The Times of Philadelphia: A History of the Daily Newspaper
In the bustling media landscape of late 19th-century Pennsylvania, The Times emerged as a significant voice in urban journalism. Established in Philadelphia, this daily newspaper navigated the complex intersection of civic duty, political influence, and commercial competition for nearly three decades.
Founding and Political Mission
Launched on March 13, 1875, The Times was the brainchild of Alexander McClure and Frank McLaughlin. The founders envisioned the publication as an independent platform dedicated to fighting corruption and opposing party machine politics—the system where a small group of party leaders exercised tight control over candidate nominations and government appointments.
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While the paper began with a mission of independence, the political tides shifted over time. By the mid-1890s, the publication had moved away from its original stance and became aligned with the ruling Republican Party machine in Philadelphia.
Growth and Market Competition
The Times targeted a middle-class audience, competing for readers alongside other prominent local publications such as the Press, the Evening Telegraph, and the Public Ledger. Its growth was rapid; by 1880, it had secured the third-largest circulation in the city, selling 32,500 copies daily.
Throughout the end of the 19th century, The Times remained a formidable rival to the Public Ledger. By 1900, both newspapers claimed a daily circulation of approximately 70,000 copies, reflecting the high demand for daily news in the industrial metropolis.
The Ochs Era and Merger
The final chapter of the newspaper began in 1901 when Adolph Ochs became its proprietor and editor. Ochs, a strategic media figure, expanded his holdings the following year by purchasing the Philadelphia Public Ledger. To consolidate his influence and resources, Ochs merged The Times into the Public Ledger, bringing the independent run of The Times to a close on August 11, 1902.
Key Facts
- Founded: March 13, 1875, by Alexander McClure and Frank McLaughlin.
- Ceased Publication: August 11, 1902.
- Headquarters: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
- Peak Circulation: Approximately 70,000 daily copies by 1900.
- Final Fate: Merged into the Public Ledger by Adolph Ochs.
- Notable Contributor: American writer and journalist Mary Temple Bayard.
Publication Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Daily Newspaper |
| Founders | Alexander McClure and Frank McLaughlin |
| Operational Years | 1875–1902 |
| Primary Readership | Middle-class |
| OCLC Number | 10288632 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded The Times in Philadelphia?
The newspaper was founded by Alexander McClure and Frank McLaughlin in 1875.
What was the original purpose of the newspaper?
It was established as an independent voice to combat corruption and party machine politics.
How successful was the paper's circulation?
It was highly successful, reaching the third-largest circulation in Philadelphia by 1880 (32,500 copies) and growing to roughly 70,000 daily copies by 1900.
Why did The Times stop publishing?
The paper ceased publication after it was purchased and merged into the Public Ledger by Adolph Ochs in 1902.
Who was a notable person associated with the paper?
Mary Temple Bayard, an American journalist and writer, is noted as a significant figure associated with the publication.