USA > Illinois > Stephenson County > The History of Stephenson County, Illinois : containing biographical sketches war record statistics portraits of early settlers history of the Northwest, history of Illinois, &c. > Part 51
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On taking charge, the new management expended liberally in effecting improvements and completing reforms. The paper was enlarged one column to the page, and the suits and trappings which had become familiar to the people were exchanged for a "new dress"-one which survived the wear and tear of time, change of administration, the proud man's contumely and other incidents peculiar to the experience of country papers, for nearly ten years before it was laid aside. They also ventured the publication of a daily record of current events in addition to the weekly. This appeared almost simultaneously with their assuming the management of the latter. It was a folio, 12x18, with five columns to the page, printed in brevier and nonpareil, and attained a liberal cir- culation. It was continued until November 9, 1857, when the prevailing strin- gency in money matters and the difficulty experienced in making cash collections induced the proprietors to withdraw the daily from the field of com- petition. The promise was made to resume at any moment when the financial world gave signs that all was well. But, in default of any favorable indication in that direction, the suspension became permanent.
As will be remembered, the Republican party, as a party, took shape in 1856, and presented Fremont and Dayton as candidates for the people's suf- frages. The Journal accepted these offerings, which were regarded as eminently proper, and tending to unite in one solid phalanx all men actuated by the common desire to stop the onward march of African slavery, and retain it within its limits at that time. During the canvass which preceded the election, the
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Journal was constant and unwavering in the support it offered, and, when the result was announced, consoled itself with the reflection that, defeat was caused by the perpetration of unparalleled frauds, and a combination of the slavery propaganda, under the guise of Democracy and Americanism.
On the 6th of May, 1858, William T. Tinsley, recently theretofore fore- man and assistant editor of the Lyons (N. Y.) Republican, purchased an interest in the Journal, and became associated in its management with Judson & McCluer, remaining until St. Patrick's Day, 1859, when he sold out to his partners and returned to Lyons.
From the year 1856 up to the present time, the Journal openly espoused the cause of human freedom. From that date, it battled manfully and consist- ently for the principles which became triumphant in the election of Abraham Lincoln. When the question as to the intentions of the Republican party toward the slave-holding States was being discussed, the Journal defined its position to be, that Congress had the right to exclude slavery in the Territories, and it was the duty of Congress to exercise that right. It was the freedom of the Territories as such, that was demanded.
When the surrender of Fort Sumter was telegraphed, the Journal insisted that the issue was joined, the case made up, and that but one course was left open to the nation. There was but one allegiance, one government, one system of law in all our borders. It was a great calamity that the law had been resisted, but greater calamities would attend the general anarchy which the secession mania would ultimately bring on the people, if not checked, than could possi- bly follow from a vigorous enforcement of the laws as they existed. From the commencement of hostilities until peace was promulgated, following the sur- rendered at Appomattox Court House, the Journal was untiring in its support of the Government, and earnest in its advocacy of such measures as were con- ceived to be right.
Judson & McCluer "held the fort" until the dawning of the new year, 1866, when the proprietorship of the Journal became vested in J. M. Bailey, at present one of the Justices of the Appellate Court, and R. V. Ankeny, both well-known citizens, under the firm name of Bailey & Ankeny, the former gen- tleman wielding the editorial quill, and promising to represent in the columns of the paper the great material, social and educational interests of the North- west; to also advocate that course of legislation which would most rapidly develop these interests, protect those of capital and labor, and increase the wealth, morality and intelligence of the people. On April 9, 1864, the folio was increased to a quarto, and was published by the new firm until May 9, 1866. On that date the interests of the Journal and North- West were con- solidated, the latter undertaking being merged into the former, Gen. Ankeny retiring from the Journal, and Gen. S. D. Atkins from the North-West. The new journalistic venture was thereafter controlled by J. S. McCall, J. M. Bailey and M. B. Mills, who remained at the helm until November 1 of the same year, when Mr. McCall became sole owner.
