Moose Jaw Times-Herald: A History of Saskatchewan Journalism
For over a century, the Moose Jaw Times-Herald served as a primary source of information for the residents of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, and its surrounding regions. As a daily tabloid, it documented the growth and evolution of the community from the late 19th century until its eventual closure in late 2017.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1889 as the Moose Jaw Times.
- Final Publication Date: December 7, 2017.
- Format: Tabloid daily newspaper.
- Peak Circulation: 59,220 total weekly.
- Headquarters: 44 Fairford Street West, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
The Early Years and Evolution
The publication began its journey in 1889 when J.N. McDonald founded it as a weekly newspaper known as the Moose Jaw Times. In its early years, the paper was linked to significant political figures; between 1894 and 1895, Thomas Walter Scott served as an owner-editor. Scott would later achieve historical prominence as the first Premier of Saskatchewan.
As the region grew, so did the publication. In 1906, the paper transitioned from a weekly to a daily format and was renamed the Evening News. The early 20th century was a period of expansion and consolidation. In 1920, the paper acquired its competitor, the Daily News, and in 1923, it launched a morning edition called the Times Morning Herald, although this specific edition was discontinued shortly thereafter.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Ownership Transitions and Corporate Shifts
The mid-to-late 20th century saw the Moose Jaw Times-Herald pass through several major media conglomerates. In 1949, the paper was acquired by Roy Thomson, and it remained under the stewardship of Thomson Newspapers for nearly five decades.
The landscape shifted in October 1995 when the paper, along with the Prince Albert Daily Herald and the Swift Current Booster, was sold to Hollinger Inc. This began a series of rapid ownership changes: the papers were sold to CanWest in 2000, and subsequently to the Montreal-based publisher Transcontinental in 2002.
The final chapter of the newspaper's ownership began in May 2016, when Transcontinental sold its 13 Saskatchewan-based publications to Star News Publishing of Alberta.
The End of an Era
Despite its long history of service, the digital age and changing media consumption habits led to the paper's decline. By 2016, the publication had already reduced its schedule, ending its Monday editions. Shortly after the acquisition by Star News Publishing, the company announced that the Moose Jaw Times-Herald would cease publication. The final edition was printed on December 7, 2017.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Publication Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | J.N. McDonald |
| Original Name | Moose Jaw Times |
| Final Publisher | Gordon Brewerton (Star News Publishing) |
| Final Editor | Marlon Hector |
| Language | English |
| Weekly Circulation | 59,220 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Moose Jaw Times-Herald stop publishing?
The newspaper officially ceased publication on December 7, 2017.
Who was the first Premier of Saskatchewan associated with the paper?
Thomas Walter Scott, who served as an owner-editor from 1894 to 1895, later became the first Premier of Saskatchewan.
How did the newspaper's format change over time?
It started as a weekly in 1889, converted to a daily in 1906, and eventually operated as a tabloid daily.
Which companies owned the paper before its closure?
The paper was owned by Thomson Newspapers, Hollinger Inc., CanWest, Transcontinental, and finally Star News Publishing.
What was the circulation of the paper?
The Moose Jaw Times-Herald had a total weekly circulation of 59,220.