Benjamin M. Braker
BENJAMIN BRAKER was a well known figure in South Jersey for over 50 years, until his passing in December 1905 as a journalist and politician. He was a close personal friend of George Lippard, founder of the Brotherhood of the Union, and of the famed poet, Walt Whitman. In the late 1880s and early 1890s he lived at 255 Kaighn Avenue, and engaged in real estate and other pursuits. Born in Bristol, England in 1826, he came to America in 1830.
During the Civil War, Benjamin Braker answered his nations call. He enlisted as a private in Company E, 20th Pennsylvania Emergency Regiment on June 17, 1863 in Philadelphia. This unit was one of several raised in response to the Confederate advance into Pennsylvania, which culminated in the Battle of Gettysburg, July 2 through July 4, 1863. The unit mustered out on August 10th.
Benjamin Braker again enlisted as a private on July 14, 1864 in Company A, 1st Militia Infantry Regiment New Jersey in Camden. This unit was called to service as an emergency response to the Confederate offensive in Maryland. In the early part of July, 1864, the cities of Washington, D. C., and Baltimore, Md., were endangered by a threatened invasion of the enemy. A battle had been fought within a few miles of Baltimore and communication with Washington had been interrupted. In view of this emergency the governor of New Jersey issued a proclamation dated at Trenton, July 12, 1864, calling for the organization of the militia for 30-days’ service in Pennsylvania, Maryland or the District of Columbia. Under the call this company reported for duty, was accepted, and mustered in at Camden N. J., July 14, 1864, for 30 days. It left the state on July 15 for Baltimore, Md., and on arrival reported to Major General Lew Wallace, commanding the Middle Department. It was stationed at the Relay house, below Baltimore, and was attached to the 1st Separate Brigade, 8th Army Corps. Upon expiration of term of service it returned to New Jersey, and was mustered out at Camden, Aug. 15, 1864.
Active politically, Benjamin Braker was one of the founders of the Republican Party in New Jersey. He was elected Justice of the Peace in Camden and served continuously until his death. He was elected City Recorder four times between 1877 and 1889, and also served as a state Assemblyman in the 1880s.
Benjamin Braker passed away at his home, at 308 Sycamore Street, Camden on December 14, 1905, survived by his wife, two daughters, and two sons. Daughter Laura Braker had married John Dodd Courter. Both John Dodd Courter and his son Benjamin W. Courter had long and succesful careers as reporters and columnists in Camden.
History of Camden County, New Jersey
BENJAMIN M. BRAKER was born October 24, 1826 in Bristol, England. His father, also named Benjamin Braker, was a minister in the Baptist church and came to America in 1830, settling in Lambertville NJ, subsequently moving to Pennsylvania, where he died in 1848. Benjamin M. Braker obtained his education in the district schools, but even in his youth and since he grew to manhood has been a diligent reader and has thus acquired a vast fund of information.
In 1861 he was engaged upon the Philadelphia Inquirer and Sunday Transcript and has since made journalism his principal avocation. He edited the Gloucester City Reporter from 1882 to 1885.
In 1850 he married Miss Mary M. Wright and settled in Camden, where he since remained, taking an active and influential part in public affairs. An advanced Liberal in politics, he was a delegate to and secretary of the State Free-Soil Convention held at Trenton in 1854. He was one of the promoters of and speakers at the formation of the first Republican Club organized in Camden, April 12, 1854, and in 1856 was one of the principal organizers of that party in West Jersey and is still one of its prominent speakers. In 1862 he was elected justice of the peace and has been re-elected four times since. In 1877 he was elected city recorder and reelected in 1880, 1883, and 1886. In 1884 he was elected to the New Jersey House of Assembly; was a leading member, taking part in debates, was on the committee on education, municipal corporations and chairman of the committee on printing and on labor and industries. In the preparation of the history of the cities of Camden and Gloucester, as embraced in this volume, Mr. Braker rendered valuable assistance.
1861 – The First War Meeting in Camden
On the 16th of April, 1861, three days after the Confederates fired upon Fort Sumter, at the entrance of Charleston Harbor, a large number of loyal and patriotic citizens of Camden City and County issued the following vigorous and spirited response to the President’s proclamation:
To the President Of the United States:
“The unparalleled events of the last week have revealed to the citizens of the United States, beyond question or the possibility of a doubt, that peaceful reconciliation upon the form of our Con-stitution is repelled and scorned, and secession means, in the hearts of its supporters, both Trea-son and war against our Country and Nation.
“We, therefore, the undersigned Loyal Citizens of the United States, and inhabitants of the city of Camden, in the State of New Jersey, responding to the proclamation of the President of the United States, hereby declare our unalterable determination to sustain the government in its efforts to maintain the honor, the integrity and the existence of our National Union and the perpetuity of the popular Government, and to redress the wrongs already long enough endured; no differences of political opinion; no badge of diversity upon points of party distinction, shall restrain or withhold us in the devotion of all we have or can command to the vindication of the Constitution, the maintenance of the laws and the defense of the Flag Of our Country.
