Monroe County Article written by Thomas V. Bodine, Paris

The real history of Paris and Monroe county would be incomplete without mention of its oldest and most historic institution, the Paris Mercury, possibly the oldest weekly newspaper in the state, under a continuous name. The Mercury was founded by Lucien J. Eastin in 1837, and without its files, preserved in a score of Monroe county households, authentic account of the stirring events entering into the county’s history would be impossible. Beginning with Eastin the Mercury has had a succession of unusual men as editors, among the most notable being James B. Abbernathey, famous as a Whig lawyer in the forties, and James N. Bean, state senator following the reconstruction period. Associated with Bean was A. G. Mason, whose hospitality and geniality are still a matter of tradition, and kindly remembered Joe Burnett. The paper is at present published by Alexander & Stavely, and, valuing its historical associations, makes an effort to live up to its traditions.

    No less potential is the Monroe County Appeal, though not so old, being moved to Paris from Monroe City in 1873. The Appeal is now owned and edited by B. F. Blanton and Sons and has been in the family practically since it was founded.

    The history of Jackson township is largely the history of the county and in the names that appear in its beginnings—Crutchers, Curtrights, Buckners, Gores, Vaughns, Batsells, Fields and others already mentioned is to be found. the moving cause behind the county’s social, political, and religious development.