The Saint Paul Globe: A History of Political Influence and Journalism
The story of the Saint Paul Globe is a reflection of the volatile political and business landscape of late 19th-century Minnesota. Founded during an era when newspapers served as the primary vehicles for political advocacy, the Globe navigated shifts in ownership, architectural ambition, and partisan loyalty before its eventual closure.
The Founding and Early Political Alignment
The newspaper was established by Harlan P. Hall, who was also the founder of the Saint Paul Dispatch. The catalyst for the Globe's creation was a sudden political shift; in 1876, a stock company purchased the Dispatch, transforming it overnight from a Democratic publication into an "aggressive Republican organ." Seeking to maintain a voice for Democratic causes in a predominantly Democratic Saint Paul, Hall founded the Globe.
The new venture found immediate success and official support, as the city council quickly awarded the newspaper its printing contract. Under Hall's leadership, the publication remained steadfast in its support of Democratic candidates and ideologies.
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Ownership Transitions and Expansion
As the publication grew, its ownership evolved. In 1881, a joint stock company composed of local politicians and businessmen acquired the paper. By 1885, ownership passed to Lewis Baker, a Democratic politician hailing from West Virginia.
The newspaper's physical presence became a landmark of the city on May 1, 1887, when it moved into the Globe Building. Designed by architect E. Townsend Mix and located at the corner of Fourth and Cedar Streets, this ten-story Romanesque structure was the tallest building in Saint Paul until 1889. The building featured a 40-foot tower equipped with an internal spiral staircase leading to a lookout. The organization further expanded its reach in 1889 by opening a second building for its Minneapolis office.
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The Era of James J. Hill and Final Years
The late 1890s brought significant changes in leadership. After Lewis Baker departed for a diplomatic post in Nicaragua in 1894, the paper was briefly edited by Judge Charles Eugene Flandrau and owned by the estate of Norman Kittson. In 1896, the railroad executive James J. Hill purchased the Globe, utilizing the paper as a mouthpiece for his extensive business interests.
Despite its Democratic roots, the paper took an unusual political turn during the 1896 Presidential election. Due to Harlan P. Hall's intense dislike of William Jennings Bryan, the Globe supported William McKinley. During this period, Hill appointed several editors, including Joseph J. Pyle (formerly of the Pioneer Press), George F. Spinney, William F. Luxton (of the Winnipeg Free Press), and George W. Sikes.
Despite its high-profile ownership, the Globe struggled with financial sustainability. Due to a lack of sufficient advertising revenue, the newspaper folded in 1905. The iconic buildings in Saint Paul and Minneapolis continued to serve as general office spaces until they were demolished in 1959 and 1958, respectively.
Key Facts
- Founder: Harlan P. Hall.
- Political Leanings: Primarily Democratic, though it supported William McKinley in 1896.
- Architectural Milestone: The Globe Building was Saint Paul's tallest building from 1887 to 1889.
- Notable Owner: Railroad executive James J. Hill (acquired in 1896).
- Reason for Closure: Insufficient advertising revenue in 1905.
Publication Timeline Summary
| Publication Name | Location | Years of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Globe | St. Paul, Minn. | 1878–1884 |
| St. Paul Daily Globe | Saint Paul, Minn. | 1884–1896 |
| The Saint Paul Globe | St. Paul, Minn. | 1896–1905 |
| The Morning Call | St. Paul, Minn. | 1894–1895 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Saint Paul Globe founded?
It was founded by Harlan P. Hall after the Saint Paul Dispatch was purchased by a stock company and shifted from a Democratic newspaper to a Republican one.
Who was the most prominent business figure to own the Globe?
Railroad executive James J. Hill bought the newspaper in 1896 and used it to promote his business interests.
What was unique about the Globe Building?
Designed by E. Townsend Mix, it was a ten-story Romanesque building that served as the tallest building in Saint Paul from 1887 to 1889, featuring a 40-foot lookout tower.
Why did the newspaper eventually close?
The Globe ceased operations in 1905 because it could not generate enough advertising revenue to remain viable.
Did the Globe always support Democratic candidates?
While it was generally a Democratic paper, it supported Republican William McKinley in the 1896 election because of Harlan P. Hall's strong dislike for William Jennings Bryan.