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I. S. Mulford |
Samuel S. E. Cowperthwait |
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O. Gilbert Hannah |
Joshua Howell |
In response to a call, on the 18th of April an enthusiastic meeting was held in the county court-house, which was formed of a large collection of prominent citizens. The court-room was decorated with flags and mottoes. John W. Mickle was chosen president and Samuel C. Harbert and Thomas G. Rowand secretaries. The president addressed the meeting first and Rev. Mr. Monroe offered a prayer. Hon. Thomas P. Carpenter, Thomas B. Atkinson (mayor) and Joseph Painter were appointed a committee on resolutions. Judge Philip J. Grey addressed the meeting, after which the committee adopted a long series of patriotic resolutions. The Washington Grays, Stockton Cadets and the Zouaves marched into the room and were received with cheers, Samuel Hufty read a resolution which was signed by many persons, who immediately formed the Home Brigade. David M. Chambers, Captain Stafford, Benjamin M. Braker, John H. Jones and E. A. Acton each addressed the meeting. James M. Scovel was then called upon and responded in eloquent terms and with patriotic energy. S. H. Grey offered a resolution, which was adopted, that the City Council and the Freeholders of the county be requested to appropriate money for the equipment of persons who may volunteer in defense of the country, and S. H. Grey, James M. Cassady and Joseph Painter were appointed a committee to look after the interests of the resolution. The meeting continued in session until eleven p.m.
William B. Hatch Post No. 37
George Reeser Prowell’s History of Camden County, N.J., 1886
WILLIAM B. HATCH POST No. 37, of Camden, was instituted and chartered November 25, 1879, with eighty-one members and the following named Post officers:
Post Commander, John E. Grubb; Senior Vice-Commander, Richard J. Robinson; Junior Vice-Commander, Daniel J. Fullen; Surgeon, Thomas G. Rowand, M.D.; Chaplain, John Quick; Officer of the Day, John A. Dall; Officer of the Guard, Edmund G. Jackson, Jr.; Quartermaster, Christopher J. Mines, Jr.; Adjutant, Benjamin J. Pierce; Sergeant-Major, William A.Tattern; Quartermaster-Sergeant, William B. E. Miller.
At the first meeting of the Post it was decided by a unanimous vote to name it in honor of the late Colonel William B. Hatch, of the Fourth Regiment. When Mrs. C. Hatch, the mother of the colonel was informed that the post had honored the memory of her son by naming it after him, she sent to the Post the following response:
Camden N. J.,
November 26th, 1879John E. Grubb, Post Commander
Dear Sir,
It will afford me much pleasure to be identified with Post 37, G. A. E., named in honor of my son, William B. Hatch, by allowing me to present to the same its colors. The memory of my son is ever dear to me, and, while at the same moment I may have thought the sacrifice too great an affliction, yet I was consoled by the fact that I gave him up that this Union might be preserved. It was duty and patriotism that called him, and while I mourn him as a mother for a well-beloved son, yet I would not have stayed him, for the love of country and the upholding of this glorious Republic is what every mother should instill into her sons, as the purest and holiest spirit.Yours truly,
C. Hatch
The following is a complete roster of this post for 1886:
Post Commander, Benjamin H. Connelly; Senior Vice-Commander, Adam C. Smith; Junior Vice-Commander, William Haegele; Surgeon, George Pfau; Chaplain, Samuel Gaul; Officer of the Day, Robert Crawford; Officer of the Guard, John D. Cooper; Quartermaster, Samuel J. Fenner; Adjutant, William B. Summers; Sergeant-Major, Stacy H. Bassett; Quartermaster-Sergeant, Otto K. Lockhart.
Comrades: Philip Achenbach, George L. Allchin, Isaac Albertson, Joseph Applegate, John W. Barclay, Martin M. Barney, Joseph Baxter, William W. Bennett, Charles L. Bennett, Henry Bickering, Abel Biddle, George K. Biddle, John Bieri, Robert M. Bingham, Socrates T. Bittle, George W. Bittle, Benjamin F. Blizzard, Joseph Borton, Frederick Bowers, Benjamin M. Braker, John Breyer, William H. Brians, Wm. J. Broadwater, William Broadwater, John Brown, Harris Brooks, William H. Brooks, Joseph F. Bryan, Joseph Buddew, J. Q. Burniston, George Burton, Frederick Buser, Thomas L. Bush, William Butcher, Isaac B. Buzby, Edward C. Cattell, Joseph Cameron, James H. Carey, William Carey, James Chadwick, James Chafey, George M. Chester, James D. Chester, Lewis L. Chew, Henry S. Chew, John W. Churn, Andrew B. Cline, Charles Clarke, Samuel J. Cook, Levi E. Cole, John J. Collins, John C. Cooper, John W. Cotner, Thomas L. Conly, Harvey M. Cox, Jason S. Cox, Harris Crane, Charles Cress, Joel G. Cross, O. C. Cunningham, John A. Dall, John Dalby, John H. Damon, Westley Dare, John E. Dawson, Adam T. Dawson, James