St. Clair County, Illinois - Chapter 12: History of the Press of St. Clair County, 1881

Chapter 12: History of the Press of St. Clair County

I HE inventor of printing, Laurentius Coster, was ^ born in Haerlem, Holland, about the year 1370. It was while rambling through the forest, contiguous to his native town, that he cut some letters on the bark of a birch tree. Drowsy from the effort, and relaxation of a holiday, he wrapped his handiwork in his handkerchief and lay down to sleep. While men sleep the world moves. Damped by the atmospheric moisture, the paper wrapped about his carvings had taken an impression from them, and Coster awoke to discover an inverted image of what he had carved upon the bark. The phenomenon was suggestive because it led to experiments that resulted in establishing a printing oflBce, the first of its kind, in the old Dutch town of Haerlem. The date of the discovery was between the years 1420 and 1426. In this office John Gutenberg, whose proper name was Gansfleisch, served a faithful and appreciative apprenticeship. Gutenberg was born near the close of the 14th century at Mentz, Germany. He is regarded by some German writers, as being the inventor of printing, but the preponderance of evidence is in favor of Coster. He, however, was the first to employ moveable types in printing, the date of which was about the year 1438. After the death of Coster, he absconded, taking with him a considerable portion of the type and apparatus. He settled in Mentz where he won the friendship and partnership of John Faust, a wealthy goldsmith and of sufficient means and enterprise to set up the printing business upon a secure financial basis. The date of the co-partnership was in the year 1450. It was dissolved several years later owing to a misunderstanding. Gutenberg then formed a partnership with a younger brother who had set up an office in Strasburg, but had not been successful, and becoming involved in law-suits had fled from that city and joined his brother at Mentz. These brothers were the first to use metal types.

John Faust, after the dissolution of partnership with Gutenberg, took into partnership Peter Schoeffer, one of his servants, and an ingenious workman. He privately cut matrices for the whole alphabet, and when he showed his master the type cut from these matrices Faust was so much pleased that he gave Schoeffer his only daughter in marriage. Schoeffer's improvement in casting type from matrices was made in 1456. Gutenberg's printing office existed in Mentz until 1465. He died February 4th, 1J68.

These are the great names in the early history of printing and each is worthy of special honor. In this connection it is fitting that mention should be made of William Caxton who introduced printing into England, and was the first English printer of whom there is any knowledge. He was born in Kent in 1422. In 1471 he entered the service of Margaret, Duchess of Burgundy. During his sojourn in Bruges he formed the acquaintance of Colard Mansion, a well known printer of that city. He acquired the art and in 1476 returned to England and set up his wooden printing press in Westminster. The "Game and the Play of the Chesse," was one of his earliest publications. He died about the year 1491.

For a long time printing was dependent upon most clumsy apparatus. The earliest press had a contrivance for running the form under the point of pressure by means of a screw. "When the pressure had been supplied, the screw was loosened, the form withdrawn and the sheet removed. The defects of this very rude mechanism were at length partially remedied and improved by William Jansen Blain of Amsterdam. He contrived a press in which the carriage holding the form was wound below the point of pressure, which was given by moving a handle attached to a screw hanging in a beam, haying a spring, that caused the screw to fly back as soon as the impression was given. The Blaine press was made entirely of wood, and was in general use in Europe and America until the present century. The next improvement in printing presses was made by the Earl of Stanhope, who constructed one entirely of iron which printed the whole surface of the sheet at one impression - the size of the sheet being regulated by size of press. Numerous improvements were made upon the Stanhope press, which culminated in the Columbian, an American invention patented in 1816, which in time gained a large share of approbation. Other inventions followed_ rapidly and all were more or less improvements upon others. The Washington hand press came into more general use in America than any other. Cylinder presses are the great modern invention in the history of the art. It was invented by Mr. Nicholson, an Englishman, and was patented as early as 1790. His patents covered and embodied almost every principle so successfully applied to printing since that day. Cylinder presses were much improved by Messrs. Applegath and Cowper in 1818. In 1814 steam was first applied to cylinder presses by Frederick Konig, a Saxon genius, and the subsequent progress of steam printing has been so remarkable as to almost justify a belief in its absolute perfection. Indeed to appreciate the improvements which have been made in presses only, one ought to be privileged to stand by while the pressman operated one of the clumsy machines of Gutenberg, and then step into one of the well-appointed printing offices of our larger cities, where he could see the roll of dampened paper entering the great mammoth press, a continuous sheet, and issuing from it as newspapers, printed, cut, folded, and ready for the carrier or express.^

Type founding, or the manufacture of type, originated in Germany along with printing, and dates as early as 1492. It was then connected with the business of printing, but in time it became a separate and distinct manufacture. The proceps of casting type was much the same, and done by hand from the 1.6th century until 1848, when Meller and Richard of Edinburg, Scotland, invented and patented a machine for casting types. In 1860 it was much improved by the patentees, and is now the most advanced and approved system of type casting in both Europe and America. The earliest type used were in the style now known as "Gothic," or Blackletter.

It would be interesting to trace more minutely the history of this great art from its humble origin in Hserlem, through all successive stages, to the present, and to classify its products. For nearly a thousand years previous to its introduction, mankind had been surrounded by the densest ignorance the world has ever known. Teutonic barbarians had swept over fair Italy, had sacked her capital, had despised her civilization as unworthy even the indulgence of men dependent upon muscle and sword for empire and liberty. Vandalism had been christened, and had mocked the wisdom of philosophers while destroying and defacing the masterpieces of Grecian and Roman architecture and sculpture. Attila the "Scourge of God," at the head of vast Tartar hordes from Asiatic steppes,had traversed the Roman empire, spreading dismay and disaster, until checked at the fierce battle of Chalons. Omar had burned the great Alexandrian library, after declaring that if its volumes agreed with the Koran, they were needless ; if they conflicted, they were pernicious. During this period, feudalism had kept the noble at war with his sovereign, had unsettled governments, and made men soldiers with scarcely time for necessary practice at arms ; amusements were popular, only as they contributed to martial prowess, and poetry in the main was but a minstrel's doggerel concerning the chivalrous deeds of a listening knight or the wonderful charms of a favorite mistress. From the fall of Rome, there had been but little talent and time to cultivate letters. A few ecclesiastics here and there were the custodians of the learning saved from the wrecks of Grecian literature and Roman knowledge. The masses were ignorant. They believed that the hand which commonly held the sword would be disgraced if trained to wield the pen. Books were for the monk's cell or the anchorite's cave, and the objective points of all study were to escape purgatory, to cast a horoscope, to turn the baser metals into gold. Superstition, priestcraft and thirst for material renown moulded public acts and private training.

The Crusades broke the power of feudalism, dispelled much geographical ignorance by making neighboring nations better acquainted, gave an impetus to commercial enterprises, awakened the sluggish intellect, enlarged the human mind and rendered it more tolerant, introduced the luxuries and refinements of the Greek empire, and brought about Magna Charta and Free Cities. With the expanding and increasing commerce, arts came to the front, trades flourished and practice began to test precept. The middle classes, whose condition ever determines the character of an era or nation, obtained concessions and rights to which they had been strangers for centuries. The mental world began to move. Famous journeys and discoveries were made. Roger Bacon and Berthold Schwartz studied the chemistry of the Arabs, and were among the first devotees at the shrine of physical science. Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and England sought new outlets for their surplus products of soil, loom and fisheries. Mental darkness can make no long-continued stand against such enterprise, and enterprise will ever find an exponent to herald its doings from nation to nation, and a medium to make its conquests the property of succeeding generations. Europe was in a commercial and intellectual foment when Coster set up his printing oflice in Haerlem, and inaugurated an industry until then unknown. To understand the eflect of that industry upon humanity, compare the enlightenment, civilization and progress of the present with the semi-barbarism and stagnation of the middle ages. Printing is rolling back ignorance, vice and degradation, is unfolding the mysteries of nature, and is explaining the mandates of Him who made man in His own image, and expects the homage of the creature due the Creator.

