Introduction
JENNINGS’ BAND, also known as Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band and later as Jennings’ Third Regiment Band was well known in Camden from the 1880s right on up America’s entry into World War I in 1917. It was organized as the National Cornet Band in 1868 and became the Sixth Regiment Band in 1871. In its later years the band was known as Jennings’ Third Regiment Band, as the old Sixth New Jersey Regiment had been replaced in Camden by the Third in a reorganization of New Jersey’s National Guard Units. The name stuck even after Joseph Jennings retired as bandmaster in 1910.
George Reeser Prowell wrote about the band’s early days in his History of Camden County, New Jersey, published in 1886:
The National Cornet Band was organized in 1868, with Joseph Jennings as leader. In 1871 the name was changed to the Sixth Regiment Band and it was mustered into the service of the National Guard, and was the only regimental band in the State for years. Their present band-room is at the Sixth Regiment Armory, southwest corner of West and Mickle Streets. The present members are Joseph Jennings, John Roth, Augusta Buese, Gordon Phillips, Lewis Seal, Charles Landwehr, Charles Felcon, John Brown, D. C. Newman Collins, Alfred Colbins, Charles Bowyer, Isaac Heins, Joseph Young, Richard Richardson, Benjamin A. Woolman, Harry Carles, William Stevenson, Frederick Klaproth, Henry Myers, G. Philip Stephany, Adam Markgraft, Charles Ellis, Emerson Ogborn, Charles Frost, Hiram Hirst.
Bandleader Joseph Jennings’ was in the newspapers for a tragic reason in the fall of 1902, when his son, W. Price Jennings, and another boy, John Coffin, were murdered. Their killer, Paul Woodward, was quickly arrested, tried, and executed.
The Sixth Regiment Armory, which was the home of the band for many years, was destroyed by fire in 1906. Three Camden firefighters, George W. Shields, William Hillman, and William Jobes, were killed while fighting this blaze, and several other firefighters were injured.
Joseph Jennings led the band into 1912 when he retired. Joseph Bossle Sr. took over as bandmaster and reorganized the band. He led the band until 1919 when he took over the Tall Cedars of Lebanon band, which his son, Joseph Bossle Jr., had organized a few years before.
A Pleasant Surprise Party
Philadelphia Newspaper — Undated
A PLEASANT SURPRISE PARTY.
Capt. Henry C. Lees, Lieuts. F. A. Rex and E. L. Thornton, of the 6th Regt., and Lieut.-Col. Wm. H. Hempsing and Paymaster Richard C. Wilkins, accompanied by the 6th Regiment Band; Prof. Joseph Jennings, leader, invaded Philadelphia on Thursday night, and made a raid upon Capt. Wm. C. Shinn, at the Markoe House, Chesnut above Ninth, when the gallant Captain and his estimable lady, together with the other inmates of the house, were treated to several delightful airs from that excellent band. It having been discovered, after a parley, that the apparently hostile demonstration of the N. J. N. G. was of a pacific character, Capt. Shinn allowed his countrymen to enter his winter quarters, and entertained them in the hospitable manner for which he is noted among his many friends. It being so near election, Mayor Fox’s vigilant political patrolmen surmised the intention of the foreign visitors was to bring the Captain back with them as a repeater; but when it was explained that Co. B. is mostly Democratic, while the Captain still adheres to the true faith, as expounded in the gospel of Republicanism, their suspicions were allayed, and the only repeating now desired is a repetition of the pleasant visit.
Lieutenant Colonel William H. Hempsing — Captain Henry C. Lees — Lieutenant Frederick A. Rex — Lieutenant E. L. Thornton — Paymaster Richard Coates Wilkins — 6th Regiment Band under the direction of Professor Joseph Jennings
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER THE RIVER.
