In June 2024, the Altoona Mirror marked an extraordinary milestone — 150 years of continuous publication. As one of Pennsylvania’s longest-standing and most respected news organizations, the Mirror remains a powerful example of both journalistic tradition and local resilience.
Founded on June 13, 1874, by Harry E. Slep and George J. Akers as the Evening Mirror, the paper has been part of the Slep family for five generations. Today, Publisher Dan Slep continues the legacy his great-great-grandfather began.
“I loved to hear the roar of the press, and I just wanted to work for the Mirror,” said Slep. “It was a dream of mine.”
That legacy extends beyond Dan. Three other current employees, Deb Miller, Stephanie Miller, and Todd Miller, are also descendants of the founding family.
To commemorate the anniversary, the Mirror published a 56-page tabloid edition filled with history, heart and hometown pride. The keepsake included stories about the newspaper’s earliest leadership team, memorable sports moments, timelines of the Mirror’s evolution, cartoons, and even newspaper lingo.
The edition also highlighted longtime employees and their role in the paper’s continued success, including a charming feature on Barney and JoAnne Beringer, a couple who met while working at the Mirror decades ago.
Though much has changed since 1874, like the transition from typewriters to cellphones, the Mirror’s mission remains unchanged: to provide essential, community-focused journalism. Technological advances may have reshaped how stories are reported, but the dedication to serving Blair County has not wavered.
As the Mirror moves into its 151st year, one word that defines its journey is stability.
“We can’t thank our readers and advertisers enough,” the newspaper team shared. “Their support is what allows us to show up every day.”
As the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association celebrates its own 100th anniversary this year, we proudly recognize the Mirror as a testament to the strength, impact and future of Pennsylvania journalism.
If you’re interested in viewing the 56-page tabloid edition, please contact Altoona Mirror Managing Editor Holly J. Claycomb at hclaycomb@altoonamirror.com.