When the word “classic” is spoken or heard, many times, it relates to a vintage movie, vehicle, song or book.

However, a 119-year-old newspaper editorial became considered, and rightfully so, a classic in its own right when a young 8-year-old girl wrote in to her local newspaper about her weakening belief in the spirit of Christmas.

Young Virginia O’Hanlon wrote in to the New York Sun seeking advice about her predicament. And that letter prompted the editor, Francis P. Church to respond to Virginia in one of the most emotional editorials ever printed in a newspaper. It is still as powerful today as it was back in 1897.

The underlying factor with the correspondence between the young girl and the newspaper shows the impact a local newspaper can have within the community. Just like the importance showed by Virginia seeking answers from her newspaper, the Tribune is truly appreciative of the support of the communities throughout Lawrence County we have been fortunate enough to serve for over 160 years. And we hope to continue that service for another 150 years.

As we have done for many years, The Tribune will publish Virginia’s letter and the subsequent response from the newspaper in Sunday’s, Christmas Day edition.