L. Davis, William Davis, Amos R. Dease, Henry Deford, Lewis F. Derousse, Michael Devinney, Glendora Devo, John Digney, Joseph Dilks, William A. Dobbins, George W. Dunlap, Aaron B. Eacritt, John J. Early, Christopher Ebele, Godfrey Eisenhart, John Elberson, Charles Elwell, Charles Eminecker, John Esler, John H. Evans, Charles S. Fackler, James Fanington, James A. Farraday, John H. Farry, John Faughey, Wm. H. Fenlin, George G. Felton, George W. Ferguson, Charles W. Fish, Israel L. Fish, James Finnan, Samuel B. Fisher, Edward L. Fisher, Ephraim B. Fithian, Jacob T. Fisher, Edward Fitzer, Samuel Flock, Leonard Flor, John Fox, John S. Fox, H. H. Franks, Chas. B. Frazer, Thomas J. Francis, Samuel W. Gahan, Chas. H. Gale, James Galbraith, Thomas Garman, Harry Garren, John W. Garwood, Josiah Garrison, John B. Gaskill, Richard Gaunt, Wm. German, Christopher Getsinger, Christopher Gifney, Jacob Giffens, Albert Gilbert, James Gillen, Wm. Giffins, C. C. Greany, Charles Green, W. H. Griffin, Louis Grosskops, William Grindrod, John B. Grubb, Mark H. Guest, John Guice, Alfred Haines, Charles G. Haines, Japhet Haines, George F. Hammond, Charles Hall, Solon B. Hankinson, Samuel P. Hankinson, James Hanson, Charles Hannans, H. A. Hartranft, Mahlon E. Harden, William F. Harper, George W. Hayter, Samuel B. Harbeson, J. T. Hazleton, H. Heinman, James Henderson, William H. Heward, Franklin Hewitt, James T. Hemmingway, Charles Hewitt, Edward K. Hess, Samuel B. Hickman, George Higgens, Ephraim Hillman, C. M. Hoagland, Guadaloupe Holl, William A. Holland, Isaac K. Horner, Count D. G. Hogan, William H. Howard, Baxter Howe, Alien Hubbs, Charles G. Hunsinger, Presmel D. Hughes, I. N. Hugg, Sebastian Hummell, Edward Hutchinson, C. Innes, Alfred Ivins, Benjamin Ivins, E. G. Jackson Sr., E. G. Jackson Jr., Thomas Jameson, George Jauss, William P. Jenkins, James L. Johnson, Alfred Jones, B. F. Jones, William Joline, Charles Joseph, Charles Justice, C. H. Kain, E. E. Kates, Benjamin Kebler, Frank Kebler, Peter Keen, Henry N. Killian, J. W. Kinsey, C. H. Knowlton, Thomas W. Krips, Joseph H. Large, John E. Leake, John Lecroy, Charles Leonhart, George W. Locke, E. J. Long, Charles L. Lukens, J. H. Lupton, Valentine Machemer, Edward Macloskey, Edward A. Martin, William P. Marsh, John Mapes, William Mead, William Metcalf, E. A. Meyer, C. Meyers, George Meilor, C. A. Michener, William B. E. Miller, Jacob Miller, W. D. Miller, Samuel Mills, William W. Mines, Christopher J. Mines, George Molesbury, William. Moran, Edward More, Richard Morgan, John F. Moore, S. H. Moyer, Jacob L. Morton, John Muir, John J. Murphy, Isaac Murray, Charles Myers, W. H. McAllister, James McCracken, Edward C. McDowell, Hugh McGrogan, H. M. Mcllvaine, W. F. McKillip, W.J.McNeir, Lewis McPherson, E. McPherson, Jacob Naglee, William Naphas, Antonio Nosardi, Robert O’Keefe, John S. Owens, Robert Owens, Edward H. Pancoast, James Pancoast, Robert B. Patterson, William Patterson, E. W. Pease, John B. Pepper, Joel Perrine, John Peterson, D. E. Peugh, Frederick Phile, Samuel B. Pine, William M. Pine, Adon Powell, John Powell, John Portz, J. B. Prucelle, John Quick, S. E. Radcliffe, Isaac C. Randolph, James A. Regens, Philip Reilly, Charles P. Reynolds, Alexander Rhodes, Benjamin F. Richard, Andrew Ridgway, Benjamin Robbins, Edward C. Roberts, James Roberts, Richard J. Robinson, William B. Robertson, Isaac Rogers, John Rogers, William H. Rogers, Thomas G. Rowand, Sebastian Schaub, Maurice Schmidt, Christian K. Schallers, James Schofield, George W. Scott, John E. Scott, John M. Shemelia, Edward M. Siemers, John Simmons, Benjamin F. Shinn, Thomas Sheeran, James Shield, Charles Smith, George H. Smith, William W. Smith, Charles S. Small, Adolph Snow, W. Souder, Francis Senders, Robert Sparks, David C. Sprowl, Alfred L. Sparks, Abraham Springer, George W. Stewart, William L. Stevenson, Thomas G. Stephenson, Samuel R. Stockton, Thomas Stockton, Thomas H. Stone, Henry Strick, E. J. Strickland, Charles String, George F. Stull, George W. Swaney, Crosby Sweeten, William F. Tarr, William A. Tatem, Thomas S. Tanier, George Rudolph Tenner, Charles L. Test, Leonard Thomas, Benjamin Thomas, Henry C. Thomas, George F. Thorne, Wesley Thorn, Thomas W. Thornley, Alexander W. Titus, Joseph Tompkins, J. E. Troth, Isaac C. Toone, Samuel Tyier, Jacob M. Van Nest, Albert Vansciver, Joseph Wakeman, Theodore F. Walker, Charles Walton, George Walton, Joseph Welsh, David Watson, George W. Wentling, Edward West, Elmer M. West, George Weyman, Wilmer Whillden, James Whittaker, Samuel Wickward, Calvin T. Williams, George W. Williams, William H. Williams, John Williams, Samuel Winner, Amos P. Wilson, D.H. Wilson, G.A. Wilson, Richard Wilson, George Wispert, John W. Wood, Joseph Woodfield, Walter Wolfkill, E. W. Wolverton, Elijah Worthington, C. M. Wright, George B. Wright, Henry S. Wright, Wesley T. Wright, William Zane.
