W.A. Adair, 16th president, was born  on Sept. 6, 1857 in Marshall. He entered newspapers in 1884 as owner, devil, reporter and editor of the Marshall Reporter.

James A. Hogg, who later became governor of Texas, moved the plant to Longview a short time later. Adair assisted Hogg in packing the plant for shipment. Later Adair purchased the Marshall Messenger.

He served as mayor of Marshall from 1892 to 1902. He married Hattie Lee Colmery June 20, 1894, and they had two children.

Adair joined Texas Press Association in 1885.