Convention Hall

Camden has had two buildings known as Convention Hall, which can get a bit confusing, and the issue gets even more confusing when you add the fact that Camden had four different armories in the years between 1880 and 1960, and one of them was also called Convention Hall! It doesn’t help either that Convention Hall was also often referred to as the Civic Center during the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, and early 1950s.

Camden’s first post-Civil War Armory was built on Bridge Avenue at West Street, extending south to Mickle Street. In 1877 the Farmers’ and Butchers’ Market Company, composed of Thomas A. Wilson, Rodolphus Bingham, Abraham Rapp, James W. Wroth, and Charles Stockham, erected a building 150 feet by 175 feet. It was intended for a wholesale and retail market, but did not prosper, for the reason that Philadelphia was so near, the wholesale trade could not be gained and the location was not suitable for retailing.

After being used for two years as a market, it was fitted up for theatrical purposes with a seating capacity of 1000 persons. It finally was secured by the Sixth Regiment, National Guard of New Jersey, and was used as the armory and headquarters until it burned down on March 16, 1906. It was the home of the Camden Electrics professional basketball team, part of the National Basketball League, the first professional league, from 1898 to 1904. Coached by William “Billy” Morgenweck, they were the league champions in 1902–1903.

On September 7, 1896 the cornerstone of the Armory on Haddon Avenue at Mickle Street was laid by New Jersey Governor Griggs. It was located across Haddon Avenue from Camden’s pre-1931 City Hall, and the present Cooper Hospital. The contract for this building was awarded to George W. Roydhouse in April of 1896. The inaugural ball was held in the new armory on Friday, February 18, 1898. The ground upon which this building was erected was purchased from the estates of Sarah W. and Elizabeth B. Cooper (Peter L. and Peter V. Voorhees, Trustees) in June of 1894, for about $16,000, and presented to the State. This Armory was the home of the Third Regiment, New Jersey National Guard, and is depicted on many postcards.

Another Armory was built nearby on Wright Avenue around the time of World War I. It was the home of Battery B, 1st Battalion, Heavy Field Artillery, National Guard of New Jersey.

After World War I, Camden built its first Convention Hall, on Memorial Avenue at Line Street. It should be noted that though the Hall’s mailing address was on Line Street, the front of the building was on Argonne Street, a one block thoroughfare that ran between St. Mihiel Street and Memorial Avenue. The building opened up in time for the 1926 Sesquicentennial celebration, which was held in Philadelphia. Camden’s first Convention Hall hosted sports, business, and civic events until it burned in the early 1950s. Felix Bocchicchio, who also managed Jersey Joe Walcott, Camden’s world champion heavyweight boxer, promoted boxing shows at the hall for a year or so after World War II. One of the last series of events held in the old Convention Hall was a live television show called Big Top, which featured circus acts.

In June of 1953, Camden’s first Convention Hall on Memorial Avenue at Line Street burned down. In short order, most of the events that were being held there were booked into the old Third Regiment Armory, which was no longer being used by the National Guard, on Mickle Street between Haddon Avenue and Carteret Street.

Things became confusing with a quickness, as the old armory was renamed Convention Hall. For those born after 1950, the only Convention Hall they would have memory of was the former Armory, the second Convention Hall.

During the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s Camden’s movie theaters closed one by one, but Convention Hall continued to host different events. Most notable in these years were professional basketball played by the Camden Bullets, roller derby featuring the Philadelphia (or Eastern) Warriors, and professional wrestling. Many of the most notable professional wrestlers of this era appeared at Convention Hall, including Bruno Sammartino, Gorilla Monsoon, and Lou Albano.

It all came to an end when the second Convention Hall was destroyed by fire. The site has been a parking lot for the nearby Cooper Hospital and Cooper Plaza medical buildings.

Besides pictures of the buildings, on this page you will find pictures and such of events at the Convention Halls, and a few links to sites relating to these events.

Critics Predict Great Ring Future for Former Camden Catholic High School Baseball and Basketball Star

Has Scored 12 Knockouts in 17 Bouts

By TOM RYAN

Is Frankie Rapp, South Camden lightweight due to eclipse the performance of every scrapper who has ever been developed here?

That is the question that was asked at a gathering of local fight critics the other day and the consensus of opinion was that Rapp will eventually outshine every lad who is considered a local product. Frankie’s ability to batter his opponent into submission within short space of time is the reason that local critics favor him to rise higher in the boxing “racket” than any other Camden fighter, including both Roxie Allen and Mickey Blair, who are the outstanding stars at the present time.

Rapp’s knockout record is one of the most remarkable ever compiled by a local lad. He has scored twelve knockouts out of seventeen bouts only two of the scrapes going over two rounds. He has won four on decisions and has lost but one fracas, the tilt he lost resulting in the wildest night ever witnessed at the Convention Hall, — a near-riot ensuing when the decision was rendered against him.

Has Kayoed 4 out of 5 “Pros”

Frankie has engaged in twelve amateur bouts and five professional encounters. He stowed away eight out of the twelve “Simon Pures” he faced and four out of five professionals. He was Middle Atlantic A. A. featherweight champion before turning “pro” having won the title while representing Shanahan Catholic Club of Philadelphia.

His rise has been spectacular to say the least. He never had had a glove on until the Courier Relief Fund amateur boxing tourney, which was staged in conjunction with the South Jersey Exposition of 1926, enabled a host of South Jersey lads to display their prowess as “glory” glove wielders.

Rapp’s athletic ability prior to the Courier Fund bouts had been confined to baseball and basketball. He is a graduate of Camden Catholic High School; he played the outfield on the 1924 and 1925 teams and a forward position on the basketball team during his junior and senior years.

Wins First Bout by Knockout

Fast as a whippet on his feet, Rapp proved to be one of the best leadoff lads ever to represent the Green and White, while his speed on the court made him a dangerous foe to guard, as he also was an accurate shot from the field and foul line.

It was regarded as a joke by Rapp’s friends when he announced his intention of entering the amateur bouts, but after his first appearance when he knocked out Lou “Kid” Hinkle in the first session they began to perk up their ears for Frankie showed evidence of developing into a .300 consistent hitter. He next won the judges’ decision over Tommy Skymer and followed up this victory by stopping Jesse Urban in the fourth round, the judges calling the bout even at the close of the third round.