As of 1886, the Hatch Post met every Thursday evening in their own G. A. R. Hall, on Stevens Street, below Fifth Street. This same building had been used in the late 1870s as the original home of the congregation that formed the Tabernacle Baptist Church. The Hatch Post was affiliated with Hatch League No. 2, of the Loyal Ladies League, their auxiliary, which met at the Post Hall.
Lenni Lenape Tribe, No. 2
George Reeser Prowell’s History of Camden County, New Jersey, 1886
In 1886 George Reeser Prowell wrote the following about Lenni Lenape Tribe, No. 2
LENNI LENAPE TRIBE, No. 2, is the oldest existing tribe of the order in the State, and in numbers and wealth the strongest and richest in the United States. It was instituted May 10, 1850, by Great Incohonee William B. Davis, assisted by Francis Fullerton, of Lenni Lenape Tribe, No. 8, of Pennsylvania, and Great Chief of Records of the United States. These were the charter members: Nathaniel Chew, William F. Colbert, John T. Davis, Timothy C. Moore, Sylvester Rainhard, Joseph Shipley, Daniel S. Garwood, William Beckett, George Wood, E.D. Brister, John Wood, Joseph Myers, Albert Robertson, John W. Hoey, James B. Richardson, Robert Maguire, Joseph B. Hawkins, James O. Stillwell and Anthony Joline. The officers were as follows: P., Timothy C. Moore; S., Nathaniel Chew; S.S., John Wood; J.S., William F. Colbert; C. of R., Joseph Myers; K. of W., Albert Robertson.
Lenni Lenape has had an eventful career, at times flourishing and at other times so short of funds that a few faithful members paid expenses and benefits out of their private purses, but persistence won at last and a flood tide of prosperity set in, which has continued until the Lenni Lenapes number seven hundred and thirty-two and the wampum belt contains $21,370.89.
Among its members are these Past Great Sachems: George W. Watson, John T. Davis, Charles H. Gordon, Thomas J. Francis and Daniel M. Stevens; and of its Past Sachems these are living: Timothy C. Moore, Henry A. Breyer, Lewis Zeigler, Samuel J. Fenner, Edward J. Steer, William F. Farr, Samuel D. Watson, George Horneff, George A. Cairoli (Brother of Mrs. Emma Horneff— pmc), Thomas J. Rowand, Samuel A. Owens, Benjamin M. Braker, Lambert Banes, George Pfeiffer, William Sheridan, Thomas F. Muckelson, Hope Sutton, James P. Moore, D.D. Worts, Leonard L. Roray, Benjamin J. Price, John A. Hall, B.S.M. Branning, Abraham Davis, Harry B. Garrison, Walter E. Garwood, George A. Rogers, William C. Davis, Frank P. Jackson, H. Frank Pettit, John A. Harbeson, John Quick, Angus B. Cameron, Lewis Z. Noble, George Leathwhite, Conrad F. Austermuhl, John K. Seagrove, Charles L. Vansciver, Harry Hoffman, Harry B. Tyler, James H. Reeve and George W. Davis. The officers are: P., G.W. Davis; S., Edward Francis; S.S., Samuel Baker; J.S., Joseph Watson; C. of R., L.Z. Noble; K. of W., C.F. Austermuhl; Trustees, T.J. Francis, T.F. Muckelson, J.K. Reeve, Leonard L. Roray and H.F. Pettit.
Politics in Jersey.
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Bolting Sheriff’s Convention Meets at Merchantville—Party Matters Mixed.
The second convention, or what will hereafter be known as “Daubmann’s Bolters’ Sheriff Convention,” was held at Merchantville yesterday. The famous twenty-five delegates, who stood for the ex-Sheriff for seventy consecutive ballots on last Thursday, at the regular convention, were present, so were delegates from the Third and Fifth wards and Waterford. The latter were the seven men who were defeated in a contest at the regular convention. Charles H. Fowler, of Gloucester City, and Charles P. Fackler, of the Fourth ward, Camden, were made permanent chairman and secretary reepectively [sic]. The whole thirty two delegates voted for Mr. Daubmann, and he was, therefore, declared the nominee of the convention.
Independent candidates for Coroner were nominated as follows; First district, Dr. Willis Hunt; Second district, Charles Pedigree, of Stockton township, was chosen by the bolters on the eighth ballot over Dr. Stanton, the regular nominee. Third district, William C. Sloan.
