James Burns, born in Newtownhamilton, first published the Newry Reporter on Saturday, 16th November, 1867 from his printing works at Monaghan Street.

 

James Burns having died, his son Arthur Burns published the last issue in the Burns name on Friday, 24th May, 1901.

 

Joseph Wright was the new proprietor, printing the paper at the Newry Printing and Lithographic Works at 29 Hill Street. The printing works was destroyed by fire on 8th December, 1910 (Cathedral Gardens). Wright decided not to restart the Reporter and emigrated to Canada where he entered into the real estate business.

 

The Reporter re-appeared on Tuesday 28th March, 1911 – four months later.  The paper was acquired by Robert Sands who provided modern machinery and equipment at the Clanrye Mills, New Street – stationery and advertising departments at Sugar Island.  Robert Sands carried on the mills and Reporter until his death in June, 1915.  In 1912 the Reporter had transferred to its present home at 4 Margaret Street.

Executors of Mr Sands continued the publication of the newspaper until 1927.  On Tuesday, 3rd May of that year the name Sands disappeared from the Reporter imprint and was replaced by Hodgett – Edward Hodgett J.P.  A native of Dungannon he entered the printing trade there and in 1911 came to Newry in the capacity of traveller for the Reporter printing works when it was owned by Robert Sands.  In 1920 Mr Hodgett started his business as a general stationer in Water Street on his own account.

On 27th May, 1927 Edward Hodgett acquired the Reporter works from the representatives of the late Mr Sands.  On Thursday, 16th February, 1956, Edward Hodgett died.

Production was then undertaken by his three sons, Edward McFarlane (Max), Thomas Noel and Richard Lowry. Their sons are now directors of the firm.

 

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The price of the first edition on Saturday, 16th November, 1867 was 3.5d., the newspaper being published weekly.  On 13th February, 1868, the price was reduced to 1d (a penny) and became bi-weekly – Thursday and Saturday.

In 1872 the Reporter appeared as a tri-weekly, continuing as such until 8th March, 1947 when it reverted to Saturdays only.  This was changed to Thursday on Thursday, 4th December, 1947.