USA > Wisconsin > Lafayette County > History of Lafayette county, Wisconsin > Part 76
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This effort, as the sequel proved, was not entirely unsuccessful. Editorially, the Herald maintained its previous character for plain, unvarnished statements of fact and opinion, which had the effect, it was asserted, of increasing its circulation, influence and resources. Locally, this condition of affairs was duplicated. In those days, local news was " scarce," and likewise inaccessible. It was usually made up of personals, marriages and deaths. The sensational in journalism had not been improvised or appropriated when the Herald was the mark and model of its time in La Fayette County. But the genius of the editor, in advance of the days in which he flourished, provided abundant "matters" for the amusement, instruction and con- sideration of his readers, which was greeted with approval, and enabled him, by an increased patronage, to secure a pronounced and profitable success.
In the issue of March 20, 1856, was begun a series of historical and descriptive sketches of La Fayette County, in alphabetical rotation, beginning with Argyle Township. These pub- lications were continued through succeeding numbers until the material became exhausted, and, though brief, and being made up mostly of statistics, are said to have been admired for their accuracy, as also the means of perpetuating many facts in connection with the county that would otherwise have been lost to posterity.
The aim of the editor, apparently, seemed to be to contribute to the information of his readers, and, in accomplishing this object, he employed every available means. Argument, his- tory, poetry, wit, etc., were utilized to that end, and the belief is ventured that he did not entirely fail.
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HISTORY OF LA FAYETTE COUNTY.
During the second year of its existence, the paper increased in circulation and popular favor to a greater extent, it was then claimed, than any other journalistic venture theretofore published in the county ; and this will be readily believed by a glance at the "make-up" of that day, which embraced editorials, locals, brevities, selections and other pleasing features, on every known subject, and is cited on subjects the times gave birth to.
But by this time, drawbacks upon the prosperity of a new country, before its resources had been developed, and the privations incident to pioneer settlers in a region of wilderness, had been materially diminished. The settlers had time to cultivate the arts and sciences, and this necessitated the editors catering to their wants. In doing so, the Herald's mentor builded knowingly, and his patrons, appreciating the efforts made, responded in a manner both substan- tial and encouraging.
When the platform submitted at the Cincinnati Convention was promulgated, the Herald adopted the principles therein set forth and supported the nominees. At the expiration of Mr. Marvin's apprenticeship of one year, the mechanical and editorial management of the Herald was changed, E. Pickard assuming both, by virtue of a transfer of the title to him for a con- sideration legally valuable. The paper continued to espouse the cause of Democracy. At this time, Shullsburg was the most flourishing town in the county. Vigorous enterprise and the application of capital to mercantile, mechanical and manufacturing purposes had given it a rapid growth. The publication of a journal in a town like this was an important undertaking, requir- ing the greatest diligence, care, labor and perseverance, on the one hand, with a liberal patronage and an appreciative public for its support. Both factors realized these indispensables and both factors endeavored to meet the requirements. The paper improved in all its parts, and merited the support of the citizens of La Fayette County, who responded liberally and aided in its suc- cess. The year closed with reasonably bright prospects for the future, and with the announce- ment that the issue of March 19, 1858, was the final of the La Fayette County Herald. The next issue would be an enlarged sheet, with a new dress and all the auxiliaries to a complete office, deserving of support and indulgence. These promises were all fulfilled, and, on March 26, 1858, a new paper was ushered into life under the name of
The South- Western Local .- The reconstructed journal accordingly appeared on time, and looked in upon its subscribers with a bright face, presenting a comely appearance and cheer- ing, by its presence, the home and the workshop. The new birth, so to speak, was christened by H. S. Magoon, then of Shullsburg, but now of Darlington, and contained many features of excellence, which, though they have since become extremely ordinary attractions, were novelties in those days. Among these were a ladies' department, under the charge of a lady editor, and a department devoted to the interests of farmers. In the former were to be found the latest fashions, rules of etiquette and other matters that, it thought, would prove interesting and bene- ficial to the ladies of La Fayette County ; the farmers' column was filled with agricultural excerpts, laws and suggestions.
