"INDEPENDENT STATESMAN.

     In 1821 the Independent Statesman made its
bow to the public.  As it enacted, for a time, 
an important part in the politics of the State 
and County, I allude to it more at length than 
I have to many that preceded it.  It was established 
to advocate the election of Gen.  Joshua Wingate, 
jr., for Governor of the State, in opposition to 
Albion K. Parris, the Democratic nominee, who
received the support of the Argus and a portion 
of the Democracy, led by Ashur Ware, then Secretary
of State and a writer for the Argus.  Several of 
the leading Democrats, who opposed the election of 
Mr. Parris, were Isaac Ilsley, James Jewett, Asa 
Clapp    and his son Charles, Judge Widgery, and 
others of this city, and Judge Ames of Bath, etc., 
all of whom contributed material aid in getting up 
and supporting the Statesman.  The political con-
test that year was the most virulent and personal 
ever witnessed in this State.  Mr. Parris was 
triumphantly elected Governor, and the combination 
suffered a signal defeat. ..."

Reference DAta:
PRESS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY.