Allen Black's journey from submarine service in WWII to his distinguished career in journalism is a testament to his dedication and passion for storytelling. After serving in the military, he returned to his roots in journalism, inspired by his early experiences with the Charleston High School newspaper. In 1950, he founded the Malden Press in Malden, Missouri, marking the beginning of his influential career in the field.

Despite an opportunity to work at Better Homes & Gardens, Allen Black chose to pursue his dream of becoming the editor of a local weekly newspaper. He acquired the Malden Merit, a local paper established in 1904, and merged it with the Malden Press to form the Malden Press-Merit. This newspaper became a cornerstone of the Malden community, serving its residents for four decades.

Allen Black's leadership extended beyond journalism; he formed partnerships with Miller Moll a partner for 40 years, who contributed to the success and growth of the Malden Press-Merit. Together, they upheld the newspaper's commitment to local news coverage and community engagement.

Recognized for its excellence, the Malden Press-Merit received many accolades and awards each year from the Missouri Press Association, highlighting Allen Black's editorial prowess and dedication to journalistic integrity. His contributions were further honored when he was inducted into the Missouri Press Association Hall of Fame in 2004, a testament to his enduring impact on Missouri journalism.

In addition to his editorial responsibilities, Allen Black played a pivotal role in preserving local history through the newspaper's collection of photographs. These images, curated by the Malden Historical Museum, offer a glimpse into the community's past and underscore Allen Black's commitment to documenting and celebrating Malden's heritage.

Through his endeavors with the Malden Press-Merit, Allen Black not only fulfilled his childhood passion for journalism but also left a lasting legacy of journalistic excellence and community service in Malden, Missouri. His career serves as an inspiration to aspiring journalists and historians alike, emphasizing the power of storytelling in preserving local culture and fostering community pride.

Allen Black's Scrap Books of Maldenite Over The Ages

"A 40 Year History of People In The News"