The Tampico Tornado
Transcribed from Portrait & Biographical Album of Whiteside County, 1885

The Tampico Tornado


The Tampico Tornado was established in the centennial year, the first issue bearing date May 4, 1876. A.D. Hill and Charles F. Gifford were the publishers and proprietors. During the first year the paper was printed at Prophetstown. Mr. Gifford at the expiration of that time became sole proprietor, purchased an outfit and commenced its publication at Tampico. The paper met with good success from its commencement, securing a good paying list of subscribers and being well patronized by the business men of the place. While probably not being able to destroy with its breath like the physical manifestation of the tornado, it is yet a power in the community in which it exists, Mr. Gifford being a born newpaper man.