The Free Trader-Journal, founded in 1848 by local editor A.B. McCoy in Ottawa, Illinois, has long been a cornerstone of community journalism. Initially focused on local news and agricultural issues, it merged with the Ottawa Fair Dealer in 1937 to broaden its influence. Today, the newspaper provides a rich blend of local news, opinion pieces, sports coverage, and event listings, making it a trusted source for residents. On OldNews.com, you can explore scans of the Free Trader-Journal and Ottawa Fair Dealer, starting 1920, with 6,781 scans available in total. This archive invites you to delve into the history of Ottawa, uncovering stories about historical figures and events that may even resonate with your own family history. Discover the voice of the community and connect with its ongoing narrative by searching for old newspapers on the site.