William E. Woodruff (politician)

William E. Woodruff (born December 24, 1795, Bellmore, New York; died June 19, 1885, Little Rock, Arkansas) was an American printer, publisher, and politician who played a significant role in the early development of Arkansas. He is best known for founding the Arkansas Gazette, the oldest newspaper west of the Mississippi River, in 1819 at Arkansas Post.

Woodruff moved to Arkansas Territory in 1819, initially establishing the Arkansas Gazette as a weekly publication. He served as the paper's editor and publisher for many years, using it as a platform to advocate for his political beliefs and promote the growth of the territory. His newspaper was instrumental in disseminating information and shaping public opinion in the developing region.

Beyond his journalistic endeavors, Woodruff was involved in various aspects of Arkansas's early political and economic life. He held several public offices, including serving as the territorial printer, a member of the Arkansas Territorial Legislature, and as postmaster of Little Rock. He was a staunch Democrat and actively participated in the state's political debates surrounding issues such as statehood, slavery, and economic development.

Woodruff was also involved in establishing Little Rock as the capital of Arkansas, and he played a key role in the city's development. He established a printing office there and contributed to the infrastructure of the nascent city. His influence extended beyond politics and publishing; he was also involved in land speculation and other business ventures.

Later in life, Woodruff's political influence waned, but he remained a respected figure in Arkansas. He continued to be involved in the Arkansas Gazette until his death in 1885. His legacy is primarily tied to his role in establishing the Arkansas Gazette and his contributions to the early political and economic landscape of Arkansas.