Page:The Afro-American Press.djvu/340

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THE AFRO-AMERICAN PRESS.

suspension. It is published as a local religious paper by the members of the Conference, who are known as a typographical association. It is officered as follows: Rev. W. T. Harris, president; Rev. W. P. Ryder, vice-president; Rev. S. A. Lewis, secretary; Rev. I. L. Thomas, treasurer.

At a meeting of the association in Frederick City, Md., in March, 1890, Rev. M. W. Clair was elected editor, and C. L. Harris business manager of The Banner. The present is the third volume of The Banner, and though yet in its infancy it is a newsy and well-edited paper. The aim of its projectors is best understood as they have expressed it. Says the editor: "The Banner is now in its infancy, but it is hoped that it may be waved in every home and its news cheer the hearts of thousands."

Mr. Clair is a good practical writer. His editorials are read for the good advice and sound common sense to be found in them. Much can be done for the race, if The Banner continues to wave on the present pinnacle of moral and religious endeavor.

Mrs. F. M. W. Clair, the beloved wife of Rev. Mr. Clair, does much to assist him in his editorial labors. Her contributions to the editorial columns share alike with his the commendation of a reading public. She was born, and reared mostly in Baltimore, Md., being the youngest living daughter of Rev, Perry G., and Mrs. Mary E. Walker. She was educated at Morgan College, and is a graduate of its normal department. Until she assumed the duties of a wife, she was a teacher in the schools of Maryland, and, lastly, an instructor in the Baltimore City Academy. She is well known as an essayist, and as an associate upon the editorial staff of The Banner. She has the following to say of the press: "The object of the press is to elevate humanity. It is one of the greatest means of bringing our people to the level of those who have had centuries of privileges."