Sedalia Weekly Conservator Archive

On May 8, 1903, the Sedalia Weekly Conservator, an African American newspaper, commenced publication on the campus of the George R. Smith College in Sedalia, hoping to supply “useful information on the current issues of the day—social, moral, religious and racial” to the city of Sedalia and Pettis County, Missouri. This four-page weekly newspaper was published by William H. Huston and C. M. English until 1905 at which time Huston became the sole proprietor and publisher.

Promising a policy “for a higher standard of [C]hristian culture in the home” and a “more progressive and persistent effort in the business world,” the paper promoted education, the advancement of the African American community, and the celebration of black artists. It included various announcements and updates about Scott Joplin’s performances and rising popularity in its pages. The April 15, 1904 issue announced that the “‘Rag Time Music’ King and composer spent the first of last week visiting his associates here. He has a new piece on market, called ‘Chrysanthemum.’”

The Conservator also celebrated its own achievements, announcing the “Second Anniversary Celebration of the Establishment of the Sedalia Weekly Conservator at Liberty Park Hall: Wednesday night, May 17, 1905.” Everyone was instructed to “come arrayed in their best, in order that the occasion may, indeed, be ‘swell.’”

The paper also covered political news, and the last available issue of the Conservator, published September 21, 1908, included a two-page supplement of a speech given by Herbert S. Hadley on the opening of his campaign to become Governor of Missouri. The Conservator ceased publication in 1909.

Because the paper dealt with current racial problems, discussed new methods of education, and promoted the advancement of blacks, the Conservator is widely consulted by historians of African American history.