Camden Lodge No. 293, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks
In New York City, a small group of actors and entertainers, wishing to continue their social gatherings on Sundays, when New York's blue laws prevented the opening of public establishments, began to meet regularly as the “Jolly Corks,” a name derived from a bar trick introduced by the group's organizer. While the meetings were held with regularity, apparently no form nor substance resulted, except for the adoption of a toast to members of the group not in attendance. Shortly before Christmas in 1867, only a few months after the fellows began to meet, one of their number died, leaving his wife and children destitute.
This event gave rise to the notion that, in addition to good fellowship, the Jolly Corks needed a more noble purpose in order to endure, and serving not only their own in need, but others as well, would be appropriate. Two months later, on February 16, 1868, with a statement of serious purpose, an impressive set of rituals, a symbol of strength and majesty and such other elaborate trappings that might be expected of a group of actors and musicians, the new fraternal order was launched.
The Elks are not mentioned in George Reeser Prowell's 1885 History of Camden County, New Jersey. At that time the Masons were very active in Camden, and there were many other fraternal organizations operating in the city, most notably the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Improved Order of Red Men, the Knights of Pythias, the Knights of the Golden Eagle, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and the Order of United American Mechanics. The Grand Army of the Republic, an organization consisting of Civil War Veterans, was also very active. Many of these organizations also had women's auxiliaries. In the days prior to television and movies, fraternal organizations were a major component of the social cloth of the city.
An Elks Lodge was founded in Camden in 1895. The first Exalted Ruler was Chief of Police John H. Foster. The Elks would soon become one of the most important fraternal groups within the city. This may well be in part due to the location of their lodge, on the south-east corner of Broadway and Federal Street. The Broadway and Federal intersection was literally at the heart of Camden's downtown district. The Elks Lodge was diagonally across the street from the Camden County Courthouse. Soon it seemed that everybody who was anybody in law, business, politics, and other fields was a member of Camden Lodge 293. Other men who held the post of Exalted Ruler of Camden Lodge 293 included W. E. B. Miller, 1896 to 1897; Philip Burch, 1897 to 1898; D. Harry Condit, 1898 to 1899; H. L. Hartshorn, 1899 to 1900; Samuel A. Kilpatrick, 1900 to 1901; Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, 1901 to 1902; George D. Borton, 1902 to 1903; Maurice Rogers, 1904 to 1905; Alexander J. Milliette, 1906 to 1907; Francis Warren, 1907 to 1908; J. Harry Switzer, 1908 to 1909; E. Wilmer Collins, 1909 to 1910; Lewis H. Leigh, 1910 to 1911; James H. Long, 1911 to 1912; Morris Odell, 1912 to 1913; Marion Moriarty, 1913 to 1914; Allen Jarvis, 1914 to 1915; Albert Austermuhl, 1915 to 1916; William L. Sauerhoff, 1917 to 1918; Theodore T. Kausel, 1918 to 1919; Garfield Pancoast, 1919 to 1920; William G. Ferat, 1920 to 1921; Harry Ellis, 1921 to 1922; W. Wallace Balcom, 1922 to 1923; Samuel A. Dobbins, 1923; D. Trueman Stackhouse, 1924 to 1925; former Mayor Frank S. Van Hart, 1925 to 1926; Edward J. Kelly, 1926 to 1927; Rud Preisendanz, Jr., 1927 to 1928; former Mayor Roy R. Stewart, 1928 to 1929; William H. Iszard, 1929 to 1930; William F. Lehman, 1930 to 1931; J. Harry Todd, 1931 to 1932; Harry Robinson, 1932 to 1933.
The Camden Lodge of Elks dedicated their rebuilt home at Broadway and Federal Street on October 18, 1910. This building was adjacent to the Camden YMCA, which was built at a later date. The Elks building was subsequently sold in the 1920s.
On April 1, 1925, ground was broken by the Camden Lodge of Elks for its new home. The new Elks home was completed on Cooper Street, above Broadway, in May of 1926. A series of stores were built about 1926, one of which was occupied by Horn & Hardart for many, many years, on the site of the former Elks home at Broadway and Federal Street.
The 1931 Camden City Directory shows an address of 201–215 North 7th Street. The 1940 Directory lists the lodge at 808 Market Street. Directories from 1943 and 1947 show the Elks at 807 Cooper Street, the former home of Camden businessman Frederick Himmelein. The Elks remained at that location into the 1960s, when falling membership brought on by changes in American society and in part by conditions in Camden saw the organization leave the city sometime after 1967. The hall was also made available to other organizations such as Camden Post 980, Veterans of Foreign Wars.
From the 1920s through the 1960s, the Elks campaign to aid crippled children was highly successful and widely supported throughout the city and county. Former professional boxer and newspaper columnist Sergeant Ray Smith was an integral part of this effort for many years.
In the late 1990s the former Elks Lodge became the home of the LEAP Academy Charter School. Razed and rebuilt again in the 1980s, the site of the original Elks Home is the site of a strip of small shops, while the Cooper Street Elks Home still houses the LEAP Academy charter school in the late 2000s.
The Elks Lodge — Federal Street & Broadway, 1890s–1926
Postcards showing the Elks Building on Federal Street east of Broadway, looking south down Broadway from the 1890s.
The Elks Home at Broadway and Federal Street was rebuilt in 1910. While under construction, the Elks had temporary quarters at 29 North 3rd Street, later the home of a tavern run by John P. Scannell in the late 1910s and early 1920s. Although this photo has been described as from 1880, note the F.A. Poth Beer wagon in front — Poth acquired the Camden brewery in 1910 also.
The YMCA and Elks Buildings on Federal Street east of Broadway.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Several Camden Elks went to Phillipsburg last evening to institute a lodge of B. P. O. Elks.
In Camden’s Churches
Philadelphia Inquirer —
IN CAMDEN’S CHURCHES
The week of prayer in Camden will be observed with meetings in two churches daily at 3.30 P. M. The meetings were inaugurated yesterday in the First Presbyterian and Emmanuel Baptist Churches. The former was addressed by Rev. J. W. Lyell, and the latter by Rev. J. S. Heisler.
Camden Lodge, No. 203, B. P. O. Elks, attended divine service at Trinity Baptist Church last evening, when the pastor, Rev. Dr. Clarence A. Adams, preached for their special benefit.
Two distinguished divines from Crozier Seminary occupied the pulpit of the Wynn Memorial Church yesterday. Rev. H. G. Weston, D. D., president of the Seminary, preached in the morning, and Dr. Vedder in the evening.
Rev. A. G. Lawson, D. D., pastor of the North Baptist Church, scored Camden’s law-breakers in a prelude to his sermon last evening.
Philadelphia Inquirer, January 4, 1897. Topics include Camden Lodge No. 203, B. P. O. Elks, attending divine service at Trinity Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, Wynn Memorial Baptist Chapel, and North Baptist Church.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The will of Isaac V. Brown, of Berlin, was admitted to probate yesterday by Surrogate West.
A big crowd of Camden Elks will go to Trenton to-day to participate in the annual clam bake of Trenton Lodge, B. P. O. Elks.
Recorder Nowrey held Samuel Suders in $500 bail yesterday, charged with larceny as bailee of $5 from John J. Jordan.
Frank Melton, 28 years old, of 1048 Ferry avenue, was overcome by heat yesterday while at work in Farr & Bailey’s oil cloth works. He was taken to the Cooper Hospital.
While fishing at the head of Third street yesterday Fred George Gregory, 6 years old, of 212 Byron street, fell in the Delaware River and was drowned.
The body of an unknown man, about 38 years old, and weighing 170 pounds, was found yesterday in the Delaware River at the foot of Bulson street. The body was taken to the Morgue where it awaits identification.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden Elks will give a minstrel performance at the Temple Theatre this evening. A dress rehearsal was held last evening.
Camden Lodge of Elks to Move
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Fredericks property at Broadway and Federal streets is being fitted up for Camden Lodge of Elks. The work will be completed in about a month.
Camden Lodge of Elks Has Magnificent Home
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Latest Happenings in the State of New Jersey
Camden Lodge, No. 293, of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, is now thoroughly established in its new home at Broadway and Federal street, Camden. The building, plot of ground and house furnishings together are valued at $50,000, and the house is declared by well informed persons to be one of the best equipped properties of its kind in the State.
The plot of ground on which the house stands is 40 by 180 feet and in the rear of the house there is a large brick stable now used by Engine Company No. 1, of the Camden Fire Department, while a new engine house is being built at Fifth and Arch streets. The first floor of the club house comprises a library, a parlor and a large dining room. On the second floor there is a social room, a pool room, secretary’s office and a spacious and well-shaded piazza. On the third floor is the lodge room, which is capable of seating 200 persons. On this floor there are also several smaller rooms for preparing candidates and the use of committees. During the coming winter the basement will be used as a grill room.
Camden Lodge was instituted largely through the efforts of John Henry Fort, on January 24, 1895. The lodge started out with 152 members, and it now has a total of 361. Its roll of membership contains the names of many of Camden’s most prominent men, who were attracted to the lodge portals by the atmosphere of good fellowship that envelops any group of Camden Elks, as well as by the deeds of unassuming charity and benevolence that have been found to emanate from the lodge.
The present officers of the lodge are: Exalted Ruler, Samuel A. Kilpatrick; Esteemed Leading Knight, Dr. A. H. Lippincott; Esteemed Loyal Knight, Charles F. Amwake; Esteemed Lecturing Knight, William P. Walsh; Secretary, Chester D. Van Duyn; Treasurer, Edwin R. Saunders; Esquire, Colonel William H. Stansbury; Inner Guard, Frank H. W. Gardner; Tyler, Robert W. Harper; Organist, Joseph Osmond; Trustees, Former Senator Maurice H. Rogers, Former Judge Alfred Hugg, County Clerk Robert L. Barber, Former Judge Richard T. Miller and Former Assemblyman George D. Borton; Board of Governors, D. Harry Condit, Dr. A. H. Lippincott and Samuel A. Kilpatrick.
LODGE ROOM.
SOCIAL ROOM
LIBRARY.
Three of the Rooms in the Pretty Lodge Home of the Camden Elks
Elks Held the Stage
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Appeared Last Night in Blackface at the Camden Theatre.
Their Fourth Annual Performance
Crowded House Applauded Their Efforts—Those Who Participated and the Songs—Will Repeat the Show To-night at Bridgeton
To a house that was crowded to the doors in spite of the warm weather, Camden Lodge of Elks last night presented their fourth annual minstrel performance at the Camden Theatre and scored their usual success. The first part, consisting of the usual songs and end men’s gags, was the best part of the program and the soloists were greeted with appreciative applause. Every man who participated was an Elk and the performance was staged by Bob Watt, of Philadelphia.
The end men were John S. Smith, Ulie G. Lee, M. F. Ivins, Jr., Tom Mack, Fred. L. Mead, James H. Long. Harry Condit was interlocutor and William J. Hopper handed the baton [cut off at the crop edge]
End Man M. F. Ivins, Jr.
Philadelphia Inquirer — December 21, 1902
Camden Lodge, No. 293, B. P. O. E., will entertain the inmates of the Camden Home for Friendless Children and the West Jersey Orphanage during the holidays in their parlors at Broadway and Federal streets. Dinner will be served, gifts and candies presented and a vaudeville entertainment held for their amusement.
Elks Are Ready for the Burnt Cork
Trenton Evening Times —
ELKS ARE READY FOR THE BURNT CORK
Great Preparations for Their Show Next Wednesday Night.
The minstrel performance to be given at Taylor Opera House next Wednesday evening under the auspices of Trenton Lodge of Elks promises to be fully up to the high standard of other entertainments given by this popular organization. The membership of the lodge includes many of the city’s best-known business and professional men, and they and their friends will fill the theatre with an audience of which the most famous actor might be proud. The profits of the evening will be devoted to charity—one of the rocks upon which the order of Elks was founded.
