Herald-Star: A History of Journalism in Steubenville
The story of the Herald-Star is a reflection of the evolving landscape of American journalism, spanning over two centuries of local reporting and corporate transitions. From its humble beginnings as a weekly publication to its current status as a regional staple, the paper has been shaped by influential figures and strategic mergers.
The Early Years and the Western Herald
The publication's roots trace back to 1806 with the establishment of the Western Herald. Founded by William Lowry and John Miller, the paper served as a primary source of information for the community. Notably, co-founder John Miller eventually transitioned from journalism to politics, serving as the governor of Missouri after leaving the paper to fight in the War of 1812.
In 1815, the paper entered a new era of stability when James Wilson purchased it. Wilson, who was the grandfather of future US President Woodrow Wilson, dedicated 23 years of his life to the publication, serving as both its proprietor and editor.
Evolution to a Daily Publication
For several decades, the Herald operated as a weekly newspaper. This changed in 1847 when the publication released its first daily edition. This pivotal shift was driven by William R. Allison, who took ownership and editorial control of the paper from 1846 until 1873.
Mergers and Corporate Ownership
The modern identity of the publication was forged in 1897 when the Herald merged with the Steubenville Star, resulting in the creation of the Herald-Star.
The 20th century brought a series of ownership changes as the media industry consolidated. In 1926, Brush-Moore Newspapers acquired the paper. This ownership lasted until 1967, when Thomson Newspapers purchased Brush-Moore Newspapers, bringing the Herald-Star under its corporate umbrella.
The most recent major transition occurred in 1996, when Ogden Newspapers purchased the publication from Thomson.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1806 as the Western Herald.
- First Daily Edition: Launched in 1847 under William R. Allison.
- Major Merger: Combined with the Steubenville Star in 1897.
- Presidential Connection: Owned by James Wilson, grandfather of Woodrow Wilson.
- Current Owner: Ogden Newspapers (acquired in 1996).
| Year | Event / Owner | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1806 | William Lowry & John Miller | Founding of the Western Herald |
| 1815 | James Wilson | 23-year tenure as proprietor/editor |
| 1847 | William R. Allison | Transition from weekly to daily edition |
| 1897 | Herald & Steubenville Star | Merger to form the Herald-Star |
| 1926 | Brush-Moore Newspapers | Corporate acquisition |
| 1967 | Thomson Newspapers | Acquired via Brush-Moore Newspapers |
| 1996 | Ogden Newspapers | Current ownership acquisition |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Herald-Star founded?
The publication began as the Western Herald in 1806, though it did not become the Herald-Star until its merger with the Steubenville Star in 1897.
Who was responsible for making the paper a daily publication?
William R. Allison, who owned and edited the paper from 1846 to 1873, initiated the move to a daily edition in 1847.
Is there a connection between the paper and a US President?
Yes, James Wilson, who owned and edited the paper for 23 years starting in 1815, was the grandfather of US President Woodrow Wilson.
Which company currently owns the Herald-Star?
The paper is currently owned by Ogden Newspapers, which purchased it from Thomson Newspapers in 1996.
What happened to co-founder John Miller?
After leaving the paper to serve in the War of 1812, John Miller eventually became the governor of Missouri.