Dr. Fitzbutler began journalistic work in the publication of The Planet, of which he was editor, and, at the same time, the chief financial manager,—Alfred Froman being its originator, it having been published in Louisville about three years, the first copy appearing in December, 1842. The Planet was a fearless advocate of equal rights, and was devoted to the educational interests of the colored people as well.
The publication of The Ohio Falls Express has been his chief journalistic effort, and has, at all times, and under all circumstances, exhibited an intrepidity and discretion, indicated in the prospectus:
"The Ohio Falls Express will make its debut Saturday, September 20, 1879; and although the country may seem flooded with newspapers and other literary periodicals, yet we have no other apology to offer than that there is not sufficient space found within their numberless columns for unprejudiced representation of all races of men; and in the opinion of humble thinkers, the cause of the less favored will faster gain respect by a continuous, honest, earnest and amicable effort on their part.
"The Express does not presume to be a leader nor a dictator, and is not one of those who regard public sentiment and established prejudices as light things that can be changed in a moment, yet realizes the importance of unswerving advocacy in the establishment of justice and true moral worth; but does presume to avoid the Æolian encomiums sounding in the wake of success, regardless of right or wrong.
"The editorial staff will lead off neither as a coup de grace nor coup de main, nor open with one grand fusilade upon whatever is not in accord with their embryonic judgment; but hope, by adhering to fixed data of reasoning, to have some effective artillery at command and bring it to bear in accord with times and events.