The performance will open with the first part usual with minstrel shows and the stage setting is to be a revelation, originated by that past master of the art, Charles P. Stevenson, whose artistic work has made him popular with managers whose attractions play at Taylor Opera House. The gentlemen in the semi-circle will be attired in their very best clothes, and altogether the picture will be captivating.
The end men will be laden with new jokes and local hits will be many. The vocal solos will include “My Old United States,” “The Queen of Charcoal Alley,” “Down in Indiana,” “Home Ain’t Nothing Like This,” “Dreaming as She Sleeps,” “The Gambling Man,” “Leonore,” “Forever More,” and “No Sweeter Words Were Ever Said.”
The finale of the first part will be a very funny skit, entitled “The Trust Busters,” in which the entire company will take part.
The olio will include Craig and Ardell, funny musicians, whose sketch is entitled “I’ve Got Another Job Now;” William D. Hall, famous for his songs and monologues; Herbert Lloyd, a comedy juggler, and the Meeker-Baker trio, comedy acrobats. The specialties of all these performers are of a high-class and are sure to meet with great favor.
The evening will close with the sketch entitled “The Faith Cure,” a rollicking farce in which all hands will participate.
The performance will be under the direction of Marshall Taylor, manager of theatres in Wilmington, Camden and other cities, and most of the performers will be members of the Camden Lodge of Elks. One of the stars is John S. Smith, a Camden county detective, who is noted for his wit and other entertaining qualities. The committee of Elks who will receive the patrons of the show consists of C. P. Field, W. Taylor Ivins, Edwin F. Fitzgeorge, Frank A. Warner, Harry B. Salter, James M. Atwood and Charles P. Stevenson.
Camden Elks Moving on City of Baltimore
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden Lodge, No. 293, B. P. O. Elks, will turn out in force at the annual gathering in Baltimore, which takes place to-day and continues until Saturday. The local Elks will be officially represented to-day by Samuel Kilpatrick, the alternate, as George D. Borton, the Exalted Ruler, will not be able to get down until to-morrow.
A large number went to Baltimore last night and many more will follow to-day. At least a hundred Camden Elks will be in attendance. The delegation last night was headed by Marshall W. Taylor, John G. Colsey, County Detective John S. Smith, John Irwin, Frank Peterson, Jas. Long, Joseph Kolb, Frank Fithian, Fred J. Newton, Joseph H. Pfeiffer, John McCabe, Martin Frand, Sheriff C. J. Mines, Joseph Burt, Isaac Moffett, ex-Sheriff Henry J. West, Richard Mason, Thomas P. Curley, John Fort, D. Harry Condit and John Beaston.
Portrait captions: FRANK PETERSON — MARSHALL W. TAYLOR — GEORGE D. BORTON — JOHN H. IRWIN — SAMUEL KILPATRICK — JOHN S. SMITH — JOHN G. COLSEY.
Law and Order League at Work
Special to The Inquirer.
BRIDGETON, N. J., July 20.—At the instance of the Law and Order League, Daniel Gentry, Robert Mulford and Nicholas Carter have been arrested, charged with being “walking speak-easies,” and former Justice of the Peace Joel F. Pierce, charged with keeping a disorderly house.
Camden Elks Hold a Lodge of Sorrow
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden Lodge, No. 293, B. P. O. Elks, held its annual Lodge of Sorrow yesterday in the Masonic Building in the presence of an assemblage that taxed the seating capacity of the theatre. The music was under the direction of Professor James C. Warhurst, assisted by the choir of the North Baptist Church. Splendid renditions were given by the North Male Quartet and the St. Cecelia Ladies’ Quartet.
The opening ceremonies were in charge of Exalted Ruler George D. Borton. These were followed by prayer by Rev. Dr. Clarence A. Adams, of the Trinity Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Kittredge Wheeler, pastor of the North Baptist Church, delivered the oration. Then the impressive ceremony of turning out the lights as the name of each dead brother was called took place.
The absent brothers were Gideon H. Burt, Owen R. Jones, J. Oscar Nicholas, M. D. Dickinson, Harry M. Anderson, Joseph B. Feenier, Ernest H. Longstreth, Hamilton Markley, Howland Croft, John S. Mathis, Rev. Dr. George W. Gates, Charles F. Reese, James McCormick, Charles K. McPherson, James Baird, William F. Claus, Harry B. Paul, George S. West, Frank S. Jones and Sheriff Christopher J. Mines.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Another day was put in by Vice Chancellor Grey yesterday hearing the interminable testimony in the case of the Jonas Glass Company against the Green Glass Bottle Blowers’ Association.
Miss Minnie Tierney, the pretty Irish girl who was taken violently insane at the Cooper Hospital Wednesday, will be removed to the State Hospital for the Insane by Overseers of the Poor Jefferies to-day.
The graduating class of the Camden High School gave a banquet in the Masonic Building Wednesday night. The toastmaster was Edward H. Sayford and the toasts were: “The High School Graduates in After Life,” Professor James E. Bryan; “The Influence of the Senior Class,” Miss Clara S. Burroughs; “Our Alma Mater,” Miss Susanna Danser; “School Athletics,” Julian K. Potter; “Our Curriculum,” Miss G. Rovilla Fry; “The Girls of ‘03,” George T. Phillips; “The Boys of ‘03,” Miss Helen E. Herbert.
Camden Lodge of Elks has appointed Frank Healy, Peter Verga, Frank Gardner, A. R. Dease and Levi Farnham a committee to arrange plans for enlarging its handsome headquarters at Broadway and Federal streets. The first floor of the addition will be used as a bowling alley, shower baths and shuffle boards. There will be a stage on the second floor and on the third there will be rooms for billiards, pool and other games.
Albert West, colored, of 1018 Linden street, reported to the Camden police yesterday that he had been swindled out of $6. West says he met a man who gave the name of William Beston, and claiming he had been sent by the West Jersey and Seashore Railroad to get West to work as a porter. Beston declared White [sic] must first have a uniform and after measuring him Beston asked for the $6 as advance money. He then told West to report at the railroad office. He did but no porters were needed.
Camden Lodge No. 293, B.P.O.E. — Membership Ballot Notice
Camden Lodge No. 293, B. P. O. E.
CAMDEN, N. J., April 13, 1906.
DEAR SIR AND BROTHER:—
You are requested to attend the regular Stated Meeting, April 18, 1906, at 8 o’clock, at which time the following named applicants for membership will be balloted for:
| CANDIDATE | AGE | OCCUPATION | RESIDENCE | RECOMMENDED BY | COMMITTEE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas H. Edwards | 37 | Shoe Man’f’g | 423 Benson St. | Bro. John H. Switzer | Bro. John Harris “ W. Penn Corson “ Asa L. Roberts |
| Francis J. Bicker, M.D. | 46 | Physician | Fillmore and Vanhook Sts. | “ John S. Smith | “ H. H. Davis “ J. Willard Morgan “ Geo. B. Bond |
| Charles W. Bossle | 21 | Hatter | 706 Linden St. | “ Jos. Bossle, Sr. | “ J. R. McCabe “ H. B. Francis “ B. H. Shivers |
| John Morgan, Jr. | 27 | Real Estate Agent | Merchantville, N. J. | “ John W. Barr | “ Wm. F. Rex “ D. Harry Condit “ Frank E. Gardiner |
| Howard Callingham | 23 | Bookkeeper | Orston, N. J. | “ Jos. Bossle, Sr. | “ Thos. J. Moore “ Samuel B. Crall “ Jas. H. Eyster |
| G. Frank Travis | 34 | Tailor | 320 Spruce St. | “ John W. Barr | “ John H. Switzer “ Wm. G. Maguire “ Chas. W. Brecker |
| Theodore Stiles, Jr. | 42 | Meat and Provision Dealer | 27 N. Third St. | “ C. W. Brecker | “ Wm. Shillingsburg “ Jas. T. Bailey “ F. S. D. Johnston |
| C. F. Taylor | 35 | General Storekeeper | Collingswood, N. J. | “ Thos. J. Moore | “ Samuel B. Crall “ J. H. Eyster “ H. I. Cooper |
| Frank Reiss | Cotton Duck Salesman | Collingswood, N. J. | “ S. H. Wilkinson | “ Thos. J. Moore “ Samuel B. Crall “ J. H. Eyster | |
| Edward M. Wright | 35 | Produce Com. Merchant | Merchantville, N. J. | “ John Stewart | “ Al. L. Smith “ M. W. Taylor “ H. H. Voorhees |
Attest: J. FRED. NEWTON, Secretary
ALEX. J. MILLIETTE, Exalted Ruler
The Elks Grand Lodge Reunion of 1906
Members of Camden Lodge took a train trip to Denver for this event.
Named: Samuel A. Kilpatrick, Maurice A. Rogers, George B. Martin, William H. Iszard, and George J. Pechin..
B.P.O.E. Elks #293, Camden N.J., en route to Chicago. Picture dated July 24, 1906; taken July 23, 1906. Left: Edward Gondolff, owner of the Temple Bar & Hotel. Right: Jennie Gondolff, his wife.
Camden Elks “on the road to Denver” and at Pike’s Peak. Jennie Gondolff in center.
Photo frame reads “Green Car Tours.” The Elks were in Denver for three days on this trip. They also had two days for sightseeing in Chicago.
Elks to Attend Newark Dedication
Philadelphia Inquirer —
On Thursday afternoon, at 1 o’clock, a delegation of Camden and Philadelphia Elks will leave Broad Street Station for Newark, where they will participate in the dedication of the $60,000 building at that city.
Elks Mourned for Departed Brethren
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Former Congressman L. Irving Handy, of Wilmington, Del., Orator of the Occasion in Camden
J. HENRY SWITZER
Exalted Ruler of Camden Lodge of Elks, which held impressive memorial services yesterday.
Camden Lodge of Elks held its annual memorial services for the fifty-one departed brothers in the Camden Theatre yesterday, the exercises being marked by the usual impressive features. Besides a large attendance of members and invited guests, there were also present the families of the dead.
One of the features of the occasion was an immense arch built on the stage composed of beautiful flowers. The outer edge was ornamented with purple lights, representing the living membership, while the “absent brothers” were suggested in white lights that were in the midst of roses, carnations, smilax and lilies. Each of these were extinguished as the names of the departed were read by Secretary J. Fred Newton.
Former Congressman L. Irving Handy, of Wilmington, Del., delivered a splendid oration. Other features of the program included the following: Invocation, Rev. R. E. Brestell, rector of St. Paul’s P. E. Church; selection by Ampheon Quartet, “The Lost Chord;” soprano solo, “The Lord Is My Light,” Miss Isabelle Buchanan; Ampheon Quartet, “Nearer My God to Thee;” baritone solo, “He Wipes a Tear From Every Eye,” Harry Vollmer; tenor solo, “The Golden Pathway,” Albert B. Poland; Ampheon Quartet, “Lead Kindly Light;” soprano solo, “Hear Ye Israel,” Miss Buchanan; benediction, Rev. Dr. Brestell. The “absent brothers” included the following:
Gideon H. Burt, Owen S. Jones, J. Oscar Nichuals, Matlack D. Dickinson, Harry M. Anderson, Joseph B. Funfer, Ernest H. Longstreth, Hamilton Markley, Howland Croft, John S. Mathis, Rev. Dr. George W. Gates, Charles F. Rees, James McCormick, James Baird, William F. Claus, Harry B. Paul, George S. West, Christopher J. Mines, Frank S. Jones, Ernest G. Lelar, Alfred Hugg, Harry Wright, Richard C. Mason, Dr. P. W. Beale, Bernard F. Carroll, Edward C. Foster, Joseph S. Campbell, Jacob C. Ferris, George S. Hirst, Grantville W. Quint, William Calhoun, John W. Day, J. Henry Schlect, Thomas S. Austin, Robert W. Harper, Frederick Forster, Andrew M. Lyons, Charles F. Haas, Richard T. Miller, George A. Martin, Charles A. Cole, Harry F. Silvers, Christian F. Leng, John Welch, Rudolph Preisendanz, Noah A. Davidson, Albert T. Sellers, Robert P. Ashley, Hugh F. Dugan and Frank E. Manning.