During his administration, a second effort to popularize the institution of a daily edition was made. The first issue appeared January 2, 1867, being a folio six columns to the page, printed in minion, nonpareil and brevier, and bid- ding for readers and advertisers, through the agency of the Associated Press dispatches, a franchise still held by the Journal. In all features both the daily and weekly equaled expectations. As a party organ, they bore allegiance to the Republican party, to which the most cordial and earnest support was tendered. As mediums for the promulgation of current events, the news, con-
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densed or elaborate, as the occasion demanded, was to be found in their columns. But the daily failed to receive the support it was deserving of, and after an experience of nearly two years yielded up the ghost.
After running the gamut of supplying editorial and reportorial pabulum to the citizens of Stephenson County and vicinity for two years, Mr. Mc Call ceased to be a practical representative of the fourth estate, and was succeeded by Gen. Smith D. Atkins, at present Postmaster of Freeport.
The varied proprietary experience to which the paper had been subjected since it first appeared "an infant," so to speak, "mewling and puking in its nurse's arms," was borne out in the frequent change of base effected by its owners. In August, 1864, another move was made to the building corner of Chicago and Bridge streets, erected by Jacob Kline for the purpose, and fitted up with due regard to the convenience of the occupants. Improvements were also extended to the establishment itself, including one of Roper's caloric engines, and other appurtenances peculiar to a printing office, rendering it com- plete in its outfit and capacity to supply every demand.
When Gen. Atkins took charge the paper was an established fact, and during his control of its destiny the hold previously gained on public patronage and support was confirmed and extended. The paper was published under his direction and name until June 11, 1873, when his editorial connection ceased. On that day, he disposed of the concern to William B. Thomas, Dwight B. Breed and Charles R. Haws, who assumed entire control, Gen. Atkins retaining an interest, however, but devoting his attention more particularly to the prac- tice of the law and literary pursuits. Messrs. Thomas, Breed & Haws remained as editors and managers until May 26, 1875, when Haws sold out his interest to Gen. Atkins, and the old firm was succeeded by that of S. D. Atkins & Co.
On the 2d of September following, Capt. A. V. Richards purchased three- fourths interest in the paper, being the interest controlled by Atkins, and the firm became A. V. Richards & Co., under which it still remains. The sale of the paper and charge assumed by the purchaser is thus noted in the editorial columns of September 8, 1875:
On last Thursday, September 2, I disposed of my interest in the Freeport Journal news- paper, steam printing office and book bindery, to Capt. A. V. Richards, late of Galena, Illinois, and my connection with the publication of this paper on that day terminated. Capt. Richards is a thoroughly educated gentleman, an experienced and polished writer, was a patriot and soldier in the hour of the nation's danger, and has been a Republican ever since he was old enough to vote. My late partners, Dwight B. Breed and William B. Thomas, will be associated with Mr. Richards in the publication of the Freeport Journal, under the firm name of A. V. Richards & Co. From long and intimate acquaintance, and close business association with Mr. Breed and Mr. Thomas, I can speak of them in the highest terms. They are both accomplished workmen, perfect masters of the " art preservative of arts," both Republicans, both experienced publish- ers, both fine writers. I can cordially commend the Freeport Journal to its old patrons and friends, believing that under the new management of A. V. Richards & Co. it will be a more welcome visitor into the family circle, an abler champion of the Republican party, a more effect- ive advocate of the advancement of the material interests of Freeport and the surrounding country, and I most earnestly hope that the extensive patronage and wide circulation the paper now enjoys, will be largely increased. The subscriptions now due upon the Freeport Journal will be paid to A. V. Richards & Co., who will furnish the paper to those who have paid for it in advance.
For the kindness I have always received from the patrons of the Freeport Journal, I beg to return my sincere thanks. SMITH D. ATKINS.
In assuming editorial control of the Journal, we feel that we are taking upon ourself a weighty responsibility. Such a paper, properly managed, can be made a power for good, and improperly managed, equally powerful for evil.
