What is the Houston Chronicle and where is it based?

The Houston Chronicle is the largest daily newspaper published in Houston, Texas, United States. It serves as the primary newspaper of record for the Houston area.

Who is the current owner of the Houston Chronicle?

The Houston Chronicle is owned by Hearst Communications, a privately held multinational media conglomerate.

When was the Houston Chronicle founded and by whom?

The Houston Chronicle was founded in 1901 by Marcellus E. Foster, who was a former reporter for the now-defunct Houston Post.

What was the initial funding source for the Houston Chronicle?

Marcellus E. Foster used profits from his investment in the Spindletop oil boom to fund the establishment of the Houston Chronicle.

What was the price and circulation of the Houston Chronicle's first edition?

The first edition of the Houston Chronicle was published on October 14, 1901, and sold for two cents per copy, which was less than the typical five cents charged by most newspapers at the time. By the end of its first month, it had a circulation of 4,378.

How did Jesse H. Jones become involved with the Houston Chronicle?

In 1908, Marcellus E. Foster commissioned local businessman Jesse H. Jones to construct a new office and plant for the newspaper. Foster offered Jones a half-interest in the newspaper as a down payment, with the remainder to be paid over twenty years, which Jones accepted.

What was Marcellus E. Foster's stance on the Ku Klux Klan (KKK)?

During the 1920s, Marcellus E. Foster gained attention for his opposition to the Ku Klux Klan through his columns written under the pen name Mefo.

When did Jesse H. Jones become the sole owner of the Houston Chronicle, and what was the financial arrangement?

Jesse H. Jones became the sole owner of the Houston Chronicle on June 26, 1926, when he bought out Foster's remaining interest. The deal involved $300,000 in cash, a $500,000 note payable over thirty-five years, and annual payments for editorship and a column, with additional provisions.

What significant organizational change occurred regarding the Chronicle's ownership in 1937?

In 1937, Jesse H. Jones transferred ownership of the Houston Chronicle to a newly established entity called Houston Endowment Inc.

How did the Houston Chronicle's political stance evolve in the 1950s?

According to the Handbook of Texas, the Chronicle generally represented the conservative political interests of the Houston business establishment in the 1950s. It tended to avoid controversial political topics like integration and the impacts of rapid economic growth, and did not engage in investigative journalism, which led to a decline in readership compared to its rival, the Houston Post.

What was Jesse H. Jones's philosophy regarding the role of a newspaper?

Jesse H. Jones viewed newspaper publication as a distinct public trust, emphasizing the importance of being fearless, honest, uninfluenced by unworthy motives or the desire for gain. He believed a newspaper should be for all people, democratic in principle, and stand for the greatest good for the greatest number.

What media assets did the Houston Chronicle acquire or establish under Jesse H. Jones's leadership?

Under Jesse H. Jones, the Chronicle acquired the radio station KTRH in 1937 and was involved in signing on Houston's third television station, KTRK-TV, in 1954.

Who took over as editor of the Chronicle after Jesse H. Jones's death, and who was hired as editor in 1961?

After Jesse H. Jones's death in 1956, his nephew John T. Jones was named editor by the Houston Endowment board. In 1961, John T. Jones hired William P. Steven as editor.

What was the "Watchem" column, and what is its significance?

The "Watchem" column was an innovation created by editor William P. Steven, allowing ordinary citizens to voice their complaints. The Chicago Tribune later recognized this column as a pioneer and prototype of the modern newspaper "Action Line" feature.

What led to the dismissal of editor William P. Steven in 1965?

William P. Steven was dismissed in September 1965 following an order from the Houston Endowment board. This decision was influenced by conflicts arising from Steven's progressive political philosophy and potentially related to assurances given by John T. Jones regarding Lyndon B. Johnson's political interests.

How did the Houston Chronicle's circulation compare to other Texas newspapers by 1964?

By 1964, after purchasing the assets of the Houston Press, the Houston Chronicle had achieved a circulation of 254,000, making it the largest newspaper in Texas at that time.

When did the Hearst Corporation acquire the Houston Chronicle, and for how much?

The Hearst Corporation purchased the Houston Chronicle from Houston Endowment on May 1, 1987, for $415 million.

What significant change in publication schedule occurred in 1994?

In 1994, the Houston Chronicle switched its publication schedule to become a morning-only newspaper.

What was the impact of the Houston Post's demise on the Chronicle?

With the closure of the Houston Post on April 18, 1995, the Houston Chronicle became Houston's sole major daily newspaper.

Which presidential candidate did the Houston Chronicle endorse in 2008, and why was this notable?

