The Molong “Express” Editors & Staff from 1897.

News Paper articles referring to Editors connected with the Molong Express.

Jas. Fell, R. A. Jesson, F. Fitzpatrick (Fitz?), Murray White, C. Vincent, Walter E Powter, George England Hooke, Dave Davies, George H. Davis, George Dyson, H. A. McCallum, Percival O’Sullivan, and all the Leathem Brothers.

I will update this post if I come across new Editors.

Image from: The Newsletter. An Australian paper for Australian people Sydney, NSW 10 July 1909.

Windsor and Richmond Gazette NSW

1897

Mr. George Dyson, a former secretary of the N.S.W. Free trade Association, is now editing the “Molong Express." George is a first class platform speaker.

Windsor and Richmond Gazette NSW

13 May 1905

THE ONLY 'FITZ.'

In a recent issue, An Old Journalist Friend wrote a piece about the only Fitz and Molong. He again writes: —writing to you the other weak about Molong, I said it was a Hawkesbury lad who brought about a change in the paper in question, &c, &c.'  

  

Well, I met that man in Sydney on Friday last, looking fit for almost anything, and we talked about former days— of Windsor, of our friend, Fitz, and, naturally, about Molong, and the time he edited the ' Express.’

The ' Express ' editor was, Dave Davies, brother of your own 'Charley,' and, singular to say, with him on the Express was another Windsor lad, George H. Davis, now of the Town and Country Journal.'

And, still more strange, they had both been on the 'Dubbo Liberal,' occupying the same positions, though after Dave left both papers, George stepped into his shoes. 

I knew they had been together at Dubbo, but it was news to me that they had also been on the ' Molong Express ' together.

I always had a liking for ' Dave ' Davies, and what is more, I always gave him his due for his dramatic recitals — which some were disposed to ignore. 

Dave ' is still in splendid voice — talks dramatically, and has the actor's way with him. He is, all the same, a journalist, and he was expecting to leave Sydney in a day or two to take charge of a paper on one of the Northern rivers— the ' Raleigh' something, I forget what. 

Anyhow, he spoke very nicely of Fitz, and assured me that our mutual friend was a coming man not only as a journalist, but a politician and that Molong would yet know him, not only as its leading journalist, but as member for the district.

And so mote it be.

MOLONG EXPRESS

27 Sept 1913

WEDDING BELLS

O'Sullivan—Thorpe.

St. John's Church of England, Wagga, was on Wednesday evening last, September 24th, at 7 pm, the scene of a very pretty ceremony, the occasion being the marriage of Percival L., second youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. D. O'Sullivan, of Gundagai, and a valued member of the EXPRESS staff, to Ethel J, second daughter of the late Mr. J. J. Thorpe and Mrs Thorpe, of Adelong, the officiating clergy man being the Rev Mr. Williams, assistant Rector, of Wagga.

There was a fair assemblage of immediate friends and relatives to the bride and bride groom present to witness the nuptials. 

The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. W. J. Thorpe, was costumed in a pretty gown of white embroidered silk, inset with Torchon lace, she wore the orthodox wreath and veil, and carried a daintily arranged bouquet of lilies of the valley. 

The bride was attended by Miss Lily Rake, as bridesmaid, the latter being attired in cream silk with overdress of guipure, lace, and wore a gold turquoise and bell brooch, the gift of the bridegroom. 

Mr. E C. O'Sullivan, Gundagai, brother of the bridegroom, acted in the capacity of best man.

After the ceremony the immediate relations of the contracting parties adjourned to the home of the bride's brother, where the wedding tea was partaken of, after which the customary toasts were proposed and duly honoured in the usual congratulatory strain.

During the latter part of the evening songs and recitations were rendered by members of the company, after which the happy young couple left by the Sydney express en route for Gundagai, where the honeymoon is being spent, the bride's going away dress being a navy blue serge costume with hat to match.

The newly married couple, whose future home will be in Molong, were the recipients of many useful and valuable presents.

The proprietress, editor, and staff of this journal extend their heartiest congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. O'Sullivan, and wish them a long and prosperous life of unalloyed happiness

Image from The Daily News Perth 1937

Leader Orange, NSW

20 July 1914

DEATH OF G E. HOOKE.

Last week we reported the death of a well-known journalist in Mr. George England Hooke. Since then we have been apprised of the fact that he was well and favourably known in Orange some 12 years ago. 

At that time he occupied the position of editor of the Molong "Express." Mr. Hooke it was who established that well known and prosperous journal, the Tamworth "Observer." He also at one time conducted a Quirindi paper.

Molong Express and Western District Advertiser NSW

6 April 1916.

Mr. Jas. Fell, who once pushed pen as editor of the EXPRESS, is now a part proprietor of the Forbes "Times." We wish him all success in his new sphere.

Molong Express and Western District Advertiser NSW 

27 April 1918

The Dubbo “Liberal" says

“Mr. R. A. Jesson, late editor of The Molong “Express," has purchased the Liverpool News. 

He deserves the Victoria Cross! Many men have got it for deeds less heroic.

Thus the Canowindra “Star"

“Molong’s acceptance of the Canowindra challenge in the matter of raising Red Cross Day funds should put spice 

into the local effort, which is beginning to get up a big head of steam.

Molong Express and Western District Advertiser (NSW

18 Nov 1916

VALEDICTORY.

Presentations to MR. R A Jesson.

A number of representative townsmen assembled at the Vicarage on Monday afternoon to bid farewell to Mr. R. A. Jesson, who for the past two years has occupied the position of editor of the Molong "Express," and who left here on Tuesday. After a brief holiday he will undergo military training preparatory to going to the front. The visitors were hospitably entertained by the Rev. and Mrs. Leavers.

Mr. J. Carmody said the friendly gathering that afternoon had one aspect which was not altogether pleasant, since it was to say good-bye to one of their number. Mr. Jesson had seen his duty and heard the call of the, Empire, which, he was sorry to .say, was more than the young ‘men of N.S.W., generally speaking, had done. 

Mr. Jesson was going to help those who were nobly upholding the traditions of the race, and to sacrifice his life, if needed, in that cause.

There were people who talked of fighting the Germans if they came here; his (the speaker's) impression was that if the Germans did come, those people would remove themselves very quickly. (Laughter).

There was no doubt it was a great sacrifice for a man to break up the associations of home and friends and to go out to face the ordeal of battle with its hardships, and to risk his life in the nation’s cause. They all applauded his resolution, and wished him prosperous voyage and a safe return at an early date. (Applause).

The Rev. C. W. Leavers, on behalf of Mr. Jesson's friends, presented him with a tobacco pouch, a case of pipes, and a bulletproof pocket book. Mr. Leavers said he sincerely hoped the last article would not be needed, unless it were to record something good from Mr. Jesson's pen or pencil. They all hoped he would keep them well posted with information. (Applause).

Mr. C. Leathem, on behalf of the "Express," said Mr. Jesson had been two years employed as editor of the "Express" and had carried out his duties with ability. He had also shown a strong personal interest in the affairs of the town. On behalf of the staff of the “ Express" he wished Mr. Jesson a pleasant voyage and a safe return.

In responding Mr. Jesson said he had made many friends in Molong, and had invariably been treated with the greatest courtesy. He appreciated their gifts, and still more the sincerity behind them; they would be a pleasant reminder of his stay here. He felt more at home in writing than in speaking, and while he felt he could not adequately express his thanks he hoped they would take the will for the deed. (Applause).

During the week Mr. Jesson was presented at the ”Express" Office with a silver wristlet luminous watch inscribed as follows: " R. A.. Jesson, from the Proprietress and Staff of Molong' Express, November, 1916."The presentation was made, with the usual kindly wishes by the manager, Mr. C. Leathem, and Mr. Jesson suitably responded.

In addition Mr. Jesson was privately tendered gifts as follows:—Mrs. R. Black, Balaclava cap; Mrs. J. McGroder, safety razor; Misses Phillips and Johnston, socks, mittens and washer. He left by the midday train for Sydney for a brief vacation prior to entering camp.

Image from: Worker Brisbane, Qld, 30 Nov 1901.

Leader Orange, NSW 18 Dec 1918

FROM PALESTINE.

Sapper C. F. Fitzpatrick, son of Mr F. Fitzpatrick, editor and proprietor of the Wingham "Chronicle." and one time of Molong, writes some interesting data concerning Palestine, where he has been pot shotting Turks for some considerable time under General Allenby. 

His letter dated October 16 says, inter alia: The news we are receiving here from the Western front is amazing Great excitement prevails on all hands, and last night it was announced that Germany was on the verge of throwing in the towel, some of the lads here relieve! 

Their feeling by shouting. "'Pack your kits, boys, the boat leaves for Aussie in the morning."

Incidentally he says: "'Met Jack Frogley, from Manildra, Molong way here the other day. As luck would have it, I had just received a copy of the Molong '"Express" from you, along with the Manning papers, and I passed it on to Frogley Naturally,he was pleased to get it, you want to be thousands of miles from home to fairly estimate the value of your own home town paper.

Western Champion Parkes, NSW

15 Sept 1927

Mr. Murray White, who has been associated with the Molong "Express," as editor and reporter, left for Victoria on Saturday to become actively connected with a Melbourne business, in which he had a substantial interest.

Molong Express and Western District Advertiser NSW.

10 Sept 1927.

THE ' EXPRESS' EDITOR.

Mr. Murray White's Departure.

Mr. Murray White, who has been associated with the 'Express' as editor and reporter — in which capacity He has exhibited rare distinction as  a forceful fearless, able, and entertaining writer is talking his departure from  Molong to-day (Saturday) for Victoria.

Mr. White is leaving to become actively connected with a Melbourne business in which he has a substantial interest. He also has land interests in New South Wales, which will occupy some of his time.

To know Mr. White is to admire him, and the “Express” while congratulating him on the more important position he is going to fill, will part with him with feelings of deep regret. He has been a splendid fellow in every way.

Mr. C. Leathem (proprietor) cannot speak too highly of him and in commenting on his happy association with the staff of the paper says Mr. White's work has been excellent, and of a high journalistic nature. He has made a splendid feeling in the office, and we are sorry the time has come to say good-bye.

This feeling of regret, and also the expression of appreciation, will be shared by the residents of Molong and district, in whose circles Mr. White has moved with the true spirit of mainly citizenship.

The new editor (Mr. C. Vincent), who is the author of this paragraph, has entered upon, his duties, and is looking forward to a profitable and pleasant stay among the people of Molong, many of whom already have extended to him the glad hand of fellowship and welcome.

The Sydney Morning Herald NSW

22 Feb 1929 

LATE Mr. W. G. CONLEY.

MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE.

The flag officers, committee, and members of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, Kirribilli, passed a resolution at a recent meeting, expressing regret at the death of Mr. G. Conley, a director of John Fairfax and Sons, Ltd. which took place on February 13 The Powell River Co, through Sir Mark Sheldon, managing director of Carmichael and Co., has also conveyed expressions of sympathy Letters of condolence have been received from Mr. Stephen Sullivan, proprietor of the "Daily Advertiser," Wagga; Mr. R. J. Johnston (also of that paper), and Mr. C. Vincent, editor of "The Molong Express."

Wreaths were received from Mrs. E. Dovle and family. Mr. and Mrs. H. Swire and family, Mr. and Mrs Ralph Asher

Image from: The World's News, Sydney, 21 May 1921.

The Sydney Morning Herald NSW

4 July 1939

MR. W. E. POWTER.

The death occurred recently of Mr. Walter Emmanuel Powter, who for 52 years was associated with various country and suburban newspapers.

Mr. Powter served an apprenticeship with the "Orange Leader." Later, he worked on the staff of the "Forbes Times." He became editor of the "Molong Express," and in 1910 joined his brother as proprietor of the "Glen Innes Examiner." 

In 1918, he and his brother bought the "Balmain Observer," and for 21 years he was associated with papers at Balmain, Drummoyne, Ryde, and Marrickville.

Mr. Powter, who was 61, is survived by Mrs. Powter, two daughters, and a son. 

Molong Express and Western District Advertiser NSW

12 June 1942

On a visit during the week to his daughter, Mrs. Cook, of Hill Street, was an old traveller of the 'Inky Way,' 

Mr. Clarrie Hughes, a Molong native, who spent some years on the staff, of the Molong 'Argus' when the late Mrs. H. Leathem was conducting the 'Express.' 

Mr. Hughes, who is now stationmaster at Greta, is a genial soul, and during a courtesy call fraternised with the staff and told many good tales of earlier days. His father was minister in charge of the Methodist Church at that time.

LINK TO Molong "EXPRESS and its founding parents:
http://leathemhistory.blogspot.com.au/2013/11/the-molong-express-and-its-founding.html

An image of a Press Photographer. Jack Turner (C) 1914.