A month's experience persuaded Mr. Pickard to a conclusion, that the responsibilities im- posed upon him were of a character that could not be avoided, and to discharge them properly necessitated assistance such as neither of the department editors were able to furnish. Acting upon this conclusion, Egbert E. Carr was brought hither from Rome, N. Y., and associated in the business. The firm was thereafter known as Pickard & Carr, and proved itself worthy of unmeasured confidence. Not that it was able to avoid the annoyances incident to the profes- sion ; so delightful an experience is never enjoyed by members of the " Fourth Estate."
The first volume closed with the issue of March 25, 1859, and, though the period of its publication had been fraught with changes and disappointments, the support which had been extended enabled the proprietors to continue their service and aid in promoting the prosperity of the county. The appearance of the initial number of Volume II, indicated that the proprietors had procured a partial new dress for their protege. The fonts of type which had told many tales, both true and false, which had advertised earthquakes, suicides, bank defaulters and broken banks, boilers bursted, duels fought ; which had related of floods, fires, accidents, pestilence,
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births, marriages and deaths ; which brought joy to some, to others grief-had lost their beauty and utility, and, being without merit or value, had been cast aside, and others substituted in their stead. This improvement was supplemented by enlarging the paper itself, the third vol- ume being introduced to subscribers as an eight-column folio, and in all respects bearing a favor- able comparison with its older and more prosperous cotemporaries.
The partnership was continued until September 27, 1861, at which date Mr. Carr's interest in the Local ceased. "Circumstances over which he had no control, of a political and not per- sonal character," influenced this dissolution, and Mr. Carr proceeded to Monroe, where he pur- chased a weekly paper. The administration of these gentlemen had been successful in all respects. During the campaign of 1860, the Local supported Douglas as against Breckenridge, Bell and Lincoln. When the result was announced, and was followed by the firing upon Sum- ter, the editor insisted that every lover of his country must then take a position. It was not whether he was a Democrat or Republican, but was he for sustaining the Government and flag against their enemies and maintaining the existence of Republican institutions.
Eight months after the withdrawal of Mr. Carr, his surviving partner followed suit. The cause which prompted Mr. Pickard to this course was announced as failing health, aggravated by the sedentary life to which he was subjected by his professional duties. He disposed of the paper to Hugh Campbell, and removed to Gratiot, where he became a farmer. Mr. Campbell retained control but three weeks, the paper during that period being reduced to a half-sheet, when he sold to Patrick F. Duffy, of Dubuque, and Moses Campbell, of Gratiot, who assumed control with the issue of June 6, 1862. It would be the aim of the Local to furnish a loyal and proper support to the Government, reserving the right to condemn extreme measures calculated to further estrange the people, and oppose all doubtful powers as dangerous to the perpetuity of the Union and the liberty and welfare of the citizen. The endeavor would be made to render the paper useful and interesting, excluding from its columns articles and advertisements calcu- lated to corrupt or demoralize the youthful and less cautious reader. Personalities would be carefully eschewed, and only such measures as are considered detrimental to the interests of the State and nation would be attacked. This policy was pursued from the commencement of the war through the darkest days of the struggle that followed, and its merit insisted upon until the suspension of the paper itself prevented its further advocacy. On August 12, 1864, Mr. Camp- bell sold his interest in the Local to Mr. Duffy, who maintained the struggle for success until St. Patrick's Day, 1865, when its publication ceased.
The Shullsburg Patriot and Flag .- With the success of the Herald, in its early days, was born a desire for a second venture in journalism, culminating in the creation of a weekly paper, the title of which heads this notice. It was thought that there was room, not to say demand, for the undertaking, and after some vexatious delays, the first number of the Patriot and Flag was submitted to the public on the morning of March 27, 1855. The paper was a folio with six columns to the page, and, as an exhibit of typographical excellence, as also of journalistic ability, gave evidence of decided merit. The Herald, as is known, was an established authority for- Democrats to square their political compass, and the absence of an organ representing the Whig and Republican voters was seriously felt by members of these parties. To supply this want, the Patriot and Flag was put forth, by C. F. Trevitt & Co., notwithstanding their announcement that the paper would not make the political tenets of any party the vital and all-absorbing principle.