We hope and trust our voice will never be raised in advocacy of other than the right. In the continual combat of right against wrong, we believe in " war to the knife, and the knife to the hilt." We hope ever to be found upon the side of all real and genuine reforms. We are a
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believer in " reform," when it is reform in deed as well as in name. We are opposed to so-called reforms that make use of the term merely as a cloak to conceal their real character.
Politically, the Journal, under our administration, will continue to be Republican. We are not of those who are willing to admit that the mission of the Republican party is completed, but believe that it has much yet to perform. That it is the purest, best and noblest party that ever existed, and that it has not yet reached the zenith of its glory. It is emphatically the party of progress, the party of improvement, the party of morality, and the party which is des- tined by the people to govern the people, and prove to its enemies the world over, that our sys- tem of government is no longer an experiment, but a confirmed success. We shall be both conservative and radical-conservative of the radical truths and primary principles upon which our government was founded, and radically opposed to all persons or parties who seek to destroy or contaminate them.
Having lived for many years in the adjoining county of Jo Daviess, we feel quite well acquainted with Freeport, thoughi personally a stranger to most of its citizens. We have ever admired its location, and believe that its future will be a brilliant one, and shall ever be ready to aid and assist, in all honorable ways, in the advancement of its interests. We have come here to stay, and shall give our entire time and attention to the management of the Journal. We feel, however, that we occupy a very difficult position as the successor of Gen. Atkins, who is so well and favorably known, and who so well deserves his popularity.
We do not expect to fill his place, but shall spare no pains to try to make an acceptable newspaper.
Gen. Atkins retires entirely from the Journal and resumes the practice of law, and we bespeak for him a large and increasing practice. His record for the last fifteen years is sufficient guaranty for his future.
He has re-opened his old office in Fry's Block; where he may be found during business hours. The former partners of Gen. Atkins, Mr. Breed and Mr. Thomas, retain their interest in the Journal, and the patrons of this paper will receive the benefit of their experience and well-known ability. A. V. RICHARDS.
The paper received a " new dress," a new engine and boiler of the most approved design was "put in," and much new material was added to the several departments. Capt. Richards became managing editor, Mr. Breed local and Mr. Thomas foreman. The promises contained in the salutatory were fulfilled to the letter ; not alone in the political dispensations vouchsafed weekly, but also in the local, literary and general intelligence the columns were the agents in disseminating. The job work was equal to any in the county, and the firm was enabled to successfully compete with Chicago establishments in that line of the art.
During the campaign of 1876, the Journal experienced the first serious trouble since its establishment, and for a brief period its very existence was threatened.
For eight years previous, the paper had been the exponent and principal champion of Republicanism and Republican candidates in the Fifth Congres- sional District. Mr. Richards being a new-comer and comparative stranger to the manor born, insisted upon exercising his discretion, arguing that the true province of a political or party paper, was to occupy a neutral position as between the several candidates for nomination. For Congress the candidates were numerous, and the Journal, without giving expression to its preference, published a hope that the best man might win. The nominee of the conven- tion was earnestly advocated by the paper, and his election made the subject of congratulation. After the smoke had cleared away, war was declared against the Journal ; it is claimed, because its editor asserted his independence and refused to urge the nomination of any special candidate. A mortgage existed for deferred payments on the interest owned by Richards. Some of the holders of the paper thus issued, sought to compel the sale of the paper under foreclos- ure proceedings, and thereby obtain control of its columns. The Journal firm had become somewhat embarrassed in consequence of the stringency of the times coupled with the expense incurred in the outlay of large sums employed in perfecting improvements when the office was purchased, and some of these
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accounts had been put in judgment on which executions issued. These were placed in the Sheriff's hands with orders to levy on the office, which he did, retaining possession twenty-four hours, when it was transferred to the mort- gagees, and Mr. Richards placed in charge. After an advertisement of ten days, the property was sold at public vendue to James I. Neff, representing the mortgagees, who re-sold to S. K. Miner, by whom Mr. Richards was restored to the proprietorship.
