A husband and wife team who left an indelible mark on newspapering in Wisconsin, Harland and Helen Everson set the foundation for a strong weekly newspaper through their devotion to journalism and a steadfast commitment to their community.
After buying The Edgerton Reporter in 1951, the Eversons quickly built it into one of the most respected and award-winning weekly newspapers in the state. The Reporter — a leader in promoting Edgerton’s schools, civic endeavors and advocating for community causes — served as a model for other independent papers in the state.
Their devotion to public service went well beyond the newspaper. Both were active in numerous local associations and societies. Harland, who served on the Wisconsin Assembly from 1970 to 1982, was hailed as a “champion of the people” upon his death in 1992. Helen also was known for her community leadership. She was instrumental in founding the Sterling North Book & Film Festival and was named a Paul Harris Fellow and later Edgerton’s Honored Citizen by the Edgerton Rotary.
During Harland’s time in the legislature, Helen became the face of the newspaper for many years, and ran The Reporter after his death, alongside her daughter, Diane. During that time, it was recognized with many state and national honors. She remained an ever-present figure in the newsroom until age 92.