The officers of Camden Lodge are: J. Henry Switzer, exalted ruler; E. Wilmer Collins, esteemed leading knight; Lewis H. Leigh, esteemed loyal knight; Albert Austermuhl, esteemed lecturing knight; J. Fred Newton, secretary; Edward R. Saunders, treasurer, and Allen Jarvis, tyler.
George D. Borton Funeral
Philadelphia Inquirer —
With all the pall bearers past exalted rulers of the local lodge of Elks, George D. Borton, himself a past officer of the lodge, was buried in Harleigh Cemetery yesterday. The services were held at his home, Second and York streets, Camden, where Rev. George Hemingway, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, spoke. The Elks also held services at the house. The pall bearers included Past Exalted Rulers John Henry Fort, Samuel Kilpatrick, Dr. A. H. Lippincott, Alexander Millete [sic], Francis Warren and J. Henry Switzer.
J. Fred Newton Lies in State
Philadelphia Inquirer —
• There were many persons who last night viewed the body of Assistant Tax Receiver J. Fred Newton, the Elks holding services at his home, 418 Broadway. The funeral will take place this afternoon.
The Elks Lodge Band — Broadway & Federal Street, 1910
In front of the Camden County Courthouse, Broadway & Federal Street, 1910.
The Elks Lodge Band in front of the Camden County Courthouse, Broadway & Federal Street, 1910.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN NEWS NOTES
The annual lodge of sorrow of the Camden Elks on Sunday, December 4, will have James W. McCarthy, of Jersey City Lodge, as the orator. Rev. A. G. A. Buxton, rector of St. John’s P. E. Church, will deliver the eulogy.
Considerable complaint is being made by patrons of the suburban trolley lines over the rowdyism displayed by youths, especially Saturday nights. The local authorities are unable to do anything unless the trolley company sees fit to make complaint.
In responding to an alarm of fire late Sunday night on Thirty-ninth street, Fireman Clarence Madden was thrown from the hose cart and badly bruised.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The funeral of William Jann, the commission merchant who died at Sheboygan, Wis., was held yesterday from his home at 319 State street, there being delegations from the Camden Lodges of Elks, Moose, Owls and Eagles, the Tall Cedars of Lebanon and the members of the Dock Street Fish Market. Interment was made at Harleigh Cemetery.
Frank Hartman [sic] and Allan Jarvis, Camden business men, left yesterday for a six weeks’ trip in the West during which they will participate in the Elks’ convention at Portland, Ore., and then go to other points of interest.
Flower Clock in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Made of white carnations, a gigantic clock with the hands indicating the eleventh hour, was the feature of the decorations at the annual memorial service held by Camden Lodge, B. P. O. Elks, in the Camden Theatre yesterday. On the hands were thirteen incandescent globes, which were illumined as the names of that number of departed “brothers,” who have died the past year, were read by Secretary E. Wilmer Collins. And at the close a great circle of purple light flashed out, this with the white being emblematic of the order’s colors.
There was a large attendance of the members, their friends and the families of departed Elks. The invocation was given by Rev. Edmund Burk, assistant rector of Holy Trinity P. E. Church, Philadelphia, who also delivered the eulogy, while the oration was delivered by Morris Scheck, of Philadelphia Lodge of Elks. Music was given by the Third Regiment Orchestra.
Those who have died during the past year were Timothy P. Mealy, Thomas Bodell, J Willard Morgan, Carl W. Zennick, Joseph Baumgartner, George Morris Martin, Adam T. Davis, B. Frank Rawlings, William F. Jann, Benjamin A. Watkins, Maurice A. Rogers, Charles P. Lawrence and Edward E. Jefferis.
Philadelphia Inquirer — June 12, 1915
Named: E. Wilmer Collins, William Crossley, Rev. Holmes F. Gravatt, First Methodist Episcopal Church, Lewis H. Leigh, Frank S. Albright, Robert MacIntosh, Garfield S. Pancoast, Andrew B.F. Smith, and Camden Elks Lodge 293..
Elks Minstrels Entertain at Asylum
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The minstrel troupe of the Camden Lodge of Elks went to Blackwood yesterday, where it entertained the inmates of the insane asylum.
Elks Bring Back Silver Cup
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Returning from Asbury Park yesterday Camden Elks brought back a silver cup which was awarded to their marching club making the second best appearance in the parade on Friday. Howard Austermuhl was awarded a prize for being the fattest man in the parade. Camden was also honored by the selection of E. Wilmer Collins as president of the State Association.
The Elks Lodge — Cooper Street, 1926 to Present
The Elks Home on Cooper Street, 1920s — Seventh & Cooper Street, 1926 to present.
Camden Courier-Post — January 3, 1928
Camden Courier-Post, January 3, 1928 — Camden Elks Lodge.
Camden Veterans Plan Military Ball Feb. 3
Camden Courier-Post —
A military ball that is expected to rival in color and splendor Camden’s recent Charity Ball, will be held February 3 in the auditorium of Camden Lodge of Elks by Camden Post No. 980, Veterans of Foreign Wars.
John A. Pennington, commander of the post, is general chairman of the ball committee. James Connors, Junior State Vice Commander, is assisting Pennington as vice chairman.
Robert McMahon, former commander, today said national and state officials of the Veterans of Foreign Wars; state, city and county officials, are expected to attend. Persons prominent in the professional and business life of South Jersey will serve as patrons and patronesses.
Proceeds of the event, McMahon reported, will be used to defray the expense of relief work being done by the post among former service men and their families.
Prominent Women Are Patronesses for Elks Show, ‘Hi-Hat’
Camden Courier-Post —
Patronesses for the musical comedy, “Hi-Hat” to be staged in the auditorium of the Elks Club, Seventh and Cooper streets, on January 12, 13 and 14, include many prominent women from this city and the suburbs.
Cast in the show are more than a hundred men and women well known in Elks circles in addition to talented amateur players.
The patroness list is announced as follows: Mrs. Albert Austermuhl, Mrs. Howard Dudley, Mrs. John A. Schlorer, Mrs. Frank Fithian, Mrs. Roy R. Stewart, Miss Matha [sic] Henkel, Mrs. Charles W. Letzgus, Mrs. Homer H. Letler [?], Mrs. Samuel Kilpatrick, Mrs. Stanley Mattison, Mrs. A. Lincoln Michener, Mrs. David B. Robinson, Mrs. H. Harry Jones, Mrs. Arthur Schlorer, Mrs. Lee G. Taylor, Mrs. Wellington E. Barto, Mrs. Edward J. Kelly, Mrs. Charles A. Wolverton, Mrs. Garfield Pancoast, Mrs. Frank S. Van Hart, Mrs. James Scott, Mrs. Harry Teitleman, Mrs. D. T. Stackhouse, Mrs. Samuel A. Dobbins, Mrs. Charles S. Straw, Mrs. Stanley Bleakley, Mrs. Albert Poland, Mrs. Joseph Hill, Mrs. Claire Ferato, Mrs. William Sauerhoff, Mrs. Rud. Preisendanz, Jr., Mrs. Walter J. Staats, Mrs. Jacob Furer, Mrs. Hiram Budd, Mrs. Jarrett Sauerhoff.
Mrs. George Fisher, Mrs. Peter J. McGuire, Mrs. T. Yorke Smith, Mrs. William A. Sayers, Mrs. Winfield S. Price, Mrs. C. W. Reesman, Mrs. Edward Hoxworth, Mrs. William Townsend, Mrs. Ray. Van Sant, Mrs. Albert Tallman, Mrs. William Lehman, Mrs. William Huff, Mrs. Law. Callahan, Mrs. William Huff, Mrs. Frank Hineline, Mrs. Floyd Somers, Mrs. Samuel Payne, Mrs. Robert MacIntosh, Mrs. Edw. O’Brion, Mrs. Arthur Scott, Mrs. Roy Veasey, Mrs. Robert Boyd, Mrs. James MacMillan, Mrs. Walter Tushingham, Mrs. Thomas Jack, Mrs. John S. Carroll, Mrs. Lewis Lee, Mrs. Edw. Ferat, Mrs. William Lorigan, Mrs. Thomas Hughes, Mrs. Allen Redfield, Mrs. James Thompson, Mrs. Howard Ledyard, Mrs. Roy Lanning, Mrs. John Rodan, Mrs. Dr. Sopnick, Mrs. Dr. Cutler and Mrs. Ephraim Wescott.
Elks Are All Set For Hi-Hat Show
Camden Courier-Post —
Offering the pick of local talent under skillful direction in an ambitious revue, the annual Elks Frolic for 1928 will be presented Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in the Elks auditorium at Cooper and Seventh Streets.
“Hi-Hat” is the title of the new revue and the appearance of Elsa Dorn is a feature. The revue opens with an act programmed as “Hits and Bits,” in which Rud Preisendanz will act as master of ceremonies. From that point on, the revue makes its way through a series of dances, songs, spectacles and comedy skits until its conclusion.
William H. Iszard, chairman of the frolic committee, also becomes an actor in the performance. Others in the cast include the following.
Benton Vansciver, Ronald Hollingsworth, Fred Peterson, Elmore Craft Jr., Dorothy McDonna, Bernice Hendrickson, Lillian Hill, Jeanette Smith, Dot McGuire, Dot Hemphill, Bill Geyer.
Catherine Hill, Lillian Starke, Irma Huff, Virginia Simms, Mary Hall, “Billie” Dryer, Anna Prayne, Margaret Printz.
Justin McCarthy, Dorothy Ferat, Ed Brewer, Charles Wright, Fred Peterson, Dave Reese, Biel Davis, Bill Huff, Lillian Hill, Roland Hollingsworth, Ed Kelly, Al Durfer, Ed Preisendanz, Bert Poland, Curt Hitchner, Jack Sauerhoff, Perrin G. Somers Jr., Alberta O'Hara. Harry Todd, Pete McGuire, Bill Gravenstine, Paul Horompo, Frances Brabazon, Irma Huff, Ella Huff, Eleanor Townsend, Bernice Hendrickson, Lillian Hill, Jeanette Smith, Mary Hall, Anna Prayne, Margaret Printz, Marie Carmichael, Elmore Craft, Charles Wright, Joe Hill, Larry Callahan, Harry Glazer, William Ambright, Frank Garrison, Ralph Willey, Jr., William Leckfeld.
Collegiate? You Said It!
Camden Courier-Post —
No wonder so many people go to college these days if this couple is truly representative of the college spirit, which they purport to represent in the annual Elks Frolic which opened its three-day run last night. They are Dot McGuire, of 98 Park Avenue, Collingswood; and Irma Huff of 317 State Street.
New Elks Frolic Is Instant Success
Camden Courier-Post —
Colorful Revue With Snappy Features Delights Big Audience
Colorful and melodious, bearing the mark of skillful coaching and disclosing notable talent, the annual Elks’ Frolic was given its first performance last evening.
An appreciative audience applauded the various performers and their skits as the array of Camden and South Jersey talent offered their musical or humorous wares from the stage of the Elks’ auditorium, at Seventh and Cooper Streets.
Open to the public, the revue, which bears the title of “Hi-Hat,” is to be presented again this evening and tomorrow evening. Not only does the large cast bear no hint of amateurishness in the performance, but through the frolic, the public is given an opportunity to see a number of men prominent in business and professional circles in Camden turn entertainers for the evening. William H. Iszard, former assemblyman, is a member of the cast of “Hi-Hat.” So is Rud Preisendanz, exalted ruler of the Camden Elks’ Lodge and prominent businessman.
The opening act, ‘Hits and Bits,’ gives opportunity to a group of clever singers and dancers. Prominent in this act is Preisendanz as ‘master of ceremonies.’ The specialties introduce Justin McCarthy, Bill Guyer, Jannette Smith, Dorothy Ferat, Cliff Okerson, Charles Wright, Virginia Sims and Joe Hill. A dancing chorus composed of Dorothy McDonna, Bernice Hendrickson, Lillian Hill, Jannette Smith, Dot McGuire, Dot Hemphill, Catherine Hill, Lillian Starke, Francis Brahazon, Mary Hall, Bernice Hendrickson and Irma Huff, execute a series of timed dances. Miss Elsa Dorn has an important role in this and subsequent scenes.
