The history of the "Press" traces back to an effort by Thomas J. Keenan Jr. to buy "The Pittsburg Times" newspaper, at which he was employed as city editor. Joining Keenan in his endeavor were reporter John S. Ritenour of the Pittsburgh "Post", Charles W. Houston of the city clerk's office, and U.S. Representative Thomas M. Bayne. After examining the "Times" and finding it in a poor state, the group changed course and decided to start a new penny paper in hopes that it would flourish in a local market full of two- and three-cent dailies. The first issue appeared on June 23, 1884. A corporation was formed, with Bayne as the largest shareholder.