Both tickets as completed to date are as follows: Regular Republican ticket: For Senator—Richard N. Herring. Sheriff—David Burd [sic]. Surrogate—George S. West. Coroners—First district, Samuel Izard; Second district, Dr. J. G. Stanton. Third district, Hon. H. M. Jewett.
The “kickers,” “bolters” and anti Sewell ticket will be as follows: Senator—Edward Dudley. Sheriff—Jacob C. Daubmann. Surrogate—George West, the regular Republican nominee. Coroners—First district, Dr. Willis Hunt; Second district, Charles Pedigree. Third district, William O. Sloan.
The Republicans of Camden county met last night in their respective wards, townships and boroughs, and named delegates to be elected to attend the Legislative conventions. Captain Adam C. Smith says he is in the fight in the First Assembly district to stay. Major F. C. Woolman and Captain W. B. E. Miller are also candidates. In the Second district the contestants for the nominations are John Harris, David C. Vannots and Assemblyman Young.
Mr. Edward Dudley, who was nominated by the bolting Senatorial delegates, yesterday sent a half column letter of acceptance to B. L. Bonsall, John D. Glover and Peter Arrison, the committee appointed by little “Tommy” Harnard’s convention to notify him that he was the choice of the bolters.
The Legal Executive Committee.
Messrs. Chew and Spangler, the respective chairmen of the Senatorial and Surlevalty Conventions, met yesterday morning in accordance with the party rules, and appointed the new Republican County Executive Committee for the ensuing year. Mr. Robinson, chairman of the Surrogate’s Convention, was not present. The committee consists as follows.
First ward, George Barrett; Second, John Campbell, Third, William H. Chandler; Fourth, William F. Reed; Fifth, J. D. Leckner, M. D.; Sixth, John Corbitt; Seventh, John Blowe; Eighth, James Ware; Stockton township, Geo. W. Molineaux; Merchantville borough, Wm. H. Moses; Delaware township, Clayton Stafford, Haddon township, A. W. Clements; Centre township, John Hutchinson, Waterford township, Adam Sloan; Winslow township, Simon McDougall; Gloucester township, Geo. H. Higgins; Gloucester City, First ward, John Gourley; Second, Frederick Burckman.
Political Pointers.
John Harris will undoubtedly be the Republican candidate for the Legislature in the Second district.
Harry B. Paul, of the First ward, wants the Democratic nomination for Sheriff.
Hon. George Pfeiffer leads the Democrats for the nomination of Senator. David M Chambers is also mentioned.
The friends of Mr. Dudley announced yesterday his intention of remaining in the field for Senator, although he is reported as offering to compromise on the basis that he is to be made the candidate for Senator and Mr. Baird for Sheriff, giving Mr. Herring the Assembly nomination in the Third district.
Chairman Heber Robinson, of the Surrogate’s Convention; Thomas Harnard, chairman of the “bolting” Senatorial Convention, and Charles P. Fowler, who presided at the “Daubmann bolting” Convention yesterday, it is said, are going to form another Executive Committee. Hence two tickets and two Executive Committees.
Jottings.
The dead body of an infant was found near the Timber Creek bridge, on the West Jersey Railroad, yesterday. It is believed that the babe was thrown from a window of a passing car. County Physician Gross will make an investigation.
The Board of Education of Camden held an adjourned meeting last night. Nothing of importance was transacted.
The Co-operative Association of Camden has elected these officers: President—George W. Tenner. Treasurer—Benjamin M. Braker. Directors—John H. Doerr, David Jones, L. D. Sheppard, H. C. Hopper, A. J. Hoey and Frank Warren.
The following sentences were imposed at the Camden Criminal Court yesterday: John O’Hara, larceny, fined $5; Raymond Mills, assault and battery, two years in the penitentiary; Charles Mead, breaking and entering five years.
Lodged in Camden’s Jail
Philadelphia Inquirer —
LODGED IN CAMDEN'S JAIL.
The New Jersey Police Capture Several Prisoners for a Hot Day.
Mayor Pratt yesterday committed Thomas Johnson alias Ogleton, colored, to the County Jail in default of bail on the charge of burglary. On Wednesday the house of Frank C. Reeves, at No. 524 Royden street, was entered and clothing and jewelry to the amount of $200 taken. Yesterday morning Officer Cooper arrested Johnson on suspicion of being the guilty party. Chief Dodd searched his house, at No. 727 Cherry street, and found a pair of pants that belonged to Mr. Reeves.
A dog owned by James Farrell, of No. 522 Washington street, which was bitten by a mad dog on Sunday, was shot yesterday by Spencer Sharp.
Sing Lee, an almond-eyed Celestial, who earns his daily bread by running a laundry at Locust and Chestnut streets, was consigned to Camden’s filthy jail yesterday. Joseph Russell, a 13-year-old lad, told Recorder Braker that Sing hit him in the jaw and kicked him on the back. He was unable to furnish $200 ball [sic] and was consequently locked up.
A Hebrew peddler stole a gold watch from William Ruoff, of Palmyra, on Wednesday. A man supposed to be the thief was arrested on the charge, but, as he could not be fully identified, he was released.
