The Inverness Courier: A Legacy of Highland Journalism
For over two centuries, The Inverness Courier has served as a vital record of life in the north of Scotland. As a bi-weekly broadsheet—a large-format newspaper typically associated with traditional journalism—it provides comprehensive coverage of Inverness and the wider Highlands and Islands. It holds the distinction of being the longest continually running local newspaper in the region, bridging the gap between the early 19th century and the modern digital era.
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Key Facts
- Founded: 1817 (209 years ago).
- Frequency: Published every Tuesday and Friday.
- Ownership: Highland News and Media.
- Headquarters: New Century House, Inverness.
- Notable Achievement: Named Highlands and Islands newspaper of the year in 2014.
- Historical Claim: Published the first report of the Loch Ness monster in 1933.
A Rich History of Highland Reporting
The publication first appeared on December 4, 1817, under the extensive title The Inverness Courier and General Advertiser for the Counties of Inverness, Ross, Moray, Nairn, Cromarty, Sutherland and Caithness. Its early years were shaped by Mr. John and Mrs. Johnstone, who served as editors until 1824. Mrs. Christian Isobel Johnstone was particularly notable for producing the acclaimed Meg Dod’s Cookery Book.
The paper saw long periods of stability under the Carruthers family. Dr. Robert Carruthers led the publication from April 1828 until 1878, followed by his son Walter Carruthers until 1885. These figures were deeply embedded in the local community; Walter Carruthers and his successor, James Barron, co-founded the Inverness Field Club in 1875.
Literary and Academic Contributions
The Courier has often been a platform for intellectual and naturalistic study. For over four decades, the Rev. Alexander Stewart wrote a fortnightly column under the pen-name Nether Lochaber. His contributions eventually evolved into two published works focusing on the natural history, legends, and folklore of the West Highlands: Nether Lochaber (1883) and 'Twixt Ben Nevis and Glencoe (1885).
Later editors also brought academic prestige to the role. Dr. Evan Macleod Barron, who took over in February 1919, was the author of The Scottish War of Independence. He was succeeded in April 1965 by his niece, Eveline Barron, who had served as deputy editor since 1952.
The Loch Ness Monster Connection
One of the most famous moments in the newspaper's history occurred in May 1933. The Inverness Courier published the very first report of the Loch Ness monster. The story originated from a correspondent named Alexander Campbell, who reported a strange sighting to editor Evan Barron. According to historical accounts, Barron responded by stating that the creature must be a monster.
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The Inverness Courier Today
Currently owned by Highland News and Media, the newspaper continues to report on the Highland council area. While it achieved critical success as the Highlands and Islands newspaper of the year in 2014, it has faced the challenges common to the print industry. A significant decline in circulation led the publication to downsize and relocate from its Longman headquarters to new offices on Bank Street in Inverness.
While David Bourn previously served as editor, the publication is currently managed by a content editor who oversees several titles within the HNM Group.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| ISSN | 0020-9929 |
| OCLC Number | 500156504 |
| Tuesday Circulation (2023) | 1,636 |
| Friday Circulation (2023) | 3,907 |
| Website | inverness-courier.co.uk |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Inverness Courier founded?
The newspaper was founded on December 4, 1817, making it the longest continually running local newspaper covering the Inverness and Highlands area.
How often is the newspaper published?
It is a bi-weekly publication, with issues released every Tuesday and Friday.
What is the newspaper's connection to the Loch Ness monster?
The Inverness Courier published the first report of the Loch Ness monster in May 1933, based on a sighting reported by correspondent Alexander Campbell.
Who currently owns the publication?
The newspaper is owned by Highland News and Media, a company that publishes multiple weekly newspapers across the Highland council area of Scotland.
Where is the newspaper's headquarters located?
The headquarters are located at New Century House in Inverness, having previously relocated from Longman to Bank Street.