Green County, Wisconsin - Chapter 25: The Newspaper Press of Green Coun'j^y, 1884 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 25: The Newspaper Press of Green Coun'j^y

Green county had "a local habitation and a name," thirteen years and a half before any newspaper was printed within its limits. It was in April, 1850, that J. W. Snow started the first Green county paper. It was called

Subscriptions to this paper which was neutral in politics, might be paid "in cash, grain, potatoes, butter, eggs, wood, lumber, saw-logs or labor." It was published in Monroe, in Francis Emerson's stone building on the south side of the square. The first number contained this promise: "In reference to the subject -of politics we shall studiously avoid injuring the feelings of any one." It started out with about 150 subscribers. It was in size 22x32 inches - a six column folio. It was first issued on Tuesdays; then changed to Wednesdays. The Union lived just a year. Its materials then fell into the hands of John W. Stewart, who, early in May, 1851, changed its name to

The Monroe Sentinel

The Sentinel, the size of which was the same as the Union, was a whig paper. In five months, it was disposed of to John Walworth and O. D. Moulton, who made it an organ of the democratic party. Mr. Moulton sold his interest to Walworth, who conducted the paper as sole editor and proprietor, gradually changing its politics to republican. On Sept. 13, 1854, the paper, which had been enlarged one column at the beginning of Vol. Ill, was leased for one year, as appears by the following announcement:

"The undersigned having leased the oftice, rooms and fixtures of the Monroe /Sentinel, for the term of one year from the 13th of September inst., would respectfully solicit an extended patronage. The paper will sustain the principles of freedom with what ability and earnestness we may possess. All questions involving the interests of society (political or otherwise) will be freely discussed and commented upon without fear or favor. We shall excuse no act of a public nature, that shall seem to require comment or condemnation. While we shall studiously avoid all personalities, principles and measures will be handled without gloves, or any faint-hearted fear of consequences to ourselves. We belong, in all matters interesting the public, to that public, and shall not permit our position to be prostituted to })rivate ends.

"Having recently disposed of mj^ interest in the Monroe Sentinel iiwd the printing oftice, after a connection with it as editor and proprietor for the last three years, a due regard to a long established custom, as well as a sentiment of gratitude to the friends and patrons of the paper require at least a respectful retiring bow.

"Upon due reflection the only regret that we now feel in relation to the course pursued, and the principles advocated by the Sentinel, is that we have not accomplished more for the public good - but we have done what we could, and it has not been in vain, our political opponents being judges.

Within the last three years a man has been elected as President of the United States, who probably more than any other man, has disappointed the hopes of his best and truest friends, has with impunity trampled upon the constitutional rights of one portion of the peof)le to promote the unconstitutional and oppressive claims of another and minor portion. And no administration that has proceeded it will stain the page of our national and political history with so many deep and dark spots of ignorance or wickedness and depravity, as that of Franklin Pierce. But these usurpations and departure from the long established democratic principles, has called forth a just deserved constitutional resistance and repudiation of the present administration, from nearly all of the free States of the Union. The rebuke has been loud and unmistakable, and from no State has it been uttered with more firmness and effect than from our own beloved Wisconsin.

Since the organizations of the republican party at the State capitol, on the 13th of July last, the political change has been unprecedented; and the trium[)]i of liberty more complete than its most sanguine friends would dare to anticipate under circumstances so unfavorable. Every important election has resulted in the triumph of the republican part}^ or rather its principles. Our State legislature, a judge of the Supreme Court, our representatives in the next Congress, and a United States senator for the next six years, has already crowned the united efforts of the party, and next fall the governor and the entire State administration will be elected upon the same issue as the others, and grace the triumph of the friends of freedom over the advocates of slavery.

In this struggle the Soitinel, though a regular democratic paper, took an early and a firm stand against the Nebraska swindle, and the usurpations of the slave power, the interests and prospects of the paper were at once laid upon the altar of freedom, and in this position the paper has been sustained in this county. Of its efficiency, the public will, of course, decide. Retiring for a time only from the perplexities, and pleasures of the editorial sajictum - though we carry away not much of the treasures of wealth, and certainly no oflicial endowments, as the reward for our hard toil, yet we do feel a proud satisfaction, in the reflection that we have stood in truth and right - that God, and conscience and ^oof? men approve the course which we have pursued, while we have contended for the same principles (embraced in the declaration of rights), for which the fathers of the revolution fought so nobly, and bled so freely - the doctrine of the immortal Jefferson, the letter and the spirit of the constitution. As our successors, Messrs. Stout & Tenney, are already so favorably known to the readers of the Sentinel from their connection with the paper, it is unnecessary to say more than that we hope they will continue to meet and receive the public confidence, and a liberal patronage. Let Green county give its paper a good support, it is abundantly able - the paper will, in time, promote the best interests of the county.

Wishing success and prosperity to the Sentinel, its readers, and the rest of mankind - we ask leave of absence until they shall hear from us again,

To The Friends Of The Sentixel

The undersigned, having mirchased the office, good will and fixtures of the Monroe Se)itinel beg leave to make a statement to the public of what they intend to do, and also, what they desire their friends may do. We have now been connected with this ofiice since the 12th of last September. The public are the judges of our course, and we leave what has been done, with that public. The course we shall pursue has been partially indicated in the past; and if we meet with |)roper encouragement, we shall accomplish more than has been done, and hope to meet with the support which the interests of Green county, the village of Monroe, and the principles we advocate seem, at tin's particular crisis to demand. There is now due the office, on the last volume something over $500. We are desirous that this debt should be promptly paid. If so, we shall be enabled to improve the Sentinel with a new dress throughout, and give a larger amount of reading matter every week. We also desire that a prompt advance payment will be made on the incoming volume. Our frieiuls will see the necessity for prompt action and cordial support by material aid. If every one will render unto the printer the money that is due the printer, we shall be enabled to furnish our office complete with new material. Spare us from duns. At the present time the expenses attending the publication of a newspaper are enormous. All the stock for the business has recently advanced, and invariably requires cash, and the expenses of living, too, are vastly increased over what they have heretofore been, still we shall make no change in the terms of the paper. It will be furnished to subscribers as in times past - 11.50 in advance or |1.75 if paid within the year; we always preferring the advance payment. Within the next few weeks one of the undersigned will visit the different townships in this county with a view to extending the circulation of the Sentind and we hope thereby its usefulness.

In conclusion, we may jjroperly reiterate that we are {)ledged, in j)rinciple, to the cause of universal liberty, and shall carefully and conscientiously live up to such a standard, and we shall endeavor to make our paper of local imjjortance to the citizens of Green county, as well as a medium of news j»roportioned to our journal.

To Ddk Patrons

"The present number of this paper closes the year in which the present publishers have had entire cliarge of the matter and manner of the Monroe Sentinel. It has been a year fruitful with events in the political annals of this State and Nation. The redress of great political outrages have reverted to the popular will, and the crime against free institutions has been signally rebuked by the popular judgment. We have confidence in the integrity of the popular heart. The consciences of the people have been thoroughly aroused. They will take care of the future. In regard to the business of this office, it has not been remunerating to a degree that will warrant the continuance of the business connection of the present publishing firm. The senior editor withdraws from the publication of the Sentinel, but will continue editor in connection with George W. Tenney, who will be hereafter sole publisher of the Sentinel. This step is taken because the present publishers have come to the conclusion that it will be better for both; and the senior feels that he can do better pecuniarily, tli;in to have his earnings and interests longer in the Sentinel.

"Thus far there has been a mutual harmony in the business of this office, and we trust that our friends have been well satisfied with the character of the Sentinel. We have never reprinted any of the many encouraging notices of our course by the ])ress of this State; for the reason that we chose to devote our room to matters of greater public concernment than (he favorable opinions expressed of us b}^ our cotemporaries. They have our thanks.

"Tlie senior hopes that those who are indebted to the office will pay promptly whatever may be due the same, immediateli/; and in future to keep the cash receijJts of the business on something like an equality with its expenditures. The business looks well enough - is well enough - on paper, but newspaper credit is a bad business at best. If a pa})er is worth having at all, it is best to pay for it in advance."

Mr. Teiiney continued to edit and publish the Sentinel until August, 1860, when the paper passed into the hands of James Bintliff and E. E. Jiryant. Mr. Bryant retired from the Sentinelm May, 1861, to enter the army in the War for the Union. Mr. Bintliff continued the paper until the 6th of November following, when he sold a half interest to E. E. Carr, as appears by the following announcement of Mr. Bintliff on that day, in the Sentinel:

"We have sold a one-lialf interest in the Sentinel office to Egbert E. Carr, of ShuUsburg, who becomes jointly interested with us in the publication of the Senthiel vi\\\\ the present issue, and who we expect will, about the 1st of December next, introduce himself to its readers as one of its editors. Mr. Carr is a thorough practical printer of more than twenty years' experience, and come to us with the best recommendations of his integrity as a man, and his qualifications to conduct a printing office.