The Romans, in the time of the Emperors had periodical notices of passing events, compiled and publicly posted. These Acta Diurna (daily events) were the newspapers of the day. Before they were posted in the public places, where all who desired could see them, they passed under the inspection of the Emperor, and later of Censors, Quaestors or Magistrates, whose duty it was to carefully scrutinize and erase such imformation as they, or, the Emperor desired withheld from the people. The first newspapers in

Europe are traceable to Germany and Venice and date back to soon after the discovery of printing. In 1536 'the first newspaper of mod'rn times was issued at Venice, but governmental bigotry compelled its circulation in manuscript form. In the latter half of the 15th Century small news sheets named the "Rugulationer" and " New Zeytung " appeared in different cities composing the commercial centers of Germany but they were generally in the form of a letter. The first newspaper established in Germany was the Frankfurt Gazette which still survives, and is credited with being the oldest newspaper in the civilized world. It was established in 1615. The first and nearest approach to newspapers in the English language were the pamplets called the " English Mercury," " News out of Holland," and others, that made their appearance in 1622. They, however, hardly deserve the name of newspapers. In 1663 the Public Intelligencer, printed in London, made its appearance. It was the first English paper to attempt the dissemination of news. It continued until the appearance of the London Gazette, which was first issued Nov. 7th, 1665, at Oxford. There were no papers printed oftener than once a week until in the reign of Queen Anna, then from the interest created by the war in progress, and the brilliant victories achieved by Marlborough, there was a demand for more frequent intelligence. To satisfy this demand the Daily Courant was issued every day of the week, Sundays excepted. The Courant was the first daily paper issued.

The first newspaper issued in America was the Public Occurrences at Boston, Sept. 25th, 1690, by Richard Pearce, and was immediately suppressed by the government. No man, or, set of men had the presumption to undertake a similar enterprise until fourteen years afterwards, when John Campbell, postmaster, established the Boston News Letter . The first issue was April 24th, 1704. It was a half sheet, twelve inches by eight, with two columns to the page. The Boston Gazette was issued Dec. 21st, 1719, and the American Weekly, at Philadelphia, one day later - Dec. 22'd, 1719. In 1721 James Franklin started the Boston Courant, which was edited for six years by his brother Benjamin. From 1704 to 1748 there were but six newspapers published in America. From 1748 to 1783 the number increased to forty-nine. The oldest living newspaper in the United States is the New Hampshire Gazette. It was founded Oct. 7th, 1756, and has been published without intermission or radical change of name from that date to the present. The first daily newspaper in the United States was the American Daily Advertiser, established in Philadelphia in 1784, now called the North American. The next year the New York Daily Advertiser was issued.

There are published in the United States and Territories nearly 9000 newspapers and magazines, of which 800 are issued daily; 60, tri-weekly; 120 semi-weekly; nearly 7000 weekly; 40 semi-monthly; 90 semi-annually; 17 once in two months, and between 50 and 60 quarterly. The Census of 1880 will show nearly one newspaper to every five hundred inhabitants. At the beginning of 1880 there were of journalistic publications in the United States, besides English, 220 German, 35 French, 25 Spanish, 25 Norwegian, Danish and Swedish, 10 Bohemian, 10 HoUandish, 5 Welsh, 2 Portuguese, 2 Polish, 1 Hebrew, 1 Cherokee, 1 Choctow and one Chinese.

Heal journalism, by which is meant the compiling of passing events for the purpose of making them more generally known and instructive, did not commence until about 1820. Prior to that date the ambition of journalists was to direct and crystallize public opinion. The columns of the journals were much occupied with discussions and dissertations upon every conceivable subject in which the masses had no direct interest or sympathy, and news was almost entirely ignored. To use a vulgar saying, newspapers were then edited with the paste pot and scissors, Now, the real object of a newspaper is to get the latest, freshest news, and lay it before their readers in the shortest possible time. The innovation upon old forms and introduction of new methods whereby the publishing of news was made the first object of the paper, originated with the publishers of the New York Sun. It was the first real newspaper in the world. It was specially devoted to news both local and general, and soon attained a circulation unprecedented in the history of journalism. Other newspapers were not slow to observe the signals of success and followed in the wake of the Sun, and soon old fogy methods were lost in the hazy past. News is the dominant idea of the successful newspaper of the day.

Journalism has become a powerful educator. Experience has been its only school for special training, its only text for study, its only test for theory. It is scarcely a profession, but is advancing rapidly towards that dignity. A distinct department of literature has been assigned to it. Leading universities have contemplated the inaugurati(m of courses of study, specially designed to fit men and women for the duties of the newspaper sanctum. These innovations are not untimely, since no other class of men are so powerful for good or ill as editors. More than any other class they form public opinion while expressing it, for most men but echo the sentiments of favorite journalists. Even statesmen, ministers and learned professers not unfrequently get their best thoughts and ideas from the papers they read.

For dates and facts relating to the early history of the press of St. Clair county we are indebted to the newspaper fraternity, who have kindly aided us with information necessary for this chapter. We also desire to extend our thanks to Mr. E. H. Fleming, one of Belleville's veteran printers and journaiiits, James H. Hughes, T. Quick, Esq., Prof Deneen of McKendree College, and others, for information which has enabled us to trace the history of the press from 1827 down to the present time.

Prior to the establishment of a newspaper in the region now known as St. Clair county, the people depended upon the Missouri Gazette, established in 1808 in St. Louis, now known as the Missouri Republican, for their news from the outside world. At this distant day it is nearly if not quite impossible to get reliable and correct information regarding the first newspaper of this county. No files, or old copies can be found in the possession of the older inhabitants, nor in the archives or among the records of the State Historical Society. We have therefore to depend in a large measure upon the best recollections of men and women who lived in the pioneer days of Illinois. Many such can be found, but among them are various opinions and much confusion, particularly as to dates. We are convinced, however, that the first newspaper ever published in St. Clair county was called

The Western News

And was established by Dr. Joseph Green in Belleville, and was first issued in the winter of 1827-8. It was a small sheet, promising a weekly issue, but appeared semi-occasionally. It, however, was a newspaper, and the first ever printed within the present confines of St. Clair county. The next paper was the

Which was the second newspaper, and first religious journal in the county. The Prospectui of the Pioneer was issued in December of 1828, and the first paper issued April 25th, 1829, at Rock Spring, the seat of Rock Spring Academy. It was established by Rev. Thos. P. Green, a Baptist minister, who brought a hand-press and type from Cape Geradeau, Mo. Rev. Green was a practical printmSTORY OF ST. CLAIR COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

er. He was assisted by his two sons, also printers. The Pioneer was a five-column single sheet newspaper, edited by Rev. James M. Peck. In the fall of 1829, Green sold the office to Peck, and on the 14th of June, 1830, Ashford Smith took charge of the printing - Peck remaining editor. The business arrangement continued until 1836, when a partnership was formed between Peck and Smith, and the office was removed to Upper Alton, and there made its appearance as the Western Pioneer and Baptist Banner. The form was a six-column folio. The Pioneer was printed in a frame building, 30 by 12, which is still standing, and used as an out-house on the farm of 8. G. Smith, a son-in-law of Pecks.