In 2008, the Houston Chronicle endorsed Barack Obama for President of the United States. This was notable because it marked the first time the newspaper had endorsed a Democrat since 1964, when it supported Lyndon B. Johnson.

What was the 2018 source-fabrication scandal involving the Houston Chronicle?

In September 2018, it was revealed that Austin bureau chief Mike Ward had resigned following an internal investigation into allegations of fabricating sources. This led to the retraction of eight stories, and an examination found that nearly half of the individuals quoted in Ward's stories since 2014 could not be verified.

Where is the current headquarters of the Houston Chronicle located?

The current headquarters of the Houston Chronicle is located at 4747 Southwest Freeway in Houston, Texas, a facility that was formerly the headquarters of the Houston Post.

When did the Houston Chronicle move to its current headquarters?

The Houston Chronicle announced the move of its downtown employees to the 610 Loop campus at 4747 Southwest Freeway on July 21, 2014.

What happened to the former Houston Chronicle building at 801 Texas Avenue?

The former Houston Chronicle building at 801 Texas Avenue in Downtown Houston was demolished on April 25, 2017, and the site is now occupied by the Texas Tower.

What awards has the Houston Chronicle received as an institution?

The Houston Chronicle received the Joseph T. Ainsworth Volunteer Community Award from M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in 2000 for making the newspaper available at a reduced rate to the hospital and its patients. In 2002, Holocaust Museum Houston awarded the Chronicle its "Guardian of the Human Spirit" award for its commitment to tolerance, understanding, and diversity.

Which staff members from the Houston Chronicle have won Pulitzer Prizes?

Lisa Falkenberg, Michael Lindenberger, Joe Holley, and Luis Carrasco won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing in 2022. Lisa Falkenberg also won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 2015 for her work on grand jury abuses and legal system issues.

Can you name some Houston Chronicle journalists who have been Pulitzer Prize finalists?

Several Houston Chronicle journalists and staff have been Pulitzer Prize finalists, including Dudley Althaus (1992), Tony Freemantle (1997), Nick Anderson (2007), Joe Holley and Evan Mintz (2017), and various staff members for breaking news coverage (2009, 2018) and public service (2017).

Who are some other notable individuals associated with the Houston Chronicle?

Other notable people associated with the Houston Chronicle include Maxine Mesinger (gossip columnist), Leon Hale (columnist), Marjorie Paxson (women's page editor), Julie Mason (journalist), Alison Cook (restaurant critic), and Joy Sewing (first Black columnist).

What Spanish-language publications has the Houston Chronicle been involved with?

In April 2004, the Houston Chronicle began distributing a Spanish-language supplement called *La Vibra*. In December 2004, it acquired the Spanish-language newspaper *La Voz de Houston*.

What controversy arose from Robert Jensen's opinion pieces following the September 11 attacks?

Following the September 11 attacks, Robert Jensen, a journalism professor, published opinion articles in the Chronicle asserting the U.S. was 'just as guilty' and comparing the attacks to U.S. actions in other countries. These pieces generated significant backlash and criticism, including a denouncement from the University of Texas president.

What was the nature of the controversy surrounding the Sandoval family interview?

A controversy arose after reporter Lucas Wall interviewed the family of a fallen Marine, Leroy Sandoval. The family alleged that a sentence criticizing President Bush's failure to find weapons of mass destruction misrepresented their views and was included against their wishes, leading to a dispute and calls for a boycott.

What did internal memos suggest about the Houston Chronicle's acquisition of the Houston Post's assets?

Internal memos obtained via FOIA suggested that the Chronicle's parent organization had reached an agreement to buy the Houston Post's assets for approximately $120 million about six months before the Post officially closed.

What controversy surrounded a Tom DeLay poll conducted by the Chronicle in 2006?

A poll conducted by the Chronicle regarding U.S. Rep. Tom DeLay faced allegations of incorrect sampling methods and a conflict of interest, as the pollster's son was working as a political consultant for DeLay's Democratic challenger.

What general criticisms regarding journalistic integrity has the Houston Chronicle faced?

The Houston Chronicle has faced criticism for allegedly publishing articles without proper subject contact, retaliation for non-advertisers, and most significantly, the 2018 source-fabrication scandal where eight articles were retracted due to unverified sources.

Why were Houston Post articles removed from the Houston Chronicle's website?

Houston Post articles were removed from the Chronicle's website due to difficulties in complying with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in *New York Times Co. v. Tasini*, which affected the republication rights of archived articles.

Where can people access Houston Post articles if they are not available online through the Chronicle?