Identifying themselves with the Republican party of Wisconsin, they held that slavery, apart from its inherent wrong, was a drawback and injury to every spot of land where it existed, and a blighting curse which should be curtailed and limited by every means that legislative power or popular will could wield. As a newspaper, aside from its political connections, the Patriot and Flag would be the reporter of news, foreign and domestic, that would interest its read- ers, a register of current events, and a medium through which the public might advertise their wants, promulgate their grievances, and seek the correction of evils which, if permitted to con- tinue unrestrained, would ultimately destroy all that was worthy of preservation. With these sentiments and these objects, the paper began its career, and received a handsome support from all classes.
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HISTORY OF LA FAYETTE COUNTY.
On May 1, 1855, the firm of C. F. Trevitt & Co. was dissolved, Frederick Thearle retiring, leaving Mr. Trevitt sole owner. This condition of affairs was prolonged until August 29, of the same year, when the Patriot and Flag, after five months' battling with fate, yielded to the inevit- able, and suspended. The editor commented upon the calamity after the manner of a philoso- pher, as follows, and retired. He is now a resident of Blanchardville :
" There are occasions in editorial as well as in private life, marked with peculiar and almost painful interest ; but none more so than the withdrawal of a public journalist from that path of duty to which he has continually, patiently and cheerfully devoted himself. The present issue dissolves our editorial connection with the Patriot and Flag, and probably with it the paper will cease to exist. And it is due our patrons and friends that we should exchange a kind word at parting, as well as explain briefly the causes of our abandonment of an enterprise so heartily and hopefully cherished at its inception. Upon the commencement of the publication of the Patriot and Flag, we were well aware of thediscouragements and difficulties attendant upon man - aging and sustaining a country paper, and that it was by no means a lucrative or fortune-making business ; but we did hope from the representations and promises of our sanguine friends, as well as from our own too ardent anticipations, that we might, with industry and attention to business, gain a respectable and competent livelihood ; in this we have been deceived. When we say that promises of patronage have invariably exceeded performance ; that we have been left in a great measure in every difficulty to struggle single handed and alone; that we have found our sub- scription list more ostentatious than available, and our bills accumulating on our hands for pay- ment-we say it with no feelings of recrimination and complaint, but give merely an ordinary phase of editorial life. Joined with these things, which, in spite of the enthusiasm which accom- panies a new undertaking, were to be expected from the outset, a new burden of labor and responsibility was thrown upon our shoulders by the removal and consequent retirement of our esteemed and high-minded associate-and our own health, unfortunately, when we needed it the most, proving altogether insufficient for our duties, we find ourself involved and embarrassed to a greater degree than motives of prudence and self-regard will allow us to remain ; and if we furl our Flag and the tones of the Patriot are heard no more, it proceeds from no disgust to the cause we have espoused, or want of sympathy with those with whom we have been associated, but from considerations thus briefly intimated. But as we retire from our post of duty, we have many favors to acknowledge, and will carry with us the remembrance of many a quiet kindness and cordial smile that came to the careworn spirit refreshingly. Kind hearts and joyous faces have welcomed our weekly visits, and gratefully have we felt that our mission was not altogether a thankless one. And, feeling sadly that our future intercourse with those whom we cherish with the liveliest regard and esteem should be thus suspended, we linger thus to bid our good- bye !"
La Fayette County Independent-Was established in Darlington, May 11, 1861, H. H. Gray being the editor. It was a six-column folio, printed in brevier, and was "newsy," and, in its appearance, betokened enterprise on the part of its management. The first year proved the opposite of remunerative to its publishers, though they did not feel disposed to complain of the support that had been extended. Starting amidst a financial crisis without a parallel in the history of the country, and at the out break of a conspiracy for the overthrow of the Govern- ment, pronounced success was not anticipated, and the editors were not disappointed that the venture had failed to realize that desideratum.
