Bound Media Group

Bound’s legacy started in 1965, when H.N. “Ray” Spencer Jr. purchased The Waterways Journal, Inc., a maritime publications company in business since 1887. Ray served as publisher of The Waterways Journal until 1979, when he turned duties over to H. Nelson Spencer. Nelson continued the Journal’s tradition as the only American maritime publication that focuses exclusively on the inland waterways until his semi-retirement in 2014, when he named his son Nelson Spencer Jr. as publisher. In addition to The Waterways Journal, Bound Media Group’s portfolio includes the Inland River Record, which was acquired in 1968. The annual directory lists every towboat that operates on the inland and Gulf Intracoastal waterways. In 1972, publication of the Inland River Guide began. The directory provides detailed information about barge companies, ports and terminals, shipyards, and equipment suppliers all categorized for easy access. Quimby’s Cruising Guide, an annual directory of marinas and locks on the inland and Gulf Intracoastal waterways, was purchased in 1989, followed by the International Dredging Review in 2010. In 2011, Marina Dock Age was acquired. As a trade publication for marina operators, Marina Dock Age complements the recreational focus represented by Quimby’s. Bound Media Group also produces two trade shows to further show our support for the maritime industry. The Inland Marine Expo and the Docks Expo. In 2018, the High Plains Journal was welcomed into the fold. Committed to the agriculture and farming communities, the High Plains Journal has been published weekly since 1949. In conjunction with the High Plains Journal, Bound Media Group now produces Cattle U and Farmer U, two industry trade shows. Harbor House Publishers joined Bound Media Group in 2021. A custom publishing company based in Boyne City, Michigan, Harbor House has produced high-quality, digital and print products for chambers of commerce, trade, and professional organizations since 1969.