From this on, the success of the Journal under the new management was assured, and it immediately became one of the leading Republican papers in the Fifth Congressional District. Soon after, Mr. Thomas sold his interest to Richards and Breed, who now own the paper.
The Journal was started when the city and county were yet in their infancy. An actual enumeration of the population of the then village of Free- port, and the county of Stephenson showed it as not exceeding one-fifth of the present number. The paper's early history did not differ much from that of other local papers, but its success has been pronounced, and it now stands in the front rank of local journals, honored with the confidence and patronage of the people, and a source of increasing revenue to its management.
The office continued at the corner of Chicago and Bridge streets until the 1st of December, 1879, when it was removed to the very convenient apart- ments, especially fitted up for the paper, corner of Van Buren and Chicago streets. Capt. Richards is the editor-in-chief, with Mr. Breed as local.
The weekly circulation is stated at 1,800, and the value of the enterprise is represented at $25,000.
The Freeport Budget .- Politically of Republican antecedents, gradually becoming a "stalwart " of the straightest sect, locally furnishing a fair amount of news, and personally popular with its friends, the Budget, though a recent acquisition to the roll of newspapers in Freeport, has attained a moderate suc- cess and generous circulation.
The rapid growth of Stephenson County in the years immediately pre- ceding the panic of 1873, increased not alone her resources, but the demands of her citizens for such agencies as would develop those resources, or educate the people. Included in these demands, was that, in response to which the Budget came forth fully armed for the profession, like Pallas from the brow of Jove-making its most graceful bow to an expectant public, on the 10th of May, 1873, under the censorship of K. T. Stabeck, M. D., at the town of Davis, twelve miles east of Freeport. Christened by the name it continues in part to bear, to-day familiar throughout the country, the weakling appeared as a seven-column folio, and met with a genial greeting from the thousand and one distinguished subscribers who had guaranteed it support.
The first edition numbered but one hundred and fifty copies, and the out- look, especially to a beginner, was not calculated to encourage a belief in the support promised. The editor, however, though he stood ready to extend a most hospitable welcome to success, was prepared to encounter disappointment and court the favors of fortune from a distance. To do this effectually, he abandoned physic and the scalpel to engage in the education, rather than the decimation, of the public. This required not alone labor and study, but the capacity to minister to the appetites of a varied and exacting, if not classic or critical, patronage. An opposition paper, though it may espouse the same political creed as its competitor, pursues no ways of pleasantness nor paths of peace. On the contrary, its life is made up of features which contribute to precipitate failure, if that end should ultimately be its portion, and a success
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that is more than passing, is only attained by the employment of the greatest diligence, the possession of very pronounced journalistic talent and unusual capacity for attracting substantial support. While it may be contested that the presence of these requisites does not invariably promote success, no one will insist that success can be conquered in their absence.
At the expiration of one year's experience, the Budget, of Davis and Freeport, had gained a circulation of three hundred, and its editor, assured of success in his venture, put forth renewed efforts to the end that disappointment should not prevail against him. At this period in its life, the suckling of a year previous, had become hardened, as it were, against attack, and began to assume the airs that come with years and education. Its proportions were increased by the addition of two columns to the page, which with the rest were provided with a new dress, cut and fitted after the most approved styles, and presenting an appearance in harmony with its age, as also with the fashions of the day. That no element should be wanting to render the Budget compara- tively irrestible, its number of " coaches " was increased by the addition of Samuel J. Davis and the Rev. J. N. Phillips to the editorial force; one to localize, and the other to eliminate facts from the warp and woof of the ideal, to be set in double-leaded brevier and scattered broadcast, that those who ran might read, and thus be educated up to a proper apprehension of what con- stituted "apples of gold in pictures of silver "-metaphorically speaking, to smite the rock of reportorial and editorial resources, that abundant streams of news and ideas might gush forth. The wisdom of this move soon found expres- sion in the increased circulation and popularity of the Budget. As a medium of news, it was full in abundance and detail ; as a Republican appetizer, it was palatable to the most exaggerated stalwart, manifesting in its make-up and general tone the presence of a manipulator whose battle-cry of freedom would rise above the din of battle between opposing political factions.
