The Longview News: A Century of Local Journalism
For over a hundred years, The Longview News has served as a primary record of community events and local history. From its inception as a venture funded by a lumber tycoon to its current status under corporate ownership, the publication has mirrored the growth and evolution of the city it covers.
The Founding Era
The publication first entered the public sphere on January 27, 1923, when Ralph Tennal published the inaugural issue. The venture was financed by Robert A. Long, the president of the Long-Bell Lumber Company and the founder of the city of Longview.
The early days of the paper saw rapid leadership changes. After a few months, Tennal departed, and Robert Long hired John Morgan McClelland Sr. to take over as editor. This transition marked the beginning of a long era of stability and family leadership for the publication.
Evolution and Growth
The newspaper quickly expanded its reach. On April 2, 1923, it transitioned to a daily publication schedule and underwent a series of name changes, moving from The Longview News to The Longview Daily News, and eventually becoming The Daily News.
In 1925, a significant shift in ownership occurred. John Morgan McClelland Sr. partnered with Robert Long to establish the Longview Publishing Company, which purchased the newspaper from the Long-Bell Lumber Company.
Family Legacy and Corporate Transition
The McClelland family maintained a stewardship of the paper for several decades. In 1955, John Morgan McClelland Sr. retired, passing the operational reins to his son, John McClelland Jr.
This family-led era concluded in 1999 when Ted Natt and John Natt—grandsons of McClelland Sr.—sold the newspaper to Howard Publications. This sale ended 76 years of continuous ownership by the McClelland-Natt family. Shortly thereafter, in 2002, Lee Enterprises acquired the publication.
Modern Adaptations in Delivery
Like many traditional print media outlets, the newspaper has adapted to changing consumption habits. Starting June 27, 2023, the print edition was reduced to a three-day-a-week schedule, appearing only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Additionally, the publication shifted its distribution model, moving away from traditional newspaper delivery carriers in favor of mail delivery via the U.S. Postal Service.
Key Facts
- Founded: January 27, 1923.
- Original Financier: Robert A. Long of the Long-Bell Lumber Company.
- Family Ownership: The McClelland-Natt family owned the paper for 76 years.
- Current Owner: Lee Enterprises (acquired in 2002).
- Print Schedule: Reduced to Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday as of June 2023.
| Year | Event/Owner | Key Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1923 | Robert A. Long | First issue published; transitioned to daily format. |
| 1925 | Longview Publishing Company | Purchased from Long-Bell Lumber Company. |
| 1955 | John McClelland Jr. | Took over operations from his father. |
| 1999 | Howard Publications | End of 76-year family ownership. |
| 2002 | Lee Enterprises | Acquired the newspaper. |
| 2023 | Lee Enterprises | Reduced print frequency and switched to USPS delivery. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded The Longview News?
The first issue was published by Ralph Tennal, but the paper was financed by Robert A. Long, the founder of Longview and president of the Long-Bell Lumber Company.
How long was the newspaper owned by the McClelland-Natt family?
The McClelland-Natt family owned and operated the newspaper for 76 years before selling it to Howard Publications in 1999.
When did the newspaper become a daily publication?
The newspaper began publishing daily on April 2, 1923.
What are the current print delivery days?
As of June 27, 2023, the print edition is delivered three days a week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
How is the newspaper delivered now?
The newspaper has transitioned from traditional delivery carriers to mail delivery through the U.S. Postal Service.