In 1833, Robt. K. Fleming, editor and publisher of the Kashas- Ma Recorder, was induced to remove his printing office to Belleville, by the prominent and representative men of St. Clair county, who pledged him their support and patronage. In accordance with their wishes he packed up the type and presses, and with his family came to Belleville. As soon as he could " lay out " the office he commenced the publication of the

St. Claie Gazette

Its first appearance was about December 20th, 1833. The paper was continued by him for a number of years, under many disadvantages. The publication was often interrupted, owing to financial difficulties and other causes incident to the establishing of a newspaper in the pioneer days of Illinois. He changed the name of the Gazette to the the first number of which was issued May, 1838. E. S. Cropley was the editor and publisher. The Representative and Gazette was a large size folio, and was ably edited and liberally patronized by the merchants and business men of Belleville. Some of the advertisements are unique, while others will serve to recall the names of men who played a conspicuous part in the country and state half a century ago. Among the professional advertisements is that of Colonel J. L. D. Morrison, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law, and is dated, Kaskaskia, July 27th, 1838, when the Colonel informed the public he has permanently located in the practice of his profession. Then comes Koerner & Shields, Attorneys at Law, the latter the hero of three wars, and United States Senator from three States. On the 6th of September, 1838, Lyman Trumbull and John Reynolds formed a co-partnership in the practice of law. Thomas Kinker, a cabinet-maker, informs the public that he " will attend to all business in his line from the cradle to the grave." But that which will strike the average reader as somewhat strange reading in these latter days, in view of the present political condition of the negroes under the late amendments to the constitution, is the following " Notice," " Was committed to the jail in Perry County, Illinois, on the 22nd day of December, 1838, Two Negroes, supposed to be runaway slaves, viz. : A man and woman, &c." Here follows a full description of their persons and calling upon the owners " to como forward, prove property, pay charges and take them away, or, they will be dealt with as required by law." This notice was published six times and the printing fee was three dollars. From a leading editorial published February 2d, 1839, we subjoin the following excerpt, for the purpose of showing that, what was true then of political parties, is true yet. Under the head of " Thoughts on the present condition of parties in this State," they quote, "The present condition of parties in our State opens a fair field for philosophic speculation. The numerical strength is nearly equal, their efficient means of operating upon public opinion are nearly equal, and with party scales so nicely balanced, it will follow as certainly as the light of day succeeds the darkness of the night, that the party which relies alone on intrigue and political management will be defeated, and that one which trusts to the immutable principles of justice, honesty and equal rights will prove successful." No truer words than the above were ever penned.

Nolhwithstanding the ability with which the Representative was conducted, and the evidence of its prosperity shown by the large number of advertisements with which its columns were crowded, it failed about the close of 1839, and from it rose

The Belleville Advocate

Which has withstood the rude shock of time, and come down to us from a former generation. It has lived through all the vicissitudes attending upon journalistic enterprises and has been, with but few slight intermissions, regularly issued from its first number to the present. It is credited with being the first permanent newspaper in St. Clair County. The first number of the Advocate was issued March 27th, 1840, James L. Boyd and John T. C. Clark were the editors and- publishers. It was printed in a building on the corner of Main and High Streets, and issued every Saturday morning. In form it was a five column folio, price $2.00 per year. Twelve lines made a square. In looking over No. 8 of Vol. 1, wherein is printed their terms to advertisers, we were impressed with their good sense and business judgment as is shown in the following : " Advertisements of personal altercations will invariably be charged $2.00 per square for first insertion, and $1.00 for each continuous insertion, payment to be made invariably in advance." This, no doubt, had the efiect to make disputants consult their pocket books before engaging in a public altercation, or the longest purse won the day. In their Prospectus, the editors say to the public that " the Advocate will be conducted on pure Demoerative principles, both editors being Democrats of the Old School of Jeffersonian politics, diflfering from the monopolizing Hamiltonian Autocracy iu their whole political creed." The paper warmly supported Martin Van Buren for President, and Lyman Trumbull for member of the State Legislature. Mr. Clarke retired from the Advocate a few months after the first issue ; Boyd continued the publication until the winter of 1841-2 when the paper passed into the hands of Philip B. Fouke, and from him to Robert K. Fleming, the founder and publisher of the old Gazette and Mercury. It is fitting that we should here make a brief biographical sketch of Robert K. Fleming, one of the pioneer printers of Belleville. He was born in Erie County, Penn., and learned the printer's trade in Pittsburg. He came west while yet young, and worked at his trade in St. Louis. From there he went to Kaskaskia and started a paper, and there married a Miss Leland, a native of Mass. By this marriage there were five sons ani two daughters. In 1833 he came to Belleville and engaged in journalism, and here continued until his death in 1874. It may be said of him that he had few faults, but many virtues. All of his sons became printers, and all were more or less, connected with the newspapers of St. Clair County. Edward H. Fleming, son of Robert K., gradually got control of the office, and it remained under his management until 1849, when the California gold fever carried him to the Pacific Coast. He left the office in charge of his brother, William K., who was also a printer. The latter in the summer of 1849 commenced the publication of the

Daily Belleville Advocate

The first daily newspaper published in St. Clair County. During William S. Fleming's administration of the Advocate Jehu Baker editor. He is regarded by contemporaries and others as being the ablest editor ever employed on the Belleville press. On June the 29th, 1850, Fleming sold the Advocate to John W. Merritt, a newspaper publisher, who afterwards located at Salem, Illinois, and at a later date better known as the editor of the State RegUt&r at Springfield, Illinois. Merritt reraaiued in control of the paper until the latter part of the summer of 1851, when he sold to Judge Niles. In 1851 , E. H. Fleming returned to Belleville from California, and started

The Belleville Sun

Thirty-six numbers were issued when it was consolidated with the Advocate, and a partnership formed under the name of Fleming and Niles. The latter was editor, and the former foreman, and attended to the mechanical part of the office. In 'October, 1852, Fleming and Niles purchased the Illinois Independent, and consolidated it with the Advocate. On the 19th of July, 1854, Judge Niles' interest in the paper was purchased by James S. Coulter, and he retired from his editorial labors for a short time. As a newspaper writer. Judge Niles was far above the average. He was a strong, forcible writer, though sometimes voluminous. Brevity was not exactly his forte, yet articles from his pen showed a thorough knowledge of the subject in hand. He gave the Advocate a prominent position and high standing among the journals of Illinois. He was better fitted, however, to fill the editorial chair of some metropolitan journal than the sanctum of a country newspaper.

The first number was issued, September 1st, 1854. It was a fivecolumn folio, and a very neat, spicy publication. James S. Coulter, the editor, was a Protestant Irishman, and was one of those irrepressible characters so often found among the natives of the Emerald Isle. He wielded a sharp, vigorous pen, and was indiscriminate in the use of it, and sometimes would puncture a friend as well as foe.