Then came the combat that nearly wrecked the Convention Hall. “Red” Haines, who also had cut a wide swath in the lightweight ranks, and Rapp came together for the lightweight title. It developed into a slugfest at the start and for the entire three rounds both endeavored to annihilate each other. Both boys had a host of friends on hand who thought that their favorite had won and when the late Jack Dean, who was the third man in the ring, was forced to decide the issue, owing to the disagreement of the judges, the fun began.

Haines Decision Starts Riot

There was considerable money bet on the outcome and when Dean’s decision favoring Haines as the winner was announced, Rapp’s supporters started scrapping with Haines’ adherents, who, nothing loath, piled in with the result that it took the combined effort of every cop in the hall to stop the impromptu bouts. However, Dean’s decision stood, and, while the writer was of the opinion that a draw would have been the proper verdict and that another round should have been ordered to decide the issue, he knew then as he knows now that the decision rendered by Dean was his honest opinion of the bout. Jack was a “square shooter” if there ever was one and as good a judge of a bout as any man in South Jersey.

That bout wound up Rapp’s Camden career in the amateurs as shortly after he was induced to represent Shanahan in the featherweight class. He won every one of his eight “glory” battles for the Philadelphia organization with comparative ease and after copping the featherweight crown, decided he was ripe for a whack at the “money getters.”

Frankie guessed right. In his first bout here he halted Billy Cortez, of Philadelphia, in one round. He next flattened Frankie Youker, local lad, in the very same round and then outpointed Manuel Flores, also of Camden, in six rounds.

Young Heppard, of Riverside, conceded to be a “killer,” was Rapp’s next victim. Frankie got rid of him in one round and in his last fuss knocked out Bill Walters, of Germantown, in the first round of the main preliminary at the Cambria Club last Friday night.

Frankie is 20 years old, is single, and opts to remain so during the ensuing year despite the fact that he looks like the best money earner in the city for the next twelve months.

Two Games at Convention Hall Tonight; Two New Clubs Join Circuit

Second-half competition in the Reesman basketball league will begin tonight with a twin bill at Convention Hall.

Thirteenth Ward, which holds the edge in the yet unfinished first-half race, meets the formidable Camden Police quintet. Wayne and Ninth Ward meet in the other tussle.

Two new clubs have joined the league, for the second-half title hunt.

Charley Humes, manager of the Camden Community Club in the County League, will pilot his First Ward club in the municipal loop during the final semester while further interest is assured with the addition of the Central Camden aggregation. These clubs are keen rivals and both boast of strong rosters.

It is understood that Humes will file the names of several players who saw service in the county circuit as members of his old First Ward outfit while others who played with that team are also listed with Central Camden. Albert “Reds” Malloie is boss of the Central outfit and has signed up a classy collection of cagers for this type of play. Grover “Worm” Wearshing, who led Central Camden to the Reesman baseball championship last season, and who is regarded as one of the best backfield performers in this vicinity, is one of the Malloie entrants. Sam Godfrey, a teammate with Wearshing at Temple University, Johnny Chambers, Clayton Phifer, Lucky Mezger, Johnny Morrissey, Tom Tracy, and Ross “Bunny” Blood complete the cast with Malloie.

At the last meeting of the league managers it was decided to reduce the salaries of referees from $5.00 to $3.50 for each night’s work. Officials in the past have handled two games and the same stipulation is required for the lower fee in the second half of the schedule.

All eight of the first half combatants are planning to strengthen their rosters for the final drive. South Camden, Haddon A. A. Radio A.A., St. Paul, Ninth Ward, Camden Police, Wayne, and Fifth Ward are the contenders.

The first contest tonight is timed to start at 8:00.

Camden Basketball in Test Against Eastern League Kennett Square Club Tonight

Temple Hero Enlists With Lobley for Eastern League Fray With Kennett Square

HUGE CROWD IS EXPECTED

By STEVE O’KEEFE, Morning Post Sports Editor

Grover Wearshing, whose football feats and dazzling play on the basketball boards, form a glowing part of the athletic history of Camden High School and Temple University, has enlisted with the Camden Club in the Eastern League and will join the team when the inaugural skirmish with the Kennett Square (Pa.) quintet is staged at the Convention Hall annex tonight.

Wearshing, now gridiron mentor at Camden High, will thus don the royal blue and white with another court hero who sparkled for the purple and gold. Eddie Lobley, captain of the Penn passers last season already has signed to perform along with Phil Knudsen, Bill Bergen, Tony Calland, Bill Johnson and Bernie Maguire the remainder of the local roster.

Owing to the heavy demand for seats, Manager Brown feels that a capacity crowd will meet the club.

Announcement of the signing of Wearshing was made last night by Manager Jimmy Brown who expressed confidence that the present lineup will prove capable of hanging up a victory over Joe Sheehan and his invading mates tonight. Whether Wearshing will start is not determined but it is highly probable that he will at some time during the fray pair off in the backfield with the rugged Bergen, who proved a popular member of the local cast last season.

Johnson in Backfield

Bergen’s running mate when the game starts will probably be Johnson, who combines the happy faculty of speedy defensive play and a deadly aim for the baskets. Lobley will get the call for one of the forward berths with the sturdy little Calland or Maguire in the opposite corner.

Knudsen, who abandoned the American League position with the Paterson club, is regarded as one of the foremost pivot men in the East and his husky, six-foot-four-inch frame should prove valuable in mid-floor combat.

Owing to the fact that Knudsen, Bergen, Calland and Johnson have been playing regularly with the Union City Reds for the past several weeks, it is likely that Manager Brown will send this quartet into action with Lobley at the start of the game. Johnson, however, may be shifted to a forward post alongside Lobley in the event Wearshing is summoned to open the battle in the backfield.

Sheehan and Scrone at Guards

The Kennett Square ensemble will show Joe Sheehan, one-time Camden Catholic High and Villanova College guard, paired with Joe Scrone, a former local dribbler, in the defensive department with “Red” Ellis and Walter Gailey at forwards. Charley “Dink” Irwin is slated to engage Knudsen in the jumping duel.