The paper was politically independent, with a tendency toward Democracy, yet more con- servative than its Democratic cotemporary at Shullsburg. Save the Union at every sacrifice, rather than by Constitutional means, seemed to be the view of its editor in that behalf, from the temper of editorials on the subject. Its war news was equal to the most exacting demand of readers, being full, complete and written at the scenes described. This feature of excellency embraced letters from soldiers who were present at the battles fought, both in Virginia and the Southwest, as, also, selections from the most reliable correspondence contained in the New York and Chicago dailies. Locally, there was little to furnish an opportunity for sensational literature ;
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the war occupied public attention in those days, and the Independent, fully appreciating the sit- uation, shaped its "make-up" to supply public expectations. With the issue of August 1, 1863, the firm of J. C. Rutledge & Co. is advertised as publishers, though H. H. Gray remained editor. No explanation was vouchsafed for this, and the Independent sailed under the firm name until April 1, 1864, when it again changed hands, F. S. Haughawout, of the Grant County Witness, assuming control.
Upon taking charge, Mr. Haughawout let it be understood that it was his purpose to make the paper purely local, devoted to the interests, moral, social and pecuniary, of the community, county, town and State in which he lived. A vigorous prosecution of the war would be advo- cated, and every means available to that end would be employed to render the sheet all that its most earnest admirers could wish. With his advent, an important change was made in the paper, and one which has since come into almost universal use with journals published afar from the " mad- ding throng." The inside, which had theretofore contained editorials and locals, was composed of selections, etc., culled at a distance from their place of happening and made to do duty for all who could be persuaded to avail themselves of their uses. In those days, "patent insides " were new departures in journalism, but to-day they are generally adopted as mediums of news as also economy. This change was succeeded by a change in the political complexion of the Independent. From Democratic of the milder type, it became Republican of the more intense character, and adopted Lincoln and Johnson as its candidates in the campaign of 1864. These changes scarcely attained the desired results, however, but were persevered in until January 5, 1865, when they were abandoned and other innovations ventured. They included the reduction in size of the paper and an enlargement of the type used, with some other minor improvements, all prompted by the cost of publishing and conducting the undertaking. Notwithstanding which, and other efforts, the paper was finally discontinued, its type, materials, etc., together with such other advantages as were susceptible of transfer, being merged into the La Fayette County Union, of which Mr. Haughawout continued to act as editor.
La Fayette County Union .- The lineal descendant or successor to the Independent was put forth at Darlington on Thursday, January 19, 1865, under the direction of F. S. Haugha- wout, who officiated until March, 19, 1865, presenting a newsy sheet, which met with demand and patronage. On the date above indicated, A. F. Dickinson succeeded to the trust, and defined his position as being that of a Union man. Fanaticism would be ignored, and the great truths underlying the principles of both parties would be gleaned, to build a super- structure firm as the adamantine rock, enduring as the everlasting hills. After a brief experi- ence, the paper was enlarged to the usual size of county newspapers, and printed at home, arguing a success for the scheme which must have been gratifying, subsequently confirmed by a press of business requiring assistance to effect its satisfactory transaction. Such assistance was furnished in the person of J. E. Duncan, a whilom editor in La Fayette County, who returned to the journalistic fold as the partner of Mr. Dickinson, publisher of the Union, August 9, 1865, and renewed his acquaintance with cotemporaries, through its columns. Under these influences, it was claimed that the paper steadily increased in its circulation, and doubled its patronage in other departments. The third volume was opened under favorable auspices, with the opinion that the influence exerted was greater than that wielded by any paper previously published in the county. The paper, in appearance, compared favorably with the Democrat, and contributed a full share of news to its thousand and one readers. Mr. Dickinson prolonged his connection with the enterprise for nearly two years, or until April 4, 1867, when the copartnership was dissolved, Mr. Duncan purchasing the interest of his part- ner, and becoming sole proprietor. On April 15, 1869, he enlarged the paper to an eight-column sheet, and adopted the title of The Republican. Subsequently, on August 5, Charles R. Ham- street entered the office of Capt. Duncan for one year, and, in October of the same year, in con- junction with William L. Abbott, purchased the business and they became the editors and pub- lishers. On March 3, 1870, M. J. Miner purchased Hamstreet's interest, and June 2, 1870, sold it to E. T. and Walter J. Wrigglesworth. The latter became sole proprietor on April 13,
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1872, and conducted the paper successfully until April 1, 1878, when he disposed of his inter- est to James Bintliff, who associated with himself Edward H. Bintliff, who, as joint editors and publishers under the firm name of James Bintliff & Son, still conduct the business. The paper was enlarged on July 4, 1879, to a nine-column sheet, and the name changed to the Darlington Republican, a caption which it still retains.
