The Honolulu Star-Bulletin
Tracing the history and impact of a pivotal voice in the Aloha State's media landscape, from its origins to its eventual merger.
Explore Origins 👇 Key Eras ⏳Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮
Foundational Roots
Genesis of a Newspaper
The Honolulu Star-Bulletin emerged from a rich history of Hawaiian print media. Its direct lineage traces back to the founding of the Evening Bulletin on February 1, 1882, by J. W. Robertson and Company. This publication laid the groundwork for daily news dissemination in Honolulu.
The Merger of 1912
In 1912, a significant consolidation occurred when the Evening Bulletin merged with the Hawaiian Star, a publication established in 1893 by Joseph Ballard Atherton as a voice for the provisional government. This union gave birth to the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, creating a more robust daily newspaper.
Early Leadership and Vision
Wallace Rider Farrington, a pivotal figure in Hawaiian journalism and politics, served as the editor of the Evening Bulletin from 1898 and later became the president and publisher of the merged Honolulu Star-Bulletin in 1912, holding these roles until his death. His son, Joseph Rider Farrington, succeeded him, continuing the family's influence on the publication.
Navigating Corporate and Editorial Shifts
The Farrington Legacy and JOA
Following Wallace and Joseph Rider Farrington, local investors, including Elizabeth P. Farrington and Chinn Ho, led the newspaper from 1962. During this period, a critical Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) was established with the Honolulu Advertiser. This agreement allowed for shared printing facilities and sales operations through the Hawaii Newspaper Agency, while maintaining distinct editorial independence for both publications, ensuring diverse viewpoints.
Gannett and Liberty Transitions
In 1971, Gannett Pacific Corporation acquired the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. However, due to JOA restrictions preventing single ownership of both Honolulu dailies, Gannett sold the Star-Bulletin to Liberty Newspapers in 1992. This transition marked a period where the paper's circulation and staffing were subsequently reduced.
The Black Press Era
Facing potential closure in 1999, the Star-Bulletin was eventually purchased by Canadian magnate David Black's Black Press Ltd. in 2001. This acquisition ended the JOA and led to the relocation of offices and a new operational structure, with the paper being printed in Kaneohe.
A Chronicle of Key Milestones
Historical Markers
The Honolulu Star-Bulletin's journey is marked by significant events and transformations, reflecting the dynamic nature of journalism and the evolving landscape of Hawaii.
The Final Chapter: Consolidation
Economic Pressures and Strategic Shifts
In the early 21st century, the newspaper industry faced significant economic challenges. Black Press, owner of the Star-Bulletin, also pursued the acquisition of its long-standing rival, The Honolulu Advertiser. This strategic move, finalized in February 2010, signaled a major shift in Honolulu's newspaper landscape.
The Path to Merger
As part of the acquisition agreement for the Advertiser, Black Press committed to either selling the Star-Bulletin or merging the two publications if a viable buyer did not emerge. Despite initial offers, bids for the Star-Bulletin were ultimately rejected as insufficient. Consequently, Black Press proceeded with plans to consolidate operations.
Birth of the Star-Advertiser
On May 3, 2010, HA Management, a company established by Black Press, took over the operational oversight of both newspapers. This transitional period culminated on June 7, 2010, with the launch of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, a unified daily publication. The Honolulu Star-Bulletin published its final standalone edition on June 6, 2010, concluding its independent run after over a century.
Journalistic Significance
Covering Historic Events
The Star-Bulletin played a crucial role in documenting Hawaii's history. Its most iconic moment was the publication of an extra edition on December 7, 1941, mere hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor, making it one of the first news sources globally to report the event.
Shaping Public Discourse
The newspaper was instrumental in public discourse, notably publishing the influential "Broken Trust" essay in 1997, which critiqued the trustees of the Bishop Estate and spurred significant reforms. Its editorial stance also included strong opposition to wartime martial law in Hawaii.
Pioneering Digital Journalism
Demonstrating foresight, the Star-Bulletin launched starbulletin.com on March 18, 1996, becoming Hawaii's first regularly published online newspaper. This initiative received numerous awards and showcased groundbreaking online video presentations, setting a precedent for digital news in the region.
Enduring Influence and Archives
A Voice in the Islands
For over a century, the Honolulu Star-Bulletin served as a vital source of information and commentary for the residents of Hawaii. Its reporting covered local, national, and international events, often with a unique perspective shaped by its island context.
Preserving the Past
The newspaper's extensive archives, including its pioneering online presence, remain a valuable resource for understanding Hawaii's social, political, and cultural history. The archives.starbulletin.com website continues to provide access to historical content.
The Broader Media Ecosystem
The Star-Bulletin operated within a dynamic media environment in Hawaii. Its history is intertwined with other significant publications, both current and defunct, reflecting the evolving nature of print and digital media in the state.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Honolulu Star-bulletin" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice Regarding Content
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and is presented for informational and educational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, the information may not be entirely up-to-date or exhaustive.
This content does not constitute professional advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for consultation with qualified historians, journalists, media analysts, or legal professionals. Users should not rely solely on this information for decision-making and are encouraged to consult primary sources and expert opinions for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein. Always verify critical information through independent research and professional consultation.