The Ely Echo is the weekly newspaper known as the voice of the North Country, which was founded in 1972 by Miles Aakhus. Ownership passed to Anne Wognum Swenson in 1977 after she had worked for the paper for three years. At that time the editor was Bob Cary, a Chicago, Illinois writer.

The Echo has been fortunate in attracting excellent journalists, photographers, designers and artists during its existence. It prides itself in welcoming all sides of any issue. It has had a diverse group of employees over the years. Currently, ownership is shared by Publisher Anne Swenson (thepub@elyecho.com), General Manager Nick Wognum (elyecho@aol.com), Editor Tom Coombe (tcoombe@aol.com) and Ad manager Lisa Vidal (ads@elyecho.com). Together they bring over 100 years of skill, service and training to Ely’s hometown newspaper. Their familiarity with Ely’s rich historical past gives the Echo insight into the changing times along the Canadian border.