"Our only object in making this change is to relieve us of the responsibility of managing a business we do not understand, and to give us more time to devote to our editorial duties. We hope by this arrangement to improve the Sentinel, and make it still more worthy of the support of this county. It is now fifteen months since we became connected with the Sentinel, and during that time it has received the hearty support of a very large class of the best citizens of the county.

"Our subscription list is as a whole as prompt pay as any in the State, but there are a few who have not paid one cent since we took possession of the office. To such we take this opportunity to say that we cannot afford to send you a paper longer than one year unless we get pay for it. All the expenses of a printing office are cash, and no man can publish a newspaper and do justice to himself and those who pay him, and give credit to any man longer than one year. Come friends, pay up."

retained his interest therein. On the 28th of July, 1865, the paper was sold to A. J. High and Charles A. Booth. Their announcement upon assuming control was as follows:

To The Patrons Of The Sentinel

"In accordance with the announcement of Messrs. Bintliff & Carr last week, the undersigned to-day assume the editorial management of the Sentinel. In entering upon the arduous duties before us, we do so with a degree of diffidence proportionate to the great responsibilities devolving upon us; and, while we do not lay down any extended programme of future action, a due regard for the customs of the times and 'the opinions of our readers seems to demand a declaration of the political faith that will govern us in our new relation.

"Politically, the Sentviel will remain unchanged . As in the past it has been the bold and earnest defender of moral and constitutional right, so in the future, while under our control, it will support those principles and measures best calculated to secure the liberties of the people and maintain the integrity of the government. We march with the great Union army. Whether in the field or in the sanctum, we are fighting in the same good cause. In the field we stood opposed to treason in high places, boldly proclaimed and defended, while now, in the sanctum, it is only necessary to 'change front' in order to meet that more contemptible, sneaking, cowardly treason which skulks in darkness and stabs in the rear.

"In these eventful days of progress and reform, party creeds are very brief. The great questions which once agitated the public mind now stand recorded in the political catechisms only as a part of our past history. Slavery, once the all-absorbing topic, the cause of bitter party strife, the moral and political curse of the Nation, has been wiped out of existence.

"Banks, tariffs, sub-treasuries, public lands, internal improvements, compromises and provisos 'no more divide our choice' or gender strife. These questions, if not obsolete, have been so nearly arbitrated that the political lambs and lions, on common ground, lie down together. We believe that at the present time a single question involves the whole character and responsibility of the American citizen: 'Are you loyal to the government of the United States in the maintenance of its National honor and the perpetuity of the Union and the Constitution undivided and unimpaired?' It seems to us there can be no neutral position taken upon the great question now at issue between the government and traitors. 'Ye cannot serve God and Mammon.' 'He that is not for us is against us.' Every man within the wide limits of our country is either a friend of the government or an enemy. Holding 'these truths to be self-evident,' our path of duty is plain, and all our energies shall be given to sustain the State and National authorities in every lawful act to enforce justice and to promote the peace and welfare of our country.

"We will endeavor at all times to keep the readers of the Sentinel well informed in regard to the news and general topics of the day, both at home and abroad. It is our desire to publish a paper entertaining and instructive to all classes of society; something for the family, the professional and literary man, the farmer, mechanic, merchant, student, young and old, grave and

The Sentinel will be especially devoted to the advancement of the growth and prosperity of Green county. We desire to establish our home among this people, and therefore our interests are identical. Whatever will promote your welfare will benefit us, and when we labor for the highest good of the citizens of this county, we but discharge the plain duty of every local publisher, who should always seek to build up the community wliich supports him. In a word, we shall pay particular attention to the local affairs of the town and county.

and the bright future which seems to await our Nation. After serving three years amid the toils, hardships, dangers and sufferings of a terrible war, how gladly we hail the day of peace! With gratitude we acknowledge that kind Providence which has safely led us through the great strife and back to home and friends again. We also acknowledge that Almighty Power which has given us the victory in a life and death struggle for National existence. Thank God, the Nation lives! Thank God, slavery is dead! That foul stain upon our National character is obliterated forever, and henceforth we can say without blushing that America is free!

"Let us learn lessons of wisdom from the experience of the past, and in the future be careful to avoid those political rocks on which our good ship of State was so nearly wrecked. The severe trials through which we have passed should teach us to appreciate our liberal government, and at the first approach of danger, to stand up manfully in its defense against the encroachments of corrupt politicians and the inr trigues of traitors. If faithful to the great trust committed to us, all will be well, and the beauty of constitutional liberty will shine forth as a beacon light to nations of the earth, to lead them to a higher and holier destiny. "A. J. High, "Charles A. Booth."

"With this number of the paper, my business connection with the Monroe Sentinel ceases. Having decided to engage in other business next spring, I have so'd my interest in the Sentinel establishment to S. E. Gardner. As I shall remain in the office for a time as associate and corresponding editor, I will not now bid a final editorial farewell to the readers of the Sentinel.

"After a continuous terna of service of twentyfive years in the printing office, either at case or in the editorial cliiir, I am glad to be released from the cares and responsibilities of the newspaper business; and yet there is, to me, a fascinating influence about the printing office which may, at no distant day, draw me back to it again.

"It is highly gratifying to me to be able to state that the permanency of the Sentinel is established beyond a question or doubt. After passing through the political and financial storms of nearly twenty-one years, the patrons and friends of the Sentinel are to-day much more numerous than ever before ; its subscription and advertising patronage has steadily increased during the past five years, and is still rapidly increasing. We are pleased to know that the Sentinel is in so prospering a condition at the present time, and sincerely hope that the san.e liberal support may be extended to it in the future. The members of the new firm are worthy young men and will leave nothing undone, on their part, to merit the confidence and good will of the public.

"The personal and business relations between Mr. Booth and myself have always been harmonious and satisfactory. I have ever found him to be a true and genial friend, an agreeable and efficient business partner. In severing our business relations, we part as we met - warm personal friends.

Salutatory

Patrons: - The new firm greet you with a full determination to do their utmost in presenting a readable local newspaper. We shall make no boast or promise as to what we may accomplish, but prefer to let a generous public judge for themselves how well we shall succeed. We shall ever uphold those sacred principles of the Constitutioti of the United States as it nbw is, and shall not hesitate to point out corruption in the management of public affairs, wherever it shall come to our notice. In all things concerning local matters, we shall endeavor to act justly, though independently, and use the influence we may have for the greatest good to the greatest number. As our interests are identical with those of our generous patrons and our will is to live and let live, we have no fears for the future; on the contrary, we go forth with courage and hope that we shall receive that hearty encouragement whicli it lias been the lot of our predecessors to receive for twenty years past. Again we greet you.

"S. E. Gardner." On the 18th of February, 1P74, Mr. Gardner leased his half of the paper to Mr. Booth and the latter became sole editor. The half he thus leased was, on the 8th of July, 1879, purchased by him; so that he then became 3ole proprietor. Mr. Booth has continued to edit and publish the Sentinel to the present time (1884).

The Sentinel Of To-Day

The Sentinel 18 now (18S4) a nine column paper, with a large circulation (the largest, indeed, of any in the county). Its size is 28.\'44 inches. It bpgan its 3.3d volume with a new dress of burgeois and nonpareil. It is all printed at home. It carries from seventeen to eighteen columns of local advertising - mercantile, manufacturing and legal. It is the official county paper and has been for tliirty years, without change. It is printed on a Fairhaven power press, and in mechanical point of excellence is not excelled by any office in the county. Its pages are always clean and bright. It is always free from slang or personalities. It labors for the general welfare of the people, and the especial interests of Green county and the city of Monroe. It is bold in exposing rascals and swindlers. It still holds to the faith of republicanism. It has one of the best equipped job offices to be fouiul anywhere outside the larger cities and its pamphlet, mercantile and general printing is first-class. Mr. Booth is a terse writer and edits the Sentinel with marked ability.

A Brief History Of The Sentinel

"Editor Sentinel: - Having noticed on your return envelopes that the Monroe Seyitincl was 'established in 1848,' I thought it would be proper to give you a brief history of the foundation of your paper,

"It was on or about the 16th day of April, ISoO, that there appeared in the village of Monroe, for the first time, a small six-column paper, 22x23 inches. It was christened the 'Green County Union.'' This was the first newspaper printed in Green Co., Wis. The office of publication was in Francis Emerson's stone block, south of the court house. The Unio9i was edited and published by J. W. Snow, who was also the sole proprietor of the concern. Mr. Snow was a gentleman of refined taste, and of extremely good habits, but of a very reticent nature; he made no effort to form an acquaintance with his patrons; he seemed rather to avoid them. Of course a man of such 'make up' will scarcely succeed in the publication of a country newspaper. Mr. Snow was not a ))olitician, he took no interest in political affairs, consequently the Green County Union was a 'neutral' organ on the political (]uestions of its time. It was by hard work, close cutting, and good engineering that the editor managed to continue to publish the Union, for one year, after which it ceased to have any existence. Thus ended the first newspaper published in Monroe.

"The type, press and fixtures of the defunct Green County Union, were traded to J. W, Stewart, who brought into existence the "Monroe Sentinel,'''' about the middle of May 1851. Mr. Stewart removed the office to the front room of the second story of A. Ludlow's brick block, immediately after taking possession of the same. Mr. Snow took for the payment of his press and fixtures an old, dilapidated dwelling house in Monroe, considered to be worth about S250. The Sentinel was the same size as the defunct Union.