Christian Kline, the kindling wood dealer, who was arrested on Wednesday on a capias, was released yesterday upon paying $212, the amount which Mrs. Shimpp claimed was due her. He will, however, be tried before Recorder Braker on the charge of desertion.
A number of the new electric lights of Camden were lighted last evening for the first time.
The residence of S. Chew, editor and proprietor of the West Jersey Press, at No. 532 Cooper street, was burglarized the other night, in the absence of the family at Atlantic City. Mr. Chew, upon reaching home last evening, discovered that the house had been ransacked from top to bottom. The thieves carried away a lot of clothing. An entrance was effected through a rear window.
News in Camden County
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Camden Horse Car Company has contracted with the Johnson Company, of Johnstown, Pa., for seven miles of new track.
Mrs. Rebecca Wright, mother-in-law of City Recorder Baker [sic], of Camden, died Sunday at 255 Kaighn avenue. She was 85 years old.
Ex-Editor Bartrom L. Bonsall and Charles Sprangler both wish to be director of the next Board of Freeholders of Camden county.
At a meeting of the Camden Board of Education last night the committee appointed to investigate the Lee-Seller’s contest, reported in favor of seating the latter. Treasurer Rex’s bond for $30,000 was approved.
Application was made before Vice Chancellor Bird, in Camden, yesterday, for a renewal of the injunction to restrain the Camden and Atlantic Railroad from placing electric railroad poles on Atlantic avenue, Atlantic City.
Walter Kelly was arrested by Detective Henry yesterday and committed by Magistrate Cassady on the charge of being the burglar who stole $339 and a gold watch from under the pillow of John Dugan, of Front and Pearl streets, while he slept.
War Over Acting Magistrate During Mayor’s Illness
Philadelphia Inquirer —
There is war among the officials of Camden over the question as to who shall act as committing magistrate for the Police Court during Mayor Pratt’s illness. Recorder Baker [sic] claims to be the proper person and quotes the law which says the Chief of Police should notify him of his Honor’s illness. The Recorder says he will go to the City Hall to-day and assume the reins of the office.
Curtis Held for Failing to Support Wife
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Recorder Braker has held Samuel Curtis, of the Seventh ward, in bail on the charge of failing to support his wife.
Alleged Neglect
Camden Post —
Mrs. Annie Eckert, of 1233 Pavonia street, was arrested this morning by Overseer of the Poor Hunt, on complaint of the Society Prevention Cruelty to Children, on the charge of neglecting her children. Constable Hunt made a visit to the house yesterday, the mother was out. He found one of the children, a boy, 13 years of age, with several other companions “running the growler.” When asked where his mother was was [sic], he said, “I don’t know, nor care.” The mother will be given a hearing before Recorder Braker to-morrow.
The Case Postponed
Camden Post —
The case of Mrs. Annie Eckert, of 1233 Pavonia street, was brought before Recorder Braker again this morning, at the instance of Secretary Abel Smith, for the Society of Prevention to Cruelty to Children. The husband who is an oysterman, was away at the time Mrs. Eckert was arrested, but came on this morning. The secretary and Recorder, after a consultation postponed the case for two weeks. During this time the mother will retain charge of the children.
Mellon Charged With Nonsupport of Wife
Philadelphia Inquirer —
John Mellon, of South Camden, was before Recorder Braker yesterday on the charge of failing to support his wife. His case was held under advisement.
More Gamblers Arrested
Philadelphia Inquirer —
John O’Brien, who figured so conspicuously at the raids of the Gloucester gambling dens last week, surrendered himself yesterday. Ezra Conkling, who was also implicated, gave himself up. Justice Fox held each of the men in $1,000 bail on the charge of inciting a riot. Recorder Braker compelled O’Brien to furnish an additional $1,000 bail on two charges of assault and battery. Lawyer H. S. Scovel is the complainant in one case and Policeman William Harvey in the other. Charles S. Ridgway furnished security.
Darlings Doused.
Camden Daily Telegram —
CARMAN STREET IN A WATERY WARFARE.
MRS. SMITH LAYS FOR THE BABIES
‘Squire Schmidt’s Hard Time With Ten Turbulent Females—Torridity and Tongue Wagging Extraordinary—A Common Scold.
Carman street, between Seventh and Eighth streets, is the scene of a local warfare between neighbors, and if epithets could kill the residents of the entire square would have met untimely ends before now.
The lives of “the babies on our block” are daily endangered by a water-throwing fiend in female form who seems determined to drown out the infant population.
Mrs. Harriet Smith, who dwells at 741 Carman street, is accused.
Yesterday afternoon Mrs. Smith was arrested on a warrant issued by Justice Schmidt. She was charged with being a common scold, and although she strenuously denied the charge, her tongue wagged so alarmingly that Squire Schmidt was completely rattled.
SHE DUCKS THE DARLINGS.
The suit grows out of a row on Wednesday, when Mrs. Smith had Mrs. Owens and Mrs. Rork arrested for raising a disturbance and calling her pet names, such as “old morphine,” “gray-haired devil” and “humpbacked good-for-nothing.” Recorder Braker, acting in Mayor Pratt’s stead, held them in $100 each to keep the peace. Now, Mrs. West, living directly across the street from Mrs. Smith, has brought charges against the latter.
