TROUP, Texas (July 5, 2025) — Troup residents once again have a newspaper that prioritizes their hometown stories. ETX Bell, launched in 2025, is a community newspaper serving Troup, Texas, bringing back consistent local news coverage through both print and digital formats.
Each edition of ETX Bell features a dedicated Troup section alongside hyperlocal coverage for Bullard, Whitehouse, and other nearby communities such as Flint, Noonday, and parts of Cherokee County. The publication also reports on broader Smith County issues, blending regional awareness with a true hometown focus.
Reviving a lost tradition
For many years, Troup was home to the Troup Banner, which published into the late 1970s. Later, the Tri County Leader served the area until its closure in 2018. Since then, the community has lacked a newspaper that consistently covers city council meetings, school board actions, youth sports, business spotlights, and local milestones.
While regional newspapers like the Cherokeean Herald and the Jacksonville Daily Progress occasionally include stories about Troup—primarily due to its location within Cherokee County—their coverage is limited and often secondary to broader county or regional news. The Tyler Morning Telegraph also covers East Texas but focuses mostly on larger metro stories.
ETX Bell brings Troup back to the forefront
The Troup section of ETX Bell is designed to highlight what matters most to local residents: city governance, Troup ISD news, Tigers athletics, local events, obituaries, and public announcements. By offering a platform for reader-submitted photos, community highlights, and business recognition, the paper works to build civic pride and awareness.
“We’re not here to compete—we’re here to contribute,” said publisher Shawn Larson. “Our goal is to give Troup residents a reliable, dedicated news source that reflects their community.”
A modern newspaper with a community-first mindset
ETX Bell is currently published monthly and is available in both print and online editions. Readers can subscribe, access stories digitally, and engage with the publication through its website and social media platforms. Community members are encouraged to contribute content, submit events, and advertise locally.
Troup’s newspaper history
Troup Banner (early 1900s–c. 1978): A longstanding weekly that served as the town’s primary news outlet.
Tri County Leader (closed 2018): Provided regional coverage for Troup, Whitehouse, and Bullard.
Cherokeean Herald and Jacksonville Daily Progress: Offer light, occasional coverage of Troup as part of their Cherokee County focus.
Tyler Morning Telegraph: A regional daily with limited Troup-specific news.
Support and subscribe
ETX Bell has seen strong community response and is growing quickly. As the subscriber base expands, the team plans to increase frequency and deepen coverage.
To subscribe, advertise, or contribute, visit www.etxbell.com.
Conclusion: After years without a consistent local paper, ETX Bell is proud to serve as the new newspaper for Troup, Texas—bringing back hometown coverage, community connections, and the kind of local reporting that helps small towns thrive.