"Mr Stewart being an active politician of the whig faith, of course the Sentinel was an advocate of the principles enunciated by the leaders of that party in its day. The Sentinel was a lively local paper, and names were rapidly added to the subscription list. Its business also increased. But Mr. Stewart soon became weary of the duties and perplexities of a newspaper manager, and, before he had worn the editorial harness six months, sold the office, together with its good will, to Rev. J. Walworth and O. D. Moulton. The new publishers at once changed the tone of the Se^xtinel. Now it advocated democratic principles. As the supporters of the Sentinel were mostly of the whig faith, this sudden change in its tone was severely felt by its publishers, in the loss of many of its best paying patrons. From that time to the close of the first volume the Sentinel only just existed. It scarcely paid expenses. Its ownership and its editors changed two or three times during the second half of its first year. At the commencement of the second volume Rev. J. Walworth was the sole proprietor. He secured Israel Sanderson, from Galena, to take full charge of the mechanical department of the oftice. Mr. Sanderson was master of his profession; he was also a rich and racy writer. Together they made a good paper of the Sentinel', and from that time onward the Monroe Sentinel has ranked among the best local paper of Wisconsin Mr. Sanderson was connected with the office about two years when he retired on account of poor health. George W. Ten ney succeeded Mr.Sanderson in the mechanical department of the Sentinel. Soon after, Mr. Tenney, in company with N. L. Stout, purchased the office from Rev, J, Walworth; and in less than two years from the time he went into the ofiice as foreman, George W. Tenney became the sole proprietor and publisher of the Monroe Sentinel. This was somewhat remarkable for one so young, as he was yet in minor years when he assumed the responsibilities in the publication of a first class country newspaper. It is proper to say the Sentinel did not lose any of its good qualities after it passed into Mr. Tenney's hands. He continued its editor and publisher till the summer of 1860, when he retired in favor of James Bintliff and E. E. Bryant, having sold the office to them. From 1860 to the present time the history of the Sentinel is familiar to all of its patrons.

"At about the commencement of its third volume, in 1853, the Sentinel was enlarged one column to the page, or was made a seven column paper. During the year 1857, or 1858, I am not certain which, Mr. Tenney enlarged the paj)er.

"It may not be out of place to say that your correspondent played 'devil' in the Green County Union office, corumencing with the first issue of that paper; and was also a typo in the Sentinel office, 'off and on,' for the first three years of its existence.

July 28, 1804. His ancestors emigrated from London, England, about the year 1765, some of whom located in Virginia, and others in Herkimer Co., N. Y. At the age of seventeen, .John was sent to Norwich, in Chenango county, for the purpose of being educated, where he remained about six years. He afterwards engaged for several years in teacliing school. During this time, he was married to Sylvia Lambson, of Hampden Co., Mass. He then moved to Michigan, where he entered upon the ministry as a profession. In 1840, Mr. Walworth went to Illinois and traveled four years as a missionary. In 1846, he removed to Monroe, Green Co., Wis., where he subseqJiently beoanip proprietor and editor of the Monroe Sentinel, then democratic in politics. By constant labor, Mr. Walworth soon gained for his paper a large circulation for that day of newspapers, not only in Green but in the counties adjoiniiig. At this time the eiicroachments of the slave power upon the courts of justice on free territory, and the capture of both political parties in the enactment of the fugitive slave law, and the repeal of the Missouri Compromise had thrust upon the people very grave questions in regard to the fate of freedom in this country, or under our government in the near future. Tlie Senti7iel was the first democratic newspaper in Wisconsin that came out emphatically against the aggressions of the slave power, and the legislation of both democrats and whigs in the interest of slavery. On the 13th day of July, 1854, a people's convention met in Madison, without respect to previous affiliations ; and Mr. AValworth, in consideration of the active part taken by him in the movement, was chosen its president. This convention organized the republican party in Wisconsin. In 1858, Mr. Walworth located at Richland Center - he having purchased the office of the Richland County Observer. He was afterward twice elected to the legislature from that county. He was made chaplain of the 43d regiment of Wisconsin, in the fall of 1864. Since the war, Mr. Walworth has resided at Richland Center.

Death of Mr. Tenney. [From the Sentinel of Dee. 14, 1864.] George W. Tenney, for many years tlie publisher of this paper, and for the last three years engaged in the publishing business at McGregor, Iowa, died at his home in that city a few days since. His remains were brought to this village, and were, yesterday afternoon, buried with Masonic honors. We understand that his sickness originated in a liurt jiroduced by excessive labor, while assisting to extinguish the fire in his office in September, 1863. Within a few weeks it assumed the form of quick

James Bintliff was born Nov. 1, 1824, at Salterhebble, near Halifax, Yorksliire, England. All the school education )ie received was at the village school in England, before he was twelve years of age. When lie was sixteen years of age his father emigrated to the United Slates, leaving him behind, 'i he next year, in the spring of 1842, he came also. He soon after engaged in a woolen factory in New York State. In 184'7 he was married ; and soon after he commenced farming. Having accumulated $1,0(^0, in the fall of 1851 he moved to Wisconsin, and purchased a farm in Green county, where he remained two years, after which he moved to Monroe. After a two years' residence in Monroe, he was employed as a book-keeper and cashier in a banking office at that place. In the fall of 1851 he was elected register of deeds of Green county. In thespring of 1860 he purchased a one-half interest in the Monroe Sentinel^ and, one year later, he purchased the whole office. In 1862 he was commissioned to raise a company for the 22d regiment of volunteers. He then sold one-half of the Sentinel to E. E. Carr, who edited that paper during Gen. Bintliff's absence from the State in the field of battle. We refer our readers to the foregoing account of Wisconsin in the war for Gen, Bintliff's war record. It will suffice here to say that he won distinction on the battle-field. Soon after he returned from the war, he sold his one-' half interest in the Monroe Sentinel, and started for Missouri with the intention of locating tlure ; but, after traveling all over the State, he found society in so unsettled a condition, that he did not deem it wise to remove any family there, and returned to Monroe, where he purchased a book, stationery and wall paper business, and continued in it until July, 1870, when he purchased a one-half interest in the Janesville Gazette, and became the editor of thnt lottrnal, He has been a membdr of the board of trustees of the Wisconsin Soldiers' Orphan Home, and president of the board. He was a delegate from Wisconsin to the National republican convention which assembled in Chicago in 1868, and nominated Grant, and again to the convention which re-nominated him in 1872 at Philadelphia.

Charles ylsa Booth was born in C'ovington, Tioga Co., Penn., Feb. 15, 1839, and is the son of George W. and Arteniisa (Crandall) Booth, both of whom were of English descent, the former a native of Rhode Island and the latter of Pennsylvania. His father was a master builder by occupation, and erected many of the depots on the New York Central Railroad, and large blocks in various towns in the central and western States. They had a family of eight boys and two girls, of whom five boys and one girl are living, Charles A. being the second child. At the age of six he was taken by his parents to western New York, where the family remained about eight years. Meantime he learned a variety of "trades," beginning with "watching crows" on a cornfield stump, from sunrise till sunset, for a conpensation of two shillings per day; he also worked one season in a wool-carding and clothdressing establishment; for a time was assistant for a brick mason, but soon found the work more than he could endure. He was a precocious youth, and when not otherwise engaged, attended the district school, and, like other boys of his station in life, learned the three R's - 'readin', 'ritin', 'rithmetic - but, as the sequel proves, his forte lay in the middle R, and he has since become great in the use of the pen. He always sought the company of those who were able to give information and help him in his intellectual growth. Fond of antiquities, he read RoUin's Ancient History, Joscphus, Plutarch and Macauley, Emerson's prose works, Lowell, Holmes, and other distinguished authors, before he reached the age of sixteen years. 'J'he family removed to iJeloit, Wis., in 1853, and he has n very di'tincl recollectioti of tlic [-"ic'ruoiit-Baclianan campaign of 1856, in which he rigorously espoused the cause of the former, and though he was not in a position to give his favorite a vote, yet he derived strength and political nourishment from the campaign that told in future times, and since then liis candidates have always been successful. He attended school one or two seasons in Wisconsin and became a fair English scholar, and in the spring of 1858 he came to Monroe, and in August of the same year entered into an apprenticeship in the Monroe Seiifinel printing office, which was then owned by tlie late G. W. Tenney, and of whicli he has since become sole proprietor and editor. He served three years as an apprentice, and at the end of his first year as a journeyman printer he was made foreman of the office; but the war was raging in the south, his country needed his services, patriotism triumphed over the tears of a mother and Jier younger children, of wliom he was the siipl)ort, and in July, 1862, he enlisted in the 22d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantrj^, commanded by Col. Utley. At the organization of company G, to which he belonged, and which was commanded by James Bintlilf, then one of the proprietors of the Sentinel, he was appointed by a unanimous vote, to the position of 2d sergeant; from this he was j^romoted to the rank of orderly, and thence to that of 2d lieutenant - all within a year. The 22d regiment was the first fully equipped and one of tlie best equipped and disciplined regiments tliat ever left Wisconsin. It was known during the earlier part of the war as the "nigger" regiment, being the first that absolutely refused to give up "contrabands" who came into the Union lines. At the battle of Thompson's Station, near Franklin, Tenn., which occurred March 5, 1863, our subject received a severe wound by a rifle ball, and liad his clothes riddled by bullets, but did not desert his post for several hours, and while going to the rear narrowly escaped capture by the rebels. Tiie enemy in tliis engagement outnumbered the Union forces ten to one.