The La Fayette County Democrat was established at Darlington November 1, 1865, and, because of the similarity of political faith and the employment of the same materials, it may be considered a legitimate successor of the Shullsburg Local. James R. Rose was the first editor. On the 13th of January, 1866, the management of the office was transferred to James G. Knight, who became full possessor thereof. The paper under his efficient control has pros- pered, and is now not only ably edited, but is reaping the reward of such abilities, in an encouraging bestowal of patronage.
THE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
The citizens of La Fayette County, recognizing the necessity of an association of the friends of agricultural and mechanical industries, with the object of improving the condition of agriculture, horticulture and the mechanical and household arts, met at Darlington July 18, 1857, and organized the "La Fayette County Agricultural Society." At this meeting, E. C. Townsend, of Shullsburg, was elected Chairman, and C. M. Waring, Secretary pro tem. After an exchange of views on different subjects connected with such a society, the following officers for the ensuing year were chosen :
President, C. J. Cutting. Vice Presidents, John Z. Saxton, Argyle; Owen Wright, Bel- mont; Matthew Murphy, Benton ; Allen Warden, Centre; William Bray, Elk Grove ; Thomas Lindsey, Fayette ; Elias Slothower, Gratiot; Nathan Olmsted, Kendall ; George Kleeberger, Monticello ; James Harker, New Diggings ; J. S. Kelso, White Oak Springs; N. Dumfrey, Willow Springs ; Dr. Varmun, Wayne ; George Schellinger, Wiota ; E. C. Townsend, Shulls- burg. Treasurer, E. C. Townsend. Corresponding Secretary, C. M. Waring. Recording Secretary, Fred Thearle.
A committee was then appointed, consisting of H. H. Gray, Fred Thearle, C. M. Waring, J. B. Rose and S. W. Osborne, to draft a suitable constitution and by-laws for the association. Nathan Olmsted, S. W. Osborne, S. A. Davis, Nicholas Dumfrey and E. C. Townsend were appointed a committee to select grounds for the first fair of the society, to be held later in the season. The society then adjourned, to assemble in the village of Darlington September 1,1857.
At the next meeting of the society, which was held September 1, 1857, the Committee on Grounds reported, and recommended Darlington as the most suitable place, and the grounds owned by James Wadsworth as the most desirable spot for holding the fair. The report of this committee was adopted, and the 14th and 15th of October was the time decided upon for the exhibition.
The receipts of the society for the first year, by subscriptions, donations, etc., were $319.45 ; the expenses, $184.76-leaving a balance in the treasury of $134.69. Hon. H. S. Magoon delivered the first address.
At a meeting of the association held December 10, 1857, the following officers for the year 1858 were chosen : President, C. J. Cutting. Vice Presidents, John Smith, Willow Springs ; J. S. Kelso, White Oak Springs; T. J. Oviatt, Argyle. Treasurer, E. C. Townsend. Secre- tary, Fred Thearle.
The fair was held this year September 21 and 22, at Darlington, and the annual address was made by James R. Rose.
1859 .- Fair held at Darlington September 21 and 22. Officers : President, S. A. Davis ; Vice Presidents, N. Dunphy, Samuel Cole, J. S. Kelso ; Treasurer, Allen Warden ; Secretary, Fred G. Thearle. Annual address by Col. C. M. Waring. Receipts, $417.89; disburse- ments. $409.69.
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1860 .- Fair held at Darlington September 6 and 7, Officers : President, John D. Mar- tin ; Vice Presidents, A. Townsend, E. Slothower, A. B. P. Wood ; Treasurer, F. C. Townsend ; Secretary, Glen Cuyler. Annual address by Hon. P. B. Simpson. Receipts, $385 ; disburse- ments, $403.45.
1861 .- Fair held at Darlington, September 25 and 26. Officers : President, George W. Russell ; Vice Presidents, John Roberts, George Schellinger, Richard Trestrail ; Treasurer, C. B. Cutling ; Secretary, Glen Cuyler. Annual address by George W. Russell. Receipts, $348.35; disbursements, $328.14.
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