Mrs. Smith, it was alleged at the hearing, has a penchant for throwing water, and habitually lies in wait for the baby carriages of neighbors. When the babies come beneath her window a bucket of water is dashed out, and the promising young scion of Carman street is taken home on a galley.
INVERTED INFANTS.
It is said that on several occasions the infants have had to be turned upside down to get the water out of them.
Mrs. Smith has, it is said, on several occasions publicly stated that she would “drown the blank blank brats if they wheeled the blank things about her house.”
In Justice Schmidt’s small office yesterday afternoon eight excited females of the Carman street type, accompanied Mrs. Smith and Mrs. West, her accuser, to see the fun.
EVERY BODY TALKED
at once, and ‘Squire Schmidt’s efforts to maintain order were fruitless.
Above all was heard Mrs. Smith’s shrill voice in a choice vocabulary of invectives.
Through the din of warring female tongues the squire finally got at the facts and held Mrs. Smith in $300 bail for court. The neighbors threaten to move, but the agent of the property assures the residents that the obnoxious water-thrower will be ejected on a thirty days’ notice and peace shall reign.
The Tenth Street Gang
Camden Daily Telegram —
They Tear out the Home of a German Resident.
Warrants were issued on Thursday for the arrest of Harriet Smith, Howard and Gus Smith, Frank Miles, Gilbert Bolton and William Fogarty, on a charge of disorderly conduct and raising a riot.
The complaint was made by Frank Skalla, of 745 Pennsylvania avenue, and J. Freeman, the owner of the house. Skalla, a respectable German, who has been married but a short time, states that he was having a party last Saturday night, when a number of young men, among whom were the defendants, and who belong to what is known as the “Tenth Street Gang.”
Armed with bats and other weapons, they forced their way into the house by banging in the door. They commenced breaking and smashing things up generally. They defaced the house and injured the furniture, stole a quarter of beer, and Mr. S. Kella [sic] was struck on the head with a lamp. Howard Smith, William Fogarty and Gilbert Bolton, three of the men connected with the racket, were brought before Recorder Braker this morning and were fined. The other defendants failed to put in an appearance, but will probably be brought up for a hearing on Monday.
Shultz Held in Bail for Assault on Gottenburg
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Henry Shultz, the carriage builder, was held in bail by Recorder Baker [sic] last night for assault and battery on Pauline Gottenburg, of 422 Cherry street.
The Mayor’s Appointments
Camden Daily Telegram —
He Announced Several This Noon.
COMMISSIONERS OF INSTRUCTION.
The Old Members Re-named With the Exception of the Member From the Seventh Ward—Police Appointments and Resignations.
Mayor Westcott this noon made the following appointments as Commissioners of Public instruction:
Messrs. George D. Borton, of the First ward; Samuel Iszard, of the Second ward; Charles H. Ellis, Jr., of the Sixth ward, and James Hanson, to succeed Charles Hewston, of the Seventh ward.
The officers of the Commission hold over another year.
The following appointments were made on the police force:
First Ward—James Elberson, Charles Wilbur, Samuel H. Sheer.
Second Ward—No appointments.
Third Ward—John Sinclair, E. D. Stein.
Fourth Ward—No appointments.
Fifth Ward—Albert Shaw, Charles Fitzsimmons.
Sixth Ward—Abraham Jackson.
Seventh Ward—Alfred Sayres, Edward Hyde.
Eighth Ward—Thomas Buchanan, Jacob A. Hicks (colored).
Ninth Ward—No appointments.
Mayor Westcott has requested the resignation of all the members of the police force who served under the Police Commission, to take effect May 1. They are Policemen Peall, Horner, Painter, Mullane, Miller and Reed.
POLITICAL POINTERS.
Who will be the postmaster?
Who will be the next prosecutor?
Many of the ward workers are suffering from election colds.
The name of Harry Moffitt was left out of the columns of honorable mention with the other hustlers of election day.
Senator Rogers and Messrs. Stafford and Watson, of the House are fully coming up to the expectations of their constituents.
If the Mayor could arrange it to hold his hearings a trifle earlier it would be a great source of satisfaction to the Camden afternoon papers.
There is still great anxiety on the part of the public as to the outcome of the present session of the legislature. Thus far their public acts have been highly commendable.
The abolishment of the Police Justice act restores to office the City Recorder, Benjamin M. Braker, who would be qualified to act in place of the Mayor should the Chief Executive be taken sick.
Jos. Potter, the new member of Council from the First ward is a man of wide business experience and will prove much advantage to the many large financial interests that will come under his care.
Owing to the satisfactory working of the present school commission in the two second-class counties up the State, the legislature made no change in the mode of placing the members as was anticipated.
Jos. B. Fox, of the Fourth ward, is what might be termed an old reliable, having had a long and varied experience in public affairs. He is always conservative in the expenditure of city money. He is always safe to trust.
Charles Sayrs, of the Seventh ward, who had a short experience in the present Council, but enough to make him feel at home among public affairs, is neck and ears in work between his real estate business and Councilmanic duties.
The colored people of the lower section of the city are anxious to see Squire Drake, the ex-Republican and ex-member of the School Board, come out of the Court House, where he holds a position under the Thompson Freeholders.