A blackface novelty introduces Pete McGuire and Harry Toll in “The Transfer Men.”
A juvenile diversion features Kathleen Lyle and Ruth Matthiessen. It is called “We Moderns” and depicts a child’s idea of the modern flapper and her collegiate boyfriend.
A sketch dealing with one of the vital problems of the day entitled “Pre-War Scotch,” serves to introduce David Reese as a bellboy, Bill Huff and Bill Geyer are two salesmen, and Bill Davis as the proprietor of a rural hotel.
‘Modern Fairy Tales’ sung by Katherine Hill and Lillian Stark, tells the song story of fairy tales of the past compared to fairy tales of modern times. The sketches are played by Lillian Hill and Justice McCarthy.
Another playlet of the “collegiate” mode is called “The Elopers.” Special song numbers by Perrin G. Somers are interpolated in the act.
“The Musical Tourists,” a parody on the popular songs of the day, coupled in such a manner that they tell the story of the purchase of a second-hand touring car, is one of the hits of the performance. In this act are Ed Kelly, Al Durfer, Ed Preisendanz, Ben Hardy, Harry Todd, Bill Guyer and Jack Sauerhoff.
The Elks’ “Madcap Dancing Ensemble” introduces a series of clever dances by Frances Brahazon, Alberta O’Hara and Virginia Sims. In this are acrobatic, ballet, waltz, clog, buck and eccentric dancing.
The closing scene, beautifully mounted in costumes and scenery, has been given the title “Palate D’Or.” Prominent among the performers are Charles Murray, Bert Poland, Jack Sauerhoff, Ed Kelly, Bill Gravenstine, Elsa Dorn, Pete McGuire, Ed Preisendanz, Harry Todd, Al Durfer, Dave Reese, Dot McGuire, Dorothy McDonna, Irma Huff, Paul Horompf, Lillian Starke, and Rud Preisendanz. A mixed chorus of fifteen voices lends color to the scene. An augmented orchestra was under the direction of Perrin G. Somers, director of the frolic. The curtain rises promptly at 8:30.
Camden Shriners Hosts at Show and Dance
Camden Courier-Post —
The Camden Shrine Club will entertain at a ladies night this evening in the Elks’ auditorium, Seventh and Cooper Streets.
The Chanters of Crescent Temple, Trenton, who appeared before the club last year, will be featured in an act including songs, jokes and musical novelties. Master James Morgan, son of Noble James G. Morgan, secretary of the Shrine Club patrol, will give several solo numbers.
Master Morgan is one of the great soloists of St. Marks Episcopal Church, Sixteenth and Walnut Streets, Philadelphia.
Dancing will follow the entertainment.
Gold Star Mothers to Attend Foreign War Veteran's Ball
Camden Courier-Post —
Gold Star Mothers will be the honor guests at the first annual military ball of the Camden Post, No. 980, Veterans of Foreign Wars, to be held on Friday evening, February 3, in the Elks ballroom, Seventh and Cooper Streets.
Elaborate plans for this ball are under the chairmanship of John S. Pennington.
Invitations have been issued for patrons and patronesses and the list will be announced early next week.
Gold Star Mothers to attend the affair are Mrs. C. Alberger, Mrs. Harriett Ablett, Mrs. Laura Brown, Mrs. A. Crangel, Mrs. A. Cassady, Mrs. R. Dilks, Mrs. Kate Geist, Mrs. M. Griffen, Mrs. Horace B. Keebler, Mrs. H. Kirk, Mrs. Ross Leahy, Mrs. M. A. Matson, Mrs. M. McGuckin, Mrs. Mary Martin, Mrs. M. Matthews, Mrs. Cooling Pond, Mrs. Oliver Powell*, Mrs. Mary Pennington, Mrs. C. Rolk, Mrs. E. Simons, Mrs. Mary Schucker, Mrs. Margaret Steigerwald, Mrs. Annie Taylor, Mrs. M. Osborn, Mrs. Mary Keegan, Mrs. Anna Kennedy, Mrs. T.C. Young and Mrs. Walters.
Assisting Mr. Pennington in planning this ball are John Rouh, James W. Connor, Charles Bozian, Robert MacMahon, Edward Watson, David Lukoff, Harry Laxton, Edward A. Stark, George Jones, William V. Long, Joseph Keefe, Charles Blank and Marvel Passwater.
* Newspaper error — Mrs. Oliver Powell was actually Mrs. Oliver Purnell
Patrons, Patronesses Announced for First Military Ball
Camden Courier-Post —
Patrons and patronesses for the first military ball of the Camden Post No. 980, Veterans of Foreign Wars, to be held on Friday evening February 3 in the Elks auditorium, Seventh and Cooper Streets, are announced today.
The following prominent men and women are listed: Mrs. J.W. Connor, Miss C.M. Day, Mrs. J.H. Forsyth, Mrs. H.J. Goodyear, Miss B. Graham, Mrs. R.E. Green, Mrs. E.F. Haines, Mrs. J. Hood Jr., Mrs. W. Hurley, Mrs. J. Jarrell, Mrs. T. Keefe, Mrs. J.F. Kobus, Mrs. L. Liberman, Mrs. F.L. Lloyd, Mrs. M.A. Logan, Mrs. T.P. McConaghy, Mrs. F.F. Neutze, Mrs. L.K. Marr, Mrs. J.A. Pennington, Mrs. M.E. Ramsey, Mrs. E. Truax, Mrs. S.M. Shay, Mrs. W.J. Staats, Mrs. B.G. Tarburton, Mrs. R.W. Waddell, Mrs. E. Watson, Mrs. E.P. Wescott, Mrs. C.A. Wolverton.
David Baird Jr., William T. Boyle, Isaac Ferris, William Hurley, John Hood Jr., John Jarrell, Victor King, William J. Kraft, Thomas Keefe, Joseph F. Kobus, Hon. Edmund B. Leaming, Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, James H. Long, L.K. Marr, Dr. Thomas P. McConaghy, Hon. Frank F. Neutze, Samuel P. Orlando, Albert E. Simmons, Edwin Watson, Ethan P. Wescott.
Stores Here Sponsor Amateur Movie Show
Camden Courier-Post —
“Fly Low Jack and the Game,” a photoplay made entirely by amateurs, will be featured at an exhibition of home and amateur movies tomorrow afternoon and evening in the Elk’s auditorium under auspices of the Eastman Kodak Company and co-operating Camden dealers.
The exhibition, an invitation affair, is designed as a demonstration of the possibilities and scope of this new phase of the motion picture art. In addition to the feature photoplay will be a number of shorter subjects, including a reel illustrating typical accomplishments of amateur cinematographers in all parts of the world.
The “Fly Low Jack” picture is unique in that it was written, directed, photographed and acted by amateurs at a cost, it is claimed, of less than two dollars. The picture is described as an engaging comedy romance having to do with an attempted exploration flight to the North Pole.
Three performances will be presented at 3 o’clock in the afternoon and at 7.30 and 9 o’clock in the evening. Complimentary tickets are being distributed by the Camden Cine-Kodak, Pelou[?]e & Campbell, Parrish & Read, Inc., and Frost Brothers.
Elks Install Stewart as New Ruler Tonight
Camden Courier-Post —
With two Assemblymen taking the highest stations, Camden Lodge of Elks will tonight install recently elected officers at the home, Seventh and Cooper streets. The ceremony will be presided over by Past Exalted Ruler James H. Long.
Roy R. Stewart, thrice elected to the Assembly, will become the lodge’s exalted ruler, while Assemblyman William B. Knight will take the esteemed leading knight’s station, the next in line for the higher office.
Other officers to be installed include: William Hopkins Iszard, a former Assemblyman, esteemed loyal knight; William F. Lehman, esteemed lecturing knight; Albert Austermuhl, secretary; Homer F. Lotier, treasurer; Samuel A. Kilpatrick, tyler; George Fisher, trustee; Rud Preisendanz, representative to grand lodge; William L. Sauerhoff, alternate; Preisendanz, delegate to state association.
A social session will follow the installation.
Enos B. Dellmuth Dies from Stroke
Camden Courier-Post —
Death Ascribed to Devotion to Duty as Grand Jury Foreman
Enos B. Dellmuth, 43, prominent civic leader and foreman of the June term of Camden county grand jury, died at his home, 426 Chambers street, yesterday following a stroke at the close of the jury’s last session on Friday.
Dellmuth died a martyr to his duty, according to the members of his family and his friends. He had not been feeling well for about five weeks, but continued to attend the grand jury sessions every Tuesday. Finally his condition became such that he could not attend the regular session last Tuesday.
He was staying at his summer home in Seaside Heights last Friday when he was notified that the grand jury would meet that afternoon to make its final presentment to Judge Samuel M. Shay. As the foreman must sign all true bills and recommendations, Dellmuth motored to this city. While he was driving he suffered a slight stroke, but he continued to the courthouse.
Some premonition of serious illness and possibly death must have come to him during the meeting, for while the grand jurors discussed a resolution calling upon the board of freeholders to appropriate more money for a Camden charitable institution one of the jurors, who knew that Dellmuth was a candidate for freeholder from the Ninth, remarked,
“I guess that will be taken care of when Mr. Dellmuth gets on the freeholder board.”
“I don’t know about that,” Dellmuth was heard to mutter.
A few minutes after the jury had been officially dismissed by Judge Shay, the foreman complained of severe pains in the head, and he was accompanied to his home by fellow jurors. His condition rapidly grew worse, and Dr. Wesley Barrett diagnosed his ailment as cerebral hemorrhage. Dr. Elliott Schull and two specialists confirmed the diagnosis.
Dellmuth would have been 44 on October 24. According to members of his family, he always dreaded his forty-fourth birthday, as his father and a sister had died in their forty-fourth years.
The deceased served four years as councilman from the Ninth ward, and was the Republican candidate for freeholder at the coming general election. He was a former president of the Ninth Ward Republican Club and at the time of his death was vice-president. He was a member of Excelsior Consistory, Trimble Lodge, No. 117, F. & A. M.; Camden Shrine Club; A. A. O. N. M. S., of Trenton; The Seven O’Clock Club of Philadelphia; Camden Elks, Camden Rotary Club and other civic associations.
He was manager of the eastern division of the C. Howard Hunt Pen Company, Camden.
The deceased is survived by his wife, Florence D.; his sister, Mrs. A. Dellmuth Hauser, of Camden; a son, Carl, former Camden High School three-letter athlete and now a student at Swarthmore College, and four daughters, Ethel, Dorothy, Marian and Mary.
The members of the grand jury will convene tomorrow evening and go to the Dellmuth residence to pay their last respects. The members of the Ninth Ward Republican Club, of which Edward Holloway is president, will meet 8 p.m. tomorrow at [?] Broadway and then visit the home of the late vice-president.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at his late residence. Masonic and Elk services will also be held. Interment will be in Harleigh Cemetery.
Camden Courier-Post — June 3, 1932
Named: Mathews-Purnell Post VFW Post 518, John G. Ledyard, Harry Leonard, and Camden Lodge 293, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks..
Sentiment Ruled in Rejecting Bid, Pastor Declares
Camden Courier-Post —
Offer of $5,300,000 for Catholic Church Property Disclosed in Court
SENTIMENT RULED IN REJECTING BID, PASTOR DECLARES
Appeals on Assessments in Broadway Extension Open in Court Here
LEVIES CALLED UNFAIR
An offer of $5,300,000 for purchase of the Church of the Immaculate Conception property, bounded by Market, Broadway, Federal and Seventh streets, was disclosed yesterday in Circuit Court here.
It was rejected for “sentimental reasons,” according to Rt. Rev. Monsignor W. J. FitzGerald, pastor of the church, who testified before Judge Henry H. Eldredge, at the first day session of hearings on appeals from property assessments.