The lines of the latter were broken and scattered, many prisoners were made, and many others, alas! were left on the field. Nearly four months intervened before he was again fit for duty. In the autumn of 1863 he was commissioned 1st lieutenant of his company, and was subsequently appointed on the brigade staff (2d brigade, third division, 20 A. C.) as assistant aid-de-carap and provost marshal, and was with his brigade and regiment in all its subsequent battles. He participated in the famous Sherman campaign on Atlanta, and commanded in person the right flank of the line of skirmishers which first entered that city after the battle of Jonesboro. He was also at the battles of Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, Golgotha, Kenesaw, Gulp's House and the siege of Atlanta, besides numerous skirmishes, experiencing many narrow escapes, but never receiving a scratch after the first fight. He participated in Sherman's famous march to the sea, and in the "fire and smoke" campaign through the Carolinas, took part in the battle of Averysl)oro, fought by a part of Sherman's men with the army of Joe Johnston, which had confronted the Union trooj^s, having disputed the march of the western army for more than two years. Thence the victors marched by way of Richmond, Va., to Washington, participating in the "grand review" by the President, and was mustered out in June, 1865. In July of the same year he bought of his former employer a half interest in the Monroe Sentinel, the other half being bought by A. J. High, and for five years the business was conducted under the firm name of High & Booth. In December, 1870, Mr. High sold to S. E. Gardner, who, in 1872, leased his interest to Mr. Bootli, and since then tlie Sentiml lias been under his sole charge. It is one of the most ably conducted weeklies in the west. Its articles are spicy and readable, while it discusses questions of National and State policy with an ability and pungency that makes it either a powerful ally or a formidable opponent. It is the organ of the people, to whom its columns are always open. It is, furthermore, conducted on tlie highest moral principles, strenuously opposed to all shams or humbugs, and excluding from its columns all advertisements of an immoral or dishonorable character. Mr. Booth has participated in every political campaign since 1865, stumped the county every fall for the republican party, and is one of the most indefatigable and successful workers in the Slate. During the Rebellion he was a frequent correspondent of the Wisconsin State Journal and the Monroe Sentinel. lie is not a member of any Church, and contributes his full share to religious and benevolent organizations. He is a total abstainer, and has been W. C. of the Good Templar organization of Moiiroe. He was also N. G. of the order of Odd Fellows, and has been representative in the grand lodge of the order. On the 10th of September, 1862, he married Elizabeth Gardner, daughter of Elijah T. Gardner, who was born in the first frame building erected in the village of Monroe, which now has a population of about 4,000. Mrs. Booth is a lady of genuine good sense and superior cultivation, to whose advice and influence her husband is indebted for much of his success in life.

The Jeffersonian Democrat

"We this day present to the public the first number of the Jefferaornan JJeniocrat. In establishing this journal and assuming the control thereof, we but act in compliance with the expressed will and wishes of a large number of the residents of Monroe and the surrounding country. Tliis portion of the community liave long felttlu^ want of a democratic newspaper in their midst, and it is to supply that want and to furnish a suitable channel for the expression of the opinions of the democracy, as well as for tiie ]>urpose of keeping them advised of the various political movemenLs and organizations of the

(lay, which has induced us to spread our sheet before the ])eople. It would be well, perha))s, to mention that our own feelings have iiad considerable influence in })r()mpting us to this step. Tlie principles for which we shall contend are as dear to us as the apple of our eye, and we shall advocate those principles with all the love and ardor of an amateur. As stated, in our prospectus (which we publish in another column) the course of the Democrat, while under our control, shall be thoroughly and uncompromisingly democratic; and, as it will not, we presume be considered out of place, in this connection, we shall indulge in a brief survey of the ground occupied by the democracy in the political contest now waging. Questions of great magnitude are at the present agitated among us, they will cotitinue to be agitated for some time, and their discussion and final decision must involve consequences of the most serious nature. It is the duty, therefore, (>f every citizen to prepare his mind that he may be enabled to decide properly upon them. When the elernents of disorder are gathering in their strength for the overthrow of our politi; cal and domestic interests, it is time for all good men to rally to the rescue of sound principles. Such, we conceive, are those embodied in the democratic creed.

"The present position of parties is one tliat calls foi' calm and dispassionate deliberation on the ]>art of every one who feels that he has an interest in the well-being of our commoii country; and we shall, theiefore, at this time endeavor to portray faithfully, yet succinctly, the most prominent land-marksandguido-stars which have always, and do still, distinguish between the (jcnuinc Jefferson ian democracy, and the base counterfeits which unscrupulous politicians aided by a venal and hireling ])ress are trying to foist upon the masses.

"ill the first, place, then, the democratic parly believes that no more power should be delegated than is imperiously required to produce the good intended, because history clearly shows tliat, ilie tendency of power is to exceed its proiter limits, and that assumption and usurpation on the part of rulers have always been destructive to free governments. Again, one of the most prominent articles of its faith is that recognizing the doctrine of State's Rights, which doctrine forbids all interferences on the part of Congress with the domestic policy or municipal institutions of the States, thereby insuring the stability of the Union by avoiding the exciting causes of danger. The democracy believe that in construing the Constitution of the United States, that no jurisdiction should be extended beyond the obvious meaning of the language in which it is conveyed. They believe, furthermore, that congressional interposition with regard to the Territories of the United States should be confined to the organization of governments, leaving untouched the domestic relations, whether of husband and wife, of parent and child, of master and servant, or of any other of the social conditions of life; maintaining that the people of the Territories like those of the States, should be left perfectly untramraeled, to decide in their own way upon all questions relative to the domestic policy and domestic affairs within the limits of the Territories. In other words, they leave with the general government all the powers which are granted to it, and claim for the people the remainder. They regard slavery as local and municipal, and not as National in its character; and, entertaining this opinion, they do not recognize the right of our National legislature to interfere with the institution. They contend, also, for an equality of the States, holding that eveiy section of the Union has an equal right and interest in the general government and to the National domain or territory.

"In regard to our foreign policy - to adopt the language of our noble standard bearer in this campaign - 'it ought ever' - and will be if the democracy triumph - 'to be based upon the principles of doing justice to all nations, and requiring justice from them in returu.' Having thus briefly, and truly, though somewhat hastily, glanced at democratic principles, we now ask every candid reader of our journal if they are not such as they can readily, nay heartily subscribe to. Are they not clear, plain common sense stand-points? There can be but one response from every American heart. They, and they alone, are the principles which have secured to us the prosperity that we now enjoy, and they are the only ones through the medium of whic?i we can hope to retain the blessings of civil and religious liberty. In conclusion, we tender the hand of fraternal fellowship to our brethren of the quill throughout the State and country, hoping and trusting that even the heat of party warfare may not lead us astray from the paths of courtesy and gentlemanly conduct."

Various Monroe Papers

In the fall of 1857, the Independent Press, edited by S. P. Condee and E. C. Moulton, arose from the ashes of the Democrat. Mr. Moulton withdrew from the Press in January of the next year; and three or four nionlhs later, Mr. Condee sold it to a gentleman who transformed it into the Albany Times.

The next venture in the way of a newspaper, was* that of N. L. Slant, who published the State nights a, year or two, beginning in the spring of 1 859. The next was that of A. W. Potter, who, in January, 1870, started the Green County Jie- 2n(Mican. In the fall of 1872, F. J. Mills started the Diberal Dress, which in September, 1873, was consolidated with the liepub/ican, the new paper being known, at first, as the Republican and Press, but latterly as the Green County Refortner. It was edited by A. W. Potter and George II. King, until January, then by Mr. Mills until April, then by G. J. Patton until J;iiiuary, 1875; afterwards by I. T. Carr, with whom Willianj I>nllock was associated tlie first year.

The Sun

A younger brother of G. R South, Laving got possession of an amateur novelty press and sufficient old type, rules, etc., to publish a small three column paper, an office was fitted up in the loft of an unused shop, and it was resolved by these brothers, to publish every two weeks, a paper, without advertisements, to be called the S/m. The first number was issued Saturday, Jan. 23, 1S15, with the following

Introductory

"We presume it is in full accordance with precedence and the eternal fitness of things, for us to make a few casual remarks pertinent to the occasion, in this, the first issue of the /Snti, and state what we 'propose to do about it.'