DECORATION DAY.—Yesterday was a semi holiday in Camden in consequence of its being Decoration day. Nearly all public places of business were closed in the afternoon. The banks did not open their doors, and the steam boats and numerous dwellings were gaily decorated with flags. At two o’clock, according to the programme, a procession was formed at Fifth and Arch streets, which moved in the following order: Sixth Regiment Band, with Companies C and D of the regiment; members of Post No. 5; drum corps, also cadet corps of Post No. 5, in command of Captain George Hutchinson; T. M. K. Lee Post, G. A. R., under command of William H. Shearman. The chief marshals were Colonel Joseph C. Nicholls and aids, Joseph McCallister, William D. Middleton, Francis Saunders and Frederick Shill. Next came the floral car of Post No. 5, beautifully arranged and loaded with flowers. A large one, drawn by eight horses, contained the [illegible] of the Auxiliary Committee of Posts 5 and 37; the Juvenile Welsh Drum Corps of Post 37; the floral wagon of Post No. 37; then came wagons of the two posts containing soldiers’ orphans, wagons with cisterns of ice water for those in line, barouches containing city officials, &c., a piece of artillery and other vehicles. At 2:30 the procession started, and passed over the route already published. At the cemeteries about 175 graves were strewn with flowers and evergreens in the presence of a large concourse of people. This duty performed, the procession reformed and marched back to the Court House yard, where the closing ceremonies were had. “Cover them over with beautiful flowers” was sung by a number of excellent voices, with organ accompaniment. Rev. J. B. Graw delivered an impressive and appropriate address. Several other patriotic pieces were sung, and the services closed. An entertainment was afterward given by Post 5 in the Market House. The weather was fair, and the occasion passed without accident.
DIED FROM HIS INJURIES.—About twelve o’clock on yesterday Lewis Werts, aged twenty years, who had his leg crushed by a locomotive, at Fourth street and Bridge avenue, on Saturday afternoon week, died from the effects of his injuries, lockjaw having set in. He lost an arm six months ago by a rail road accident.
RUNAWAY HORSE.—Yesterday morning a horse became frightened on Federal, near Broadway, and dashed down the street with furious speed. A young man named Davis, at Third and Federal, sprang into the wagon, and, seizing the reins, succeeded in stopping the animal before any damage was sustained.
SERIOUS FALL.—A young lad, son of Abraham Anderson, who resides on Cooper street, near Camden while playing yesterday, accidentally fell from a fence, and broke his leg near the knee.
RAILROAD SMASH.—About four o’clock yesterday a train of cars struck a wagon at Seventh and Sycamore streets, demolishing the vehicle, but, fortunately, no one was injured.
COMMITTED.—Justice Cassady yesterday committed James McCulley, Lemuel Ridell and Charles Wilson, for being quarrelsome and disorderly.
Thomas M.K. Lee Post No. 5, G.A.R. — William B. Hatch Post No. 37, G.A.R. — William H. Shearman — Colonel Joseph C. Nichols — Joseph McCallister — William D. Middleton — Francis Saunders — Frederick Shill — Rev. J.B. Graw — North 5th Street — Arch Street — Hatch League No. 2, Loyal Ladies League
Camden's Fire Laddies Parade
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN’S FIRE LADDIES PARADE.
AN EVENT WHICH ENTHUSED THE QUIET CITY ACROSS THE RIVER.
The City Profusely Decorated in Honor of the Event and an Immense Crowd in Attendance—Brief Notes of Interest.
Yesterday was a red-letter day in Camden. It was the occasion of the first firemen’s parade in the city for years. From every flagstaff the American flag floated. Such elaborate decorations of business places, residences and public buildings have not been seen since the Presidential campaign. Flags and bunting adorned the fronts of the four engine houses, while the Morning News, Courier and Press Club had decorations which attracted much attention.
The parade started at half-past 2, with Chief Marshal W. B. E. Miller in command. Councilman E. E. Jefferies was assistant marshal. A platoon of twenty policemen, in charge of Chief Samuel Dodd, headed the line. The United States Fire Company, of Atlantic City, in command of Chief Locke, with Foreman E. J. Pettit as an assistant, attracted much attention. The company wore their coats and had their hose carriage and steamer with them.
