William Berry, 1st Viscount Camrose
William Ewart Berry, 1st Viscount Camrose, was not your ordinary British peer. His life was filled with extraordinary achievements and significant contributions to the world of newspapers and publishing. Let's take a closer look at the remarkable journey of this influential figure.
A Trailblazer in Publishing
Born on June 23, 1879, in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, William Berry quickly made a name for himself in the world of journalism and publishing. He founded his own newspaper called Advertising World in 1901, laying the foundation for his future success.
Berry's claim to fame came with the publication of his magazine, The War Illustrated, during the First World War. With a staggering circulation of 750,000 at its peak, the magazine brought him immense wealth and recognition. In 1915, together with his brother Gomer Berry, he purchased The Sunday Times and served as its editor-in-chief until 1937. The Financial Times also became part of their newspaper empire in 1919.
The Birth of Allied Newspapers
1924 marked a significant milestone in Berry's career when he joined forces with Sir Edward Iliffe to create Allied Newspapers. Their acquisition spree included the Daily Dispatch, the Manchester Evening Chronicle, the Sunday Chronicle, the Sunday News, the Sunday Graphic, and several other newspapers across the country. In Cardiff, they merged four newspapers to form the Western Mail. They didn't stop there, as in 1927, they purchased The Daily Telegraph from the 2nd Harry Levy-Lawson, 1st Viscount Burnham, with William Berry taking the helm as editor-in-chief. The Morning Post also joined their portfolio in 1937.
Coat of arms of William Berry, 1st Viscount Camrose
A Generous Supporter
William Berry wasn't just a shrewd businessman but also a philanthropist. After the Second World War, he provided financial assistance to none other than Sir Winston Churchill. Berry, along with ten other wealthy well-wishers, each donated £5,000 to allow the Churchills to keep their beloved home, Chartwell, on the condition that it would be presented to the nation after their deaths.
A Legacy to Behold
In recognition of his contributions, Berry received numerous honors throughout his life. He was created a baronet in the 1921 Birthday Honours and elevated to the peerage as Baron Camrose in 1929. His most prestigious title, 1st Viscount Camrose, was bestowed upon him on January 20, 1941.
William Berry's family played an integral role in his life. He married Mary Agnes Corns in 1905, and together they had eight children. His eldest son, Seymour, succeeded him in the viscountcy, barony, and baronetcy.
William Berry, 1st Viscount Camrose, left an indelible mark on the world of newspapers and publishing. His visionary leadership and contributions continue to inspire generations to this day. His great-grandson Joshua Sasse carries on his legacy as an accomplished actor.
References:
- Biography, Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
- The House the Berrys Built by Duff Hart-Davis
- William Camrose: Giant of Fleet Street by Lord Hartwell
- "William Berry (Lord Camrose) 1879 - 1954," Cynon Culture
Note: All images and references are from the original article.