Fans who flock to the civic hall for the fray will see a change in the battle floor, as the court has been shifted to the center of the annex and space for several hundred additional seats provided. In addition to this, music for dancing during the intermission and following the game will be provided.

The preliminary tussle tonight will present Sam Price and his Peerless Kids in action with the R. M. Hollingshead passers. This game will mark the start of the Camden County Industrial League pennant scramble. The early game is timed to start promptly at 8 p. m., under a penalty for failure to do so, in order that the Eastern League teams may be permitted to take the floor at 9 o’clock.

Industrial League Starts Pennant Scramble at Convention Hall Annex Tonight

All the tension connected with advance preparations will subside at 8 o’clock tonight when two of the eight teams in the Camden County Industrial League start the race for the 1930 championship. The opening event will be a clash between R.M. Hollingshead and the Peerless Kid Quintets and the action will be served as a preliminary feature to the Eastern League contest at the Convention Hall annex.

The Hollingshead outfit, winner of the Industrial baseball diadem during the past summer, will make another bid for a silver trophy to add to the collection which Manager Jim Space and his laboring athletes are making. A large number of employees of the Whiz concern have reserved seats and the battle is expected to lure several hundred early fans to the Civic shed.

Sam Price, fair-haired pilot of the Peerless band, will send a staff of rugged shooters into the skirmish. Johnny Albrecht, midget forward, is to be paired with “Cas” Kopec in the offensive department, while “Rap” Price is due to jump center, with Marion Bretschneider and George Willis stationed in the backfield.

Against this cast Manager Space will probably have Wallace “Reds” Sheehan, Larry Higgins, John “Kip” Evans, Henry Engal and Ollie Guthrie. This may not be the Whiz starting lineup, for Rudy Lodgek, Frank Falton, Carleton Peacock, John Flynn and Jim Dalton rate as a capable corps of recruits.

In order that no delay may be encountered, the rule governing the scheduled starting time at 8 p. m. will be rigidly enforced.

Following tonight’s “opener” the six other clubs in the circuit will await the first of the weekly three-game matinee bills on Saturday. Haddon Craftsmen meet Warren Webster at 2 p.m. while RCA Photophone and Radio Condenser clash one hour later and Camden Coke battles Cities Service in the windup event.

Popularity Contest Winner to Get Diamond Ring and Lead March

CONVENTION HALL READY FOR SHOW

Nine Entertainment Acts On Program; 400 Newsies Guests

Nine vaudeville acts, radio celebrities and a popularity contest will feature the first annual professional show and dance of the Camden Shrine Club of Crescent Temple tomorrow night in Convention Hall.

The show is being held to establish a permanent relief fund and is being directed by Jerry Baehr. Harry G. Hinchman, president of the club, is general chairman of the arrangements.

The popularity contest will close at midnight and the winner will be crowned “Miss Camden Shrine Club.” She will be presented with a diamond ring and will lead the grand march for the dance.

Four hundred Courier-Post newsboys, invited by Hinchman, will be guests at the big show, a special section having been set aside for them. The newsies will be led to the hall by David Loeb, Courier-Post circulation manager.

The show will open with a concert by the Camden Shrine Club Band, of which Joseph Bossle, Jr., is director, and Paul R. Wiest, assistant director. The opening selection will be a march dedicated to Hinchman and written by Bossle. Other numbers include melodies by Victor Herbert; Concert Mazurka “La Czarina,” by Ganne, and march, “Crescent Temple” by Mayer.

Radio performers will appear in the vaudeville program, which opens with Harry Taylor’s Syncopators, Main Line favorites, singing compositions of the day. Other numbers on the program include: Margaret Freeman, in “The Princess of Presentation”; Will Morris, European novelty in “Fun on the Bike”; Marion Gibney, “Talking About Her Neighbors”; Smith, Strong and Lee, “Three Tin Types”; Bonell and Bay, European sensations from the Hollywood Club, New York; Miss Freeman, songbird; Deluxe Quintet, comedy, singing and musical novelty, and “A Night on Broadway,” one of Gotham’s singing and dancing revues.

John H. Sibley is assistant general chairman and Harry M. Dease, treasurer. Mayor Roy R. Stewart is chairman of the publicity committee, assisted by George W. Williams, Jr., Michael Greenetz and Silas Boyer.

Commissioner Frank B. Hanna, chairman of the advertising committee, is assisted by Ernest L. Bartelt, C. Fowler Cline and J. Fred James.

Other committees are: Tickets, Charles W. Lacey, chairman; Paul R. West, Clarence Ford and William Matthews. Show, Sibley, chairman; Joseph Bossle, Abe Applebaum, Harry F. Ecky and Walter C. Culin. Reception, George C. Shallcross, Howard J. Dudley, past potentate, and J. Blair Cuthbert, past potentate. Ushers, George J. Schneider, Sr., chairman; Arthur E. Armitage, Francis B. Bodine and Richard Baumiller, Jr.

A famous orchestra of radio crooners will provide music for the dance which begins with the grand march at midnight.

The committee last night announced that no seats have been reserved and ticketholders going to the hall early will get the choice of the best seats.

Shrine Club to Select Contest Winner at Convention Hall Show

Sixteen South Jersey girls are competing in a popularity contest which closes tonight at the first annual professional show and dance of Camden Shrine Club in Convention Hall.

The winner of the contest, which is being directed by Mrs. Norman Nutting, will be announced at midnight. She will be presented with a diamond ring and crowned “Miss Camden Shrine Club” with pomp and ceremony. The winner will then lead the grand march.

The contestants are: Dorothy Haines, Pemberton; Helen Robinson, Audubon; Helen Carr, Woodlynne; Alice Nary, 890 Pine Street; Roberta Johnson, Woodbury; Beatrice Funk, 1618 Broadway; Helen Reed, 1156 Langham Avenue; Madeline Short, Collingswood; Lois Seidleman, Walt Whitman Hotel; Thelma Farr, 646 Royden Street; Nellie Lucas, 620 West Street; Anna Bowers, Runnemede; Lillian Davis, 901 North Thirty-first Street; Alice Rowan, Oaklyn; Alma Townsend, 2929 Westfield Avenue, and Jessie Franklin, Collingswood.

Jerry Baehr, director of the show, announced last night that dancing will start at 10:00 p. m. A radio orchestra will provide music for the dance numbers. Proceeds are for the club’s permanent relief fund.

Convention Hall Crowded, Several Thousand Dollars Realized

BEATRICE FUNK MOST POPULAR

Event So Successful It May Become Annual Affair

The relief fund of the Camden Shrine Club, which will aid its unemployed and distressed members, was swelled by several thousand dollars last night from the receipts of one of the greatest vaudeville shows ever seen in the Convention Hall.

The applause, of more than 4000 persons who crowded the auditorium signified that the patrons had been amply rewarded for their attendance in the cause of charity. In addition to the paid admissions, 400 Camden newsboys were made happy with paste boards that admitted them free to the show. This was arranged through Harry G. “Happy” Rathbone, of the Camden Post-Courier circulation department, and those directing the frolic.

Miss Funk Wins Contest

At the close of the show a popularity contest from among 18 South Jersey girls, who vied for the honor of being selected as Miss Camden Shrine Club, was awarded to Beatrice Funk 1618 Broadway, who obtained 12,970 votes.

The contest was directed by Mrs. Norman Nutting and the fortunate young woman was presented with a diamond ring and crowned with pomp and ceremony. She then participated in the grand march that followed. Votes of other contestants were:

Helen Carr, 10,800; Helen Robinson, 7560; Adaline Short, 7185, Roberta Johnson, 6235; Helen Reed, 5500; Alice Nary, 4600; Dorothy Haines, 4545; Anne Bowers, 4035; Lillian Davies, 3995; Thelma Farr, 3945; Lois Seidelman, 3235; Nellie Lucas, 2125; Jessie Franklin, 1040 and Gertrude Long, 999.

The entertainment was opened with selections from the Camden Shrine club band, which was directed by Joseph Bossle, Jr., and assisted by Paul R. West.

Harry Taylor’s syncopators provided orchestra music for the vaudeville and later rendered selections for the dance. The vaudeville was presided over by Margaret Freeman, who acted as mistress of ceremonies. Among the artists appearing was Will Morris, in “Fun On a Bike;” Marion Gibney, who talked about her neighbors; Smith, Strong and Lee, in a novelty number; Bonell and Bay European sensations from a New York club; Deluxe Quintette in comedy singing and musical novelty, and a dance revue. Miss Freeman pleased the audience with several songs.

Baehr Directs Show

Jerry Baehr directed the show, and Harry G. Hinchman was general chairman of the committee on arrangements. He was assisted by John H. Sibley, as secretary, and Harry M. Dease as treasurer.

The committee expressed itself as being well satisfied with the attendance and success of the show. It was the first one of its type attempted by the Shriners and plans will be made to make it an annual affair.

The committeemen were: Publicity, Mayor Roy R. Stewart, George W. Williams, Jr., Mike Greenetz and Silas Boyer; tickets, Charles W. Lacey, Paul R. West, Clarence Ford and William Mathews; show, John H. Sibley, Joseph Bossie, Abe Applebaum, Harry F. Ecky and Walter C. Cullin; advertising, Frank B. Hanna, Ernest Bartlett, C. Fowler Cline and J. Fred James; reception, George C. Shallcross, Howard J. Dudley and J. Blair Cuthbert; ushers, George J. Schneider, Sr., Arthur E. Armitage, Francis B. Bodine and Richard Baumiller, Jr.

Boxing Revival to Be Attempted at Convention Hall on Oct. 30

An attempt to revive boxing here at the Convention Hall will be made on Friday night, October 30, it was announced yesterday by promoters of the enterprise.

Jim Thompson, one of the best known sportsmen in the city, a former basketball star and always a strong lover of the fight game, is secretary-treasurer of the new club and made the announcement that the first show would be held on October 30.

Thompson stated that he believed boxing would be welcomed by Camden sports fans provided they were given real fights instead of merely names. He further stated that weekly shows would be held in the Convention Hall Annex and that if the patronage warranted it that the club would move into the main hall.

Besides Thompson, the other officers of the new organization are Jim Dolly, of Moorestown, president; Lou Schaub, of Haddonfield, manager of the Camden Baseball Club, general manager, and Joe Griffo, of Philadelphia, matchmaker.

Kathryn Hamilton, Walter Stanton Billed for Ambassador’s Masked Ball

Two well known Camden entertainers will aid and abet the spooks and the Ambassador Club in making tomorrow evening an enjoyable one for the 5000 mummers expected to attend the club’s annual masked ball.

They are Miss Kathryn Hamilton and Walter Stanton, who will not only lead the grand march, but will “put on” their acts. Miss Hamilton is the talented daughter of Joe Hamilton, famous minstrel, and has appeared in this vicinity on numerous occasions as well as on vaudeville circuits. The petite songstress resides at 1317 Park Boulevard.

Stanton has just returned from an RKO tour. The Mack and Stanton act played all last Winter and Summer. He has been master of ceremonies, in which capacity he will serve tomorrow, at a number of famous clubs, and is now enacting that role at the Stroller’s Club in New York.

The club, of which Steve Kirby is president, is holding the gala affair tomorrow night instead of on Halloween in order that dancing will not be discontinued until 2 a. m. Pat Riley’s orchestra will present the dance program, while Harry D. Roselle will direct the grand march.

It will be an appropriate night for the “spirits” to chase “Popeye,” the Courier-Post comic strip idol, as 200 newsboys who will be guests of the club, will vie for a cash prize to be awarded to the one whose costume renders him the best likeness to the hard-hitting sailor man. Other prizes will be awarded to the winners of the perfect form contest and various costume competitions.

Many Novelties Planned for Ambassador Club’s Masked Ball Tonight

One of the outstanding novelties on the diversified program planned for the Ambassador Club’s annual masked ball at Convention Hall tonight will be the “perfect form contest.”