The Fire Commissioners came next in carriages, Mayor Pratt and Camden officials in carriages, Councilmen and Recorder Joseph Bartlett and President of Council Robert Stroud, of Atlantic City; members of the press in carriages, police patrol, Sixth Regiment Band, Chief Engineer Bender and Assistant Chief Bazine, of the Camden Fire Department; Engine Company No. 1, Foreman John G. Stockton; Engine Company No. 2, Foreman Harry Grosscup; Engine Company No. 3, Foreman Mortimer Wilson; Engine Company No. 4, Foreman Amadee Middleton; extra engine, hose cart and supply wagon. All of the apparatus of the different companies was handsomely decorated.
As the parade passed the postoffice all of the clerks and carriers in full uniform were drawn up in line and reviewed the procession. A handsome floral offering was presented to Postmaster Browning as he rode by the postoffice in his carriage.
The route was the same as that published in yesterday’s Inquirer, with the exception of the Eighth ward portion, which had to be abandoned, owing to the heat.
OTHER ITEMS.
During the parade yesterday Thomas Murphy, a pick-pocket, of Newark, was caught in the act of “working” the crowd. While Patrolman Isaac McKinley was on his way to the City Hall with the prisoner two of his friends attempted to rescue him. The officer held on to the thief and with the aid of Albert Gilbert, of the Water Department, succeeded in landing him safely behind the bars.
The Property Committee, of the Board of Education, met last night and completed the arrangements for the purchasing of American flags for the public schools. The latter will be raised for the first time on the Fourth of July.
The Freeholders yesterday received a communication from the jury that tried Chalkley Leconey, asking for extra compensation. It was laid over for one month.
Samuel Dodd — Jesse Pratt — Robert Bender — Samuel S. Buzine — John A. Stockton — Henry Grosscup — Mortimer Wilson — Amadee Middleton — Isaac McKinley — Engine Company 1 — Engine Company 3 — Engine Company 4
Music Has Charms
Camden Post-Telegram —
MUSIC HAS CHARMS
As Was Shown by the Enthusiasm at the Jennings’ Band Concert.
The first of the series of promenade concerts by Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band assisted by Miss Jennie Foell, soprano; and Euterpean Male Quartette, John Urban, first tenor; R. Williams, second tenor; Linwood Moulton, first base; Gilbert L. Hindermyer, second base; Miss Therosan Parrot, accompanist, was given at the Pennsylvania Railroad Y. M. C. A. rooms, Third and Bridge avenue, to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience of more than eight hundred persons who demanded encore after encore from Professor Jennings and the vocalists.
The large assembly hall was tastefully decorated with potted plants, palms, ferns and cedar trees while the walls and balcony were prettily festooned with green cedar, intertwined with mammoth pink rosettes which gave the room a most unique but pretty adornment.
The band, consisting of thirty pieces, occupied the stage, and as usual covered themselves with glory, rendering choice selections as only this body of crack musicians can.
The program of fifteen numbers was as follows: Sacred potpourri, “Joy to the World,” J. B. Barnhouse; Euterpean Quartette, Waltz Song, Temer; selection, Robin Hood, Wiegand; soprano sola, Conseils à Nina, J. B. Weckerlin, (Miss Jennie Foell); duet for cornets, Damon and Pythias, Hassolman (Comfort Bros.); tenor solo, selected, John Urban; overture, Poet and Peasant, F. V. Suppe; quartet, Phyllis; piccophone solo, Fire Fly, Galop, Stobbe (Harry W. Wakefield); baritone solo, Hear the Wild Winds Blow, Mattel (Linwood Moulton); Recollections of the War, Beyer; Descriptive, Drummer’s Call, Reveille, Grand March, For God and Country, Marching Along, The Assembly, The Flag of Columbia, Attention, Prayer, Commence Firing, The Battle, Star Spangled Banner, The Vacant Chair, Marching Through Georgia, Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, Glory Hallelujah, The Battle Cry of Freedom, Kingdom Coming, Finale; soprano solo (a), Persian Serenade, Colyn; (b) The Other Day, Borsey (Miss Jennie Foell); quartet, Banks of Allan Water; Indian War Dance, Wallstadt, Jr. (by members of organization); overture, Around the Metropolis, Beyer.
