The Argus was a weekly newspaper published in Holbrook, Navajo County, Arizona, from 1895 to 1900. Serving the rural community during Arizona’s territorial period, it provided local news, advertisements, and insights into the social, economic, and political life of the region. This report explores its history, content, and significance, using digitized records from the Library of Congress’ Chronicling America and the Arizona Memory Project.
Establishment and Publication
The Argus began on December 12, 1895, in Holbrook, a town along the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. Published by the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records, it ran until December 1900 (LCCN: sn 94051341, OCLC: 25084608). Digitized issues from 1895–1900 are available through the Arizona Historical Digital Newspapers collection. Holbrook was a hub for ranching and trade, and The Argus succeeded The Holbrook News (1890–1891), later transitioning to The Holbrook Argus (1900–1913).
Content and Editorial Focus
The Argus covered:
- Local News: Town meetings, social events, and local government in Navajo County.
- Economic Updates: Ranching, railroad developments, and commerce.
- Advertisements: Local businesses, including stores and saloons.
- Political and Territorial News: Arizona Territory politics and national news.
- Social Notices: Births, marriages, and deaths for genealogical records. Its editorial stance likely reflected Holbrook’s community values, focusing on growth and civic engagement.
Key Figures and Operations
Details on editors or publishers are limited, but local business or railroad figures likely ran the newspaper. Printed in Holbrook, it served Navajo County and nearby areas, with digitization credited to the Arizona State Library.
Historical Context
Published during Arizona’s territorial period (1863–1912), The Argus operated amid railroad expansion and population growth. Holbrook’s role as a trade hub shaped its focus on local concerns, with some coverage of statehood debates and Native American relations.
Impact and Legacy
The Argus fostered community cohesion in Holbrook, documenting daily life and commerce. Its digitized archives (1895–1900) are a genealogical and historical resource, accessible via Chronicling America. Its successor, The Holbrook Argus, continued its legacy until 1913, reflecting the importance of local journalism.
Conclusion
The Argus (1895–1900) was a vital newspaper in Holbrook, capturing Navajo County’s territorial history. Its coverage of local events and commerce offers a window into rural Arizona life. Preserved through digitization, it remains a key resource for researchers studying Arizona’s early settlers.
Sources: Library of Congress Chronicling America, Arizona Memory Project.