Program On Local Newspapering History Friday Night

From a historical perspective, the local newspaper editor wields considerable power, in that he or she has the last word – literally defining reality for future generations. Potter County was blessed to have one such man who approached that responsibility with intelligence, integrity and a sincere commitment to serve not only his readers and advertisers, but also his community.

On Friday, April 27, descendants of William Delos Fish, affectionately known to many as “Golly,” will spotlight his life and his career at the same time they trace the evolution of local newspapering and the dramatic times in which he lived. The program, “W. D. Fish: A Newsman and His Times,” will be held at 7:30 in the Potter County Historical Society Museum on North Main Street in Coudersport and is open to the public.

Fish (1876-1969) was born close enough to the end of the Civil War to appreciate its incredible impact on our nation – his father fought in it — and he remained long enough to see man’s landing on the moon. After serving as a printer, reporter, and editor in several area communities, Fish settled in at the Potter Enterprise in Coudersport in the early part of the 20th century and remained involved for more than six decades. He set the standard for weekly newspapers in Pennsylvania by developing a faithful cadre of local news correspondents around the county and covering both hard news and community developments thoroughly and professionally.

Publication of his newspaper each Wednesday morning was once referred to as “the shot heard ‘round Potter County.” He’s shown here at age 93 in the newspaper print shop with his son, William D. Fish Jr., who succeeded him as publisher. Friday’s program will include a summary of local newspapering through the years, complete with colorful anecdotes, and samples of Fish’s insightful and folksy opinion columns.