November 14th, 1855, E. H. Fleming retired from the Advocate, from reasons of ill health. His interest in the office was purchased by J. S. Coulter, who continued the paper until June 11th, 1856 when Judge Niles again became proprietor and editor. On the first of July of the same year, Edward Schiller bought a half interest in the office, and continued one of the proprietors until Dec. 3d, 1856,'when he retired, and Judge Niles published the paper until May 13th, 1857, when the office was sold to Collins Van Cleve, and T. C. Weeden. In the Salutatory of the latter, they assure the public that the Advocate will be continued as a Free Soil paper, which position it took in 1854. With the issue of July 10th, 1857, the paper was enlarged to an 8 column folio, with the name Belleville Advocate, in large fancy letters. The next week the letters were changed to a smaller size, which was a decided improvement. Messrs. Van Cleve and Weeden continued the publication until February 10th, 1860, when they sold to E. J. Montague, formerly of the Chester Herald. Soon after taking charge, Mr. Montague put a new dress on the paper, and it was then an exceedingly neat publication. In September, 1860, during the progress of the County Fair, the Advocate office published the first daily Fair Journal. It was called the St. Clair County Fair- Ground Journal. On the 25th of January, 1861, the News Letter, published in Mascoutah, was consolidated with the Advocate, and Alex. G. Hawes, its editor, became the associate editor of the Advocate. The paper was then known as the Weekly Belleville Advocate and News Letter. On the 8th of February, 1861, the office passed back into the hands of Collins Van Cleve. Hawes remained connected with the paper until May 10th, 1861, when he retired. On the 1st of June, 1861, F. M. Hawes became editor, and Aug. 10th of the same year, purchased the paper. With the issue of Oct. Uth, 1861, the word " Weekly " was dropped, and the paper was known as the Belleville Advocate. Mr. Hawes conducted the publication of the Advocate until December 5th, 1862, when G. F. Kimball took charge of its management, and assisted Mr. Hawes in the editorial department.

On the 27th of November, 1863, Mr Kimball purchased the entire office including books, etc., for the sum of $1000. He continued sole proprietor and editor until January 1st, 1867, when he sold a one-tenth interest to F. M. Taylor. Under the management of Messrs Kimball and Taylor, the business of the office was greatly increased. They embarked in the business of printing " Outsides" for a number of newspapers in Southern Illinois. They also, in addition to the Advocate, published at the same time, the Nashville Journal, Sparta Plaindealer, Mt. Vernon News, CollimviUe Argus 2mA Litchfield Monitor. They also did a large amount of book printing for St. Louis and other places. The firm continued until 1872, when a disagreement arose between the partners as to what position the Advocate should take upon the political questions of the day. The paper had been conducted as a Republican organ during the time of Mr. Kimball's connection with it, but now his political opinions had undergone a slight change, and he was inclined to the liberal wing of the party, and was in favor of carrying the paper over to its support. Taylor was a stalwart in his belief and insisted on keeping the Advocate in the well beaten track of the radical wing of the party. Their diflTerences were irreconcilable, and the firm was dissolved. Mr. Taylor purchased the presses, material and building, and Mr. Kimball retired from the business. He went to Danville, Illinois, and there took editorial charge of the Newi, a daily and weekly paper, and from there to Decatur where he organized several newspaper enterprises.

In the summer of 1879, he returned to Belleville, and, for a few months, was interested in the publication of the Republican. On the 27th of November, 1879, he issued the first number of the Weekly Times, and in Feb., 1880, the Daily Times, and continued both publications until the following May when they were suspended.

In the summer of 1880, he was for a short time editor of the Advocate. In October, 1880, he removed to Sedalia, Mo., where he is at present editing and publishing the Daily News, a leading Republican journal of Central Missouri.

Western Printing Company

which was organized and incorporated under the laws of the state. The principal stockholders were : - Mrs. Kate L. Taylor, wife of F. M. Taylor, Charles W. Thomas, E. L. Thomas, John Woods and F. M. Taylor. Subsequently the shares of stock held by the Thomases were purchased by Mrs. Taylor. At a later date she also secured the share held by Woods which was assigned to J. B. Lemen. F. M. Taylor was President, and John Woods, Secretary, and foreman of the office : Mrs. Taylor afterward .became Secretary. The company continued the printing business until May 8th, 1880, when the office was closed, and Taylor retired from the business. J. H. Thomas purchased the material and presses and on the 4th of June 1880, resumed the publication of the Advoeate,mth G. F. Kimball as editor. The latter soon retired from the paper, since which time Mr. Thomas has been both publisher and editor. The office of the Advocate was in the building now occupied by the Post office which was built and fitted up expressly for the paper. Jan. 1st, 1880, it was removed to the Zeitung building and the 27th of Sept., 1880, was removed to it present quarters.

The Advocate in form, as in proprietorship, has gone through many changes. It is now a six-column quarto, all printed at home. Typographically it is a neat paper, and well edited. It was for years the leading Democratic paper in southern Illinois, and, in later days,, was the recognized organ of the Eepublican party in this Congressional district, and to-day it still retains its prestige of former years.

The Advocate was for years the best known newspaper, perhaps, with few exceptions in the state. It has numbered among its editors and contributors many of the leading and distinguished men of the state of Illinois.

The Spirit Of 76

made its appearance as a campaign paper in the interest of Harrison and Tyler, candidates on the Whig ticket for the presidency and vice-presidency. Its first issue was in the latter part of July, 1840. The paper had but a brief existence. After a few issues it, too, took up its abode in the silent chamber of departed newspaper enterprises. The type and presses however remained, and passed into the possession of J. K. Cannon, who re-commenced the publication of a Whig paper, which advocated the claims of Harrison, and after his election supported hid administration with zeal and engi-gy. He continued the publication until his death ; then Chas. Sargeant bought the press and material and published an independent paper of which Elam Eust was editor. Rust afterwards removed to Decatur and in 1856 established a paper in that city, and died there in 1857. Sargeant's paper under the editorship of Eust was particularly noted, and will be remembered among the older citizens for its publications of personal paragraphs reflecting upon the character of reputable citizens of Belleville. In one instance, it is related, that such publication led fo fatal results. All of the foregoing papers, including Sargeant's, ultimately fell into the hands of the Advocate.

American Bottom Gazette

There is much confusion as to the date of its first issue, but from the best information obtainable we are convinced that it was in the winter of 1841-2. The publishers were Sumrix & Jarrott. It continued until 1844 when the office was swept away by the great flood of that year. The building from which the paper was issued was situated near what is now known as Main and Market Streets, East St. Louis, close to where the old " Bundy House " stood.

Belleville Beobachtek

which was the second German paper in the State of Illinois, It was started in 1844 by Theodore Engelmann, who at that time was Deputy Circuit Clerk. During the same year he was elected Circuit Clerk. Not having time to attend to his paper, he sold the office to his foreman Bartholomew Hauck, who moved the office to Quincy and there established the Quincy Bepbachter, which, continued until in 1848. Engelmann's term of office as Circuit Clerk expired in that year. He opened up a correspondence with Hauck and induced him to remove his printing office back to Belleville, which was accordingly done in the latter part of the year last above mentioned. The office was arranged, and January 11th, 1849, the first issue of the was made. Mr. Engelmann took charge of the paper editorially, and continued until 1851, when he gave up journalism, and retired to his farm near Mascoutah, where he at present resides. Hon. Gustavus Koerner then became the editor, and remained in charge for two years. In 1853 Dr. Wenzel, one of the oldest newspaper writers of the West, succeeded Koerner. He remained editor until the 23rd of February, 1856, when he retired to take charge of the Belleville Volkshlat as editor and proprietor. On the 18th of March, 1858, Mr. Hauck sold the Zeitung to Frederick Rupp. On the same day, Franz Grimm, the editor and proprietor of the Volkshlat, con.cluded an arrangement with Eupp by which the latter paper was consolidated with the Zeitung. By this arrangement Eupp became the Busiuess Manager and Grimm the Editor. He continued as editor until Sept. 25thj 1861, when he laid down the pen to take up the sword. He enlisted in a company which became a part of the 43d Eegt. Ills. Vol. Infantry, and fell fighting for his country, April 6th, 1862, in the desperate battle of Shiloh. His valedictory or final leave-taking from his old friends, tells best the story of his patriotism and bravery, and what manner of man he was. He says, in substance, " Firmly convinced that it is now time for every man able to bear arms to arise at once in defence of his home and country, and preserve the only Democratic republic on earth, he must now take a decided stand, and stake his life, if necessary, upon the issue of this terrible crisis. I have resolved to give up my present quiet and peaceful profession, and to exchange the pen for the sword. I assure my friends that this resolution was not hastily formed, nor from one reason only. Yet I say in the words of Hutten, ' I have ventured it : the die is cast : let it roll on in iron.' Bidding friends and foes good bye, for how long the eternal God only knows, I hope to live in their friendly memory until we meet again, or, until my hour shall strike on the bloody field of battle."

