Bay Roberts Guardian

The Bay Roberts Guardian featured local, provincial and foreign news, public notices, personal and social news, proceedings of the legislature, and fishing and shipping news. Under the editorship of C.E. Russell (1877-1937), the paper reflected his involvement in politics. In 1913, the editorials were extremely pro-Morris, supporting the People's party and opposing Coaker. The paper expressed opposition to Confederation at that time. In 1915, more independence for the outports from the influence of St. John's was advocated.

In 1923, Russell was snubbed by the Opposition Party which he had previously supported. The editorial policy of Guardian abruptly changed sides and supported the Liberals under Richard Squires. The paper sided with the Monroe government in 1924 and the editor was appointed Minister of Public Works. In 1926, the editor resigned that office and became a neutral, resigning from politics in 1928. The paper became less political beginning in the late 1920's, focusing on local issues such as the need for breakwaters and traffic control. Still mildly supportive of the government, the editorials ran to political philosophizing, frequently decrying public apathy. The paper had a neutral attitude toward the Commission of Government at first, but by 1937 became extremely critical of its shortcomings. The Guardian supported Confederation in 1948.

This newspaper's description was sourced from Suzanne Ellison's Historical Directory of Newfoundland and Labrador Newspapers.