[2] The paper was originally titled "The Eastern Reflector", and was founded in 1882 by David Jordan and Julian Whichard.

mixer—written with a lowercase "m"—18- to 35-year-old population (which includes the large student bodies of East Carolina University and Pitt Community College) with local music, night spots and events for the same area.

Cox Newspapers began struggling financially in 2008 and put several of its properties up for sale, including The Daily Reflector.

In addition to the paper being offered for sale, long-time publisher Jordan ("Jordy") Whichard III announced his resignation on January 5, 2009.

[3][4] In September 2018, Adams Publishing Group, based in Greeneville, Tennessee, announced it had purchased the assets of Cooke Communications LLC, including the Reflector, the Rocky Mount Telegram and the Elizabeth City Daily Advance.