“D” is for Dawson, Francis Witherspoon [1840-1889]. Journalist. Born in England and educated in London, Dawson was a romantic adventurer and espoused the Southern cause. He served aboard a Confederate cruiser and in the Confederate army. Moving to Charleston in 1866, he and a partner purchased the Charleston News and seven years later the Charleston Courier. They combined the two papers as the News and Courier and Dawson became its editor. Under his leadership the paper became known for its speed and accuracy in gathering news. The editor was among the leading New South advocates who promoted building cotton mills and the diversifying agriculture. A devout Catholic he led the crusade to outlaw dueling and was also fiercely opposed to lynching. Ironically, Francis Witherspoon Dawson, an ardent spokesman against violence was gunned down in the streets of Charleston.
“D” is for Dawson, Francis Witherspoon [1840-1889]
