[3] The first proposition to establish a newspaper in Los Angeles was made to the city council October 16, 1850.
The minutes of the meeting on that date contain this entry: "Theodore Foster petitions for a lot situated at the northerly corner of the jail for the purpose of erecting thereon a house to be used as a printing establishment.
The council—taking in consideration the advantages which a printing house offers to the advancement of public enlightenment, and there existing as yet no such establishment in the city: Resolved.
That for this once only a lot from amongst those that are marked on the city map be given to Mr. Theodore Foster for the purpose of establishing thereon a printing house; and the donation be made in his favor because he is the first to inaugurate this public benefit."
Lewis edited the English pages and Manuel Clemente Rojo was editor of the Spanish columns of the Star for some time after its founding.
The inscription on the badge, which was printed both in English and Spanish, read "City Police, organized by the Common Council of Los Angeles, July 12, 1851."
The site donated to Foster by the council in 1850, on which to establish a printing house for the advancement of public enlightenment, seems not to have been a part of the Star outfit.
A prospectus on the Spanish page informs us that "Imprenta de la Estrella, Calle Principal, Casa de Temple"—that is, the printing office of the Star is on Main street, in the House of Temple, where was added, the finest typographical work will be done in Spanish, French and English.
Fifty percent advance on a deferred payment looks like a high rate of interest, but it was very reasonable in those days.
In November 1855, Waite, the sole proprietor, publisher and business manager of the Star, was appointed postmaster of Los Angeles.
He found it difficult to keep the Star shining, the mails moving and his produce exchange running.
In setting forth its merits, he wrote: "To a young man of energy and ability a rare chance is now offered to spread himself and peradventure to realize a fortune."
The young man with expansive qualities was found two months later in the person of William A. Wallace, who had been editor of the Star in 1854.
For some severe criticisms on Abraham Lincoln and other officers of the government, and his outspoken sympathy for the Confederates, he was arrested.
The little ‘onpleasantness,’ which at that time existed in the family, has toned down considerably, and if perfect harmony does not yet pervade the circle, our hope is this brotherly feeling will soon be consummated."
Hamilton now seldom indulged in political leaders of a column length, and when he did they were of a mild type.
Barter retired from the firm in September and founded the Anaheim Gazette, the pioneer newspaper of Orange County, California.
Its brilliancy steadily diminished until in the early part of 1879 when the sheriff attached it for debt, and its publication was discontinued.
His Chinese laborers roomed in the lower part of the building, and after setting fire to the house, destroyed what remained of The Star.