History of the Sacramento Bee

For over 150 years, the Sacramento Bee has enriched lives with the daily news. Founded by James McClatchy in 1857, the Bee has gained a reputation for its consistency and trustworthiness. This reputation was achieved early on when Eleanor McClatchy managed to obtain the support of a highly respected individual in 1943, thus ensuring the papers continued success.

Walt Disney's involvement

Walt Disney tended not to dabble in outside work; however, when McClatchy agreed to donate $1,500 to the Army Relief Fund in exchange for Disney's help, Disney jumped on board. In 1943, Walt Disney created two cartoon bees: Scoopy, the newspaper bee and Gaby, the radio bee. Through such characters as Mickey Mouse and Goofy, Disney is an International household name. With Walt Disney's involvement in creating these cartoon bees, he assured the longevity and respect for the Sacramento Bee.

Scoopy, the newspaper bee

While Disney helped to create various cartoon bees, Scoopy the newspaper bee is most commonly seen today. The only Disney creation that is permitted outside of Disney, Scoopy is the bee still seen throughout each publication of the Sacramento Bee. As Disney initiated a reputation of familiarity for the Sacramento Bee, the longevity of his creation has solidified the reputation of consistency among readers.

150 years later the Bee is still going strong. Through five generations of the McClatchy family, the Bee's reputation and goals have never faltered. While the paper had a strong foundation, Eleanor McClatchy assured its place in society by implementing the assistance of a rising star. Through Walt Disney and Scoopy, The Sacramento Bee promises to bring the daily news without fail for years to come.