Modeled after the bathing beauty contest, it is open to any girl who desires to compete. The contestants will be in bathing suits, and cash prizes will be awarded winners. Prizes will also be awarded to the winners in various classes of costumes and to the boy whose disguise renders him the best likeness to “Popeye,” the sailor man of the Courier-Post comic strip. More than 200 newsboys, guests of the club, will compete for that award.

Prizes total $300 in cash and awards for the various contests.

The dance program, presented by Pat Riley’s 12-piece orchestra, will continue until 2:00 A.M. The grand march will be led by Walter Stanton and Kathryn Hamilton, who will also number among the entertainers. Stanton will be master of ceremonies, while Harry W. Roselle will direct the grand march.

Steve Kirby, president of the club, heads the committee in charge of arrangements.

South Jersey Celebrates With Dances and Parties; Hundreds Attend Ball Masque at Convention Hall; ‘Popeye’ Impersonated by Newsies

Wrinkles and furrowed brows gave way to grins and broad smiles last night as Camden and South Jersey was gripped by a spirit of fun.

Today children will continue to laugh at the woes of adults. Grown-ups, too, will adopt the festival air characteristic of clowns in place of the depressing concern of the day. There seems to be greater cause to seize upon an occasion for fun this year and everyone is glad Halloween is at hand.

The height of jollity was attained last night at the Convention Hall where bathing beauties mingled with costumed dancers. The occasion marked the annual masked dance of the Ambassador Club. Prizes were distributed among the gaily-garbed revelers and more than 200 newsboys sprinkled laughter throughout the huge civic hall by their appearance in costumes impersonating “Popeye.”

Nearly 2500 persons, nearly all of whom were costumed, attended. Outstanding among the throng were numerous imitators of Popeye and Olive Oyl, Courier-Post comic strip characters. Many attired as animals, cannibals and female impersonators attracted comment and attention.

Walter J. A. Stanton, vaudeville star, served as master of the fete, and accompanied Miss Kathryn Hamilton, popular singer, in leading the grand march. “Joe” Hamilton, father of Miss Hamilton and widely known as a minstrel performer, joined Stanton in one act. Warrington’s Dancing Dolls, of 921 Broadway, and a chorus of ten, was another feature.

Music was furnished by Pat Riley’s 12-piece orchestra.

5,000 Expected to Hear Candidate at Convention Hall in Afternoon

David Baird and Governor Morgan Larson will be the principal speakers this afternoon at a rally of more than 5000 Republican workers and other Baird supporters at Convention Hall.

Walter S. Keown, chairman of the Camden County Republican Committee, and Mrs. Elizabeth C. Verga, State committeewoman and vice chairman of the county committee, will preside at the rally.

E. Bertram Mott, chairman of the State committee; Representative Charles A. Wolverton and other State and county leaders are expected to attend.

Workers from all sections of the county are expected at the meeting. Reports received at Republican headquarters will be made to the workers on the progress of the campaign.

Leaders in Baird’s campaign for election as Governor said last night that reports from various sections of the State show increasing Baird strength in Democratic strongholds, principally Hudson county. They said his popularity throughout the State has increased materially in the closing days of the campaign, assuring his election by a large margin.

Military and Civic Organizations Parade in Camden and Join Services Addressed by Clergy and Congressman Wolverton

More than 2500 persons attended a joint veterans memorial observance in Convention Hall which followed a parade of veterans and civic organizations yesterday afternoon.

To the martial strains of bands and bugle corps, the participants marched from Fifth and Cooper to Seventh Street; south to Haddon avenue, then to Line Street and the Convention Hall.

The parade was headed by a squad of motorcycle police under Acting Sergeant William Taylor. They were followed by the band, headquarters, howitzer, medical and service companies of the 114th Infantry in command of Capt. Mahlon F. Ivins, Jr.

Then came the massed colors, National Guard, Naval Reserve, Disabled American Veterans, John J. Pershing Camp No. 9, United War Veterans, Gen. John A. Mather Post No. 18, Spanish War Veterans with their fife and drum corps and the Clara E. Waller Auxiliary; Posts 518 and 980 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and their bugle corps; Mt. Ephraim Junior Legion, No. 150; and, bugle corps; Public Service American Legion Post and bugle corps; Westmont American Legion Post and bugle corps; 50 Pennsylvania Gold Star Mothers led by Mrs. Mary E. Hewson; Elks color guard and the Salvation Army and band.

G. A. R. Vets In Line

Three veterans of the G. A. R., in flag-draped automobiles, participated in the parade. They were John W. Coleman, 76, of 31 North Thirty-fifth street, who served with the 19th Pennsylvania Cavalry; William A. Morgan, 93, of Clementon, who was with the 104th Doylestown Infantry, and Leonard L. Roray, 89, of Glassboro, who served with Company H, Third New Jersey Cavalry.

Ceremonies at Convention Hall opened with advance of the colors to the stage and invocation by Rabbi Nachmann Arnoff.

Rev. Charles Bratten Du Bell, former chaplain of the 114th Infantry, delivered a memorial address, taking as his subject the career of General “Stonewall” Jackson.

Congressman Charles A. Wolverton after paying tribute to the G. A. R., Spanish American and World War veterans, promised that Congress would make provisions to support widows and orphans of veterans who need aid before adjournment this Summer.

Criticizes Veteran Cuts

He attacked any plan for balancing the national budget which does so at the expense of the veterans.

“There are two ways to balance the budget,” he said. “One is to take the money from the veterans and federal employees. The other is to require wealth to help.”

American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and United Spanish War Veterans memorial services and rituals also featured the program. Rev. Lewis A. Hayes, of Westmont, pronounced the benediction. C. Richard Allen, past county commander of the American Legion, was master of ceremonies.

The committee included Samuel Magill, Jr., chairman; Edward A. Stark, A. F. Klein, Joseph A. Kohler, Joseph Whylings, James J. Burke, Norval McHenry, Charles Buzine, William Amberg, James Milne, William P. Breen, William Miller, William Reinholdt; Edward J. Wintering, William Eisele, William Lloyd, Joseph F. Markley, Frank Ellis, D. J. Connors, Joseph Lounsberry and Charles M. Jefferies.

Graduates to Receive Diplomas Sunday Night at Convention Hall

One hundred and ninety-five students of Camden Catholic High School yesterday attended solemn high mass at the Church of The Immaculate Conception and heard Rev. Father Anselm, of the Franciscan Order, deliver the baccalaureate sermon.

The graduates will receive diplomas next Sunday evening at commencement exercises to be held in Convention Hall.

The need of religious education in the current economic and social struggle, was emphasized by Father Anselm. Rt. Rev. Monsignor William J. FitzGerald and Rev. James P. O’Sullivan officiated at the mass.

A reception and dance to 195 students of Camden Catholic High School will be held Friday night at the Walt Whitman Hotel. The event is the annual greeting of the school alumni association to the graduating class. The students will receive diplomas at the commencement exercises to be held Sunday at Convention Hall.

The committee arranging the reception includes William P. O’Keefe, chairman; Thomas Madden, Mary McGinley, Dorothy Hope, James McDade and Edward Inglesby.

Honor Students and Athletes Hear Phil Lewis on ‘Letter Day’

Led by the boys’ band of 37 pieces and the girls’ fife and drum corps, the Camden Catholic High school student body paraded into the school auditorium at 10:30 a. m. yesterday to pay tribute to the athletes and other honor students who received awards at the annual “Letter Day” exercises.

Phil Lewis, veteran basketball official and director of physical education of the Philadelphia public schools, was the principal speaker of the day and told the students that they must be loyal to make their way in the world.

The surprise speaker of the day was Bartholomew A. Sheehan, former Green and White and St. Joseph’s College athlete, who carried the students back 10 years when he was a student at Camden Catholic High. In doing this he laid stress on the fact that tradition was the main factor in building up and carrying the school to its prominent position.

The Rt. Rev. Msgr. William J. FitzGerald, opened the exercises with a short talk after which Reverend James C. Foley, athletic director of the school, introduced the main speaker.

Fred Floyd, president of the evening school of the University of Pennsylvania, told the students that sports were vital to the development of the youth of today. After Coach Elmer Hertzler gave a short talk as to what qualities the awards were based on, the letter certificates were awarded by Monsignor FitzGerald.

During the ceremonies 43 varsity insignias were awarded and 21 prizes given. The prizes were given for excellence in elocution, school spirit, spelling, typewriting and vocal work.

The 1933 graduating class of 99 boys and 96 girls will be guests of the alumni association tonight at a reception and dance in the Hotel Walt Whitman. Diplomas will be awarded at the commencement exercises at 3:30 p. m., Sunday in Convention Hall.

State Lodge to Elect Today; Ball at Convention Hall Tonight

CHEERED BY THOUSANDS

More than 2000 members of the I.B.P.E., Colored Elks, participated last night in a colorful parade here as climax to the opening day of the tenth annual state convention of the order.

The marchers were reviewed from a stand at the courthouse by J. Finley Wilson, of Philadelphia, grand exalted ruler of the order and his staff.

Pride of Camden Lodge, No. 83, which is acting as host to the visiting members, was led by G. A. Gerran, exalted ruler. Thousands along the line of march applauded their fine appearance in blue and white uniforms.

Among lodges represented were Atlantic City, Orange, Plainfield, Quaker City and O. V. Catto of Philadelphia, Chester and Wilmington lodges and Manhattan Lodge of New York.

Music was provided by many bands, fife and drum corps and string organizations.

The convention was opened in the Kaighn Avenue Baptist Church, Ninth Street and Kaighn Avenue.

William C. Hueston, former assistant solicitor of the U. S. Post Office Department, and Elks’ commissioner of education, addressed the meeting, reporting that the organization spends more than $9000 a year for scholarships for colored students.

The delegates were welcomed to Camden by, Assistant Solicitor Lewis Liberman.

Elections will be held today and the convention will close tonight with a ball at Convention Hall.

Leaders Aim to Have Demonstration Similar to That of Labor Day

Plans for a Fourth of July demonstration, similar to labor demonstrations staged throughout the world each year on May 1, will be formulated tomorrow night at a mass meeting conducted by the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, according to an announcement yesterday by Frank J. Manning, president.

Manning said the meeting in Convention Hall Annex would be addressed by Mark Starr, professor of economics, and Josephine Colby, instructor of English, of Brookwood Labor College, and by three students of the college.

Famed professional wrestlers are the Dusek Brothers, Rudy, Ernie, Joe, Emil, Frank, Ed and Walter. Last week, the doings of the Duseks were more violent than usual.

In Omaha, Joe Dusek was thrown out of the ring by his opponent. When spectators guffawed, Joe Dusek clenched his fists, barked “Wanna make something out of it?,” offered to fight them in a group.

In Boston, Rudy Dusek watched Brother Ernie wrestle an Irishman named Dan O’Mahoney. When O’Mahoney got the decision, Rudy Dusek jumped into the ring, tried to assault the referee, started a free-for-all among the seconds. In addition to helping his brother, Rudy Dusek performed in five bouts of his own last week.

In Camden, N. J., a few nights after the bout in Boston, Ernie Dusek wrestled Gino Garibaldi. A spectator in the balcony hurled down a chair which hit Ernie Dusek on the head. He was hospitalized.

Charity Ball Plans Occupy Women Hospital Workers; New Member Elected

Plans for the Sixteenth Annual Charity Ball in the interest of Cooper Hospital occupied members of the main auxiliary of that institution yesterday when they met for their monthly business session.

According to present plans, the ball will be held on December 27 in Convention Hall. This year the music committee, of which Mrs. Joseph Wallworth, of Haddonfield, is chairman, will present an orchestra of national reputation.

Clash at Civic Hall In 8 Round Feature

Light Heavyweight Emblem to Be Given Winner of Bout

A belt, emblematic of the light heavyweight championship of South Jersey, will be presented the winner of the “Jersey Joe” Walcott–Al King fight here at the Convention Hall tonight.

Walcott and King are scheduled to appear in the feature eight-rounder at the Civic Center hall and Promoter Lew McFarland will give the victor a belt bought by the Golden Gate Sporting Club, which is sponsoring the show.

Walcott has yet to be put to the test as his last two opponents here were outclassed. The coffee-colored Merchantville light heavy unquestionably is a great puncher and made a chopping block of Pat “Red” Roland a few weeks ago, the bout being stopped in the fourth round to save the latter from being sent home in a basket. During the outdoor season, Walcott stopped Lew Alva, who was booked as a Spaniard, but who later proved to be a Philadelphian, in one round.

King Has Good Record

King comes here with a good reputation. According to Promoter MacFarland, King, who hails from Hackettstown, has had 10 professional fights and won all 10, nine over the knockout route and a six-round win over Abie Bain, who several years ago gave Maxie Rosenbloom a real battle at Madison Square Garden when Rosenbloom held the light heavy title.

King’s nine knockouts include Billie Prince, Dan Serici, Gene Hudson, Ray Bowers, Bucky Bendetto, Frank Zaveda, Jimmy Smith, Jim Myrick and Bobby O’Brien. None of the fights lasted over three rounds so King should be a fit opponent for Walcott.

McFarland is certain that the fight will be a “sweetheart” with a belt at stake for the winner.

Texan Takes Count After Being Thrown Heavily From Ring

Each Had Gained Fall Prior to Sudden Ending of Feature Scrap

By JAMES FOODY

In a match, which found both grapplers using every unorthodox method in attempting to gain victory, Charley Santon, of Kirksville, Mo., won by default over Ernie Hefner, burly Texan, in the feature scrap last night at the Convention Hall.

A crowd of 2500 spectators turned out to witness the matmen in action, each gaining a fall, but Santon being returned the winner when Hefner was counted out after six minutes six seconds had elapsed.

Santon started out like a reindeer and before the echo of the bell faded, Hefner was tossed out of the ring in two instances. They continued to slam one another all over the premises. Hefner was a serious grumbling, cussing, wildman when the action for the deciding fall got underway. However, the well-built Santon suddenly grabbed a vicious headlock on his adversary and reeled him near the ropes. As they bounced against the strands, Santon tossed his heavier opponent over the top rope to land heavily on the chairs in the press row.

It was plain to see when he hit the floor that the contest was over for the night, and just as Referee Seaman reached a count of twenty the game Texan tried to pull himself into the ring. However, the grind was over and Santon was declared the winner. The time was six minutes and six seconds.

Local Mat Results: Charley Santon, 220, Kirksville, Mo., won by default over Ernie Hefner, 228, Sherman, Tex. Hefner won first fall with body press in 28 minutes 21 seconds; Santon second fall with body press, in 15 minutes 32 seconds, and third fall when Hefner was counted out after 6 minutes 6 seconds. Casey Berger, 208, Horses Neck Ky., threw Ray Graham, 208 Texarkana, Ark., with body press. Time—26 minutes, 22 seconds. Leo Alexander, 200, Fort Wayne Ind., drew with Tony Marconi 200, Italy. Paddy Mack, 180, Lansdale, Pa. pinned Clete Kauffman, 177, Columbus, O., with body press. Time—16 minutes, 9 seconds. Referee—John Seaman.

Estelle White and Harold Wallace Will Be Presented with $1000 Prize at Victory Ball In Convention Hall Tonight

The Camden Walkathon ended last night in Convention Hall annex with Estelle White, Philadelphia, and Harold Wallace, 6147 Highland avenue, Pennsauken, being declared the winners.

They will be presented with the cash prize of $1000 tonight at a “victory” ball in the main auditorium of the Camden Convention Hall by W. E. Tebbetts, who conducted the walkathon, which lasted 122 days or 2928 hours. The contest began October 8 and continued for four months all but a day.

Forty-eight contestants were in the contest, at the beginning. The race was narrowed down to two, Miss White and Wallace, and Miss Mary Jones, of Vineland, and Otto Mason, 423 Lansdowne Avenue, Camden, on Wednesday night. Miss Jones and Mason finished second and receive no prize money. The contest ended at 11:30 p. m. yesterday.

Johnny Lue and Joseph Purcell, judges, ordered a match race for the contesting girls on Wednesday night. The lights were turned off long enough to make the contestants sleepy. Then they were required to make 11 laps within a minute which the girls accomplished. On Thursday night another race was held for the girls and Miss White won.

Last night the judges ordered the same kind of a match between Wallace and Mason. If this had failed the judges announced that a grind without rest or privileges would be staged to end the contest. Wallace made the 11 laps and Mason failed. Wallace is a former featherweight boxer.

A George Washington birthday party and dance will be held on Friday night by the Victor Athletic Association at Camden Convention Hall. The affair will start at 8:30 o’clock and an attendance of more than 3000 is expected.

Harry Kahn and his 14-piece orchestra will furnish the music and a floor show of four acts has been arranged by Roland R. Hitchens, athletic director of the local industry. The entertainment will include Jack and Jessie Gibson, trick cyclists; Bud Carlett and Company, formerly with the Barnum and Bailey circus; Lou Hoffman, comedy juggler, and The Three Jacks, musical comedy stars.

The affair is one of the many held by the Victor Athletic Association, whose membership is more than 5000.

American League Stars to Demonstrate Plays in Film at Civic Hall

More than 5000 baseball enthusiasts fans and players are expected to crowd Convention Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 8:00 p. m., when the new American League all-talking picture “Take Me Out To The Ball Game” and the pictures of the 1935 World Series will be shown.

In this film, outstanding stars of the American League will show how they play their position. Lefty Grove, Tommy Bridges, School Boy Rowe, Eldon Auker, Ted Lyons, Lefty Gomez and Wes Ferrel will demonstrate how they baffle the batter with their curves, fast ball and delivery.

The films and equipment have been obtained through the efforts of the Camden Lions Club who is sponsoring the affair through the courtesy of Connie Mack, The Athletics and the American League.

The public is invited to see these pictures without charge.

Death of Worker in Tampa, Fla., Protested at Convention Hall Gathering

More than 300 persons last night attended a protest meeting of the Committee for the Defense of Civil Rights in Tampa, Fla., held in Convention Hall under the auspices of the Camden Workers’ Alliance.

Eugene F. Poulnot, and chairman of the Florida Workers’ Alliance, and Dr. Samuel D. Rogers, both socialists, were the principal speakers. Benjamin Carwardine, west coast representative of the Industrial Union of Marine and Shipbuilding Workers of America, also spoke.

Nicholas Marinella is chairman of the Camden Workers’ Alliance.

Competition to be Held in Camden for Three Nights in May; BLANKS TO ENTER ARE NOW READY

Fairview Post No. 71, American Legion, will stage what promises to be the biggest amateur boxing tournament ever held in New Jersey on the nights of May 12, 13 and 16, at Convention Hall. The Golden Gloves Championship will be held for the Middle Atlantic states. Boxers from three states will vie with each other for the glory and the prizes that are to be awarded. Fairview Post is a member of the Middle Atlantic Association A. A. U. and the bouts will be sanctioned by that body. Applications of amateurs who wish to compete are available at the Post home, Black Horse Pike and Collings Road, Camden. James R. Reed is general chairman of the committee. Joseph “Chubby” Stafford, undefeated amateur bantamweight champion, will assist the committee in an advisory capacity. Others named to the committee are James J. Leitch, advertising; Edward J. Bosch, Thomas Gibson and John B. Hegerich, tickets. Emerson Richards is secretary of the committee.

More than 1500 persons are expected to attend a testimonial and birthday dinner to be held February 17, in honor of Freeholder John Daly, of the First ward, in Convention Hall.

Clarence E. Moullette, chairman of the banquet committee, announced yesterday, that of 1500 tickets printed for the affair, 1425 have been distributed. He urged persons planning to attend the banquet not to depend on the purchase of tickets at the door of Convention Hall, but to buy them now as the supply is fast becoming depleted.

Tickets, Moullette said, may be ordered from him by calling City Hall, or from Harry Janice, chairman of the ticket committee, who has a supply at 325 State Street.

First-Half Season Title of Grammar League Is at Stake Today

Liberty and H.B. Wilson will battle it out this afternoon at 2:30 o’clock at Convention Hall for the first-half title of the National Division of the Camden Grammar School League.

Both teams finished the first half with six victories and one defeat. Liberty handed Wilson its lone reverse, while Stevens pulled an upset by downing the former.

Liberty is led by Archie Luzi, diminutive sharpshooter, who led the league in scoring with 74 markers in seven games.

Bizazzo, Shuda, Hare, Eulo and Luzi will probably start the game for Liberty. Wilson will use Garzarelli, Scarbonja, Ross, Mahoney, Lapiska and Kevis.

Congressman Charles A. Wolverton and Elmer H. Wene will be guests of honor at a testimonial dinner to be given next Thursday night in honor of Freeholder John Daly, of the First ward, in Convention Hall.

The affair also will celebrate Daly’s seventy-sixth birthday. Clarence E. Moullette is chairman of the banquet committee.

Other guests, according to Moullette, will be U. S. Senator John Milton, of Jersey City, and a representative of Senator William H. Smathers.

Moullette announced he and Daly Thursday visited Marvin McIntyre, secretary to President Roosevelt, at the White House. Daly used the opportunity to plead the cause of Tom Mooney.

Montana Chieftain to Send Son as Envoy to Testimonial for Freeholder

Chief Rain-on-the-Rump, whose tepee is pitched in Medicine Hat, Montana, is expected to send his son as an envoy when John Daly, First ward freeholder, is feted on February 17. The banquet will be held in Convention Hall and is expected to be the largest occasion of its nature known in Camden in years.

Clarence E. Moullette, chairman of the banquet committee, reported the list of guests will comprise a real Who’s Who in Camden. Invitations have been sent to Congressmen Charles A. Wolverton and Elmer Wene, Gov. A. Harry Moore, Senator John Milton, Senator Robert M. LaFollette and others, prominent in national and state politics. Mayor George E. Brunner and his fellow commissioners will represent the city, while the Federal, state and municipal judiciary also will be represented.

Freeholder Andrew J. McMahon will be toastmaster, while a new position, honorary toastmaster, will be conferred on Frank H. Ryan, managing editor of the Courier-Post newspapers.

A string band accompaniment for the dinner in honor of Freeholder John Daly of the First ward in Convention Hall tonight, was announced by Harry R. James, general chairman of the dinner committee.

The recently-organized Camden City string band of 40 pieces, conducted by Maurice Tulini, is to march from Point and York streets to Convention Hall, arriving at 9 p. m. Joseph Burke is president of the band.

More than 1000 persons, including men prominent in national, state and local circles, are expected to attend the dinner celebrating Daly’s seventy-sixth birthday.

Sponsored by Sealtest Dairies, this program originated from WCAU-TV, Channel 10 in Philadelphia and was carried coast to coast on CBS-TV. It aired Saturdays from noon to 1:00 PM. The show originally was produced at the Camden Convention Hall when it premiered in 1953. These pictures were taken there, prior to the June 1953 fire which destroyed the building.

I used to go watch roller derby every week at the Convention Center. It was a very exciting sport. I always left there with a sore throat from hooping and hollering… the warriors were the best! Loved those match races, and I really missed it when the sport faded. They made a comeback years later but it was never the same as it was with Jim Trotter, Judy Arnold, and Little Richard…

The only thing I did not like about going to the roller derby was the fans always got to fighting a lot of the time, a sad thing that discouraged a lot of people from attending.

— Floyd Miller Jr., November 2004

…Some national stars I remember making an appearance in Camden. Smokey Robinson and the Miracles were at a movie house. I did not go, but my teenage brother, who stayed for a second show was severely punished when he arrived home. Also, Jackie Wilson appeared at the Convention Center, and almost caused a riot, as he arrived late. A packed crowd was standing all the time waiting for him, to which when he got on stage, only sang a couple of songs and then left the stage, and needless to say all heck broke out… Also, the great wrestler Bruno Sanmartino had a fantastic match at the Convention Center.

— Annette (Hudson) Rushing, November 11, 2004