Draft:William Edward Clare

William Edward Clare (1863 - 1940 ) was a prominent newspaper and media figure in Perth, Western Australia, during the late 1800s and mid 20th century. Born in St. Helens, Lancashire, Clare embarked on a journalistic career that would see him found and contribute to several significant publications in Western Australia.

Early Life and Career
Clare's journalistic journey began at the **Birkenhead News** in England. At the age of twenty-one, he left for Australia, seeking new opportunities in a land ripe for stories and growth.

Move to Australia and Media Ventures
Upon arriving in Melbourne and after a brief stint in Tasmania, Clare moved to Western Australia in 1892. There, he became deeply involved in the burgeoning goldfields' media scene, founding and contributing to various newspapers that chronicled the lives and times of the region's inhabitants.

Clare's Weekly
"Clare's Weekly" was a publication established by Clare in Perth, which ran from 1897 to 1899. It served as a precursor to "The Argonaut," providing news and insights during a period of rapid development and excitement in the region.

The Argonaut
Following "Clare's Weekly," Clare launched The Argonaut in Perth, which was published from 1899 to 1900. This newspaper continued the tradition of its predecessor, offering a mix of local news, opinions, and serialized stories to its readership.

The Coolgardie Miner
Perhaps Clare's most notable contribution was the founding of "The Coolgardie Miner" in 1894. This weekly newspaper became a staple for the residents of Coolgardie, Western Australia, at a time when the town was the heart of the goldfields region. The publication captured the essence of the era, with contributions from notable figures such as Edwin Greenslade Murphy and cartoonist Ben Strange. Clare's leadership and vision steered the newspaper through its initial success and subsequent relaunches in 1913 and 1935.

Legacy
William Edward Clare's impact on the media landscape of Western Australia is undeniable. His publications provided a voice for the people and stories of the goldfields, contributing significantly to the historical record of the region's formative years. Clare's dedication to journalism and his adventurous spirit embody the essence of the pioneering Australian media.