As Shaw Media celebrates its 175th anniversary, we looked back at four front pages from Jan. 23. These archives serve as a time capsule, capturing everything from the turn-of-the-century legal drama to the global impact of a president’s death and the modern-day recovery of local athletics.
1908: Joliet Evening Herald
On Jan. 23, 1908, the Joliet Evening Herald was dominated by a sensational national trial, detailing the “Trying Ordeal” of Evelyn Nesbit Thaw during her testimony in the Harry Thaw murder case. Closer to home, the paper focused on political accountability with the headline “Indict Mayor of Chicago Heights,” following a grand jury investigation into misconduct. The front page also featured a local inventor’s success with a new “Sewer Cleaner” that promised to save the city hundreds of dollars.
1973: The Times (Streator)
The Jan. 23, 1973, edition of The Times in Streator served as a somber tribute to Lyndon B. Johnson. Following his sudden death, the paper declared “Nation Mourns Death of Lyndon B. Johnson,” highlighting his civil rights legacy and his efforts to reach a “Great Society.” On the same day, the front page tracked the historic “Peace Approaching” in the Vietnam War as Paris talks wound up, and reported on the local reaction to the landmark Roe v. Wade decision.
2008: Northwest Herald (McHenry County)
By 2008, the Northwest Herald captured a world in flux. The lead headline, “‘Batten down the hatches,’” warned residents of a significant Wall Street drop and the fears of a looming recession. The edition also balanced national tragedy and local debate, reporting on the death of actor Heath Ledger alongside a local prayer vigil marking the 35th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Meanwhile, a “Cancer study” controversy involving a local chemical company highlighted ongoing community health concerns.
2021: Daily Chronicle (DeKalb County)
Rounding out the collection, the Jan. 23, 2021, Daily Chronicle reflected the resilience of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bold headline “GAME ON” celebrated the return of local sports as regions reached Phase 4 of the state’s reopening plan. The front page also tracked the “COVID-19 efforts” of law enforcement officials receiving their first vaccine doses, alongside reports of a fatal crash and local judicial proceedings.
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