After Grimm, came Ludwig Seybold as editor, who in turn was succeeded by Adelbert Loehr, Under the editorial guidance of these gentlemen, the Zeitung kept up its prestige, then renowned for true and genuine love of freedom and justice to all men. In December, 1863, Dr. Charles Neubert becoming the managing editor. He at first kept the paper in the well beaten political track marked out by his predecessors, but after awhile he deviated and ran into extremes. Mr. Eupp, then sole proprietor, not agreeing with him, the Doctor was asked to give up his position, which he did, after being editor for nearly eleven years. In 1872 the Zeitung made a slight departure, and espoused the cause of the anti- Grant liberal movement under the leadership of Horace Greeley. After Dr. Neubert's withdrawal from the paper, Henry E. Miller became its editor. On the 3d of January, 1873, Mr. Eupp died and soon after the press materials and business was sold to Sebasr tian Fietsam. June 22d, 1874, he sold a half interest in the Zei^ tung to Mr. Semmelroth, who had been proprietor of the Stern Des Westens, but had sold that journal to Frederick E. Scheel. Mr. Miller was succeeded in the editorial chair by Bernhard Hartmann, who remained until the 20th of June, 1875, when Eugene Seeger became editor. On the 19th of August, 1876, was issued the first number of the which has continued uninterruptedly to the present, and has gained a large circulation in Belleville and the surrounding country. On the 20th of October, 1877, Messrs. Fietsam and Semmelroth purchased the office of the Stern Des Western, and consolidated it with the Zeitung. Mr. Seeger gave up the editorial management of the paper, February 5th, 1877, and L. W. Habercom took his place, and continued therein until Oct. 9th, 1879 when he retired, and his place was most ably filled by Curt Heinfelden, who still occupies that position. On the 24th of June, 1880, Mr. Heinfeldea purchased Mr. Fietsam's interest, and became an equal partner with Mr. Semmelroth in the Zeitung. The present editor is a native of Prussia, and came to America in 1875. His first journalistic work was on the New Yorker Staats Zeituny, soon after his arrival in this country. In May, 1876, he became a?sociate editor of the Oindnnati Volksfreund. In 1877 accepted a position on the editorial stafi'of the Ilinois Staats Zeitung in Chicago. In 1878 was one of the editors of the Ameig&r des Western, St.* Louis, Mo., and from there came to Belleville, and since that time has been identfied with the Zeitung. He is writer of great brilliancy, and has given his paper an enviable reputation and position among the German newspapers of the state. Mr. Semmelroth, the business manager of the Zeitung is a practical printer of much experience, and has been connected with the Journalism of St. Clair county since 1856. He has by his energy and industry contributed much to making his paper an absolute necessity to the people of St. Clair county. Since 1856 the Zeitung has advocated the principles of the Republican party. It then took a firm and positive stand against the introduction of slavery into the territories, and stoatly maintained the doctrines of popular sovereignty. All through the war it was on the side of the Union, and did much to cultivate Union sentiments among the people, particularly the German class. It enjoys the largest circulation among the Germans, of any paper in Southern Illinois. It also circulates in other state*, and a large number of copies are sent to residents in different parts of Europe. The Weekly Zeitung is in form, a six column quarto, and the Daily an eight column folio.

In 1845 the Advocate was an established fact, and gave ample evidence of its financial health fulness. This being the fact it would seem that there was little demand or room for another newspaper. Yet in the year above mentioned, Louis P. Pensoneau commenced the publication of the and continued the publication until January 12th, 1849, when the paper was sold to Messrs. Harvey and Walker. Up to that date the Times had been devoted to the advocacy of Democratic principles, but the latter gentlemen carried the paper over to the Whig camp, and it supported the administration of Gen. Taylor, the President. That there might be no possibility of mistake on the part of the public as to its new position, the name was also changed from the Times to the

Illinois Republican

Messrs. Harvey and Walker continued editors and publishers until October, 1852, when it was purchased by Judge N. Niles, and was absorbed by the Advocate. The Republican was edited with more than average ability, and in its day was the most potential organ of its party in Southern Illinois.

The Illinois Advocate

Was established in 1848, in the town of Lebanon, and the first number issued January 18th of that year. The intention of its projectors was to make it the organ of Methodism in Illinois. It was edited and published under the direction of members and trustees of McKendree College. Eev. Davis Goheen and Benjamin Hypes were the publishing committee; E. Wentworth, editor, and A. W. Cummings, S. Mattison, W. Goodfellow, and S. M. E. Goheen Assistant Editors. When first issued it was a four column folio. With the commencement of the second volume it was enlarged to a six column, same form. It was devoted to general intelligence, literature, science, morality, religion ; local, foreign and miscellaneous -news. The paper was continued until 1852, when the office was closed from lack of patronage. In 1855 Collins Van Cleve purchased the material and made additions thereto, and commenced the publication of a paper called the Lebanon Gem, which he continued until 1856, when he took the subscription lists to Belleville, where he had become interested in the publication of the Advocate, and from there sent the paper to his old subscribers in Lebanon until the subscriptions had expired. From 1856 to 1860, there was no paper published in Lebanon. On the 4th of March, 1860, No. 1, of Vol. 1, of the made its appearance. George W. Moore, an ardent and enthusiastic temperance worker, and James P. Snell, were the editors aud publishers. The name of the paper indicated its mission, and it was designed as the organ of the Southern Grand Division of the Sons of Temperance. Articles and editorials were contributed by the leading writers favorable to the Temperance cause in Illinois. Mr. Moore purchased the office at the St. Louis type-fouudry. He had no knowledge of the business, and therefore Snell was imported from Aurora to Lebanon to take charge of the mechanical department, and was given a half interest in the profits of the office. It was soon discovered that he knew but little more than Moore. The result was that in June following he wa^ retired from the business, and Mr. Moore continued the publication of the Sun until the fall of 1862, when the office was closed and the type and press boxed and sold back to the type-foundry in St. Louis. The paper was in form a four-column folio. It attained a circulation of over one thousand copies.

The Lebanon Journal

was established in 1867, by H. H. Simmons, and continued under the same proprietorship until January 18th, 1S73, when the office was sold to Dr. T. W. Eckert, now of the Belleville Republican. He edited and published the Journal until May 1875, when he sold to J. S. Padon. In August, 1876, Dr. Eckert re-purchased the paper and published it until May, 1877, when he sold it to Nelson Abbott. The latter failing to comply with the terms of the sale, the mortgage was foreclosed, and the Journal reverted to Eckert, who continued to publish it until November 4th, 1878, when he sold to J. R. Connor, who in turn sold it to J. F. Ash. The latter gave a mortgage upon the press and material, and defaulted in the deferred payments, and in consequence the office passed into the hands of Prof. O. V. Jones. The name of the paper was changed from the Journal to after it passed out of Eckert's control, and kept that name until February 18th, 1881, when the name was changed back to the Journal. Prof. Jones associated with him in the management

C. W. Metzger, a practical printer, late of the Centralia press. XJnder the management of these gentlemen we have no doubt but that the Journal will be conducted in such a manner as will make it a necessity to the good people of Lebanon and vicinity.

