Gothamist

What is Gothamist and How Did It Begin?

Gothamist, a New York City-based blog operated by New York Public Radio (NYPR), was founded in 2003 by Jake Dobkin and Jen Chung. Imagine a bustling city where every corner has its own story to tell; Gothamist was the voice that brought these stories to life. But how did this digital platform come into existence, and what made it so significant?

Early History

Was Gothamist just another blog, or did it have a unique mission from the start? Founded in 2003, Gothamist was part of a network that included LAist, DCist, SFist, and Shanghaiist. Each blog had its own distinct flavor, much like how different neighborhoods in New York City offer their own unique experiences. However, it was Gothamist’s focus on local news, events, food, culture, and other coverage that set it apart.

Network Expansion

The network grew with the addition of Torontoist in 2007, but this partnership didn’t last long. In 2009, Torontoist was transferred to Ink Truck Media, much like a ship changing its course mid-ocean. Similarly, Londonist was also transferred to LDN Creative in 2010, leaving Gothamist and its sister blogs to navigate their own paths.

The Shutdown

What happened when Joe Ricketts acquired the company? In March 2017, Joe Ricketts bought Gothamist. However, this acquisition came with a twist: after writers voted to unionize, the sites were temporarily shut down. It’s like a sudden storm that disrupts the calm waters of a blog’s operation.

Criticism and Relaunch

The shutdown was criticized as a form of retaliation for workers joining a union. But just as a ship can weather a storm, Gothamist and its related sites were relaunched on February 23, 2018. New York Public Radio, KPCC, and WAMU acquired the blogs, bringing them back to life with renewed vigor.

The Relaunch

How did the relaunch impact Gothamist’s future? Under the new agreement, the sites began publishing news content again. Chicagoist was purchased by Chance the Rapper in July 2018, much like a piece of art finding its perfect home. SAG-AFTRA recognized digital employees of NYPR, including Gothamist staff, ensuring that their voices were heard and valued.

Awards and Recognition

Gothamist received awards from Forbes, BusinessWeek, Wired magazine, among others. These accolades are like stars in the night sky, shining bright to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of its team. Impress3 Media bought SFist and relaunched it, ensuring that the network continued to thrive.

In conclusion, Gothamist’s journey is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of digital media. From its founding in 2003 to its acquisition by Joe Ricketts, the temporary shutdown, and finally, the relaunch with New York Public Radio, Gothamist has navigated through challenges and emerged stronger than ever. Its story serves as an inspiration for all those who believe in the power of local journalism.