Houston Post articles can be viewed on microfilm at the Houston Public Library and the University of Houston Libraries. These libraries hold microfilm archives of the newspaper spanning many years.

What is the format of the Houston Chronicle newspaper?

The Houston Chronicle is published in a broadsheet format, which is a large-print newspaper size.

What is the stated circulation of the Houston Chronicle as of 2023?

As of 2023, the circulation of the Houston Chronicle was reported as 142,785.

What is the website address for the Houston Chronicle?

The official website for the Houston Chronicle is HoustonChronicle.com.

What was the circulation of the Chronicle by 1926, during the Marcellus E. Foster era?

By 1926, at the end of the Marcellus E. Foster era, the Houston Chronicle's circulation had grown to approximately 75,000 on weekdays and 85,000 on Sundays.

What is the significance of the "Goodfellows" program started by the Chronicle?

The "Goodfellows" program, initiated in 1911, continues today as a citywide initiative by the Houston Chronicle to provide toys to needy children during the winter holidays. In 2003, it distributed nearly 250,000 toys to over 100,000 children.

What was the Houston Chronicle's circulation by 1959, and how did it compare to its rival?

By 1959, the circulation of the rival Houston Post had surpassed that of the Houston Chronicle, reflecting the Chronicle's perceived stodginess and lack of investigative journalism during that period.

What was the Houston Chronicle's circulation by 1964, and what contributed to this growth?

By 1964, the Houston Chronicle's circulation reached 254,000, the largest of any paper in Texas. This growth was attributed by The Atlantic Monthly to the changes instigated by editor William P. Steven.

What was the impact of the Houston Chronicle's endorsement of Barack Obama in 2008?

The Houston Chronicle's endorsement of Barack Obama in 2008 was significant as it was the first time the newspaper had endorsed a Democratic presidential candidate since 1964.

What specific journalistic award did Lisa Falkenberg win in 2015?

Lisa Falkenberg won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 2015 for her vivid and groundbreaking columns that exposed grand jury abuses and uncovered problems within the legal and immigration systems.

What was the primary reason for the retraction of eight stories by the Houston Chronicle in 2018?

The Houston Chronicle retracted eight stories because an investigation revealed they were significantly based on sources whose existence could not be verified, stemming from allegations against reporter Mike Ward.

What is the historical significance of the Houston Chronicle building at 801 Texas Avenue?

The building at 801 Texas Avenue in Downtown Houston served as the long-time headquarters of the Houston Chronicle. It was an aggregation of five buildings, originally constructed in stages starting in 1910, and was demolished in 2017.

What is the role of Chron.com in relation to the Houston Chronicle?

Previously, Chron.com was an ad-supported, non-subscriber site used by Houston Chronicle staff. However, today, Chron.com and HoustonChronicle.com operate with separate websites and newsrooms.

What is the nature of the HoustonChronicle.com website?

HoustonChronicle.com, launched in 2012, is a subscriber-only website that features all the content found in the daily print edition of the newspaper.

What was the Houston Chronicle's circulation in April 2016?

As of April 2016, the Houston Chronicle was the third-largest newspaper in the United States by Sunday circulation.

What was the Houston Chronicle's circulation in 2023?

The Houston Chronicle reported a circulation of 142,785 as of 2023.

Houston Chronicle Wiki: The Chronicle Chronicle: A Legacy of Houston Journalism

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

A Century of News: The Chronicle's Genesis and Evolution

Founding Vision (1901-1926)

Established in 1901 by Marcellus E. Foster, a former reporter who invested profits from the Spindletop oil boom into its creation. The Houston Chronicle launched with an innovative two-cent price point, significantly undercutting competitors. Within its first year, it consolidated the Daily Herald, demonstrating early ambition. Foster's leadership saw the paper grow substantially, reaching 75,000 weekday and 85,000 Sunday circulation by 1926, and notably included his public opposition to the Ku Klux Klan.^[7]^[9]

The Jones Era and Expansion (1926-1965)

Jesse H. Jones acquired full ownership in 1926, later transferring it to Houston Endowment Inc. Jones, a prominent businessman and public servant, guided the paper with a philosophy of public trust and fearless reporting.^[12] During this period, the Chronicle also expanded into broadcasting by acquiring radio station KTRH and co-founding KTRK-TV. The paper's internal culture saw innovation, such as the "Watchem" column, while navigating political complexities.^[15] The acquisition of the Houston Press in 1964 solidified its market dominance.

