The Broadway Journal: Poe's Literary Crucible

✍️ Founding and Early Days

Established in New York City in 1844 by Charles Frederick Briggs and John Bisco, The Broadway Journal commenced publication in January 1845. Briggs, a known literary figure and satire novelist under the pseudonym "Harry Franco," envisioned a distinctive publication, distinct from its contemporaries. He managed editorial direction, actively seeking contributions, while Bisco oversaw the business and publishing aspects.

🖋️ Poe's Editorial Tenure

A pivotal moment arrived on February 21, 1845, when Edgar Allan Poe contracted to serve as an editor for one year. His responsibilities included contributing at least one page of original material weekly, in exchange for one-third of the publication's profits. This marked the only period Poe held ownership of a periodical.

💰 Financial Turmoil and Ownership Change

Internal friction soon arose. Briggs grew uncomfortable with Poe's critical reputation and sought to divest both Poe and Bisco. However, financial negotiations proved difficult. Briggs resigned in June 1845 due to mounting financial difficulties. Subsequently, in October, Bisco sold his share to Poe for $50, a sum secured by a note endorsed by Horace Greeley. This transaction granted Poe full editorial control and ownership.

📜 Poe's Leadership and Closure

Under Poe's direction, The Broadway Journal featured revised versions of his works, including "The Masque of the Red Death" and "The Oval Portrait." He continued his sharp literary criticism, notably accusing Henry Wadsworth Longfellow of plagiarism. Poe also utilized the journal for a public association with Frances Sargent Osgood and to solicit funds for his ambitious, yet unrealized, magazine project, The Penn. Despite his efforts and some financial assistance from Rufus Wilmot Griswold, the journal ceased publication with its final issue dated January 3, 1846. Poe's valedictory expressed his regret over unfulfilled objectives.

📚 Wikisource Archive

Primary source materials and related texts concerning The Broadway Journal are available on Wikisource. This provides direct access to historical documents and context for further academic study.

📰 Contemporary Periodicals

Edgar Allan Poe was associated with several other significant American periodicals during his career. Examining these publications offers comparative insights into the literary landscape and Poe's evolving role within it.

🌐 Archival Information

Bibliographic records and archival details for The Broadway Journal can be found through major library databases, providing essential metadata for scholarly research.

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📜 Important Notice

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