Serving Texas newspapers since 1880
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history of TPA past presidents
Texas Newspaper Founding dates
The Texas Press Association was conceived on May 19, 1880 when 77 newspaper publishers from across the state convened in Houston. After long sessions and heated debates in the parlor of the old Hutchins House, the Texas Press Association was founded. J.W. Fishburn, publisher of the Mexia Ledger, was elected president.
TPA has come a long way since then. In 1947 the association hired its first full-time manager. In November 1970, TPA acquired its present headquarters at 718 West Fifth Street in Austin.
TPA and its affiliate organization, Texas Press Service, Inc., are governed by a board of directors. This diverse group is composed of the executive director, five elected officers, six elected directors, eight appointed directors and 10 officers from the state’s five regional press associations.
With the assistance of volunteer committees, the support of its officers and directors and strong cooperation from member newspapers, TPA’s staff maintains a comprehensive service program. New services are added as specific needs arise.
Since TPA’s beginning, its members have stood together, working toward the highest professional standards of journalism.
As of spring 2008, 518 paid-circulation newspapers were published in the state — 87 dailies and 431 weeklies and semiweeklies. The 3.76 million combined circulation proves that Texans continue to rely on newspapers as their primary source of news and advertising information.
TPA plays an important role as an advocate for the public’s right to know in the passage of open government legislation. When First Amendment rights have been threatened, TPA has entered into lawsuits and assisted in funding the cost of related legal briefs.
Texas newspaper executives are proud of their association. They honor the high standards for quality in newspapers set by TPA’s founders 125 years ago.
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