Among Harper's first decisions was the re-employment of the remarkable Keziah, this area's biggest promoter of fishing, tourism and the legendary Bouncing Log Spring.
In 1972, youngest son Ed joined the newspaper as editor, allowing James and Margaret Harper time to pursue other interests.
The present 6,000-square-foot office on Moore Street dwarfs the white frame structure next door where the Pilot was located.
The elder Harper used to drive 30 miles to Leland on Tuesdays to toss a package of news and ad material on a passing train to be picked up at the Whiteville depot.
Harper told the story that he once missed the open box-car door, picked up the package from beside the tracks and followed the train to Whiteville.