There will be two more concerts by the band, assisted by other talent which, no doubt, will be equally well attended.
The Entertainment Committee, consisting of C. S. Wilkinson (Chairman), Joseph A. Connell, Thomas Bodell, S. L. Jones, E. G. Blaisdell, L. E. Sheppard, John N. West and Thomas Dibble (Secretary), deserve great credit for the manner in which they conducted this their first concert.
The gentlemanly and handsomely ushers who added to the comfort of the audience were: Messrs. W. T. Rogers, Chas. Van Duyn, George Kadel, W. D. Cook, Aaron Watson, H. L. Jones, Thomas R. Dibble, W. A. Baird, A. M. Willetts, James Hope, A. McCall and W. P. Wolkert.
New Year's Day Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
NEW YEAR’S DAY OVER IN CAMDEN
Mummers Were Out in Strong Force to Give Fantastic Greeting to ‘97.
POOR NOT FORGOTTEN
New Year’s Day was more generally observed in Camden yesterday than for many years. The mummers were out in greater force than ever before. Three local New Year’s associations contested for prizes offered by social organizations and business houses. The George S. Dilmore and the Fireside New Year’s associations made their initial bow to the public yesterday, and each carried handsome banners presented by their female friends. Both organizations belong in South Camden. North Camden was represented by the J. H. Trainer New Year’s Association.
COMPETING FOR PRIZES.
The friendly rivalry between the organizations resulted in some handsome costumes being displayed in their efforts to outdo each other. The Dilmore Association has a membership of 267, and turned out a large number of mummers. Clement H. Haines is captain. After parading through the principal streets of Camden they crossed the river to Philadelphia. A wagon, that brought up the rear of their parade, was filled with cakes that had been won. An amusing feature of the display was the “Dilmore Guards.” They were dressed in green suits, wore football hair and carried tin toy guns. A football team was represented with one of their number carried on a stretcher.
The Fireside Association was led by Captain John Dangleman and about 200 members fantastically dressed were in line. A Cuban flag, about twenty-five feet wide by fifty feet in length, was carried by twenty boys. They had the Sixth Regiment band and the Ivy Fife and Drum Corps. They crossed the river to Philadelphia and captured a number of prizes.
The J. H. Trainer Association also made a creditable display, and won several prizes. Walter J. Stanton was captain.
THE POOR REMEMBERED.
The young Men’s Christian Association kept open house all day at their headquarters, on Federal street, above Broadway. The building was prettily decorated with greens. An interesting program, consisting of vocal and instrumental music, volley ball, gymnastics and games of all kinds, was rendered. An interesting lot of relics was displayed in the library by Haydon West. Refreshments were served by the Ladies’ Auxiliary all day.
The poor in the southern section of Camden were not forgotten during the day’s festivities. “Long John” Gallagher, a practical philanthropist, who has a restaurant and lodging house at 330 Atlantic avenue, distributed 500 fish cakes, 50 gallons of coffee, a like quantity of soup and several hundred loaves of bread to the needy.
In North Camden 200 loaves of bread were given out at Sixth and Elm streets to the poor in that section of the city.
Nearly all the political and social organizations kept open house.
Walter J. Stanton Sr. — Clement H. Haines — John Dangleman — George S. Dilmore — John “Long John” Gallagher — Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band — Ivy Fife & Drum Corps — George S. Dilmore New Years Association — Fireside New Years Association — J.H. Trainer New Years Association — Y.M.C.A. — North Camden — Federal Street — Broadway — Atlantic Avenue — North 6th Street — Elm Street
Camden's Pride Parades Before City's People
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN’S PRIDE PARADES BEFORE CITY’S PEOPLE
Policemen and Firemen Make Their Initial Turnout and Present a Creditable Appearance—Reviewed by Officials—How the Departments Have Grown
With a line up that could not be surpassed by the famous “Broadway Squad” of New York, Camden’s policemen, or most of them, turned out in review yesterday. The military carriage of the men excited much favorable comment, especially among those who were not aware that the men have been drilled every week for a year past by Colonel D. B. Murphy, of the National Guard of New Jersey. The policemen were followed by an array of firemen and a variety of apparatus that made many of the natives gasp in astonishment. Altogether the procession was a revelation to Camden residents who thought they were well informed about their city.
The procession was headed by Jennings’ Third Regiment Band. Then came Chief John Foster, of the Police Department, followed by a line composed of Police Captains Stanley, Alberts and Doyle and Sergeant Bentley. Following them under the silken folds of “Old Glory,” which he carried with a steady grasp, was Policeman George A. Donovan, a colored member of the force. Two platoons of forty policemen each were led by Sergeants Horner and Hyde. The police patrol wagons and the city ambulance brought up the end of the policemen’s line. The total police force of the city consists of ninety nine men.
The City Band, followed by Chief Samuel S. Elfreth, of the Fire Department, in a carriage, marked the head of the firemen’s line. The seventy-two men of this department were in two sections, the first being led by Assistant Chief Samuel Buzine, of the department headquarters, and the second by Assistant Chief Benjamin Kellum of the East Side. Between the two sections marched the Ivy Fife and Drum Corps. The apparatus in line consisted of six hose carts, five engines, three hook and ladder trucks, two chemical engines and a supply wagon.
The growth of Camden’s police department may be seen by a comparison of the present with the year 1862, when six policemen sufficed to protect the entire city, which was then divided in three wards. In 1876 there were only sixteen policemen in the city and nine regular firemen under one chief. There were, however, thirty extra men subject to call by the chief.
The parade yesterday was reviewed by Mayor Hatch and the City Councilmen from the balcony on the Broadway side of the Court House.
Jackson Street — Colonel D.B. Murphy — Jennings’ Third Regiment Band — John Foster — Arthur Stanley — William E. Albert — Hugh Boyle — George Horner — David Bentley — George A. Donovan — Edward S. Hyde — Samuel S. Elfreth — Samuel Buzine — Benjamin Kellum — Ivy Fife & Drum Corps — Cooper B. Hatch — Engine Company 1 — Engine Company 3 — Engine Company 4
Jennings' Band at Moorestown
Camden Post-Telegram —
There will be no fireworks at Moorestown on July 4. The entertainment on that day will be furnished by the Moorestown Field Club and Jennings’ Band of Camden.
Regimental Band Has New Leader
Philadelphia Inquirer —
REGIMENTAL BAND HAS NEW LEADER
Joseph Bossle Is Named as Head of Famous Third With Headquarters in Camden
One of the important happenings in National Guard circles in New Jersey recently is the retirement from the chief musician’s position of the Third Regiment, N. G. P., of Joseph Jennings, who, for many years waived the baton at the head of Jennings’ Third Regiment Band. Colonel Mather, in looking about for a bandmaster, decided that the best in the land was, none too good for his regiment and he selected Joseph Bossle, long connected with the old band, a resident of Camden, and one of the foremost men in Philadelphia’s musical circles.
Bossle has for many years been the leader of Bossle’s Orchestra, and his high position in the musical associations insures him the very best talent for his uses.
Bossle’s Third Regiment Band made a fine impression at the Grand Army review at Atlantic City.
JOSEPH BOSSLE
Well-known musician who has been appointed leader of the Third Regiment Band.
Jennings' Band and Moose Band
Camden Post-Telegram —
JENNINGS’ BAND
At Munger & Long’s To-night.
MOOSE BAND FRIDAY NIGHT.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN NEWS NOTES
Taken to Cooper Hospital apparently injured, Joseph Bryan, of Germantown, early yesterday morning attacked the physicians and nurses, but was subdued by Patrolman Crawford. He was later given ten days in jail by the Recorder.
Philip Marlow, who has been arrested many times for annoying his wife, was given still another chance by Judge Boyle yesterday. Marlow was warned that if he returns all of his past failures to make good will loom up against him.
Jennings’ Band entertained a large assemblage on the Court House plaza last night.
It is likely that former County Detective John S. Smith may be appointed to succeed County Detective Harry Cheeseman, resigned. As a sleuth for many years Mr. Smith won an enviable reputation of more than local renown.
