What began in 1857 as a four-page newspaper in the dusty streets of Sacramento, California has grown into a digital network spanning local markets from California to Florida, from Washington state to Washington D.C.

Today we find ourselves more connected and more nimble—and our role as truth-tellers and protectors of independent voices more vital than ever.

It all started on February 3, 1857, when James McClatchy helped launch the company’s first newspaper in the wake of the California Gold Rush. While other papers of the time came and went, The Daily Bee—later renamed The Sacramento Bee—persevered through an independent approach to journalism and a commitment to quality.

The Bee family expanded with the founding of The Fresno Bee in 1922 and the purchase of The Modesto Bee in 1927.

What followed was more than a century of growth, fueled by the acquisition of quality media companies in growing markets across the country, including the 2006 purchase of Knight Ridder, which made McClatchy, at that time, the second largest newspaper publisher in the United States. Along the way, the work of journalists from our media companies has been honored with many awards, including more than 50 Pulitzer Prizes.

Today, McClatchy operates a leading local media company in 29 U.S. markets, connecting with our communities through print, digital, mobile apps, and more.

The ways in which we deliver award-winning content will continue to evolve, but our dedication to quality journalism, community service, and free expression will never change.