"Well, we are going to run a peaceable little Sun - very peaceable. The immense interests of this great and glorious village - commerce and trade, hog and hominy, pork and beans, corn and its etherial essence, the fair and the fair sex, accidents, irregularities, circusses, weddings, balls, and a little genuine slander thrown in occasionally, as a gentle stimulant seasoning. Gentle reader! dost thou love slander and scandal? dost thou revel in human foibles and frailties? dost thou delight in frost-bites and back-bites and 'sich' like? Dost thou sometimes glory in human imperfections? If yea, we will feed you on some sweet morsels. Art thou sick, or hip-shotten, or colicky, until you feel that earth is full of sorrows that Heaven cannot heal and you want to be an angel, and with the angels stand? Scan our fresh and fragrant columns attentively, and, perha2)S you'll find a balm for every ill - a weal for every woe. The Sim is a public functionary and shines on all and for all alike. We intend to cater and caper for the 'dear people.' The 'body politic' is a menagerie, and the different beasts require, and must be fed on different foods. Our 'Bill of Fare' is before you. If you like it, l>oard with us, and pay as you go, (price two cents) and

"Tiie genial Sun does not propose to dapple in the reeking maelstrom of politics at all. It graciously leaves all the grave and momentous political questions of the day to the profoundly soporific pen of our great l:Jo8s Bourbon and finance philosopher - whose 'living lyre' has once more awoke to ecstacy, after a dismal and silence, and opened his sluices to deluge a long suffering people with his 'chromatic,' glittering incongruities. No, the Sun will take no politics in his'n, but will be independent and outspoken in all things, and neutral in nothing.

"With malice toward none; with charity for all, and firm in the right, as far as the sinuosities of our original sin will permit us to see the right, we intend to express our opinion , impartially and boldly, and pursue the even (or uneven, according to circumstances), tenor of our way, without fear or favor. There (/re persons whom it is perfectly safe to 'go for' at any time. We desire it to be distinctly understood that to that species of hair-pins we do not belong. Our 'composing-sticks' will be double-leaded as accession may require, and we flatter ourselves that we have had sufficient practice in the 'art preservative of arts,' to use them with skill and precision. In the use of the 'shooting-stick,' our devil considers himself proficient, and if any one has a hankering to have his 'form justified,' 'locked up' in a neat-fitting rosewood overcoat and 'sent to press,' he can be accommodated with neatness and dispatch, and on short notice, and - 'that's all there is of this business.'"

Money not coming in very fast, the young brother who did the mechanical work on the pa])er grew discouraged and finally retired froni the "coiupany" leaving George to publish the pa{)er alone. The office was removed to a much more eligible location near to the j)ublic square, where, unaided by any one, thei paper was j)ublished regularly by George every two weeks. The first nuukber issued after the change was made, contained the following ;

Greeting

"The Su7i Printing Company,' having collapsed and been dissolved by the 'devil' forsaking us, we have, after an infinite amount of pati6nt meditating, cogitating, ruminating, thinking, studying, pondering and soliloquizing, finally settled down to the settled determination to run our little concern alone, according to the dictates of our own conscience and our true inwardness, as guaranteed to us by the grand palladium of our liberties and civil rights, Andy Johnson, and play our own 'devil' to the best of our ability.^ And now let the winds that sweep the prairies carry the glad tidings to afar, that owing to the fact that Christopher Columbus discovered America - in consequence of which George (Washington) couldn't tell a lie, and to the additional fact that it has b en as cold as blazes every day that it has not snowed for the past thirteen months, and consequently there is not much 'bloom upon the rye,' to speak of, and the corn is not waving, Annie dear,' by along shot, we decided to issue semi-monthly this paper for the sole benefit of this fodder-stricken community, so that the people who have found by bitter experience that farming is an honest way to get a hard living, can store their minds with useful and ornamental knowledge, while bewailing their unfortunate condition. The ends we aim at are our 'country's, our altars and the greenbacks of our sires." This edition is gracefully contributed to this generous, confiding community, like salvation, without money, without price, and, we will add, without passing a contribution box, etc., etc."

The little paper became immensely popular, and was a success from the start, and being confined principally to local and society matters it soon had a large bona fide paying subscription list. The publication of the paper was continued reglarly twice a month - with the exception of a month or over in the heat of summer, when its publication was suspended while the

About a year after the death of his father, which occurred in the spring of 1880, George, foreseeing that the support of his mother and sister would in all likelihood, eventually devolve upon him, resolved to make journalism the more serious and responsible business than it had been, and he therefore went to Chicago and purchased a Washington hand press and the necessary type and material to publish a sevencolumn folio weekly paper. Under circumstances of the most depressing and discouraging nature, and with well-founded misgivings as to tlie success of the venture - a few democrats becoming alarmed at the prospect of having another republican paper here (it being assumed that the Sun was to be run in the interests of that party) made a desperate and successful effort to start a democratic paper ahead of the San with the avowed purpose of crowding the paper to the wall. And so the Gazette was started, the editor, a worthy but impecunious young man having been induced by flattering promises to remove his printing office from Jefferson, in this State, to Monroe. But the editor of the Sun had gone too far to think for a moment of abandoning his project, and although it was almost "rushing in where angels feared to tread," - starting another paper in a city the size of Monroe where there were two English and one German paper already established - yet he went courageously to work fitting up his oflice, etc., and on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 26, 1881, the first number of the weekly Monroe Su7i was given to the public, tiie editor making his salutatory in the following words, addressed

To The Public

''With this issue the Sun makes its first appearance as a weekly newspaper, and in an enlarged form, and takes hearty pleasure in presenting its greetings to all its old friends and patrons, and to all the new ones as would like to try our board. It introduces itself to the public with the determination to win support. "It is quite unnecessary, we presume, for us to make any announcement in relation to the political affiliations of the Siai in the good hereafter. It will, however, be reasonably independent in politics, neutral in nothing, and fair in all things. We shall be bound by no clique and no party, general or local, and the dictates and behests of leaders, self-appointed or otherwise, will, as such, have no influence with us whatever ; but we shall on all subjects of public interest, express our views unbiased by the dictates of any power save our own opinions and a desire to aid, so far as in us lies, public well-being. No caucus nomination or party orders will, as such, receive from us any obedience whatever. We believe neither in the cry of 'party, not men,' nor in that of 'men, not party,' but we believe in 'men with principles.' In local affairs whenever any matter of considerable interest is at issue, we shall be guided by such interest. When no such interest is at stake we shall choose the best men for our support, or where no choice is warranted, we shall remain neutral. It is quite possible that we may make occasionally, mistakes in judgment, but it shall be our aim to make as few as possible, and if made, to acknowledge them freely when discovered. No party owns us, and no clique controls us, and what we do will be done in what we believe to be the interest of all. This much we promise, and so far as we redeem this promise, shall we, in our opinion, have succeeded or failed. Failure or success of our own views or candidates will mean to us as editor, little, but a neglect to labor earnestly for those views and candidates would mean to us a complete and disgraceful failure. We shall not thus fail.

"The /Sun will be specially devoted to encouragement of all commendable public enterprises and interests and a faithful chronicler of matters relating to the local affairs of this- town and county.

"Special efforts will be made to continue the /Sun. as well-deserviiig the regards and confidence of the generous public and as welcome a visitor into the household as it has been as a semi-monthly.

"The worth of a journal is to be ascertained ius it represents well or ill, the best interests of the people. The /Su7i, therefore, asks the public to judge it by its future; and as it deserves so may it be rewarded."

The first year of the publication of the weekly Stin was not encouraging ; but the paper struggled along, money going out in a constant and never-failing stream and nothing but promises and "great expectations" coming in. However, the editor persevered and now, at the commencement of the 3d volume, he begins to realize the fruition of his fondest hopes in finding himself at the head of a prosperous and popular weekly newspaper.