The Lebanon Couriee

was established in 1876 by E. H. Elliff. The press and type were removed from Trenton to Lebanon, where the office was set up, and the Courier issued as a campaign paper. It advocated the principles of the Democratic party, and was edited with CDnsiderable ability. After the campaign closed, the office was removed to Eed Bud, and from there to Columbia in Monroe county. It was there purchased by Peter Baker, and run as a campaign paper in 1880 in the interest of the Republican party.

Belleville Volksblatt

was the name of a German paper, established Feb. 23, 1856, by Dr. F. Wenzel. In his salutatory he sets forth the object and mission of the paper. He says " that the interests of the farming population would have his first and principal attention. The farmer is the truly free man in this Republic. Free from corruption and unacquainted with political wire-pulling and bar-room diplomacy, he preserves in the midst of demoralizing influences a free and independent position. The farmers are the healthy heart of the nation ; on them rests the hope of progress. If the farming population did not form a barrier against the tide of unexampled corruption and demoralization of the great American cities, one would nearly despair of the future of the United States." In another article he protests against the further extension of slavery, and stated that the Germans as a class were opposed to that peculiar institution. Dr. Wenzel continued editor and publisher from Feb. 23, 1856, to Sept. 12, 1857, when he sold the paper to Franz Grimm, who in March, 1858, consolidated it with the Zeitung as stated in another page in this chapter. Dr. Wenzel left Belleville, and went to St. Louis, and there, in connection with Carl Dsenzer, established the Westliehe Post, a German newspaper of national reputation. During the late war he was special correspondent for his paper, with headquarters at the front, and died while in that service.

Deutschee Demokrat

No. 1 of vol. 1, made its appearance July 1st, 1856. It was a radical, outspoken Democratic newspaper, edited and managed by Louis Didier. With the appearance of No 38 of vol. 1, A. Ruoff became the editor and publisher. This arrangement continued for a few weeks, when Didier became editor the second time and G. A. Harvey publisher. The paper was suspended soon after.

The Eagle

The first number of the Eagle was issued February 13th, 1854, by Messrs. Bevirt & Shoupe, two young men, both practical printers but having no editorial experience. It was placed' under the editorial control of " Gov. Reynolds," who conducted it for a short time. When first issued it was a daily, but it was soon changed to a weekly, and at the same time underwent a change in the name. It was called the

St. Claie Teibune

About the same time John B. Hay and William Orr, the latter a young man of brilliant talents, and a fine newspaper writer, became the editors. This arrangement continued a short time- The office was sold to Edward R. Stuart and G. A. Harvey, who remained editors and publishers until September 3d, 1854, when

William E. Hyde, now managing editor of the Missouri Espublican, bought Stuart's interest. The firm of Hyde & Harvey continued until 1856, when Mr. Harvey became the sole owner of the office. He continued the publication until July 1st, 1857, when he sold to Van Cleve & Weedin, owners and publishers of the Advocate. The Tribune was an eight-column folio, printed on a Hoe-press, the first power press ever brought to Belleville. The same press had formerly been used in the office of the Republican of St. Louis, and it now does duty in the office of the Ameiger, Mascoutah, Ills. The intention of the publishers was to make the Tribune office the best and most complete in southern Illinois, and for this purpose large sums of money were expended ; but the failure of patrons to pay and the lack of sufficient means to carry on the business and tide it over the financial crisis of " '57," forced the proprietor to offiir it for sale, and it found its way to the Advocate office, where many of its predecessors had gone before.

George A. Harvey, its editor and manager, had much to do in building up the newspaper business of Belleville. He wa? a practical printer. He learned his trade in the office of the Hollidaysburg Register. He came west to Bjlleville in 1849, and worked for some time as a compositor in the office of the Republican in St. Louis. After his connection with the Tribune, he was the proprietor of the Democrat, which will appear in its regular order, and for a number of years afterward was engaged in literary work, and as correspondent for the RepiMican, St. Louis. He was regarded as a good newspaper man, and a sound, practical, though not brilliant writer. He died January 9, 1877. In the winter of 1858-9, a campaign paper was started by a stock company composed of gentlemen of avowed allegiance to the Buchanan wing of the Democratic party. It bore the name of

The Star Of Egypt

It was edited and published by Ex-Gov. John Reynolds and J. W. Hughes. It did good service as a campaign paper ; but its existence was as short as its career was brilliant.

The Belleville Volksblatt

After Bartholomew Hauck sold the Zeitung to Mr. Rupp, his son Louis, who was a printer, started the Volksblatt in the summer of 1860. It was both a daily and weekly publication. It was continued until 1865, when it was sold out to Messrs. Fischer and Schmall of Mascoutah, who were then the proprietors of the Stern des Westerns. Schmall removed the consolidated offices of the latter paper and Volksblatt to Belleville, where soon after he sold to Messrs. Semmelroth & Kircher, both practical printers, who took charge May 15, 1866, and continued four weeks. Then Kircher sold his interest to Daniel Hertle, who in turn sold to Semmelroth, who continued the paper until 1872, when it became the property ofFred. E. Scheel.

The Belleville Democeat

The above named journal was established in 1857 by Messrs, Boyakin and H. L. Fleming as publishers. In 1859, it passed into the hands of Messrs Stuart and Shoupe, who continued the publication until November, 1860, when G A. Harvey became publisher. He conducted the paper with great success until August, 1863, when it was purchased by Messrs. Denlinger and Russell, its present proprietors, who have continued the publication to the present. The paper was originally a sevencolumn folio. It was changed to a nine-column, same form, in January, 1870. The Democrat was for a long time the official paper of the city of Belleville, and in its columns were published the proceedings and edicts of the City Board. The paper, in politicti, has always been Democratic in tone, and has done much towards sustaining and making popular the principles of that p ilitical organization. It has contiaued longer under one management than any other newspaper in St. Clair county. The Democrat belongs to the conservative classof journals, and is entirely reliable and trustworthy in the dissemination of local or political news.

Iq the summer of 1880, Mr. A. B. Russel, editor of the Democrat, was compelled from continued ill-health, to suspend editorial work upon the paper. William J. Underwood, a newspaper writer of considerable ability, then took charge and has continued as editor up to the present.

Belleville Weekly Sun

Tliirl-y-five numbers were printed, when its light was obscured, and it found its way to the Advocate office, with which paper it was consolidated.

The Belleville Banner

No. 1 of Vol. 1 was flung to the journalistic breeze Sept. 1st, 1859. It was edited and published by H. L. Davidson. In form, it was a six-column folio. In his salutatory, the editor says, " The Banner will be a warm supporter of the Sunday-schools, and labor for the cause of education." In giving the political status of the Banner, Mr. Davidson wished it to be understood that it was decidedly Democratic, and in the following lines lays down the law and duties of Democracy : " Its mission is to restore harmony, concession and Eelf-dfenial in the somewhat distrusted Democratic party - all for the cause, nothing for men. The Banner hails the Dred Scott decision as establishing the great fundamental principles by which the union of the States is to be preserved for all time to come, and any political heresy of squatter sovereignty militating against that decision and the constitution of the United States, will be treated in these columns as a dangerous and ruinous interloper introduced into the ranks of the Democratic party for evil and dettructive purposes." The salutatory occupies over a column of the paper, and is a forcible, aggressive and powerful arraignment of the political parties of that day, and a clear and concise statement of the duties of the Banner in the premises. The paper continued for a short time, when the office was closed and the publication suspended.

