How to Save a Legacy

The Johnson Publishing Company, founded in the 1940s by John H. Johnson and his wife, Eunice, produced legendary magazines for African American readers, most prominently Jet and Ebony. But last April the company declared bankruptcy, and its remaining assets were put up for auction to the highest bidder. Over the summer, a dramatic series of events unfolded, in which historians played a vital role. Read the story that started the ball rolling.

Photo: John H. Johnson in 1974. Credit: Bettman.

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Allison Miller, editor
Elyse Martin, associate editor, web content and social media
Karen Lou, editorial assistant
Liz Townsend, manager, data administration and integrity

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