Ross-shire Journal is 150 years old - and counting!
THE Ross-shire Journal is marking a major milestone in its history today - exactly 150 years since the first edition was published.
The paper was founded in February 1875 by Lewis Munro, a printer from Invergordon who had a dream.
Sometimes dubbed “the prince of printers”, he had a vision that went beyond the commercial printing he specialised in.
It came true on February 19, 1875 when his office produced the first Ross-shire Journal - all four pages of it - costing a penny.
Since then, the paper has charted the life and times of the county through world wars and into the digital age.
Ross and Cromarty Heritage produced an excellent account of the first 125 years in an article which traces the paper’s history from hot metal typesetting to the onset of colour and the online age we have now embraced.
The paper is associated by many for its links to the Watt family - amongst them David sr, his son, Norman and David jr. Between them they led the way for over a century.
Amongst those wishing us well this week was the rector of Ross-shire’s largest secondary school, Karen Cormack. Reflecting the dramatic changes down the years, she said: “We are all so aware that almost all young people get their news from social media and other online sources, and yet, there is still real excitement when a photograph or article appears in the Ross-shire Journal!
“The paper has been a great support to Dingwall Academy over the years and we congratulate them on this milestone.”
Ross MSP Maree Todd added: “For 150 years, the Ross-shire Journal has been delivering trusted news, amplifying local voices, and keeping the local community informed about the issues that matter most.
“As a local politician, I regularly hear from constituents who reference stories they've read in the Ross-shire—proof of just how widely read and respected it is. Whether holding decision-makers to account or celebrating community achievements, the paper continues to be an invaluable source of local information and conversation.
“In an era where local news faces many challenges, it’s more important than ever to support the publications that keep our communities connected. Congratulations to the Ross-shire Journal on this milestone - here’s to many more years of dedicated journalism and impactful storytelling.”
Look out for our printed edition on Friday for more on this landmark - and keep an eye on our website over the weekend too!
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