Few newspapers have thus far survived the social media revelation of recent years. In recent years, the region has suffered the loss of a few major newspaper outlets, with the Trinidad and Tobago NEWSDAY being the latest casualty after some 32 years in the business.
Over the weekend, the employees of The Voice Publishing Company celebrated the publication of the first issue of the newspaper on January 24th, 1885, then owned by Robert George McHugh.
Following his passing in 1910, his wife Marie McHugh flew the flag for 10 years before the newspaper was acquired by George S.E. Gordon in 1920. The baton would then be passed to his son Sir Garnet Gordon who was succeeded by his son, the current head of the organization, Michael Gordon.
In its 141st anniversary year, The VOICE boldly reflects on the defining moments and significant events that have established the newspaper as the leading publication in Saint Lucia and one of the oldest publications still in operation throughout the region.
Former Editorial Consultant and Managing Editor Guy Ellis (deceased) accurately described The Voice as: A Major Training Institution.
He pointed out that most accomplished journalists from Saint Lucia credit their beginnings to The Voice. He asserted, “The newsroom itself is undoubtedly a training ground, and at THE VOICE it has always been that.”
Having dedicated over 53 years to journalism, with 30 of those years at THE VOICE, Ellis returned to the paper nearly 4 years ago as an Editorial Consultant. Before his passing, he was instrumental in the search for the next editor, ensuring strong leadership for the future.
A number of notable local figures have occupied the editor’s chair at The Voice including Willie James, Wilfred St. Clair Daniel, Earl Bousquet, Dunstan St. Omer, Rick Wayne, Victor Marquis and Franklyn Mc. Donald.
The Voice’s 140th celebratory issue on March 30, 2025, featured a special supplement that highlighted pivotal moments in its history and honors the individuals who have played key roles in the paper’s journey from its inception in January 1885 to January 2025.
Celebrating 140 Years of The Voice: A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation
Managing Director Vilan Edward clearly conveyed the legacy of our founder, whose vision was to connect people. He remarked, “Who would have imagined that our founder purchased this company for just $2.00 in 1885, and now, 140 years later, our newspaper publications would still be sold at the same price per issue?”
Edward confidently stated, “The objectives of our shareholders remain unwaveringly aligned with the founder’s vision: to produce a newspaper that informs and enlightens without persuasion.”
He acknowledged that reaching this milestone has come with challenges but emphasized, “The Voice has demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming significant obstacles, including the devastating Castries fires of 1927 and 1948 and adapting through two World Wars, the advent of the internet, social media’s rise, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Regardless of the circumstances—be it prosperity or adversity—The Voice has evolved in tandem with the nation’s economic and social shifts.”
The Voice is the oldest newspaper in the region, second only to the Jamaica Gleaner by a few years.