Item

James H.Storey, Standard Compositor

Standard
March 4, 1868
Obituary of James H. Storey, 80 years old.
The melancholy duty devolved upon us to recording the death of an old and respected inhabitant, the oldest printer and publisher in New Brunswick, perhaps in the Dominion. On Thursday last the 27th ult., Mr. James H. Storey, departed this life in his 80th year, respected by all who knew him, and deservedly regretted by numerous friends.
Mr. Storey was a native of Halifax, NS, and served his apprenticeship in the office of the late John Howe, Esq., grandfather of the Post Master of Saint John. He in course of time became foreman of the office (then the Royal Gazette) and had as his pupils he late Mr. Pierce, and the Hon. Joseph Howe, whom he used familiarly to speak of as “little Joseph.” On the “Herald’s being established in this town, b the “association,” as the publishers termed themselves, he was sent for to take charge of the office, with the late David Howe as editor. His establishment afterwards fell into their hands and “Howe and Storey” were publishers. In a few years they sold the office to the late Peter Stubs, who with his son John afterwards continued the paper until 1830, during which period Mr. Storey was employed in the office, and also held the office of Clerk of all Saint Church. Mr. Storey’s religious views having changed, he read his recantation and became a devoted member of the Roman Catholic Church. He afterwards worked in the Courant, Standard, Charlotte Gazette and Provincialist offices, was considered a very correct compositor, and good foreman.
            During Mr. Howe’s visit here some years ago to lecture upon the “Union of the Colonies and Intercolonial Railway,” he enquired for his old friend, “Jimmy Storey.” and said I will call at your office and see him. Next day in company with the late Sheriff, John Wilson and H. Hatch, he fulfilled his promise, and enquired of him if he was still at the case.” Mr. Storey did not remember him, but when his name was mentioned, asked “are you little Joseph?” Mr. H. replied I am and turning to the gentlemen who accompanied hi, observed—“To this man more than any other am I indebted for whatever position or knowledge I possess, he was my father’s foreman, and my old master, and impressed upon me the necessity of reading and study.” On taking leave he generously dropped a couple of Sovereigns into his hand.
            His declining health for the past two years prevented his working, a d at his leisure moments he wrote some articles upon local matters. His protest against the Liquor Law was a lengthy and well written document, and we set up and published by him.