This collection contains information on Douglas Gunn who was the owner of the San Diego Union newspaper (1873-1886) and served as San Diego’s first mayor (1889-1891). It includes essays, speeches, correspondence, and information on Gunn’s business affairs.

Douglas Gunn was born in Southern Ohio in 1841 to Dr. and Mrs. Lewis C. Gunn. He had three sisters along with a brother, Chester C. Gunn. The Gunn family moved from Ohio in 1852 and settled in Sonora, California. Douglas’ father, Lewis, was involved in the newspaper business and became editor of the San Francisco Times. In 1868, the Gunn family moved to San Diego. Initially Gunn served as a reporter and printer for the San Diego Union, and in June 1873 he purchased the newspaper interest from Edward Bushyhead, becoming the seventh owner. Gunn introduced the first steam printing press to San Diego, which greatly increased printing speed and efficiency. He served as the newspaper’s owner for thirteen years, selling it in 1886.

0.25 Linear feet (1 box)

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This collection is open for research.