The appeals of a number of property owners are from assessments levied to pay for extending Broadway, which previously ended at Market street, to its present terminus at the bridge plaza. Appellants contend the assessments have not been “just and fair.”
Monsignor FitzGerald testified the church and its property had not benefited by the improvement. Increased traffic, he said, resulted in a greater hazard to children who attend Camden Catholic High and St. Mary’s parochial schools, which are units of the church property. The assessment against the church is $8,640.50 for the improvement. The church is exempt from general taxation.
Mitten Made Offer, Report
Rejection of the offer to purchase the church property was disclosed by Monsignor FitzGerald during cross-examination by Lewis Liberman, assistant city solicitor. Source of the offer was not brought out. It was reported several years ago that Mitten Management, of Philadelphia, made such an offer with a view of erecting a bus terminal on the site.
Edward J. Borden, former president of the Camden County Real Estate Board, also testified the Broadway extension did not increase value of the church property. Asked by Liberman whether he was thus speaking as a real estate expert or a churchman, Borden replied “fifty-fifty.”
Those appealing assessments hold their properties received no particular benefit from the improvement and charge that property abutting the extended street was not assessed sufficiently. They also say holdings beyond the area received benefits and should be assessed accordingly.
Assessments Fair, City Holds
The argument of the city is that the assessments were just and fair and that these particular properties did receive benefits and considerable increase in value by reason of the improvement and that, therefore, they should be called upon to pay the assessment.
In the Summer of 1925, Broadway was cut through from Market street to the Bridge plaza at Penn street in connection with the opening of the Delaware River bridge.
On December 2, 1925, Milliard Davis, Joseph A. Connor, Jr., and Charles Wescott, commissioners of assessment, made their report, which was approved by the city commissioners on December 29, 1925.
A large number of appeals were taken by the owners of the assessed lands to the Circuit Court and hearings held in June, 1926, before then Circuit Court Judge Ralph W. E. Donges, now a Supreme Court justice. The proceedings were taken under Article 20 of the Home Rule Act.
Project Cost $409,201
The total cost of the improvement was $409,201.24. Of this cost, the city paid 40 percent, or $173,698.54, which was raised by general taxation. Of that balance, the sum of $160,255.80 was assessed as benefits against the properties abutting on the new street; the sum of $75,276.90 was assessed against properties on both sides of Broadway from Market street to Mickle street and properties to the east and west of the new Broadway between Sixth and Seventh streets, on the south side of Penn street, on both sides of Cooper street and on both sides of Market street.
The attorneys arrayed against Liberman and their clients are as follows: Former Judge Lewis Starr, representing Harry N. Schierer, 646 Penn street; Patrick H. Harding, representing Robert J. Kearns, 110 Broadway; Alfred W. Walton, 105 Broadway; John Miller, 107 Broadway; William E. Morgenweck Estate, 17 Broadway; H. Schoemer and Julius Burman, 21 Broadway, and Isaac Van Sciver, 106 Broadway.
Louis B. LeDuc and Herbert J. Koehler, representing Solis D. Cohen, for the old Elks’ property at Broadway and Federal streets; former Judge William T. Boyle, representing the Church of the Immaculate Conception; Francis D. Weaver, representing the Kresge Realty Company, 23-29 Broadway; Walter R. Carroll, representing the Jersey Mortgage Investment Company, and Joseph H. Carr, representing the Camden Lodge of Elks, Broadway Merchants Trust Company, Estate of E. E. Read, Jr., covering property at Broadway and Cooper streets.
‘Good Will’ Auto Arrives Here Today
Camden Courier-Post —
One of Three in Elks-Studebaker Tour Will Parade in Camden
One of three cars making a nation-wide good-will tour under auspices of the Elks’ and Studebaker company is due to arrive in Camden today.
An invitation to attend the Chicago world’s fair next year will be extended from Rufus Dawes, brother of America’s former ambassador to England, to members of the Camden B. P. O. E. The car is driven by Joseph Downing and is en route to Birmingham, Ala., where the Elks’ national convention is due to open July 16.
Harry G. Robinson, exalted ruler of the Camden lodge, has named Albert Austermuhl, secretary; Rud Preisandanz, Jr., past exalted ruler; William L. Sauerhoff, James H. Long and D. Trueman Stackhouse as a committee to welcome the good-will car. McClellan Fulton, local Studebaker dealer, will have a fleet of cars in a parade about the city.
Camden Elks to Honor Past Exalted Rulers
Camden Courier-Post —
Past exalted rulers will be honored tonight by Camden Lodge of Elks with a dinner, ceremonial and entertainment.
The program will be nation-wide. A dinner will be served at 6:00 PM, followed by a business session. Harry G. Robinson, present exalted ruler, will open the ceremonial and turn the lodge over to the past officers.
The past exalted rulers expected are Samuel Kilpatrick, who served in 1900 and 1921; Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, Alexander J. Milliette, J. Harry Switzer, James H. Long, Marian Moriarity, Allen Jarvis, Albert Austermuhl, William L. Sauerhoff, former Mayor Frank S. Van Hart, D. Trueman Stackhouse, Harry Ellis, William G. Ferat, Judge Garfield Pancoast, Rudolph Preisendanz, Jr., Theodore T. Kausel, Edward J. Kelley, Mayor Roy R. Stewart, William H. Iszard, William S. Lehman and J. Harry Todd.
Vets in Colorful Memorial Crowd Convention Hall
Camden Courier-Post —
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.
Camden Elks Hope to Get Convention
Camden Courier-Post —
The twenty-first annual reunion and the convention of the New Jersey State Elks Association will be held in Camden next June if efforts of the advisory board of Camden Lodge of Elks are successful at the state meeting in Newark on June 15, 16 and 17.
Members of the advisory board for the local lodge, who are past exalted rulers of the Camden lodge, will present the invitation to hold the 1934 meeting in Camden, at the twentieth reunion and convention in Newark.
Members of the lodge have adopted a resolution confirming the action of the advisory board and plans were made to set the necessary machinery in motion to bring the 1934 convention to Camden. It was pointed out that Camden Elks have the largest home in the state.
Samuel Kilpatrick, the oldest past exalted ruler of the lodge, is head of the advisory board, and Harry G. Robinson, youngest past exalted ruler, is delegate to the state association, which is composed of past exalted rulers of all Elks lodges in New Jersey.
Although the state association was formed in Camden, there has never been a reunion or convention of the association held here, it was pointed out.
The outstanding feature of each annual convention is the mammoth sessions, with thousands of Elks in line. It is estimated the parade would draw more than 50,000 persons to Camden, if the local lodge's invitation is accepted.
The Camden lodge is sending the band and patrol to Newark for the parade, which will start at 7 p.m. on June 17. Arrangements are being made to have the largest delegation in the parade represent Camden.
Past exalted rulers who comprise the advisory board, and the year they took office, follow: Samuel Kilpatrick, 1900; Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, 1901; Alex J. Milliette, 1906; J. Harry Switzer, 1908; James H. Long, 1911; Marion Moriarty, 1913; Allen Jarvis, 1914; Albert Austermuhl, 1915; William L. Sauerhoff, 1917; Theodore T. Kausel, 1918; Garfield Pancoast, 1919; William G. Ferat, 1920; Harry Ellis, 1921; Samuel A. Dobbins, 1923; D. Trueman Stackhouse, 1924; Frank S. Van Hart, 1925; Edward J. Kelly, 1926; Rud Preisendanz, Jr., 1927; Roy R. Stewart, 1928; William H. Iszard, 1929; William Lehman, 1930; J. Harry Todd, 1931, and Harry G. Robinson, 1932.
Deceased past exalted rulers and the year they took office are: John H. Foster, 1895; W. E. B. Miller, 1896; Philip Burch, 1897; D. Harry Condit, 1898; H. L. Hartshorn, 1891; George D. Borton, 1902; Maurice Rogers, 1904; Francis Warren, 1907; E. Wilmer Collins, 1909; Lewis H. Leigh, 1910; Morris Odell, 1912, and W. Wallace Balcom, 1922.
Flag Day Service Planned by Elks
Camden Courier-Post —
Elaborate Ceremonies Monday Night Will Be Open to Public
An elaborate Flag Day celebration to be open to the public and broadcast over the radio is planned by Camden Elks for Monday night.
Ceremonies will open at 7.30 p.m., in the lodge room, Seventh and Cooper Streets, with a musical program by the Elks Band, under direction of William H. Townsend. Presentation of the colors will be made by August F. Walters Chapter, Disabled American Veterans; Corp. Raymond C. Thoirs Post, American Legion, and Matthews-Purnell Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars.
The invocation will be made by the lodge chaplain, D. Truman Stackhouse. An altar service will be held by officers headed by James MacMillan, exalted ruler. An organ solo of “America” by Charles L. Bowen, solos by Charles T. Murray, Mrs. C. Richard Allen and Albert B. Poland, will feature the musical program.
The history of the flag will be given by George S. Dunkelberger, a senior member of the lodge and chairman of the Flag Day committee. The program will be broadcast over WCAM by courtesy of Rud Preisendanz Jr., past exalted ruler and lessee of the station.
Elks to Observe Flag Day Tonight
Camden Courier-Post —
Uniformed Veterans to Join Lodge Members in Colorful Ceremonies
Arrangements are completed for the Flag Day celebration to be held tonight by the Camden Elks Lodge at Seventh and Cooper Streets.
The program will open at 7.30 p.m. Doors of the lodge room will be opened to the public at 7:15 p.m. The program will be broadcast over WCAM.
The Elks Band, led by William H. Townsend, will open the ceremonies. Presentation of the colors will be made by uniformed units of the August F. Walters Chapter, Disabled American Veterans; Corporal Raymond C. Thoirs Post, American Legion; Matthews-Purnell Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the lodge patrol.
D. T. Stackhouse, chaplain of the lodge, will make the invocation and an altar service will be held by James A. MacMillan, exalted ruler, and the other officers.
There will be musical selections by Charles L. Bowen, organist; Charles T. Murray, Albert B. Poland and Mrs. C. Richard Allen, vocalists.
George S. Dunkelberger, a senior member of the lodge, and chairman of the Flag Day committee, will give the history of the flag. A patriotic address will be given by Police Judge Garfield Pancoast, a past exalted ruler.
The radio program will be presented through courtesy of Rud Preisendanz Jr., past exalted ruler and lessee of the station.
Camden Makes Bid Today for Meeting of Elks in 1934
Camden Courier-Post —
Mayor Stewart to Present City's Claim at Convention in Newark — PARADE TO CLOSE EVENT
The 1934 convention of the New Jersey Elks Association will be sought for Camden today by more than 500 members of the Camden lodge who will attend the twentieth anniversary convention of the association in Newark.
The convention will close Saturday evening with a parade which is being planned as one of the most elaborate ever held in the order in New Jersey.
Camden’s claims as next year’s convention city will be presented by Mayor Roy R. Stewart, past exalted ruler of the Camden lodge.
18 Rooms Engaged
The Camden lodge has engaged 18 rooms in the Hotel Riviera as its headquarters. In the lobby has been placed a large banner proclaiming: “Brother Bill, we want you in Camden in 1934.” Large tags bearing the same invitation are to be distributed to all the delegates.
The convention will open tonight with a dinner and dance in observance of the fiftieth anniversary of Newark lodge. The opening session will be at 1.30 p.m. tomorrow. At 7.30 p.m. there will be a banquet and dance for delegates and invited guests.
The final meeting will be held at 11.30 a.m. Saturday when officers will be elected. J. Harry Todd, past exalted ruler of Camden lodge, is seeking the South Jersey vice-presidency.
Parade Starts at 7 P.M.
The parade will start at 7 p.m. Camden lodge, in the third division with Atlantic City, Trenton and Bridgeton, will be led by James MacMillan, exalted ruler, followed by 16 past exalted rulers.