The Volksblatt Steen Des Westens

It passed from Schmall into the possession of Semmelroth and Kircher, then Kircher sold to Daniel Hertel, who was editor. Subsequently Hertel retired from the paper, and Semmelroth became the sole proprietor. Henry Huhn had editorial charge from 1868 to 1872, when the paper was sold to Frederick E. Scheel, who continued both the daily and weekly until Oct. 20th, 1877, at which time it was sold to the Zeitung, and consolidated with that paper. Under Scheel's administration the Stern Des Westens was conducted with vigor and ability. He made it a live newspaper, and the organ of his party in this Congressional district.. Mr. Scheel is a ready writer, and well posted in the political issues of the day.

The Daily Despatch

Was the name of a daily newspaper, the first copy of which appeared March 7th, 1861. It was edited and printed by Thomas H. Fleming and G. M. Williams. On the 19th of the same month it was transferred to G. A. Harvey, publisher of the Democrat. He continued it until Aug. 3d, of the same year, when its publication ceased. In May, 1868, a German paper named the was organized and issued by a joint stock company, composed of the leading Democrats of Belleville. Mr. Mueller was editor. It was a campaign paper, and was published until the close of the canvass, and soon after the press and material was purchased by Mr. Brickey of Red Bud and moved to that town, where the publication was resumed, with A. C Helmich as its editor, and. Peter Baker publisher. The office was soon after removed to Belleville, and the paper was published for one year, when it suspended, and the office was closed.

News Lettek

It was published by August Hamilton, and edited by Alexander G. Hawes. No. 1, of Vol. 1, was issued Jan. 19th, 1860. It was a seven column folio, independent in politics, with slight tendencies toward the Republican party. It was continued until January 25th, 1861, when it was consolidated with the Advooaie at Belleville, and its editor, Hawes, became the Associate Editor of the Advocate and News Letter.

The Mascoutah Banner

The Banner was issued in May, 1872. It made its appearance monthly. It was a small folio, printed on a job press, in the office of Frederick Dilg. It was edited and set up by W. D. Sheley, J N. Periin, and Philip Leibroek. In May, 1873, Sheley and J. H. G. Brinkerhofi" purchased the- outfit and good-will of the concern, and purchased a press and printing materials of J. D. Moudy of Richview, Illinois, and converted the Banner into a weekly paper. They enlarged it to a 7-column Quarto. In July of the same year, Mr. Brinkerhoff sold out his interest to Sheley and Leroy W. Tree. They continued the paper until September, 1873, when Tree's interest was purchased by Henry Pabst. The firm of Sheley and Pabst continued until November, 1874, when the office and fixtures were sold to Messrs. Wassein and Binz. Mr. Brinkerhofi" took charge as editor. In January, 1875, he purchased the paper, and conducted it as editor and proprietor until August of the same year, when the office was closed, and soon after was sold to Frederick Dilg.

During the life of the Banner it purported to be an Independent paper, but the editors and publishers being Democrats, occasionally articles were written and published which had a slight Democratic tone, that plainly told on which side of the political fence the proprietors might be found. The paper was not a financial success, owing, probably, to the fact, that none of the parties connected with it were practical printers, or in any wise acquainted with the business.

In 1869, Mr. Frederick Dilg, a practical printer, opened a job office in Mascoutah, and did all kinds of job printing in both the English and German languages. By close attention to his business and doing good work, he soon established a reputation as a goodprinter. On the 7th of January, 1876, he enlarged his business, and commenced the publication of the

Mascoutah Anzeiger

A German newspaper devoted to the business interests of the town. It was then a four column folio. On the 7th of April, 1876, he enlarged it to a five column, on the 1st of Dec. following to a six column, and on the 27th of November, 1878, to an eight column folio, which form it still retains. The office of the Anzeiger is ^vell supplied with presses arid type of the latest designs and styles. The paper is printed on a Hoe cylinder press. Mr. Dilg has demonstrated his ability to run a newspaper successfully, and make it a welcome visitor to his patrons.

The Mascoutah Umgegend

In the spring of 1863, John Hinchcliffe, lately deceased, commenced the publication in Belleville, of a journal, bearing the above name It was specially devoted to the interests of the miners, mechanics, and producing classes. It rose rapidly into public favor, and soon had a large circulation. During the first year of its existence its circulation had become so large that it was found necessary to work off the edition by other than ordinary methods. A steam engine was fitted up in connection with the press room, which by the way, was the first steam power press ever run in Southern Illinois, and upon it the Miners and Workman's Advocate was printed. The same press was used for a long time to print the iffues of the Advocate, Democrat and Zeitung. The publication was continued in Belleville until the latter part of 1866. when the office was removed to St. Louis, and there continued for one year when was abandoned. Mr. Hinchcliffe was an able writer, and a man pf great energy.

The first newspaper established in the City of East St. Louis, then known as "Illinois Town," was the American Bottom Gazette, spoken of in the beginning of this chapter. There was no paper after its demise until 1865. On the 27th of May of that year

The Sunday Heeald East St. Louis Gazette

It was founded by Hon. John B. Biwman, one of East St. Louis' most active and enterprising men. It was edited and published by John Macauley and Joseph Crabb. The first issue, dated June 58th, 1866. Mr. Crabb remained in the firm until October of the same year, when Louis Straub purchased .his interest. The firm of Macauley & Straub continued until 1871. when both retired, and the ownership of the paper vested in a stock company, the directors of which, selected William O'Neil as editor and publisher. February 1st, 1873, John Macauley resumed the publication of the Ostzette, and continued until 1876, when John Haps took charge, and continued manager until August 4th, 1877, when he was succeeded by H. D. O'Brien, the present editor and publisher.

Daii-Y Gazette

was issued, but not proving sufficiently remunerative, for the labor performed, it was abandoned. Under the management of Mr. O'Brien the Gazette has become the equal of any other journal published in St. Clair County. While Mr. O'Brien is not a practical printer, yet he knows all the details of a printing office. He is possessed of much industry and indomitable energy, and has achieved success where others would have made a flat failure.

The Peoples Gazette

The initial number of the above paper was issued July 18, 1871. It was published under the auspices of the " People's Gazette Association," which was composed of the following named gentlemen, who were the principal stockholders : Vital Jarrott, J. B. Loviugston, Henry Schall, L. M. St. John, Marcus Finch, John 0. Butler, M. Millard, Michael Darmody, Maurice Joyce, Ernest Wider, John Macauley, Patrick H. Stack, and John Eddy. The Board of Directors, were Vital Jarrott, Prest., Maurice Joyce, Vice-Prest., Henry Schall, Treas., and Maurice Finch, Sec. The editorinl duties were performed by the different stockholders until 1872, when Mr. Saltiel became editor and publisher. The name was changed to the by W. B. Fairchild. who succeeded Mr. Saltiel. During the winter of 1874-5 Mr. Smith edited the paper. In 1875 H. D. O'Brien purchased the press and type of L. M. St. John, who had become possessed of all the stock, and continued as editor and publisher until Feb. 29th, 1877, when the subscription lists wore transferred to the Gazette. The type and presses were boxed np and stored away in a building, where they remained until 1^78, when the building, with others was consumed by fire, entailing a lo.=s of nearly four thousand dollars, upon Mr. O'Brien. On the 2lst of Sept., 1874, was commenced the issue of the which after a few months was abandoned. Mr. O'Brien then published a tri-weekly paper, but it, too, was soon abandoned - neither enterprise proving profitable.

