Asbury Park Press: A Legacy of New Jersey Journalism
The Asbury Park Press stands as a cornerstone of regional reporting, ranking as the third largest daily newspaper in the state of New Jersey. With a history spanning over a century, the publication has evolved from a modest weekly sheet into a powerhouse of investigative journalism and public service, providing critical coverage to the Jersey Shore and beyond.
Currently operating as a broadsheet and part of the USA Today Network, the paper is owned by USA Today Co. (Gannett), which acquired the publication in 1997. Under the leadership of editor Phil Freedman, the Press continues to maintain its presence in Neptune, New Jersey.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1879
- Ownership: USA Today Co. (since 1997)
- Headquarters: Neptune, New Jersey
- Circulation: 11,513 (as of 2024)
- Format: Broadsheet
- Network: USA Today Network
The Evolution of a Publication
The journey of the Asbury Park Press began in 1879 when Dr. Hugh S. Kinmonth founded the Shore Press. Initially, the publication was released only once a week. The late 19th century saw a series of ownership changes, including a period under S. T. Hendrickson and W. W. Conover, followed by the Penfield brothers, Roderic C. and Norman W. Penfield.
The Penfield era was marked by significant growth. The brothers expanded the physical size of the paper, enhanced the quality of its journalism, and introduced innovative design layouts. In June 1887, they launched the Daily Press as a companion to the Shore Press, operating as a weekday morning publication during the summer months.
Transition to a Daily Powerhouse
Following the bankruptcy of the Penfield Bros. firm in 1895, Dr. Hugh S. Kinmonth repurchased the assets. He eventually sold the paper to his nephew, Lyle J. Kinmonth, who relaunched the publication on March 30, 1896, as the Asbury Park Daily Press.
Under Lyle Kinmonth's leadership, the paper transitioned into a year-round daily. The publication underwent several name changes over the following decades: it became the Asbury Park Evening Press in 1903 and finally adopted its current name, the Asbury Park Press, on September 30, 1974.
A Tradition of Award-Winning Journalism
The Asbury Park Press is widely recognized for its commitment to investigative reporting—the process of deeply researching a single topic to uncover facts that are often hidden. This dedication has resulted in numerous national accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning awarded to Stephen P. Breen in 1998.
The publication has consistently excelled in public service reporting. Notable series such as "Fighting New Jersey's Tax Crush" and "Protecting the Shield" have earned the paper prestigious honors, including the Silver Gavel Award from the American Bar Association and various National Headliner Awards.
| Year | Project/Staffer | Award/Honor |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Stephen P. Breen | Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning |
| 2004 | "Profiting from Public Service" | Selden Ring Award for Investigative Reporting |
| 2010 | "Fighting New Jersey's Tax Crush" | Pulitzer Prize Public Service Gold Medal (Finalist) |
| 2019 | "Protecting the Shield" | Silver Gavel Award (American Bar Association) |
| 2020 | "Dying to Race" | Edward R. Murrow Award (Sports Reporting) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently owns the Asbury Park Press?
The newspaper is owned by USA Today Co. (Gannett) and is a member of the USA Today Network.
When was the newspaper founded and what was its original name?
It was founded in 1879 by Dr. Hugh S. Kinmonth under the name Shore Press.
Where is the Asbury Park Press headquartered?
The headquarters are located at 3600 Highway 66, Neptune, New Jersey 07754, United States.
What is the current circulation of the paper?
As of 2024, the circulation is reported to be 11,513.
Has the Asbury Park Press won any Pulitzer Prizes?
Yes, Stephen P. Breen won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 1998 for ten cartoons.