Camden lodge’s band of 40 pieces, led by William Townsend, will precede the patrol of 30 members headed by Harry Rathbone. New uniforms have been provided for the patrol. A touring car completely covered with flowers and bearing the Elks’ emblem in flowers, will be entered by the Camden post.
Bus Service Arranged
Bus service has been planned for Saturday to carry members and friends of Camden lodge to the parade. According to William H. Iszard, past exalted ruler and chairman of the transportation, publicity and parades committees of Camden lodge, buses will leave the Elks Home, Seventh and Cooper Streets, at 10 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. Saturday, returning that night after the parade and grand ball which is to close the convention.
Harry Robinson, past exalted ruler, is the Camden lodge delegate to the convention. Francis P. Boland, of Jersey City, is president of the association, which is composed of past exalted rulers of all New Jersey lodges.
Checked and Double Checked
Camden Courier-Post —
by JIMINY
A member of the Camden Elks best known as “Van” was sitting in the clubhouse the other evening when he dropped his new straw hat on the floor … Along came Howard Ledyard, who tips the scales at something like 200 pounds … He was about to pick up the hat for Van, but the latter jokingly said, “Don't bother; step on it” … We hate to tell the rest … Howard took him at his word … And stepped on it … Civil war …
Camden Men Back From World's Fair
Camden Courier-Post —
John A. Burke and Grandson Declare It is Greatest of Exhibitions
High praise and commendation for the worlds fair at Chicago was voiced by a Camden man and his grandson who have returned home after spending all last week at the exhibit.
The sojourners to Chicago were John A. Burke, of 516 Gordon Terrace, a member of the Camden Lodge of Elks, and his grandson, Hobart M. Luther, 17, of 807 Morgan Street, a student at Camden High School.
“In my estimation,” said Burke, “the worlds fair is the finest exhibition that I have ever seen. I have attended fairs all over the country and this one excels all others.
“I found much to marvel at in the science and transportation buildings. The crowds were tremendous and the railroads were doing a rushing business. There were comparatively few automobiles from other states, but my grandson and I counted 580 taxicabs which passed one point in an hour on the way to the fair.”
While in Chicago Burke and his grandson met Floyd Gibbons, the radio announcer, and paid their compliments to him on the success of the exhibition.
Jobless Son Kills Jake Schiller Who Saves Boy's Wife From Gun
Camden Courier-Post —
JOBLESS SON KILLS JAKE SCHILLER WHO SAVES BOY'S WIFE FROM GUN
SLAYER CRAZED BY SEPARATION, RELATIVES SAY
Dazedly Insists He Had No Intention of Shooting Sire
ESTRANGED WIFE SEEN IN SUICIDE TRY — Slain Man Long Was Prominent Figure in Camden Politics
Jacob Schiller, 72, for 45 years a political figure here, is dead, shot by his own son.
The slayer, William Schiller, 30, a former summer policeman now unemployed, was held over today to the grand jury on a charge of murder. He made no comment whatever during his police court hearing.
A few hours later, young Schiller’s wife, Augusta, whom he had also tried to shoot, was found wandering through the city street, in a hysterical condition.
She had written a note which police believed showed intent to commit suicide, and had staggered dazedly through the streets last night. Both in her note and in her incoherent statements to detectives she declared she was to blame for the tragedy.
She said her father-in-law had tried to save her and was killed in the attempt.
The slaying occurred Saturday night at the elder Schiller’s home, 2420 Carman Street. It climaxed an estrangement between young Schiller and his wife, with “Jake” Schiller attempting to reconcile the couple.
Mrs. William Schiller, who had had her husband arrested several months ago, said she believed he had become mentally deranged, but Police Judge Pancoast was informed that an alienist had examined young Schiller in July and pronounced him sane.
Young Schiller had been living with his father at the Carman Street address, while Mrs. Schiller has been residing with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John I. Green, 409 North Thirty-seventh Street. The cause of the estrangement has not been revealed by police, but it is stated that young Schiller refused to consent to a reconciliation.
Patrolman Joseph Keefe was standing at Twenty-fifth and Federal Streets when two boys ran up and told him there was a shooting at Twenty-fifth and Carman Street. He ran to the scene and said he reached there in time to see young Schiller shooting up the street at his wife.
Keefe said Schiller ran into the house when he saw him. Aided by Miller, Keefe overpowered Schiller and placed an iron claw on his right hand after disarming him.
Jacob Schiller Jr., another son, learning of the shooting, went to his father’s home and took him to Cooper Hospital in a passing automobile. As he was being taken into the hospital he failed to recognize City Detective Robert Ashenfelter and died five minutes later.
Police Sergeant John Potter joined Keefe and Miller and they took young Schiller to police headquarters.
Keefe said the son expressed no regret at shooting his father.
At about 5 a.m. today, Policeman Keefe was patrolling his “beat” when he passed the Schiller home on Carman Street. He noticed the front door was standing open, and he went inside to investigate.
The officer saw a note on a smoking stand. Picking it up, he read:
“Dear Everybody:
“Please forgive me … You have all been so wonderful … But I couldn’t go on to see you all suffer for what is my fault … Lottie was right … He killed his father because of insane love for me … But he didn’t. I killed Pop and now am sending Bibs to jail for my weakness.
“Tell him I love him and ask my poor mother and dad to forgive me. I should have done this long ago and saved everyone all this suffering … I love Billy and I know he loves me but I am afraid he has been turned against me. But I forgive him for all.
“Gussie”
“Gussie” is Mrs. Schiller.
Keefe ran to Federal Street, but could not see Mrs. Schiller.
Meanwhile, Constable Dugan of the Twelfth Ward, saw Mrs. Schiller walking on Federal Street near the Cooper River. She was mumbling to herself and was in a hysterical condition, Dugan said.
Dugan telephoned police headquarters. City Detectives Rox Saponare and Maurice DeNicoli went out Federal Street and took her back with them to detective headquarters. There they sought to quiet her, but she continually sobbed.
“I want to take the blame — if I hadn’t gone to Pop’s home he would be living now.”
“Pop wanted to save me,” she said. “and he was shot. I can’t eat or sleep. I think I’m going crazy.”
Later, she was permitted to return to the home.
Young Schiller had been held in the city jail over the weekend. Today he was taken into police court. He wore no necktie and carried a raincoat over his arm. He was represented by counsel, C. Lawrence Gregorio, who said he had been retained “by friends” to act as attorney for the accused man.
City detective Benjamin Simon had signed the complaint in which he charged “on information received” that Schiller did feloniously and with malice aforethought shoot and kill his father.
The complaint was read to him and Gregorio told him not to say anything, as Judge Pancoast would enter a plea of “not guilty” in his behalf. This was done by the court and Schiller was then held without bail pending grand jury action. He was taken to the county jail.
After the hearing, Mrs. Etta C. Pfrommer, acting overseer of the poor, told Judge Pancoast that on July 26, Dr. Harry Jarrett, Broadway and Cherry Street, well known alienist, had examined young Schiller and declared him sane.
County Detective Chief Lawrence T. Doran, who was among the first to question young Schiller Saturday night, said the man did not seem repentant over what he had done.
Few political workers were better known than “Jake” Schiller. He was born in Philadelphia and was brought to Camden in early life by his parents, who conducted a saloon near Twenty-third and Federal Streets.
He was originally a Democrat but became a Republican through persuasion of the late U. S. Senator David Baird and remained a friend of the former leader for 40 years.
Schiller had been melancholy over the death of his wife on February 13 last, friends said.
He made his last political stand for leadership of the Twelfth Ward in 1926 when he supported the candidacy of Sergeant Ray Smith against Commissioner Clay W. Reesman for ward committeeman. Schiller was supporting Congressman Charles A. Wolverton and the late Senator Joseph H. Forsyth in a campaign against former Congressman Francis F. Patterson and State Senator Albert S. Woodruff.
Reesman won and among the first to visit the hospital after learning of the shooting was the city commissioner. Reesman was his latest chief as lights inspector as he was attached to the highway department. Commissioner Frank B. Hanna also visited the hospital.
“In all the years I have known him he has always been an enthusiastic and loyal friend with a good heart for everybody in trouble,” Congressman Wolverton said when he learned of Schiller’s death.
Schiller was also a familiar figure at the Elks Club, where he was an ardent card player. But after the death of his wife he gave up this pastime, contenting himself with watching the games. He was also a frequent visitor among old friends at the courthouse.
Notables to View Body of Schiller
Camden Courier-Post —
Many Mourn Death of East Camden Politician Slain By Son
Hundreds of mourners from all walks of life are expected to pay their last respects tonight to Jacob Schiller, 72, Twelfth Ward political worker who was shot and killed by his son Saturday night.
The widely known politician’s body will be on view at his home, 2420 Carman Street, this evening. Official and political personages of all stations — many of them helped up the ladder of success by the slain man, others befriended by him in smaller measure but equally grateful — will file before his bier.
Members of the Camden Lodge of Elks will conduct services at the Schiller home tonight. They will meet at the Elks Club, Seventh and Cooper Streets, at 7.30 p.m. and proceed to East Camden in a body. James A. MacMillan, exalted ruler of the local lodge, will be in charge of the lodge services.
During his later years Schiller was often found in the Elks Club reminiscing with older members of those “grand old days” when he joined the late David Baird in a goodly number of political affrays. He generally played cards with his cronies at the club, although after the death of his wife some months ago, he merely watched the games.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow at the Schiller home and will be private. Interment will be in the Evergreen Cemetery.
Elks to Stage Camden Rodeo For Krippled Kiddies Benefit
Camden Courier-Post —
Elks to Stage Camden Rodeo For Krippled Kiddies Benefit
Western Performers Sign Contract With Fraternal Group; Program Scheduled for Early Fall; Committee Seeks Site
“Ride ’em, cowboy!”
And bring western thrills to Camden. Oh, that’s all right. It’ll help the crippled children protegees of the Camden Lodge of Elks.
Which is the idea back of a contract signed yesterday to bring Fred Beebe’s World Series Rodeo to Camden.
Beebe came from Texas to put his name on the dotted line with that of Carlton W. Rowand, exalted ruler of the Elks, and Sergeant Ray Smith, vice chairman of the lodge’s Krippled Kiddies Kommittee, which looks after the welfare of as many crippled children as its limited funds will allow.
The contract calls for performances of the rodeo here between September 27 and October 6 with a percentage of the proceeds to go to the committee for its welfare purposes.
Beebe’s World Series Rodeo first thrilled the East in 1926, with performances at Madison Square Garden, New York, when Tex Rickard was directing it, and at the Sesquicentennial Exposition, Philadelphia.
The rodeo features “bulldogging,” bronco bareback riding, rope spinning, trick and fancy riding, trick and fancy roping, and all the other stunts of the Western plains.
In these events the pick of cowboy and cowgirl riders compete for prizes.
Beebe said it is probable that one of the competitors will be “Shorty” Ricker, champion steer wrestler, who set up a world’s record of 7½ seconds at Madison Square Garden in 1926.
Rud Preisendanz, Jr., chairman of the Kripple Kiddies Kommittee, who is ill, requested Sergeant Ray Smith, as vice president, to act in the arrangements for the rodeo.
The location is to be announced at a later date, Smith said.
Other members of the committee are Dr. B. Franklin Buzby, Arthur E. Morr, Leonard R. Baker, Charles T. Murray, Fred Caperoon and Charles L. Bowen.
Surrogate Frank B. Hanna, Albert E. Burling, candidate for the Republican nomination as State Senator, and Dr. Henry J. Schireson have been named honorary members of the committee.
Camden Courier-Post — August 28, 1935
Pepper' Aids Elks Krippled Kiddies Rodeo
[Section header / headline banner]: 'Pepper' Aids Elks Krippled Kiddies Rodeo
Two Pigs Hound Elks to Spur Club's Drive for Members
Camden Courier-Post —
New Elks Welcomed By Exalted Ruler
Two Pigs Hound Elks to spur club’s drive for members here — ‘Dear Brother,’ Porker Writes to Bill, Feed and Care for Me Until Application Card Is Signed; Then Pass Me on
By SERGEANT RAY SMITH
Camden Elks will receive a pig and a note in the near future and the note, allegedly written by the pig, will be addressed to “Dear Brother.”