Hearst Acquisition and Modernization (1987-Present)

The Hearst Corporation purchased the Houston Chronicle in 1987 for $415 million.^[18] This era marked a transition to a morning-only paper and consolidation as Houston's sole major daily newspaper following the closure of the Houston Post. The Chronicle continued its legacy of political endorsements, notably shifting towards Democratic candidates in presidential elections starting in 2008.^[20]^[24]

Operational Landscape and Digital Presence

Headquarters Evolution

The Chronicle's physical presence has evolved significantly. Its historic downtown headquarters at 801 Texas Avenue, a complex structure built over decades, was demolished in 2017.^[43] The newspaper relocated its operations to the former Houston Post headquarters at 4747 Southwest Freeway, a facility offering extensive space and modern amenities.^[35]

Digital Footprint

The Houston Chronicle maintains a robust online presence through HoustonChronicle.com, launched in 2012, which offers comprehensive content from the print edition to subscribers.^[6] The associated site, Chron.com, serves a different editorial purpose. The paper reports significant web traffic, averaging 125 million page views monthly, underscoring its digital reach.^[2]

Ancillary Publications

Beyond its flagship daily, the Chronicle oversees a portfolio of related publications. This includes the Spanish-language newspaper La Voz de Houston, acquired in 2004, and various community-focused weekly newspapers serving the greater Houston area, such as the Examiner newspaper group.^[36] These publications extend the Chronicle's reach into diverse community segments.

Distinguished Recognition: Awards and Accolades

Pulitzer Prizes

The Houston Chronicle has been recognized with prestigious Pulitzer Prizes, underscoring its commitment to journalistic excellence. Notable awards include the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing in 2022 (Lisa Falkenberg, Michael Lindenberger, Joe Holley, and Luis Carrasco) and the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 2015 (Lisa Falkenberg) for her impactful work on legal and immigration system issues.^[51]

The newspaper and its staff have also been recognized as Pulitzer finalists on multiple occasions for their reporting on international affairs, editorial cartooning, breaking news coverage (including Hurricane Harvey), and public service exposing systemic injustices.

1992: Dudley Althaus (International Reporting)
1997: Tony Freemantle (International Reporting)
2007: Nick Anderson (Editorial Cartooning)
2009: Staff (Breaking News Coverage - Hurricane Ike)
2017: Staff (Public Service - Special Education Services)
2017: Joe Holley and Evan Mintz (Editorial Writing)
2018: Staff (Breaking News Coverage - Hurricane Harvey)

Other Notable Recognitions

Beyond the Pulitzers, the Chronicle has received commendations for its community engagement and journalistic quality. In 2000, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center honored the paper with the Joseph T. Ainsworth Volunteer Community Award for providing affordable access to its content for patients.^[44] Holocaust Museum Houston recognized the paper with its "Guardian of the Human Spirit" award in 2002 for its commitment to tolerance and diversity.^[45] Individual staff members have also been recognized for their contributions to photojournalism and commentary.

Navigating Scrutiny: Key Controversies

2018 Source Fabrication Scandal

A significant breach of journalistic integrity occurred in 2018 when Austin bureau chief Mike Ward resigned following an internal investigation into fabricated sources. The Chronicle's delayed public disclosure of this scandal, which involved retracted stories and unverified quotes, raised questions about transparency and editorial oversight. An examination revealed that a substantial percentage of individuals quoted in Ward's reporting could not be located or confirmed, impacting the credibility of numerous articles.^[29]^[72]

Content and Editorial Controversies

The Chronicle has faced criticism regarding its content and editorial decisions. In 2001, Robert Jensen's opinion pieces following the September 11 attacks, which questioned U.S. policy, generated significant public backlash.^[61] Other controversies include allegations of misrepresenting interview subjects (Sandoval family incident), questionable polling practices (Tom DeLay poll), and broader concerns about ethical adherence and potential retaliation against non-advertising sources.^[66]^[69]^[71]

Antitrust and Archive Access

Investigations into the closure of the Houston Post suggested that the Chronicle's parent company had arranged the asset purchase months prior, raising antitrust concerns.^[68] Furthermore, the newspaper's decision to remove Houston Post articles from its online archives, citing difficulties complying with legal decisions like New York Times Co. v. Tasini, limited public access to historical news content.^[74]

Beyond the Daily: A Broader Media Ecosystem

Hearst's Diverse Portfolio

The Houston Chronicle is part of the vast media empire of Hearst Communications, which encompasses numerous daily and weekly newspapers, magazines, television stations, and digital media properties globally. This affiliation provides significant resources and broad market influence.^[4]

Community and Specialized Publications

In addition to its flagship paper, the Chronicle publishes several community newspapers serving specific geographic areas within the Houston metropolitan region, such as the Examiner group and The Katy Sun. It also publishes La Voz de Houston, a Spanish-language publication, catering to the region's diverse population.^[36]

Digital and Syndicated Content

The Chronicle leverages digital platforms like Chron.com and partners with Hearst's broader digital initiatives. Its content is also distributed through various syndication channels, extending its reach and impact across different media formats.