George Reppert South, oldest son of John and Sophia C. Reppert South, was born in the picturesque little city of Brownsville, situated on the banks of the romantic Monongahela river, about thirty miles above Pittsburg, Penn., March 23, 1841. His father, after a hard two years struggle to establish himself in his chosen field of labor, that of carriage building, removed in 1842 to the city of Allegheny, opposite Pittsburg, where the clear, pellucid waters of the Allegheny river joins Monongahela's raurkey tide to form the noble Ohio river. Here a much more lucrative and more extended field opened to the struggling but rising young mechanic. A few years of close application, endowed, as he was, with keen business capabilities and an indomitable energy that could not be discouraged, and he began to realize the fruition of his fondest hopes and aspirations, by finding himself the independent possessor of a large carriage manufactory, employing scores of skilled me- chanics, and with a trade extending far into tlie southern Stales, in addition to the large and constantly increasing home patronage. His fame as a builder of superior vehicles increased at home and abroad as the years came and went, and when the first ominous mutterings of the coming storm were heard, which eventually culminated in the great Rebellion, " Soutli's carriages" was the synonym of all that was excellent and beautiful in those vehicles. In the meantime the family continued to increase until ten children, six sons and four daughters were gathered beneath his roof-tree, all of whom are still living, excepting the youngest, a daughter, who died in infancy. In this city George's early life was passed, with about tlie usual unimportant events common to the boyhood of all, attending the public, and occasionally select or private schools, until the spring of 1853, in the twelfth year of his age, when the almost lalal event occurred which resulted, finally, in his losing a leg, and undoubtedly changing the whole tenor of his future life. It is, perhaps, unnecessary to go into details as to the causes wh'ch led to the above misfortune. Suffice it to say, that with the thoughtlessness and rashness of childhood, he plunged into the cold waters of the Allegheny river while overheated from running, and received a severe chill. The effects of this indiscretion manifested themselves the morning following, when upon attempting to rise out of bed, he found himself unable to stand, in consequence of the intense pain such exertion subjected him to. This was the beginning of a long, tedious languishing upon a bed of pain for two and a half years, when, by having a leg amputated above the knee, he was soon able to hobble about on crutches and thus liberated from his weary confinement. Up to the beginning of George's illness, it had always been his desire and intention to follow mechanical pursuits, for which he alrea^dy displayed a natural aptitude full of promise of future excellence in whatever branch he might devote his energies, but losing a leg put an effectual veto upon his engaging in any mechanical pursuit, and so from his fifteenth to his nineteenth year he applied himself diligently and studiously to acquire as thorough and practical a common school education as circumstances would permit, attending for this purpose a select private school for boys, and this was all the schooling he received. The eventful spring of 1860 found George in charge of a carriage repository in Pittsburg, in the interest of his father, who, finding his southern trade liable to be cut off, began to give more of his attention to home trade. Adjoining the repository was a book and variety store, in which George served a clerkship, which proved very advantageous in giving him a drill and confidence, and what was still more acceptable, some money of his own earning. The knowledge of business thus acquired enabled him at a later period to embark in business on a small scale by himself, and when, in the fall of 1864, his father finding bis business in the south entirely destroyed by the war and, no signs, at that time, indicating the near close of the fratricidal strife, he disposed of all his real estate, some of it at a great sacrifice, in Allegheny, and with the family, George alone excepted, removed to Wisconsin to pass the remainder of his days. George, as above stated, remained behind to carry on his business, selling jewelry, varieties, etc, which had just begun to prove highly remunerative. But so assiduously did he devote himself to business that his nervous system began to suffer and dyspepsia intervening his health broke down completely. He grew gradually worse in health until the spring of 1870, when he was reluctantly compelled to close up his business, now very profitable, and go home to die, as he then firmly believed. This step proved the turning point in his life and changed its whole course and undoubtedly saved him from a premature grave. The pure, invigorating and bracing air of Wisconsin, combined with the change of scene and living, wrought so beneficially upon his enervated system and debilitated digestive organs, that quite restored him to his pristine health and hopeful spirits. Two years subsequent be began to take a lively interest in literary pursuits, and got his first most needed drill in the use of the pen, laying the foundation for his future success in the field of journalism. His first feeble efforts were somewhat satirical criticisms and burlesques of the literary effusion^ of some local scribes who had got into a jangle upon religion, and were carrying on a wordy warfare in the public prints, and, although sent anonymously to an opposition sheet, were deemed of sufficient merit as to impel the editor to give the articles insertion, instead of consigning them to the waste basket, the general fate of anonymous communications. Thus encouraged he put forth still greater efforts, and his contributions on other topics, published over the nomde plume oi "I. U. N." attracted so much attention as to induce the editor, himself, to ask in his paper, " who was this literary feller ?" He at length was pursuaded to take chai'ge of the local columns of the Liberal Press, in which capacity he did good work, as his spicely written "locals" and pungent paragraphs attested. He continued to act as local editor, more for the love of it and the discipline it gave than what money there was in it, until the paper, for the third time, changed ownership, and I. T. Carr took control. George took this opportunity to retire from a position where the pay was not near commensurate with the amount of labor entailed. But having once tasted of the sweets of publicity, he could not be content to pass much of his time in obscurity. He thereupon, in connection with a younger brother, as already explained, commenced the publication of the Suti.

The Monroe Gazette

A paper was started in Monroe, by J. W. , Odell, called the Gazette, on the 4th day of November, 18S1. This periodical was first started in Jefferson, Jefferson Co., Wis., and then continued in Monroe; so that the first number issued in Monroe was "No. 15, Vol. Ill," instead of "No. 1, Vol. I." In issuing the first number in Monroe, Mr. Odell explains his views and determination in the following:

"In commencing the publication of a democratic paper in Green county, we are aware of the difficulties that we shall be called upon to encounter, therefore we realize at the beginning that to make the Gazette a success as a permanent institution, we must have the hearty co-operation of every independent thinker who acts up to his convictions in this country. Tiiis will induce the great majority of those who call themselves democrats and a portion of those who go by the party name republican, and quite a number of those who belong to other parties.

"All the people of this county we argue, will agree that an independent democratic paj^er is needed here. Believing this to be the case ourselves, we come here for the purpose of publishing such a paper. We desire also to state in this connection, that our paper is not to be built up on the ruins of others that have gone before us, neither has it any connection with any democratic paper heretofore published in this county. We bring our own press with us and start out on our own hook as the saying is, hoping to merit the patronage of men of all parties and creeds.

"Our columns will [be open to fair and free discussion so far as we may have the space, but not 0{)en for the purpose of slander and abuse of others. We shall endeavor from time to time, to set forth true democratic doctrines and principles, and uphold so far as we are able to do so, honest government. We do not deem it necessary because we publish a democratic paper that we shall be in favor of every person and idea called by the name democrat. Still we shall finally hold to the cardinal principles of the great National democratic party, and at the same time act in all these matters as becomes an independent citizen.

"We therefore without saying more under this head, ask the co-operation of the people generally, while we give them as good a paper in return as we are able under the circumstances to get up. In conclusion, we desire to say that we will do our part in helping to build up the business interests of this community, while our paper shall be conducted so as to merit a place in every household and be a welcome visitor to every family in the community who favor us with their patronage."

The Gazette., when first started in Green county, was an eight column quarto. The editor, in his first editorial, emphatically declares that he is "in favor of free trade; or, what is the same thing, a tariff for revenue only." In 1883 the paper was cut down to a six column quarto and the name changed to the Monroe Gazette. It is ably conducted.

j was born in Montreal, Canada, Aug, 27, 1848. He came to Wisconsin in 1852 and settled in Evansville, Rock county. He remained there until 1859, when he removed to Jefferson, Jefferson Co., Wis. He lived there until June, 18*72. He served a regular apprenticeship in the Jefferson Banner from 1862 to 1865. Mr. Odell occupied the position of baggage-master at that city in the employ of the Chicago &, Northwestern Railway Company for four years prior to June 1, 1872, at which time he went on the road as brakeman, moving to Janesville, Wis. He continued in this employment for eight months, then took a job as fireman, which position he filled until March 13, 1876, at which time he severed his connection with the railroad company by mutual consent and moved down to Grant Park, Kankakee Co., 111., a small place fifty miles south of Chicago on the C. & E. 1. Railroad, where he first started a paper called the Grant Park iV6?<w, a small sheet 12x16 inches. The first issue was on July 4, 1876. This paper he continued in that small form until Aug. 11, 1877, when he enlarged it to a four column quarto and published that until June 1, 1879, when he went to Jefferson, Wis., and commenced publishing the Indej^endent. This paper he published to July 24, 1881, when he moved the office to Monroe and commenced the publication of the Gazette, a democratic organ, mention of which has just been made.

The Green County Herald, a German paper published at Monroe, Green Co., Wis., was established by R. Loewenbach Sept. 15, 1877. It is published every Wednesday, has four pages, size 26x40 inches, and is independent in politics. R. Loewenbach, of Monroe, was born Oct. 9, 1853, in the city of Milwaukee. He received an academic education and is by profession a printer, being engaged in his father's printing office. In 1877 he came to Monroe, and for the last seven years has been proprietor and publisher of tlie German paper, the Green County Herald, which position he holds up to this date (1884).

The Judean

On the 13th day of July, 1877, was issued No. 1 of Vol, I of the Judean at Juda, by the ^^Judean Publishing Company." It was an exceedingly diminutive sheet of four pages with only two columns to the page. "It is not the intention," say those who started the paper, "of those who have it in charge, we may safely say, to make it a money making institution, but merely to collect and diffuse throughout the community such items of news as may be of general interest to the public." However, in the third issue is found among other matters of an editorial character, the following: "The observing ones who look over this number of the Judean will notice that it contains at the head of this column a small but important line reading thus: 'Terms, fifty cents a year.' " The circulation was thirty-six.

During the latter part of February, 1878, "some indefatigable worker in the lower depths of arch-deviltry" notified the postoflice department at Washington that the Judean was only

"an advertising dodge," and tliereupon the JncUcut Publishing C(»mpany were notified tliut their paper could no longer pass tlirougli the mails at paper rates. The result was the discontinuance of the Judean under that name and the establishing of a newspai)er that could not be in any way considered as "an advertising dodge." "This is the last issue," say the publishers, March 31, 1878, "of our paper under its present form. Next week we shall not print a paper, but shall prepare for th» publication the week following of a larger sheet (eight pages of four columns each). The subscription price will be %\ per annum." So, on the 3d day of April, 1878, No. 1, Vol. I was begun of

The Latest News

This paper was published by J. B. Stair and H. C. Witmer. "We herewith present," say the editors in their salutatory, "our readers with the first number of the Latest Ncvs. We shall not urge you who have not already done so, to subscribe for it, but every one may by this feel himself especially and personally invited to favor us with their name and $1 for a yt-ar's subscription."

On the 19th of July, 1879, Mr. Stair retired from the paper and Mr. Witmer became (and still is) the sole editor and proprietor. "Having assumed," says the editor, "the responsibility of continuing the JVtncs, our name appears at the head of this column. We take charge of it feeling as though we would not continue it long, not being equal to the situation" - but the paper "still lives" and is in a flourishing condition, having a large circulation, and an extensive advertising patronage. It is edited with much alnlity.

The Monticello Items was published for a brief period, in Monticello, Green county, beginning in 1874, by Messrs. Stair & Lane, who were both editors and proprietors. The paper was neutral in politics. It continued about one year. Although a small sheet, it had quite a local circulation; however, it did not pay, and,

Henry Clayton Witmer, was born in Rock Grove, Stephenson Co., 111., son of David and Catharine Witmer. He was two years old when the family moved to Juda, Wis. When he became old enough, he went to the village school, also in later yeais assisted his father in a drug store till the spring of 1873, when he went to Monroe to clerk in a dry goods store. After staying there fifteen months, he again returned to Juda, and re-entered the village school. In the beginning of 1870 he went to R. C. Spencer's Business College, Milwaukee, from which institution he graduated in May, returned home, and after his father died in June of the same year he assumed his business, which consisted in making loans and the business that would necessarily be connected. He also settled his father's estate. He was appointed notary public when he was twenty-one, also chosen a member of the school board. In partnership with Dr. J. B. Stair, a village physician, he started a small newspaper called the Judean, in July, 1877, but the paper was enlarged and called the Latest Nevis, in March, 1878. His partner retiring in March, 1879, Mr. Witmer assumed the responsibility of editor and publisher alone. In the spring of 1882, in company with four business men of Monroe, he hel|)ed to start "The Citizens' Bank," of Moni-oe, of which he was chosen vice-president. Duiing his stay in Juda, he took quite an interest in keeping up the life and growth of the village. He was one of the foremost in building its Town Hall. His habits are strictly temperate. He belongs to no Church; in politics is a republican. He is a bicyclist - no further comment.

Joseph M. Witmer, born of the same parents in Juda, Wis., Aug. 27, 1858, went to the village school until the fall of 1874, when he went to school in Monroe, and in the fall of 1875 went to the State University at Madison, entering the preparatory department; remained at Madison three years, and in the spring, of 1878 passed examinations at Cincinnati for admission to Howard University; entered the class of 1882 at Howard, but did not like the change, so returned home; returned to Howard College, however, in the fall of 1879, and joined the class of 1883, with which he graduated. He started in business with his brother in the fall of 1883. Witmer Brothers' business is mostly an outgrowth of M. H. C. Witmer's business, and although it has been quite extensive, amounting to $500,000 a year, it nevertheless will be closed up in the fall of 1884, owing to a removal of the two members of the firm to Los Angeles, Cal.

David Witmer born in Londonderry township, Lebanon Co., Penn., Oct. 1, 1813, is a son of John and Plannah Witmer, both natives of Lebanon Co., Penn. The family is of Swiss descent, some five or six generations since. The subject of this sketch lived at home with his parents on the farm until he was about eighteen years of age, when he went to Palmyra, a post village not far distant, to enter the mercantile business as a clerk in a dry goods store. In sj^eaking of his financial start in life in later years, he was heard to remark that he clerked for 82 per month the first year, and at the end of the year was $36 in debt. How long he remained at f almyra as a clerk is not definitely known by the writer; but it must have been about 1837 or thereabout that he went to Aaronsburg, Center Co., Penn,, to engage in a like capacity in a dry goods store belonging to his uncle. At this time he also used to buy cattle in Ohio for his uncle and ship them east. Having saved a little money, he resolved in the spring of 1842 to take a trip to the west, and together with a friend he purchased lands where now stands the city of Burlington, Iowa. But at that time Burlington consisted of but a few houses and the prospect of its great growth was not promising. The taxes on the land being great and the tenant careless, the land was sold. In the year of 1846, in partnership with John Harper, now of Monroe, Wis., he bought out his uncle's store and the business was carried on under their names until 1852, when Mr. Harper retired. Selling out in the spring of 1855, he again went west, purchased lands upon which the southern portion of Juda now stands, and in the fall of the same year he moved to Rock Grove, Stephenson Co., 111., where he purchased a lialf interest in a dry goods store. Here he remained till the spring of 1858, when he removed to Juda, Wis. Dur. ing the years 1858 and 1865, inclusive, he was busily engaged in the general merchandise business, principally in dry goods, also in grain. His business was quite extensive, amounting to $100,000 or upward a year. He built several large buildings and being one of the early settlers of Juda, he took a deep interest and contributed in no small degree to its growth and development. In 1865 he retired from active business and devoted most of his attention to his lands in the vicinity of Juda, but in 1870 he again entered the mercantile business, having purchased a drugstore in which he thought he might interest his two sons enough to keep them out of mischief. In the winter of 1875-6 he sold out again and the next spring he prepared to go east for the purpose of trying to regain his health and restore, if possible, his shattered constitution, but he became enfeebled and a severe attack of the palpitation of the heart coming upon him, he was obliged to take his bed, from which he never arose. He died June 25, 1876, and his body was buried in the Juda cemetery. Mr. Witmer was married, March 12, 1846, to Catharine Corman, of Miles township. Center Co., Penn., by Rev. William Yereck. They had seven children, three of whom died in infancy, leaving two daughters and two sons, all grown - Mary Agnes, born August 12, 1848, now Mrs. Samuel Lewis, of Monroe; Anna Victoria, born Sept. 2, 1854; Henry Clayton, born Aug. 25, 1856; Joseph M. Witmer, born Aug. 27, 1858. Mr. Witraer's characteristics in brief are, straight-forward and careful in business transactions, successful, temperate, industrious, benevolent, unassuming, generous, public spirited, friend of the people in general, especially of the poor, ardent republican, never aspired to office, but held quite a number, mostly township offices. Do not know that he belonged to any Church, yet took an interest in all religious societies, and generally ai ed them (financially).

The Brodhea.D Independent

The Independent was established the first week in March, 1860, by a joint stock company of which I. F. Mack, one of the original proprietors of the village, was president. The stockholders failed to respond and the paper virtually was the property of Mr. Mack from the outset.

The entire outfit of the States Riglds, which ha<l been published at Monroe, was purchased at a low price and removed to Brodhead; and the first number of the new paper was issued. On the 1st of November, 1864, Mr. Mack made ajcrangements by which his son I. F. Mack, Jr., (now of the Sandusky, Ohio, lieylster) became proprietor, while he still retained the position of editor. This continued until Aug. 10, 1866, when the following notice appeared in the paper:

"to the puulic. "From this date this paper will be under the sole control, both in its editorial and businessman, agementof myself. I. F. Mack, Sr., for the past five and a half years the editor, has withdrawn from the concern. I, F. Maor, Jr.

anything to do with the editorial or business control of the I)Kh'pende)d save myself. No other pei'son has any voice in the management of this journal, or one dollar's interest in it.

"With this issue of the V>xodi\\Q2^^ Indepe}ident, I cease to be its editor and publisher, having sold the office and newspaper establishment to D. W. Tyrrell and E. O. Kimberley.

"Four years ago I became the publisher and projDrietor, and two years ago last August took upon myself its sole editorial management. When I entered the office, Nov. 1, 1«64, the business had run down and the office was not paying its expenses. With what business tact I had, I proceeded to make it pay, which it did the first year about 'tl,100. Since the close of the first year, the business has steadily increased and it now pays as well as any country paper in the State. So much for the business.

"Believing in radical political principles, my efforts since becoming the editor have been directed to making the paper thoroughly radical. With what measure of success the files of the paper will show. Manhood sufl^rage, universal liberty, the right of royal men to rule where traitors had misruled, the honorable and just payment of the debts of the Nation, have been advocated in these columns without fear or favor. Whatever I have said on those and kindred subjects cannot be unsaid, nor would I unwrite one word the editorial columns have contained for the past two and one-half years.

"Helieving that liteiary honesty is the brightest ornament of an editor's life, I have never to my knowledge failed to give proper credit for every line taken from an exchange, and have uniformly preferred to write as best I could

"For my successors I ask the liearty good will and generous support of all my old patrons and many new ones. My successors are well known to tlie peo[)le of this village and county. D. W. Tyrrell lias been nearly four years the foreman of the office, is a thorough practical printer, a straight forward, honorable man, and a far better writer than the average of country editors. During all our intimate connection, for during all these years he has been a member of my family, we have had no unpleasant word. E. O. Kimberley was for years a resident here, learned the trade in the old Reporter office, and worked for me some months. Modest, unassuming but straight forward and prompt; Mr. Kimberley will bring to the business a determination to make tlie paper better than it has been under my management. It need not be said that both these gentlemen are radical republicans, and will never fail to advocate the radical policy of the republican party. In their hands I feel safe in leaving the IiKhpeiideut^iov the prosjterity of which and political soundness of which I shall ever pray.