St. Claik Teibune

The first issue was Feb. 18th, 1875. It was Kepublican in politics,, and had for its motto, "Republican, Protestant and Progressive." The Finch Bros, continued the publication until January, 1878, when they closed the office. A few months later the material was purchased bv Messrs. Harney & Tissier, two enterprismg young men of East St Louis. They opened the office, and on the 9di of March, 1878, issued the first number of a spicy and neatly printed newspaper, which they still continue. When the Herald started, it was an eight column folio, which form it retained until March 6, 1880, when it was changed to a five column quarto The Herald advocates the principles of the Democratic party. It is at present the official paper of the city of East St. Louis.

The National Stock Yaed Eefoktek

was first issued in Nov. 1873, by Messrs. John Haps & Co Three numbers were printed when it suspended, and recommenced in March 1874. It rapidly increased in importance, and attained a circulat'ion of over five thousand copies. It was in the height of its prosperity, when an absurd ruling was made by the Post-office Department, l^manding an exorbitant rate of postage for transmission through the mails, in consequence of which it was compelled to sus;end. In the fall of 1S80 it was revived but L numbers were printed when it again suspended owing to he fact that its place had been supplied by a similar publication cal..d the first number of which was issued in July, 1879, by H. D. O'Brien, publisher, and Y. M. Langdon, editor. These gentlemen continued in partnership until July, 1880, when Langdon purchased O'Brien's interest, and was sole proprietor of the Journal until Jan. 1st, 1881, when he sold out to S. J. E. Rawling, the present proprietor and manager of the paper. It was a seven-column folio. At present it is a five-column, same form. It has a circulation of over four thousand copies, and has been a paying investment from the start. The paper was printed in the Gazette oflice ; but at present it is issued from Kellogg's in St. Louis. In 1876, H D. O'Brien commenced the publication of the a journal specially devoted to the interests of railway employees. One year after its first issue he sold out to a similar publication in St. Louis.

The National

was established in East St. Louis Aug. 9, 1878, by Archibald A. Hamilton. Its object in the journalistic world was, as stated by the editor, to improve the social, moral and pecuniary condition of the working class. It was an advocate of financial reform and Fiat theories. Mr. Hamilton was induced to start the paper with promises that a stock company would be formed. The stock was never subscribed, and the paper suspended.

The Future Great Illinois Republikaner

a German newspaper, was organized and established in June of 1872, and the first copy issued July 1st of the same year. It was published by a company composed of Russell Hinckley, Sebastian Fietsam, Charles Stephani, Edward Rutz, Col. Thomas, and other representative and leading Republicans of St. Clair county. Henry Huhn was elected -President of the Board of Directors, and also made business manager and editor. The paper was published until May, 1873, when Mr. Fietsam bought up the stock, and soon after purchased the Zeitang, and consolidated the Bepublikaner with it. In January, 1873, Mr. Huhn, the editor of the last named paper, severed his connection with it, which had much to do with hastening its dissolution.

Der Treubund

was a German publication devoted to the interests of the benevolent society whose organ it was. Its first issue was Oct. 19, 1873, by Messrs. Semmelroth & Co., and was edited by Dr. Newbert. It was a seven-column folio paper.

In 1878 George C. Bunsen of West Belleville purchased a press and printing material from the St. Louis type foundry, and commenced the publication of a paper called

The Reform

It was devoted to the interests of the laboring classes, and advocated the claims of the socialists and communists. It was printed for four or five months, when the office was closed by the type fiDundry, and the material taken, and soon after sold to L. W. Habercom, who- started was an amateur paper started in New Athens, in the spring of 1875, by George Auerswald. In November of the same year, the office was moved to Miscoutah, and from it was issued the

Der Stern

In 1877 some of the influential German Democrats of Belleville, organized a stock company, known as the " Belleville Printing Company," with a capital stock of S6000. The Directors the first year were Hon. Gustavus A. Koerner, President; Franz F. Metschan. Secretary ; Henry A. Kircher, Treasurer ; Alonzo S. Wildman and Louis Pitthara. F. F. Metschan was elected Business Manager, and Frederick E. Scheel, Editor. The officers for the second year were the same except H. G. Weber took the place of Henry A. Kircher. The first issue of the Slem was made October 28th, 1877. On the 11th of January, 1878, was first issued. Both of the papers have continued to the present. On the date last named, Mr. Scheel was succeeded by Henry Huhn, the present able editor of the Stem. Mr. Huhn is a native of Bavaria. He came to the United States in consequence of the Republican uprising among the German people in 1849. He has been connected with the German press of New York, Cincinnati, and other plates. He served in the Union Army from 1861 to 1863. In the latter year he was local editor of the WestUehe Post. In 1864 he re-entered the Union army. He established the Washington Freie Presse, in Washington, Mo., and was a member of the Legislature of that State in 1866. In 1868 he came to Belleville, where he has spent much of his time in newspaper work. Mr. Metschan is also a veteran printer, having been in the business since 1852. He learned bis trade in Cincinnati, and came to Belleville in 1860. He was a soldier of the late war, first in the 9th regiment Illinois volunteers, and then in the 12th Missouri regiment, and was in command of Co. -'K" as first lieutenant when mustered out of service. He was foreman for a number of years in the office of the Belleville Zeitung.

The Stern, when organized, was fitted up with new type, steam presses, and fully equipped to do all kinds of printing in both the German and English languages. Under the management of these gentlemen, the paper has become the leading German Democratic paper in Southern Illinois. In the campaign of 1880 it rendered conspicuous and valuable service in ably presenting the issues and principles of the political organization of which it is the exponent and defender.

The Belleville Republican

is the last candidate in Belleville for journalistic favors. It was founded Feb. 28, 1879, by Dr. T. W. Eckert, who had for a number of years been connected with the Journal in LebaiiOD. He coii- tinued the paper as sole editor and proprietor until July 4th of the same year, when he sold a third interest to G F. Kimball, and a third to S. C. Mace. ThS co-partnership of these gentlemen continued until Nov. 7, 1879, when it was dissolved, Eckert purchasing the interests of the other partners. No change was made in the proprietorship of the Republican until Feb. 14, 1881, when a half interest was sold to li. B. Knight, a veteran typo, and a man of much journalistic experience. When the Republican was first established, it was a seven-column folio, which form it continued until July 4, 1879, when it was changed to a six-column quarto.. It is an advocate of Republican principles, and is recognized as one of the potential organs of the seventeenth congressional district. In the local news department, the Republican is unexcelled by any other journal in St. Clair county.

The Maeissa Monitor

was the first paper ever published in the thriving town of Marissa. Its first issue dates January 1st, 1880. It is a five column quarto. Republican in politics, but is not so radical as to be unjust to others. John W. Wells was the projector, and is still the proprietor and editor. The Monitor is the champion of the common schools, and a general diffusion of knowledge among the people. In the words of its editor it was started to make the people happy, and its proprietor rich. As to the first we have no doubt, but that it has succeeded far beyond its most sanguine expectations, but as to the latter we have no means of obtai ning definite information.

Conclusion

The history of the press of St. Clair county has been briefly traced. There have been many newspaper enterprises organized within its boundaries, and it would be strange if there had not been some failures. Upon the whole, however, it has witnessed as few failures as any other industry in the county. The influence and character of the press have grown with the material wealth and intelligence of those they have represented. The number of newspaper enterprises organized and supported in the county speaks well for the liberality of its citizens, and it further shows the power and appreciation of printers' ink and editors' pen when used for the intellectual advancement of the people and the material wealth of the county.