The E.W. Stephens Publishing Company was an American publishing company in Columbia, Missouri founded by Edwin William Stephens.^[1] Operating from the late 19th century into the 20th century, the press produced newspapers, novels, non-fiction books, textbooks, government documents, and other printed paper products. The Columbia Herald, a weekly newspaper published from 1873 to 1913 was also owned by E. W. Stephens and printed by the publishing company.^[2] Walter Williams, the father of journalism education and founder of the Missouri School of Journalism was its long-time editor. In its heyday, the press was the largest private employer in Columbia. The Herald Building, designed by Morris Frederick Bell, is a contributing property in the Downtown Columbia, Missouri National Historic District.