The Emporia Gazette, established in 1890, has been a cornerstone of Emporia, Kansas, providing news and insights to its community for over a century.
Under the stewardship of the White family since 1895, the Gazette has played a pivotal role in American journalism.
Emporia Gazette
The Emporia Gazette is a daily newspaper in Emporia, Kansas. Founded in 1890, it has been owned by The White Corporation since 1895, with Christopher White Walker, grandson of William Lindsay White, currently serving as publisher.
The newspaper operates from its headquarters at 517 Merchant Street, Emporia, Kansas 66801. As of recent records, the Gazette has a circulation of approximately 2,947 copies.
History
In 1895, William Allen White purchased the Gazette for $3,000, marking the beginning of a significant era in journalism. White’s editorial, “What’s the Matter With Kansas?”, published in 1896, criticized populism and the presidential campaign of William Jennings Bryan, elevating the paper’s national prominence.
White’s friendship with President Theodore Roosevelt further enhanced the Gazette’s influence. In 1923, White won the Pulitzer Prize for his editorial, “To an Anxious Friend”, defending free speech.
His autobiography, published posthumously, received the 1947 Pulitzer Prize. The newspaper remains under the White family’s ownership, maintaining its commitment to quality journalism.
Associated Publications
The White family extends its journalistic endeavors beyond the Emporia Gazette. They own The St. Marys Star in St. Marys, Kansas, and The Chase County Leader-News in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas.
In November 2013, they acquired The Westmoreland Recorder in Westmoreland, Kansas. Further expanding their reach, The White Corporation added the Junction City Union,
The Abilene Reflector-Chronicle, and the Wamego Smoke Signal to its newspaper family in March 2016.
Notable Achievements
Significant achievements in journalism mark the Gazette’s legacy. William Allen White’s editorials garnered Pulitzer Prizes and influenced national political discourse.
The paper’s dedication to free speech and journalistic integrity has set a standard in the industry.
Community Engagement
Throughout its history, the Emporia Gazette has been deeply embedded in the local community. It has reported on local and national events, contributing to Emporia’s cultural and social fabric. The newspaper’s commitment to community journalism continues to this day.
| Year | Event | Significance | Award | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1895 | William Allen White purchases the Gazette | Beginning of White family’s stewardship | N/A | William Allen White |
| 1896 | Publication of “What’s the Matter With Kansas?” | Elevated national prominence | N/A | William Allen White |
| 1923 | Pulitzer Prize for “To an Anxious Friend” | Defense of free speech | Pulitzer Prize | William Allen White |
| 1947 | Posthumous Pulitzer for Autobiography | Recognition of literary contribution | Pulitzer Prize | William Allen White |
The Emporia Gazette’s enduring legacy is a testament to its unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence and community service. As it continues under the White family’s leadership, the Gazette remains a vital source of news and information for Emporia and beyond.
FAQs
What is the Emporia Gazette?
The Emporia Gazette is a daily newspaper based in Emporia, Kansas, established in 1890 and owned by The White Corporation since 1895.
Who was William Allen White?
William Allen White was a renowned journalist and editor who purchased the Gazette in 1895. He gained national prominence for his editorials and won Pulitzer Prizes in 1923 and posthumously in 1947.
Is the Emporia Gazette still in operation?
Yes, the Emporia Gazette continues to operate as a daily newspaper, maintaining its commitment to quality journalism under the White family’s ownership.
What other publications are associated with the Emporia Gazette?
The White family also owns The St. Marys Star, The Chase County Leader-News, The Westmoreland Recorder, the Junction City Union, The Abilene Reflector-Chronicle, and the Wamego Smoke Signal.
Where is the Emporia Gazette located?
The Emporia Gazette is headquartered at 517 Merchant Street, Emporia, Kansas 66801.