Key Figures in the Chronicle's Narrative

Founders and Publishers

Marcellus E. Foster laid the foundation, while Jesse H. Jones significantly shaped the paper's trajectory and ethos. Later leaders like Richard J.V. Johnson and Jack Sweeney navigated the transition into the modern media landscape under Hearst ownership.^[9]^[19]

Influential Journalists and Editors

The Chronicle has been home to many influential figures. William P. Steven, as editor, introduced innovative reader engagement features. Columnists like Leon Hale and Pulitzer Prize winners such as Lisa Falkenberg have contributed significantly to the paper's reputation for insightful commentary and impactful reporting.^[15]^[48]^[51]

Award-Winning Talent

The paper's staff has been recognized with numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes and finalist distinctions. Photojournalists like Carlos Antonio Rios and editorial cartoonists like Nick Anderson have received acclaim for their craft.^[46]^[54]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Houston Chronicle" 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?

Learn about houston_chronicle while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

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

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

david hackett fischer

zamami okinawa

natural born kissers

jacques rogge

equal pay for equal work

1983–84 nba season

References

The Handbook of Texas Online. Houston Chronicle. Retrieved December 2, 2009.

Handbook of Texas Online. "Foster, Marcellus Elliot (1870â1942)". Retrieved March 26, 2010.

Ackerman, Todd. "At the helm: Chronicle publishers." Houston Chronicle. October 12, 2001. Retrieved May 11, 2010.

Time. "Newspapers: A Deal Done In" June 17, 1966. time.com Retrieved May 10, 2010.

Houston Chronicle Archives, "Houston Chronicle purchase completed by Hearst Corp." May 1, 1987.

Ties That Bind? The D.A. shares something with those he's supposed to be probing: campaign support, Houston Press, January 15, 2004

Reclaimthemedia.org

Mack, Kristen. "Troubles erode support for DeLay in 22nd District." Houston Chronicle. January 14, 2006. Retrieved October 20, 2011.

Did Houston Chronicle Write a Hit Piece for Not Buying Ads?, DICK LAW FIRM, October 31, 2020

A full list of references for this article are available at the Houston Chronicle Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional journalistic, historical, or media analysis consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Chronicle Chronicle

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Century of News: The Chronicle's Genesis and Evolution 🕰️

🚀 Founding Vision (1901-1926)

🤝 The Jones Era and Expansion (1926-1965)

📰 Hearst Acquisition and Modernization (1987-Present)

Operational Landscape and Digital Presence 🏢

📍 Headquarters Evolution

🌐 Digital Footprint

📰 Ancillary Publications

Distinguished Recognition: Awards and Accolades 🏆

🏅 Pulitzer Prizes

⭐ Other Notable Recognitions

Navigating Scrutiny: Key Controversies ⚠️

🔍 2018 Source Fabrication Scandal

🗣️ Content and Editorial Controversies

⚖️ Antitrust and Archive Access

Beyond the Daily: A Broader Media Ecosystem 📚

📰 Hearst's Diverse Portfolio

🌍 Community and Specialized Publications

🔗 Digital and Syndicated Content

Key Figures in the Chronicle's Narrative 👥

👤 Founders and Publishers

✍️ Influential Journalists and Editors

🏆 Award-Winning Talent

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

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

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Century of News: The Chronicle's Genesis and Evolution

Founding Vision (1901-1926)

The Jones Era and Expansion (1926-1965)

Hearst Acquisition and Modernization (1987-Present)

Operational Landscape and Digital Presence

Headquarters Evolution

Digital Footprint

Ancillary Publications

Distinguished Recognition: Awards and Accolades

Pulitzer Prizes

Other Notable Recognitions

Navigating Scrutiny: Key Controversies

2018 Source Fabrication Scandal

Content and Editorial Controversies

Antitrust and Archive Access

Beyond the Daily: A Broader Media Ecosystem

Hearst's Diverse Portfolio

Community and Specialized Publications

Digital and Syndicated Content

Key Figures in the Chronicle's Narrative

Founders and Publishers

Influential Journalists and Editors

Award-Winning Talent

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice