Edwin A. VanValkenburg directed the publication of the Philadelphia North American for a quarter-century, and as its editor he inspired and directed public opinion for the advancement of the civic, economic, and legislative interests of the people of Pennsylvania and of the United States. President Theodore Roosevelt characterized E.A. VanValkenburg as "The Most Useful American Citizen: a Great Editor, and a Great Patriot." He was honored by North American survivors, his colleagues, and by his fellow citizens of Tioga County for his devoted service to state and nation.