Josephus Jennings, Sr.
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Josephus Jennings, Sr.
After a week’s illness from pneumonia, Josephus Jennings, Sr., died yesterday at his home, 319 North Third street, Camden. He was 69 years old and is survived by three sons and a daughter. Mr. Jennings was widely known as leader of the Sixth and later the Third Regiment Band, N. G. N. J. Of late years he was leader of Jennings’ Band, known throughout this section of the country. The funeral will be held Wednesday.
Firemen to Parade in Gloucester City
Philadelphia Inquirer —
FIREMEN TO PARADE IN GLOUCESTER CITY
Fifteen Companies to Participate in Pageant Saturday When New Engine Is Housed
Special to The Inquirer. GLOUCESTER CITY, N. J., May 6.—At a meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners and Fire Department today arrangements were completed for the firemen’s parade to be held on Saturday in connection with the housing of the new fire engine. About fifteen fire companies will participate, and Mayor Mealey, who is chief of the fire department, will be marshal, with William Known and Thomas Cozan as his aides.
The parade will start from the hose house on Bergen street. At the reviewing stand, in front of the City Hall, the judges will decide the winners. The judges will be Sheriff Joseph E. Nowrey, Mayor Charles Ellis, of Camden; Mayor Milliard F. Cattell, of Woodbury; Chief Worthington, of the Camden Fire Department, and Chief Baxter, of Philadelphia. Jennings’ Band will head the line, followed by the city officials in automobiles.
The Boy Scouts will assist in patrolling the route, along with a number of Camden police. Prizes will be awarded for the company having the largest number of men in line; the company coming the furthest distance; the company having the best band, and the best equipped company.
‘Uncle Joe’ Bossle, 86, Takes His Turn Waving Baton for Tall Cedars Band
Camden Courier-Post —
JOSEPH BOSSLE SR. … dean of bandmasters.
A musician since boyhood, Joseph Bossle Sr., dean of South Jersey bandmasters, has lived happily with his wife, Jennie, at 706 Linden street since their wedding day 56 years ago.
For more than 50 years “Uncle Joe” Bossle has been a band leader. In his day he traveled from coast to coast with the famous Conway Band. He also played with the famous old Jennings Third Regiment Band and eventually became its leader in 1912. In fact, he reorganized it during that year.
He played with Conway’s Band at Willow Grove park as well as tour the country. He was a warm personal friend of the late John Philip Sousa, king of bandmasters and composer in his day, and the late Victor Herbert, also a great leader and composer.
Made First Instrument
Bossle is now 86 and his wife is a few years younger. His father was a plumber and during his boyhood he made a flute by drilling holes in a brass pipe he obtained from his father’s workshop. Today he still plays a flute in the band of Camden Forest, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, of which he was bandmaster for years.
Frequently at meetings of the forest Lt. Albert Eckenroth hands him his baton and the venerable musician leads the musicians in playing Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” or the “Overture from William Tell.” “Uncle Joe” always gets a “standing encore” from the members.
He recalls playing the flute or cello with other famous bands such as the Royal Grenadiers of Canada, the National Cadet and Gil Irons old bands.
His son, Joseph Jr., was the organizer of the Tall Cedars Band in 1912. His father succeeded him as bandmaster in 1919 and continued several years until he was succeeded by Lieutenant Eckenroth.
Veteran Music Teacher
Bossle was born in Philadelphia on April 14, 1863. He moved to Camden after his marriage to Miss Jennie Richardson in 1886. They had four sons, three of whom are living. They are Joseph Jr., 817 Pearl street; W. Louis, attorney, who resides with his parents; and Dr. Frank N. R. of 116 North Center street, Merchantville. Another son, Charles, is deceased.
Not only has Bossle been a band leader but a teacher of music for many years. He still possesses the flute he made as a boy. He was one of the organizers of Local 77, American Federation of Musicians, and served as treasurer of this organization more than 20 years.
During the past few years he has been in ill health, but gets around with the aid of crutches. He says his happiest moments are when he is playing with the Tall Cedars’ band.