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Bennett (JAMES GORDON an American)

JAMES GORDON, an American journalist, born in New York City, May 10, 1841; son of James Gordon Bennett, founder of the New York "Herald," of which he became managing editor in 1866, and from that time largely controlling, and becoming proprietor on the death of his father in 1872. In 1870 he sent Henry M. Stanley on the exploring expedition which resulted in the finding of Dr. Livingstone, and, in conjunction with the London "Daily Telegraph," supplied the means for his journey across Africa by way of the Kongo in 1874- 1878. He organized a system of storm prognostications of value to shipping masters; fitted out the "Jeannette" Polar expedition; and, in 1883, was associated with John W. Mackay in organizing the new Commercial Cable Company. He founded the "Evening Telegram" in New York, and established daily editions of the "Herald" in Paris and London. He early gave much attention to yachting.

He resided mainly in Paris until his death, May 14, 1918. By the terms of his will Mr. Bennett left the bulk of his fortune to found and endow a home for journalists.