Up to this date, the printing necessary to the expression of opinions and news through the columns of the Budget had been executed elsewhere than at their place of birth. The lucubrations, scintillations, bon-mots, and witticisms that were wont to set the table in a roar were hatched in Davis, but set up, cor- rected, justified, printed and scattered broadcast from Freeport. With the suc- cess which, what has been written would indicate existed, it was determined to effect a reform in this particular; to be self-sustained in fact, as also in name. Acting upon this suggestion, Dr. Stabeck, in the fall of 1874, purchased com- plete outfits of type and presses, which he removed to Davis and set up, whence he dates his first experience in the practical field of journalism. When these innovations and additions became of record, Dr. Stabeck's next move was to render the paper attractive in its proportions, as it had become in contents, by increasing it to a six-column quarto, as roomy in point of dimensions as any paper published in Stephenson County. Here his ambition came to a full stop, so to speak, remaining unmoved by the rush of matter or the wreck of forms until 1875. In the spring of that year, K. C. Stabeck, a brother of the Budget's original sponsor, yearning to become a journalist, purchased a half-interest in the paper, and occasioned a change in the firm name from Stabeck sole to Stabeck Brothers, the new dispensation being welcomed with a generous hospitality by those who were to be benefited or improved. Thus relieved from the onerous duties incident to editorial life, Dr. Stabeck sailed for Europe, whence he traveled extensively, taking advantage of the opportunities afforded him professionally, or dreaming the happy hours away in the kursaals or cafes of the continent, weaving his observations there
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into delightful communications to his paper, and returning after a season of nine months to resume familiarity with the actual of life, nowhere more free from fancy and idealities than in the editorial rooms of a prosperous weekly.
At this date, the Budget had assumed the dignities, emoluments, preroga- tives and influence of a successful paper. Its circulation had reached 700, with a prospective increase in the near future, and happy were the days of its editors and backers at the cheerful promise held out by fame and fortune, the hand- maids of industry and enterprise. The succeeding two years, during which the Budget flourished, were comparatively free from events in the journal's life calculated to paralyze its energies or abate its influence; patronage and pros- perity combined to render the paper a fact both significant and undeniable, and, in 1877, the influence of this "fact " was further extended by its removal to Freeport, where it entered upon a more extended field of weekly observa- tions and duties. Prior to that event, Mr. Stabeck purchased the Monitor, an independent production published in the city of F., and merged it into the Budget, with all that the term implies. In this enterprise, A. Keeler was asso- ciated with the proprietors, aiding in conducting the paper at its new location, while the Davis Budget was still maintained, K. C. Stabeck piloting its edito- rial and financial course.
In the spring of 1878, Mr. Keeler bade adieu to his readers and retired from one of the editorial chairs, when Charles R. Haws succeeded to the vacancy, remaining until the following fall, at which date K. T. Stabeck assumed sole control and responsibility. The Davis Budget was then discon- tinued, and K. C. Stabeck deserted the field of journalism for the purpose of embracing the profession of the law.
K. T. Stabeck, M. D., remained in charge until the spring of 1880, mak- ing the paper a successful competitor with its rivals for support and influence, and arming and equipping the journalistic venture with mechanical and intellec- tual aids for supremacy in the contest between political parties then impending. In February of that year, the Doctor decided to resume the practice of his pro- fession, and, acting upon this suggestion, sold out to Gen. Smith D. Atkins, who once more became identified with the "fourth estate," as the head and front of the Budget, being assisted in the undertaking by Thurston Stabeck, of Winnebago County, Dr. K. T. Stabeck exercising control over the local col- umns, which triumvirate yet maintains control, and directs the policy of one of the leading Republican papers in Northern Illinois.
The circulation of the paper is reported at eleven hundred, the investment being rated at $2,500.
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