The Pictorial Press: A History of Tahlequah Journalism
The landscape of local news in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, was significantly shaped by the emergence of The Pictorial Press. Founded during a period of growth in the mid-20th century, this publication evolved from a modest family operation into a central pillar of community information, eventually merging with other historic local titles.
The Humble Beginnings at Big Hollow
The story of The Pictorial Press began in August 1963, founded by Clyde D. Cain and his wife, Margaret B. Cain. In its earliest days, the newspaper lacked a professional office; instead, the page layout—the process of arranging text and images on a page—was conducted on the family dining room table. This makeshift headquarters was located at Big Hollow, situated approximately 8 miles south of Tahlequah in Cherokee County, Oklahoma.
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Expansion and Professional Growth
As the publication gained popularity and its readership grew, the limitations of working from a home environment became apparent. To meet increasing production requirements, Cain rented a dedicated building on State Street in Tahlequah in 1964. This move marked the transition from a home-based project to a formal business operation.
During this expansion phase, the workforce grew with the hiring of Ted Risenhoover and his wife, Carol, who joined the staff to help manage the growing demands of the newspaper.
Ownership Transitions and Legacy
Despite the success of the venture, Clyde D. Cain was known for his desire for new adventures and eventually lost interest in the newspaper industry. In 1965, he sold the publication to Ted Risenhoover. Under Risenhoover's ownership, the paper continued to operate for several years before it was sold again.
The legacy of The Pictorial Press was further cemented when it absorbed two other prominent local publications: the Tahlequah Star and the Cherokee County Chronicle. By integrating these titles, The Pictorial Press linked its history to journalistic traditions in the region that predated the turn of the 20th century.
Key Facts
- Founded: August 1963 by Clyde D. Cain and Margaret B. Cain.
- Original Location: A dining room table at Big Hollow, Cherokee County, Oklahoma.
- First Commercial Office: State Street, Tahlequah (established 1964).
- Key Personnel: Ted Risenhoover and Carol Risenhoover.
- Consolidated Titles: Absorbed the Tahlequah Star and the Cherokee County Chronicle.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1963 | Founded in August by Clyde and Margaret Cain. |
| 1964 | Moved to State Street, Tahlequah; hired the Risenhoovers. |
| 1965 | Sold by Clyde Cain to Ted Risenhoover. |
| 1964-1978 | Period of publication as The Pictorial Press. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded The Pictorial Press?
The newspaper was founded in August 1963 by Clyde D. Cain and his wife, Margaret B. Cain.
Where was the newspaper first produced?
The initial page layouts were created on the Cains' family dining room table at Big Hollow, located 8 miles south of Tahlequah.
When did the paper move to a professional office?
In 1964, Clyde Cain rented a building on State Street in Tahlequah to accommodate the paper's production needs.
Who took over ownership from the founders?
Clyde Cain sold the publication to employee Ted Risenhoover in 1965.
Which other newspapers were absorbed by The Pictorial Press?
The publication eventually absorbed the Tahlequah Star and the Cherokee County Chronicle, connecting it to newspapers established before 1900.