It’s all part of the membership drive for Lodge 293 and the idea is the brainchild of Carlton W. Rowand, grand exalted ruler. The campaign will end next week at the Hotel Walt Whitman when new candidates will be initiated. So far 32 new members have been enrolled and 44 reinstated.
But they weren’t coming in fast enough for Rowand, so last night he unfolded his plan of introducing two humble 15-pound pigs, Amos and Andy, to speed up the drive.
Accordingly, the lodge was divided into two teams of 50 men each, the purple and the white. Amos became the mascot of the Purple; Andy of the White.
Early this morning one member of each team will receive the pig selected by his group, and with it the note: “Dear Brother. I am the little Elk pig who is going to assist you in securing an application for a new member, or reinstatement of a previous member, into Camden Lodge 293, B.P.O.E. Please take care of me and feed me well so that I will be in good condition to pass on to the next brother whose name appears after yours. Between AAA and the processing tax, the supreme court and Congress, my future is somewhat dubious. Therefore, a signature on the enclosed application will be your authority to pass me on to the next brother.”
There will be more, too, mostly details, especially the fact that the lists of names are secret. The plan is that until members in whose custody the pigs are left today secure a new member or a reinstatement they will be caretakers of the pigs. And, inasmuch as Camden offices are not the best pig stys in the world, businessmen-Elks are expected to scurry in their quest so they can pass on the rambling hams.
Some within the ranks were dubious. Their school of thought held it might be a trifle disconcerting for customers suddenly to confront a small porker face to face over a notion counter. Another right wing group held out until it was announced restaurant owners would be carefully checked by either the “notebook’ cop” or a uniformed colleague.
The majority of the brothers approved the plan with enthusiasm, especially as the lists are secret. Inwardly, each hopes his name will appear last, because when the 50th team member is reached the agreement fails to specify what final disposition shall be made of Amos and Andy. . . .and pork chops, at present, are high.
Elks Discuss Seals for Crippled Children
Camden Courier-Post —
Plans for the sale of Easter Seals campaign to aid crippled children were discussed yesterday at the meeting of the Krippled Kiddies Committee of Camden Lodge of Elks.
The committee comprises Sergeant Ray Smith, chairman; Dr. B. Franklin Buzby, Fred Caperoon, Charles Bowen, Miss Mary E. Finley, executive secretary, and Carlton W. Rowand, exalted ruler and ex-officio member.
The seals, soon to go on sale, picture a crippled boy sitting at the threshold of the “Door of Opportunity,” waiting for the public to open it wide to him through financial support of the movement.
Carlton W. Rowand
Camden Courier-Post —
Carlton W. Rowand
Elks Add 130 Members to Rolls At Record Initiation Tonight
Camden Courier-Post —
Camden Lodge to Mark 40th Anniversary With Rally
PARADE AND SHOW BILLED FOR EVENT
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Camden Lodge of Elks tonight will shatter all initiation records of recent years.
In addition to 50 new members to be received, 80 former members are to be reinstated.
Carlton W. Rowand, exalted ruler, who with other officers will conduct the initiation ceremonies in the junior ballroom of the Hotel Walt Whitman, hailed this unprecedented increase in the membership rolls as indicating “the dawn of progress and achievement.”
The Elks Band will lead a parade from the lodge home, Seventh and Penn streets to the hotel. The parade is scheduled to start at 8.15 p.m.
Preceding this, there will be a dinner in the home, in honor of the surviving charter members and all the past exalted rulers.
Charter members, who 40 years ago aided in the organization of the lodge, are Frank A. Ward, Charles L. Bowman, Dr. A. H. Lippincott, Dr. J. F. Leavitt, Fred W. George, T. L. Bear, William M. Fithian, Everett Ackley, Fithian S. Simmons, Philip Wilson, Paul E. Quinn, John N. Kadel, William G. Maguire and Maurice Hertz.
Following the initiation ceremonies there will be a floor show by a cast of entertainers from Frankie Palumbo’s Philadelphia Cafe.
Besides Rowand, officers of the lodge are Ernest E. Lindner, esteemed leading knight; William F. Huff, esteemed loyal knight; Lawrence V. White, esteemed lecturing knight; Albert Austermuhl, secretary; Homer H. Lotier, treasurer; C. Frederick Petry, esquire; Samuel A. Dobbins, tiler; D. Trueman Stackhouse, chaplain; William A. Davis, inner guard; Ralph Wiley, Jr., organist; Frank M. Travaline, Jr., delegate to state association; George B. Shaner, Theodore C. Roller and John Emmel, trustees.
Camden Lodge No. 293 was instituted January 24, 1895, with a membership including judges, lawyers, physicians, merchants, manufacturers, artisans and city and county officials. The organization meeting was held on the third floor of the Temple Building, Market Street near Fourth. John H. Fort was elected first exalted ruler. Since then many men prominent in the professional, political and business life of the city have filled the post.
Elks Will Honor Charter Members
Camden Courier-Post —
14 Who Joined Camden Lodge 40 Years Ago to Be Guests at Dinner
Fourteen charter members of the Camden Lodge of Elks will be guests next Wednesday at special initiation ceremonies celebrating the fortieth year of the lodge charter. Carlton Rowand, exalted ruler, will preside at the event which will include a dinner and entertainment.
Thirty-five new members will be received into the lodge at ceremonies to be held at Hotel Walt Whitman. A floor show has been provided by Frank Palumbo, Philadelphia night club manager.
The lodge received its charter while holding sessions at 107 Market Street in a building on the site now occupied by the RCA Manufacturing Company. The group at that time numbered the greatest membership in New Jersey.
Among the charter members to be honored are Frank A. Ward, Charles C. Bowman, Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, Dr. J. F. Leavitt, Fred W. George, William M. Fithian, T. L. Bear, Everett Ackley, Fithian S. Simmons, Philip Wilson, Paul E. Quinn, John N. Kadel, William G. Maguire and Maurice Hertz. Membership in the lodge now is 700.
At a meeting last night in the lodge rooms, D. Trueman Stackhouse, Camden attorney, exhibited a series of motion picture films collected during a recent trip across the country. A plea to protect the lodge’s two diminutive pigs Amos and Andy, which were destined for visits to homes of the members in a membership drive was made by Sergeant Ray Smith. The lodge members voted to accept the animals for dinner at the meeting next week.
Officers of the lodge who assisted at the meeting are Ernest E. Linder, Esteemed Leading Knight; William F. Huff, Esteemed Loyal Knight, and Lawrence B. White, Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Camden Elks Hosts at Parade Meeting
Camden Courier-Post —
75 Visiting Delegates Join in Discussion of Plans for Convention
Camden Lodge of Elks, No. 293, was host to 75 South Jersey delegates yesterday at a dinner when plans for the parade during the Atlantic City convention in July were discussed.
James A. MacMillen, chairman of the lodge better parades committee, was host to the delegates from South Jersey lodges.
Robert W. Kidd, postmaster of Pennsgrove and vice president of the New Jersey State Elks Association, presided.
Mayor George E. Brunner welcomed the delegates with the statement that “Camden is proud of the marching club and patrol of Camden. They will put on a show in Atlantic City in July at the national convention which the whole world will shoot at.”
A. F. Greiner, chairman of the better parades committee, of Perth Amboy Lodge, No. 784, said the reason the lodge is starting so early to make plans is to allow the lodges in the state to be uniformly dressed.
E. J. Hertzel, secretary of the committee, of Elizabeth Lodge, No. 289, said that with uniformity of dress there would be more decorum and a better impression would be made with the public.
The group agreed to combine lodges into one planning group which would have only 15 or 20 members.
The committee went on record for having a mile-long parade. It will be held July 14. A boardwalk parade will be suggested to the general committee instead of a street parade, the committee decided.
The group asked that the song, “That’s Why You’re Dancing,” introduced at the last Roosevelt Ball in Camden, be recommended to the national lodge for adoption as the Elks’ theme song.
The music of the song was composed by Alice Lucey Reed and the words written by George Reed and Sergt. Raymond L. Smith. The picture on the cover page was drawn by Jerry Doyle, Philadelphia Record cartoonist.
Among the delegates attending the dinner were Alfred P. Mitchell, Mt. Holly Lodge, deputy grand exalted ruler of New Jersey South; William J. Fox, exalted ruler, Burlington Lodge; Charles Tomlin, Bridgeton Lodge; Howard Lewis, Burlington Lodge, vice president of New Jersey South state crippled children committee; John F. McHugh, Burlington Lodge; Joseph Altman, Atlantic City Lodge; Harold L. Wertheimer, exalted ruler, Atlantic City Lodge; Harry Alvord, exalted ruler, Vineland Lodge, and Daniel Richi, secretary, Freehold Lodge.
Officers of the Camden Lodge who acted as hosts were William F. Huff, exalted ruler; Lawrence V. White, leading knight; William A. Davis, royal knight; William H. Iszard, past exalted ruler; Frank M. Travaline, Jr., past exalted ruler of Camden Lodge and past grand exalted ruler of New Jersey South, and James H. Long, who held the same offices as Travaline. Long is the oldest living member of the Camden Lodge.
Crippled Children to Attend Outing
Camden Courier-Post —
100 Little Folks to Be Guests on Sgt. Ray Smith's Birthday
More than 100 crippled children from this vicinity will be entertained at the seventh annual Sgt. Ray Smith’s crippled children’s day and birthday party, next Monday.
The party, an annual affair, is staged by the Elks’ crippled children’s committee and the Sgt. Ray’s birthday party committee.
The youngsters will meet at the Elks Home, 808 Market Street, and will be taken to Clementon Park in buses where Theodore Gibbs, manager of the park will throw open the entire facilities of the park for the crippled children, staging a special show in the afternoon. A luncheon will be served at the park by the committee.
At four o’clock the youngsters will be taken to the Silver Lake Inn where a special amateur show will be staged on the lawn by the crippled children themselves. A sports entertainment will be staged by Otto O’Keefe, of the Veteran Boxers Association of Philadelphia, then dinner arranged by John E. Weber, proprietor of the Silver Lake Inn. During the dinner hour the youngsters will be entertained by talent from Philadelphia and nearby night clubs, with Otto O’Keefe presenting the acts.
After the children’s party, a dinner will be served in honor of Sgt. Ray Smith, on his 46th birthday.
Officers of the Crippled Children’s Committee headed by Smith include Homer H. Lotier, treasurer, and A. Lincoln Michener, secretary. Mrs. Florence A. Lovett is executive secretary.
The party committee is headed by Carlton W. Rowand and Charles W. Anderson. Surrogate Frank B. Hanna is the treasurer.
Those who have been invited to attend are Mayor George E. Brunner, Congressman Charles A. Wolverton, Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando, Firmin Michel, Albert E. Burling, Albert Austermuhl, secretary of the Board of Education, George I. Shaw, Mary W. Kobus, director of Public Safety; Dr. Henry J. Schireson, Camden county freeholders Robert Worrell, Mrs. Alice Predmore, S. Norcross 3rd, members of Veterans of Foreign Wars of Camden County Council and many business men and civic leaders.
Ladies of the Elks’ Auxiliary who will assist with the children throughout the day are: Mrs. Alice Heck, president; Mrs. Sarah Austermuhl, Mrs. Reba Crawford, Mrs. Emma Vandergrift, Mrs. Tillie Weber, Mrs. Helene Sauerhoff, Mrs. Anna Rose, Miss Emma Lee, Mrs. Sallie Moore, Mrs. Marion Holdcraft, Mrs. Etta Preisendanz, Mrs. Eva Poland, Mrs. Lena Jantzen, Mrs. May Talman and Mrs. Irene Berg.
Crippled Children to Be Feted Monday
Camden Courier-Post —
Elks Committee to Take 100 Youngsters to Clementon Park
The sixth annual crippled children’s outing for more than 100 youngsters will be held Monday at Clementon Lake Park by Sgt. Ray Smith, president of the crippled children’s committee of Camden Elks Lodge No. 293.
The young guests will be taken to the park at 10 a.m. in buses from the Elks home at 808 Market street. They will enjoy all amusements. Theodore Gibbs, manager of the park, will stage a show for them.
The children will be chaperoned by a committee of women headed by Mrs. Alice Heck, president of the Elks auxiliary. Assisting will be Mrs. Esther Johnson, Mrs. Sarah Austermuhl, Mrs. Reba Crawford, Mrs. Emma Vandergrift, Mrs. Tillie Weber, Mrs. Helen Sauerhoff, Mrs. Anna Rose, Mrs. Sallie Moore, Mrs. Marion Holdcraft, Miss Emma Lee, Mrs. Etta Presiendanz, Mrs. Eva Poland, Mrs. Lena Jantzen, Mrs. May Talmon and Mrs. Irene Berg.
Sergeant Ray Smith — Camden Elks Lodge No. 293. Dinner will be served at Silver Lake Inn, and the crippled guests will help celebrate Smith’s 46th birthday.
Camden U.S.O. Fund Now Totals $16,358
Camden Courier-Post —
Chairman Vasso Hopes Quota Will Be Reached Over Weekend
Contributions to the United Service Organizations which will be used to provide recreational activities for men in the armed services of the Nation reached $16,358.56 yesterday.
With that total the goal of $21,000 for the city of Camden is only $4641.44 distant.
As Ralph Vasso, general chairman, announced the figures he expressed the hope that over the weekend the remaining amount needed for the quota for the city will be reached.
Yesterday’s contributors are:
Quigley Shipyard, additional, $25; collection by Mrs. J. S. Gilmore and co-workers in East Camden, $30; collection by Mrs. William Ackerman and co-workers in South Camden, $65.60; members of Camden County Real Estate Board, addional [sic], $187; R. M. Hollingshead Corporation, $500; R. T. C. Shipbuilding Corporation, $100; Industrial Union Marine and Shipbuilding Workers, Local No. 1, $250; Camden Lodge No. 293, Elks, $10; V. R. Berry and Company, $5; DeVaull’s, $5; Seth Borg, $1; Harry Louie, $1; Mrs. Rose Ross, $2; City of Camden employees, additional, $218.75.
41st Annual Affair: Crippled Children's Party Tomorrow
Camden Courier-Post —
The Crippled Children’s Committee of Camden Elks Lodge 293 will sponsor its 41st annual party for crippled children tomorrow.
S.S. Norcross 3rd, exalted ruler of the lodge, and Edward J. Griffith, president of the Crippled Children’s Committee, said the children will board buses at 10:30 AM at the Elks’ home, 807 Cooper Street.
First stop will be Sergeant Ray Smith’s home on Lake Renee, where the children will have their annual picnic lunch. Following lunch they will ride horses from the Persian Acres Dude Ranch operated by County Detective Robert Di Persia.
Erial Fire Company will pick up the children for a ride to the Nike Missile Base in Erial, then onto Clementon Lake Park. Following dinner in the Chick Barn at Silver Lake Inn, the youngsters will return to the Elks’ Home.
Among those helping Sgt. Ray celebrate his 72nd birthday at Silver Lake Inn later in the evening will be former Judge Samuel P. Orlando, Congressman John E. Hunt, Jersey Joe Walcott, Mayor Alfred Pierce and state Senator Frederick J. Scholz and recently appointed Prosecutor A. Donald Bigley.
Prominent Elks of Camden Lodge No. 293
Harry M. Anderson — Albert Austermuhl — Charles W. Austermuhl — Thomas S. Austin — Robert P. Ashley — Everett Ackley — Harry S. Acker — Frank S. Albright — William Angeroth — Charles J. Ball — Bernard Bertman — Gideon H. Burt — John W.F. Bleakly — Charles S. Boyer — William B.M. Burrell — James Baird — Dr. P.W. Beale — Elmer W. Barr — Joseph Burt — George D. Borton — John Beaston — James T. Bailey — Robert Barber — Edward F. Butler — Wallace Bentley — C. Wilbur Blake — Peter J. Boyle — Charles C. Burdsall — Thomas Bodell — Joseph Baumgartner — T.L. Bear — Frank Burton — George M. Bacon — Charles L. Bowman — William Brower — Thomas J. Bergstrasser — Irving Buckle — Robert D. Clow Jr. — W. Penn Corson — Wayland Post Cramer — Howland Croft — John Cherry — John H. Carmany — Joseph S. Campbell — William Calhoun — Charles A. Cole — D. Harry Condit — John G. Colsey — Thomas Curley — William F. Claus — E. Wilmer Collins — Bernard F. Carroll — Charles C. Carles — James T. Cassidey — Joseph C. Cheeseman — Fred A. Carty — Dr. Frank B. Cook — Joseph Caputi — James W. Chalmers — Robert S. Clymer — James J. Daly — Dr. Henry H. Davis — Amos R. Dease — Neil F. Deighan Sr. — Enos B. Dellmuth — Antonio Di Paolo — Matlack D. Dickinson — Ralph W.E. Donges — Louis T. Derousse — Noah A. Davidson — Charles H. Daubman — Adam T. Davis — Robert C. Dugan — Hugh F. Dugan — William G. Davis — Frank Lee Dickinson — James Dougherty — William C. Davis — August F.J. Dorn — John W. Day — Thomas P. Delany — Charles Ewing — Arthur Fisher — James J. Flynn Jr. — John Foster — Harvey Flitcraft — Frederick A. Finkeldey — Charles M. Ferat Sr. — Isaac Ferris Jr. — Jacob C. Ferris — Charles Henry Fetters — Edward F. Field — Frederick Forster — Edward Lee Fisher — George Fisher — Martin Frand — John Fort — Frank S. Fithian — Leslie S. Fithian — William M. Fithian — Albert Foulon — Joseph B. Funfer — Edward C. Foster — Edward Gondolff — Alfred Green — Rev. Dr. George W. Gates — Fred W. George — Charles S. Goodwin — Joshua C. Haines — Frank J. Hartmann Sr. — Patrick H. Harding — Joseph N. Hettel Sr. — Frank J. Hineline — Arthur Holl — Charles F. Haas — Maurice Hertz — Robert W. Harper — Daniel M. Hassett — Walter L. Hinchman — Martin J. Hambrose — William H. Heiser — Frank R. Hansel — Edwin Joseph Holland — George S. Hirst — Joseph F. Hyde Sr. — Alfred Hugg — George M. Huhn
Over In Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
City Assessor Charles Pedigree was last evening re-elected to represent the Twelfth ward in the Republican City Executive Committee.
With one-half of the capital stock of $50,000 said to be paid in, the D’Olier Engineering Company filed incorporation articles yesterday.
Barking dogs frightened off burglars who attempted to rob the saloon of James Croker, at Fourth and Jasper streets, early yesterday morning.
It is reported that Governor Voorhees will today appoint former Judge Richard T. Miller a member of the State Fish and Game Commission, to succeed Henry S. Budd, of Burlington, who recently resigned.
John L. Lattimore, of 1120 Locust street, an employe of the Philadelphia and Reading Railway Company, broke his leg yesterday by jumping from a car in the Bulson street yard. He was admitted to Cooper Hospital.
Attorney John L. Semple has been retained by the Italian societies of Camden to endeavor to secure a reprieve for Murderer Francisco Abbatto, until his appeal for clemency can be heard by the Board of Pardons. Abbatto is under sentence to be executed on May 10. Yesterday cards for the execution were sent out by the Sheriff.
The funeral of Howland Croft, the worsted goods manufacturer, was largely attended yesterday afternoon. Services were held at his late residence, at 204 Cooper street, and fully five thousand persons viewed the remains. Camden Lodge of Elks conducted services at the grave in Harleigh Cemetery.
Chief Colsey Dies at 67 of Heart Attack
Camden Courier-Post —
Police Head Succumbs During Sleep While Suffering From Cold
MEMBER OF FORCE IN CAMDEN 27 YEARS
Chief of Police Arthur Colsey, veteran of 27 years in the department, died of a heart attack in his sleep at his home, 2937 Stevens street, last night. He was 67.
Apparently in good health except for a slight cold, Chief Colsey left his office in City Hall at noon yesterday, telling his assistants he was going home “to nurse the cold.”
Shortly after 5 p. m., Chief Colsey asked his son, Arthur, Jr., to take Mrs. Colsey on a shopping trip. When they returned two hours later, they found him dead on a couch. The son said his father told him he was going to take a nap before he went to a doctor’s office to receive treatment for the cold.
Chief Colsey was a Camden merchant before entering the police department. For years he was active in the Republican party. He was highly respected by all men in the department. The chief was quiet in manner and the excitement pertaining to strikes in the city a few years ago found him calm in the most delicate situations.
Born in Kidderminster, England, in December, 1872, he came to this country when 17. He was in the department store business with his brothers at Ninth and Market streets for years. He served in the old City Council from 1907 to 1911 from the Second ward. At that time he lived at Eighth and Linden streets.
Joined Force in 1912
Colsey was appointed a patrolman by former Mayor Charles H. Ellis on March 13, 1912, while Elisha A. Gravenor was chief. After several months as a street patrolman he was assigned to the First District patrol wagon. Then he was made a district detective. Next he was promoted to a full ranking detective under Detective Chief William Schregler.
After being appointed a detective he was assigned as a plainclothesman and secretary to Mayor Ellis. He served in this capacity seven years. In 1923 he was appointed chief clerk of the police department with the rank of captain.
In 1924 he was made chief of the vice squad, which made 380 raids for prohibition law violations. The squad also assisted the federal authorities in 180 more liquor raids and participated in 54 raids on disorderly houses and 38 gambling places.
In 1927 the City Commission abolished the rank of captain in the department and Colsey remained as chief clerk without the title. The rank of captain was restored to him by the City Commission in 1932 by motion of Commissioner David S. Rhone.
When former Chief John W. Golden retired on a pension on June 11, 1934, Colsey was named acting chief by Mayor Roy R. Stewart. He was named permanent chief on August 30, 1934, by Mayor Stewart. At the same time John H. Lennox was named permanent chief of the fire department.
During the absence of City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety, Chief Colsey was acting director.
Colsey was one of the most popular men who served as chief, both in his department and in civic and political circles. After he was made a full ranking captain in 1932 a series of testimonial dinners were given by the East End Republican League, Twelfth Ward Republican Club and Eleventh Ward Republican Clubs. He was boomed for chief at each of the dinners. Another testimonial was given when he was acting chief by the Camden Police and Firemen’s Association.
In February, 1931, his appointment as chief was urged to succeed Chief Lewis H. Stehr but Golden was named.
While a resident of North Camden he served as president of the Second Ward Republican Club. He was president of the Twelfth Ward Republican Club in 1932.
Prominent Lodgeman
Chief Colsey was a thirty-second degree Mason, being a member of Trimble Lodge, No. 117, Free and Accepted Masons; Crescent Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, and Camden Forest, No. 5, Tall Cedars of Lebanon. He also was a member Camden Lodge, No. 293, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks; Camden Lodge, No. 111, Loyal Order of Moose; Camden Aerie, No. 65, Fraternal Order of Eagles; Sons of St. George, Foresters of America, Improved Order of Red Men, Camden Local, Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association; International Police Chiefs’ Association, New Jersey State Police Chiefs’ Association, Camden Police and Fire Association, and the Camden County Republican Association.
Coroner Ernest Larossa issued the death certificate due to a heart ailment.
The funeral will be held at 2 p. m., Wednesday with burial in Arlington Cemetery. Other arrangements have not been completed. The body will be on view from 7 to 9 p. m., Tuesday at the home.
The chief is survived by his widow, Lillie; a brother, Thomas Colsey, a merchant and ranking officer of the Loyal Order of Moose; and two grandchildren, Arthur Colsey, 3rd., and Lillian Colsey. The grandson, a student at Western Maryland College, was notified last night of his grandfather’s death and left immediately for Camden.