Charles H. Jones Papers

Collection

Identifier: MS 248

Staff Only

Scope and Content

A large part of the Charles H. Jones Papers consists of photocopies of his correspondence to his son and daughter, as well as to his lifelong friend Julien W. Abernethy. These letters are dated from 1876 to 1913 and are arranged chronologically by correspondent. The collection also includes magazine articles and newspaper clippings written about Jones, as well as newspaper interviews of Jones. These sources mainly discuss Jones's role in writing the Democratic platforms of 1892 and 1896, along with speculation that Jones might be a Democratic Vice Presidential nominee. The collection holds Jones's drafts of the Democratic platforms, telegrams from Jones to his political associates and a notebook detailing some of his travels. Also noteworthy are Jones's disputes with Joseph Pulitzer over the St. Louis Dispatch, in addition to an article by Jones denouncing U.S. involvement in the Philippines.

Dates

Creation: 1876-1913

Creator

Jones, Charles H. (Charles Henry), 1848-1913. (Person)

Access

The collection is open for research.

Biographical/Historical Note

Charles Henry Jones (1849-1913) was born in Talbotton, Georgia. Following the Civil War, Jones began a long career in journalism. By the time he was 21, Jones was promoted to editor of Eclectic Magazine. He served as an associate editor of Appleton's Journal, president of the National Editorial Association, as well as a newspaper editor and owner of The Florida Times-Union, The St. Louis Republic, The St. Louis Dispatch and The New York World.

Jones also played an active role in politics as head of the Florida Democratic Party. He was instrumental in drafting three Democratic national platforms in 1888, 1892 and 1896. He served in an advisory role to Democratic leaders, such as William Jennings Bryan. In 1897 Jones retired from journalism. Soon thereafter he purchased several trade magazines and formed the Lockwood Trade Journal, which his brother managed. Jones spent much of his remaining years traveling abroad with his family.

For additional information, please refer to the book Charles H. Jones, Journalist and Politician of the Gilded Age by Thomas Graham, Florida A and M University Press, Tallahassee, 1990. Researchers may also consult Thomas Graham's 1973 UF Thesis, Charles H. Jones, 1848-1913: Editor and Progressive Democrat.

Extent

0.4 Linear feet (1 box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Papers relating to Charles H. Jones's role in drafting the 1892 and 1896 Democratic Party platforms, his career in journalism, as well as his correspondence to family and friends.

Physical Location

University of Florida Smathers Library Building

Acquisition Information

Photocopies of original papers donated by Richard A. Martin. Original papers are in the possession of the family of Carl G. and Dorothy M. Freeman of Bat Cave, North Carolina.