Aiken Standard: A History of Local Journalism
The Aiken Standard stands as a cornerstone of community information in South Carolina, evolving through centuries of ownership and technological shifts. From its early days as a local journal to its current status as a modern daily, the publication has mirrored the growth and development of the region it serves.
The Early Years and Political Influence
During the 1800s, the newspaper transitioned through several owners. One of the most distinguished figures in its early history was James F. Byrnes. Byrnes was a man of immense political stature, serving as a congressman, U.S. senator, Governor of South Carolina, U.S. Secretary of State, Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, and an "Assistant" to the President of the United States.
Alongside his partner, Alva Lorenz, Byrnes helped develop the Journal and Review into the primary newspaper for Aiken. This partnership lasted until 1912, when Lorenz purchased Byrnes' remaining interest in the publication.
Mergers and the Era of Hot Lead
In 1953, the newspaper entered a new chapter when Alva Lorenz sold the business to Benjamin Josey King and his wife, Annie Howell King. The Kings were already established in the industry as owners of a weekly publication called the Aiken Standard.
The couple merged their two holdings to create the Aiken Standard and Review. During this period, the paper operated out of a modest facility on Richland Avenue. Production relied on Linotype machines—mechanical devices used to cast lines of type in lead—and hot lead production methods, which were the industry standard for many decades.
Modernization and Expansion
A significant turning point occurred in 1968 when the Evening Post Publishing Company of Charleston acquired the newspaper. This acquisition triggered a rapid modernization process. The company immediately began construction on a 24,000-square-foot publishing plant featuring a new offset press, a printing technique that transfers ink from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the paper, offering higher quality and speed.
The transition was swift; the old operation ceased on September 26, 1969, and the first issue from the new plant was published on September 29, 1969. At this time, the name was shortened to the Aiken Standard.
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Leadership and Growth (1969–1989)
Samuel A. Cothran served as the first Publisher and Editor of the modern Aiken Standard. Under his leadership in 1985, the paper installed a larger, faster press and launched a Sunday morning edition. Mr. Cothran led the publication until his retirement in 1989.
Continued Evolution
Following Cothran's retirement, Scott B. Hunter took over as Publisher in April 1989. Shortly after, on August 19, 1989, the newspaper introduced its first Saturday morning edition. The paper remains part of Evening Post Industries, which also owns the Post and Courier in Charleston and various other media outlets nationwide.
In December 2023, Ellen C. Priest was appointed president and publisher, succeeding the retired Scott Hunter. Most recently, in April 2024, the newspaper announced a transition from traditional carrier delivery to postal delivery.
Key Facts
- Prominent Early Owner: James F. Byrnes, a former U.S. Supreme Court Justice and Secretary of State.
- Major Merger: The Aiken Standard and Journal and Review merged in 1953.
- Facility Upgrade: A 24,000-square-foot modern plant was completed in 1969.
- Parent Company: Evening Post Industries.
- Current Leadership: Ellen C. Priest (President and Publisher as of December 2023).
- Delivery Change: Switched to postal delivery in April 2024.
Ownership and Milestone Summary
| Period/Year | Key Owner/Leader | Major Event |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1912 | James F. Byrnes & Alva Lorenz | Development of the Journal and Review |
| 1953 | Benjamin & Annie King | Merger to create Aiken Standard and Review |
| 1968 | Evening Post Publishing Co. | Acquisition and construction of modern plant |
| 1985 | Samuel A. Cothran | Installation of new press and Sunday edition launch |
| 1989 | Scott B. Hunter | Launch of Saturday morning edition |
| 2023 | Ellen C. Priest | Appointment as President and Publisher |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was James F. Byrnes?
James F. Byrnes was a prominent early owner of the newspaper and a highly influential political figure who served as a U.S. Senator, Governor of South Carolina, U.S. Secretary of State, and Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
When did the newspaper become the Aiken Standard?
The name was shortened to the Aiken Standard in September 1969, coinciding with the move to a new, modern publishing plant.
What technological changes occurred in the 1960s?
The newspaper moved from using Linotype machines and hot lead production to a modern 24,000-square-foot facility equipped with an offset press.
Who currently owns the Aiken Standard?
The newspaper is owned by Evening Post Industries, which also operates the Post and Courier in Charleston and other media properties across the country.
How has the delivery method changed recently?
In April 2024, the Aiken Standard announced that it would switch from using independent carriers to postal delivery.