HistoricSiteMarkers
Progressive & Modern Era

Birthplace of Stanley Walker

Lampasas, Lampasas County, Texas

Marker Inscription

(1898 - 1962) Noted Texas journalist and editor. Began his career in Austin and Dallas. From 1920 to 1935 was with New York "Herald-Tribune", where as City Editor he trained many writers. Also was on staff of Philadelphia "Ledger". He wrote "The Night Club Era", "Mrs. Astor's Horse", 5 other books, many articles. Spent last years here.

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

Born in Lampasas in 1898, Stanley Walker became one of the most celebrated American newspapermen of his day, rising to city editor of the New York Herald-Tribune, where from 1920 to 1935 he trained a generation of writers. He authored several books, among them "The Night Club Era" and "Mrs. Astor's Horse," chronicling the color and characters of his times before returning home to spend his final years.

Why it matters

Walker's career reflects the golden age of American big-city journalism, when a Texas-born editor could shape the newsrooms that defined the national conversation.

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