"To the business men of Brodhead,and to the people of the town and country about, who have encouraged me in ray business, with these last words as your editor, I bid you farewell.

"Kimberley &> Tyrrell's salutatory was published Nov. 27, 1868. The partnership lasted until December, 1869, when Mr. Kimberley took full charge and so continued until July, 1873, when he sold to Willis J. Stone and Charles M. Morse. On July 2, 1875, Mr. Morse published the following: nection with this journal or nearly two years we have endeavored to do our duty and labor foi" the best interest of our village; but in looking back we realize that errors have been made. We sincerely regret that it is thus, and trust that the people will 'forgive and forget'

"Our successor E. O. Kimberley, formerly editor of the Iii(h'p()idn\t needs no commendation from us. We bespeak for liim a liberal patronage.

salutatory. "After an absence of two years we return to our former charge, as proprietor of the Brodhead Independent. During the interval we note some very trying changes, - in the world at large, and more particulaily in domestic life, applicable to ourself. In this will readily be seen the allusion to the sickness coming upon us and which well-nigh ended our days. Details of the same, herewitii, would be superfluou.s, as all, perhaps, are cognizant of the fact. We were tenderly brought home after the critical time declared past, not to die, but to be nursed in convalescency; and to-day we feel grateful for a degree of gooti health, such as was never our lot before to enjoy. To some, our return may seem sliange, ami others may regard it alike with ourself. Brodhead is and has been our home for many years past, and need we say it was with a view of being at home that prompted the change on our part. There are some very desirabU' features connected with city life, and there are other features of an unpleasant nature. The cpiiet of the country, the never ending confusion of the city, and vice versa are contrasts of great magnitude, and a sudden change from one to the other seems strange indeed, and for a time almost beyond the powers of endurance. From country to city, our experiences, physically, as related, were anything but pleasant. Such a change from a two-years' sojourn in the city, we would very reluctantly anticipate.

"In 1857, we took up our abode in Brodhead, and since then have been a citizen a greater part of the time. Perhaps it may be truthfully said that we are favorably impressed with the place, hence our departure at different times and subsequent return. Tliese occurrences have been frequent. Between ourself and the Independent we note the following: In the month of February, 1861, a stock company, with I. F. Mack, Esq., president, and W. W. Shepard, (afterward killed at the battle of Pea Ridge), secretary, purchased the press and material of the States Rights, owned and published at our county seat, by F. Stout, Esq., and removed the same to Brodhead. Out of that material our hands set the first type on the Independent. These were the trying times of a Nation's uprising in armed conflict. Treason was asserting itself day by day, until the "first gun" was fired at Sumter,

"We well remember the day when this dreadful evidence of war came upon us. A messenger came to the office in great haste with the intelligence, and with patriotic hearts and patriotic songs the "boys". of the oftice could not be induced to "stick" another type. (The management, however, succeeded in issuing their paper regularly.) After thirteen months of army life we returned home, and again to the Independent, then edited by I F, Mack, Jr. This was of short duration however, for we rallied the "blowers," and again donned the blue. After the wearisome marches attendant upon Sherman's campaign, and after j»eace was declared, we were permitted to again return to

Brodhead and confront a "case" in the Independent office. Very soon after we were a resident of the very pleasant village of Monroe. Remaining there among good friends two years we returned to Brodhead, formed a co-partnership with D. W. Tyrrell, and purchased the Independent, of I. F. Mack, Jr., at a good round price. After a partnership of about eight months Mr. Tyrrell associated himself with Mr. Potter, then publisher of the Green County 7?^- puhlican, at Monroe. Being tl^en left to our own responsil)ility we did the best we could. I)i July, 1873, we sold the office to Messrs. Stone & Morse, taking ourself to the great city of the northwest - Chicago. Two years have passed and again we are found in the Independent office, as proprietor, having effected the purchase on tlie 281 h ultimo. VVhat there may be for us in the dim and unknown future, we cannot of course predict with any degree of safety. If our past history has wrought anything to our good, the patrons of the Indej^endent shall reap the same at our hands as one week succeeds another, and as good health is spared us.

"Our promises will not be numerous. We will promise this much, that we will conduct the Independent to the best of our ability, and always to the best interests of its patrons and all interested in our beautiful village. Can we say more? If we know what morality is, our paper shall he moral. If we know the meaning of discretion our pa])er shall be discreet. If we know what right is, our paper shall be as near the same as it lies in our power to make it. We shall Jiot attempt to revolutionize local business in excess of local capacity, but shall advocate the full use of that capacity to the best interests.

'In politics, we shall not be "on the fence" but shall always advocate republicanism, and may be depended upon as republican; and the Indcpenilcnt, we are sure, while in our charge, will labor for the best interests of republicanism at home and abroad.

"The fiim of Titus & Kimberley, printers, Cliicat^o, will continue, at 120 and 122 La Salle street. Under the excellent managetnent of Mr. Titiis, the business of tliat office will be correctly and judiciously managed. Charles Titus, a brotlier, will repr^^sent our interest.

"While we shall be ever ready and anxious to accommodate our friends with any kind of ordinary job work, at this office yet there may be, possibly, some beyond our capacity. Anything of this kind will be forwarded to our city office, executed by the best of workmen, and returned promptly.

"The former proprietors^, Messrs Stone & Morse have our best wishes for success. Mr. Stone will return to Chicago and engage in busir)ess. Mr. Morse, after two months more preparation, will present himself for examination at the Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. We sincerely trust that his efforts may be successful. In the event of his being admitted, we are sure he will advance rapidly, do himself credit and honor the State of Wisconsin.

"We now leave ourself with the good people of Brodhead, and surrounding country, and sincerely hope to merit their good will and patronage. We want to find a friend in every one. Shall this be our good fortune?

Mr. Kimberley continued as publisher of the paper several years. In .June, 1878, he made a trip to Dakota, from which he wrote some interesting letters. Returning home Aug. 23, 1878, he offered the. office for sale. About a month later (September 19), he left for Sioux Falls to engage in business again, offering the office for sale, but announcing it would be kept up by his father and .Jolm E. IJartlett.

Esq., purchased tlie establishment, together with the subscriptions of the paper. Gay Sprague, a promising young man and a good printer, will superintend the mechanical department, and, as we are informed, will publish the paper. Burr Sprague is so well and favorably known to all that it is not necessary we should say any more of him. As for ourself, we liave discharged our duties to suit ourself. If others have been suited, all right; if not, all right. The paper will remain republican. We hope the new helmsman will be liberally patronized by all classes of people. Sioux Falls, Dak., is to be our future home, and in one corner of a new paper will read, Kimberley & Morse. And now to all a fond farewell.

''By the transfer of the Independent^ duties and responsibilities with which we are not familiar, have suddenly devolved upon us, and we acknowledge that it is not without some reluctance and misgivings that we assume them.

"Trusting in the sympathy and kind wishes of our friends, and hoping they will not demand better results than w-e may accomplish, we shall earnestly endeavor to make the Independent as good a local paper in the future as it has been in the past.

"Upon the present political issues it will remain republican in letter and in spirit; and in the cause of temperance it may always be relied upon to tally one.

"In the interest of education, and especially of the public school system, it will be ever ready to disseminate encouraging words; and in regard to Churches and religious rites and beliefs,

"Mr. Kimberley, who has established the reputation of the Independent, and' of the fine job office connected with it, takes his leave to enter upon a larger, and it is hoped a more prosperous field of labor, in which he has the best wishes of ourself and many warm friends.

"Gay Sprague, who has served an apprenticeship of nearly four years with friend Booth in the office of the MorxvoG will have full charge of the publishing and job printing department, and we shall rely largely upon him for aid in the general conduct of the paper.

Valedic'Iory

"We have sold the Independent and the subscription accounts to E, A. Charlton - who will fill the advance subscriptions; and lie will take possession of the office and assume control on Monday next.

"We have had charge of the paper but little more thati seven months, and during the most of this time we have been so burdened with other pressing duties that it has been impossible for us to devote the time and attention to the paper that has been desirable, and seemed necessary; but we have thus far, to the best of our ability under the circumstances, fulfilled the promises made in our tirst number. How well we have succeeded during this brief period of time is wholly for our readers to decide - they having the best opportunity to know, and being the most competent and impartial judges - and be their verdict in favor of or against us, it will doubtless be correct, and we shall not complain.

"We have always endeavored to exclude from our columns everything of a personal nature which would be liable to cause or excite illfeeling, aiming to sjteak plainly and boldly for principles only, and not in any sense for per sonal ends. If, in doing this, we have unwittingly given offense, we regret such result - for we harbor no malice or ill-will toward any one - but having acted according to our best judgment, and with good motives, we liave nothing to retract; and only wish we might have dealt still heavier blows in the cause of right.

"We have been constantly cheered and encouraged, by kind words and substantial tokens of regard and appreciation, and our numerous exchanges have treated us very respectfully and kindly; for all of which we are truly gi-ateful.