For the Record focuses on the experiences of journalists, primarily in
their own words, who worked in Rochester, New York, on the Gannett owned
Democrat & Chronicle and the Times Union.
While there are occasional glimpses back to the beginning of the
twentieth century and conversations regarding current newsroom policies
by those who are still involved in the business, most of the material in
this study centers on Gannett during the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s-a
period that may be seen as pivotal to the development of the Gannett
Company.
Although there is an enormous wealth of material available on the lives
of editors, publishers, and owners of newspapers, the history of
newsworkers remains quite limited. Brennen's primary intention for this
project is to give voice to these newsworkers, investigating their work
environment, routines, and expectations. Journalists shared their
favorite stories, best interviews, greatest challenges, and most
frustrating experiences with Brennen.
In giving voice to those previously marginalized, this oral history
project may help us to reach a deeper understanding of the challenges
and realities newsworkers face in the United States.