Joseph Warren, a native of Vermont, had studied at university, taught Greek and Latin, and had experience in journalism prior to coming to Buffalo to become local editor of the Courier in 1854. In 1858 he purchased an interest in the newspaper, later increasing his ownership under subsequent reorganizations. In 1869, the Courier Company was formed as a joint stock company, with Mr. Warren as its president, and he continued as the newspaper's Editor-in-chief until his death in 1876.

In addition to serving as a Park Commissioner, Warren also served as Superintendent of Schools for Buffalo, and had become the recognized leader of the Democratic party in Western New York. With Warren in charge of the Courier, the newspaper promoted many local interests, not the least of which were the Buffalo parks. The Courier, under his direction gained considerable stature in the community.