George L. Fox, editor of the Middleburg News, is a native of Middleburg, N. Y. He was born on April 3, 1871, son of Lewis and Elizabeth (Wilbur) Fox. His father, who is now living retired, was formerly engaged in the paper manufacturing business in Pen Yan, and later in Baldwinsville and Middleburg. His mother was born in Schoharie. His parents had a family of five children.
Mr. Fox received his education in the common and high schools of Middleburg; and in 1888, shortly after leaving the high school, he began the publication of The American Youth, a monthly story paper. This was issued from Middleburg, and had a circulation in every State in the Union. The following year it was sold to a publishing house in Boston, and subsequently Mr. Fox purchased the South Orange, N. J., Journal, and moved it to Middleburg. Associating himself with Wellington E. Bassler, a prominent business man and a Republican, he began the publication of the Middleburg News, a weekly paper. At first the venture seemed most unpromising, and the field was a limited one, but the energy and perseverance with which the proprietors have worked, the fortunate methods employed by the business management, and the enterprise shown in the news columns have together united to push the paper into the front rank of Republican weeklies. It is now one of the leading news organs of the county, and has a large circulation. While its columns give ample space to events of national importance, it does not forget to emphasize matters of local interest, and is always foremost in agitating local improvements. At various times it has been designated by the Republican leaders as the organ in which the State laws should be printed.
Mr. Fox was married on October 28, 1897, to Mabel Almy. She was born in Franklinton, and is a daughter of E. C. Almy, who was formerly a farmer of that town, and is now retired and living in Middleburg. Mr. Fox is a member of Middleburg Lodge, No. 663, F. & A. M., and has held the office of Junior Deacon of the lodge. He is a member of La Bastile Lodge, No. 494, I. O. O. F., and has filled nearly all the offices in the lodge, being now Past Noble Grand. He is also a member of Oucongena Tribe of Red Men. Professionally, he is a member of the New York Editorial Association and the New York Press Association. He and his wife attend the Methodist church.