which has been around since 1878, and the Myers Century Farms has farmed the hills of Jeffersonville, which has helped provide necessities for seven generations for 187 years. And don’t forget about The Weissmann Farm in Callicoon Center who have celebrated more than 100 years of family ownership.

Through thick and thin, the people of Sullivan County and the businesses that consist of them are strong, dedicated pillars of a history that continues to shine out as a beacon of hope that some good things DO last.

Happy birthday, Democrat, here’s to 135 years! And thank you one and all for your unwavering support.