“Father” Figner is a proud sire. He was a member and president of Council in his days, and now sees his son treading in his footsteps. Mr. Figner, Jr., having been sent to Council from the Sixth ward on Tuesday by a large majority.
A special election will not be necessary for the new Board of Freeholders, as the City Council and Township Committees will appoint Freeholders who will serve until the Spring of 1895. The appointments will be made about the middle of May.
Arthur Bedell is spoken of as a candidate for the presidency of the new City Council. He is a stalwart and is never afraid to define his position on all public questions. He is one of those men who makes strong, warm friends and also creates an opposition of like force.
William D. Brown, the Secretary of the Board of Education, and Fred A. Rex, Treasurer, are quite pleased over the report of the committee on accounts and Expert O’Shaughnessy, they having examined the books of Messrs. Rex and Brown and found them correctly kept.
The library of the Camden public schools is one to be highly appreciated and much is due to the care with Miss Blowe the librarian has attended to her duties. She will hold over another year and should be allowed to retain the office as long as she merits it, and she surely does now.
J. R. Carson, the retiring member of Council from the First ward, is highly spoken of by his associates on committees and by Clerk Varney for the mature judgment displayed in the management of city affairs. It is with a general expression of regret that the city is to lose his service.
The reform in the Board of Freeholders can’t come too soon. If the public is to judge of the care of property given by the Democrats in the county, by the “hog combine” in this city, an inventory of the public property when turned over will make interesting reading. Ex-officials guarantee to save enough in the Board, if returned to their offices, to pay the expense of a special election, if one was necessary.
W. J. Bradley has been asked if he was a candidate for president of the new City Council. His reply was that he had not sought it in the first place, and would not seek it now, but whether he became president or remained merely a member on the floor, he would endeavor to discharge his duties in the interests of the city. He is commended by all who came in contact with him during the past year as one who had a new Camden at heart.
Recorder Braker’s Cases
Philadelphia Inquirer —
On complaint of Secretary Smith, of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, saloon-keeper Frank Souder, of Broadway and Chestnut street, was convicted before Recorder Braker yesterday of cruel treatment of two young brothers, aged 13 and 15 years respectively. Sentence was suspended.
Recorder Braker’s Cases (continued)
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Before City Recorder Braker yesterday Frank C. Grapevine was ordered to pay $1.50 a week toward the support of Gretchen Dooner’s illegitimate child. Grapevine was recently released from jail by a decision that Miss Dooner could not hold him for breach of promise, as he was a minor when he made the alleged contract to marry her.
Welcome Furnished Bail
Camden Courier —
Landon Welcome, accused before Recorder Braker of assaulting Allan Falls with a hickory club, entered bail to the amount of $200 and was released.
Another Wife Beater Jailed
Camden Courier —
Edward Shaw, who keeps a cigar store at 318 Spruce street, had a hearing before Justice Braker on Saturday night charged with wife beating. Mrs. Shaw says he beat her, threw her out doors and said if she came back again he would kill her. He was committed to jail in default of bail.
Lavinia Sought Revenge
Camden Daily Telegram —
When George Deserted Her and Wedded Another Dusky Belle.
Lavinia Tunnell, a buxom colored lass, formerly shared the comforts of the same home with George Matthews, as man and wife, in a Baxter street house, but to-day they are apart.
George went and got married to another Baxter street belle and Lavinia sought revenge. In search of a soothing syrup for her sorrows Lavinia made a visit to the house of her former lover yesterday and found George and his bride gently cooing in each other’s arms.
The spark of wrath in the timid heart of Lavinia flamed as hot as Old Nick’s furnaces are said to be and she blazed away with her tongue at George. Things waxed warmer and warmer and Lavinia thought it was about time she was taking a sneak. She vamoosed in the darkness and as she did a clock and coat went with her, so George says. The latter went to the office of Recorder Braker and swore out a warrant for Lavinia. She was apprehended and taken before the Recorder on a charge of disorderly conduct and larceny of the two articles, but was dismissed.
Braker Addresses Eighth Ward Republican Club
Philadelphia Inquirer —
At the second anniversary of the Eighth Ward Republican Club last night Recorder Braker gave an historical address on Camden’s Mayors since the incorporation.
Warrant for a Baxter Street Belle
Camden Daily Telegram —
A warrant was issued this morning by Recorder Braker for the arrest of Lulu Roberts, a Baxter street belle, charging her with assault and battery on Mary Jones.
Braker Addresses Finance Association of Nicetown
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Recorder Benjamin M. Braker made an address on “American Labor from the Tariff Standpoint” before the Finance Association of Nicetown, Pa., on Thursday evening.
Recorder Braker Celebrates 69th Birthday
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Recorder Benjamin M. Braker celebrated his 69th birthday on Thursday.
Camden Political Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
—The Democrats will hold their city convention to-night.
—Resolutions indorsing the Republican nominations have been adopted by the Sixth Ward Republican Club.
—The Committee of One Hundred had twenty-five men at work yesterday serving circulars to citizens of Camden appealing for funds to carry on the campaign.
—Ex-Assemblyman Joseph M. Engard and Councilman Charles H. Ellis, Jr., were among the speakers at the opening of the new quarters of the Hebrew Republican Club last night at Rogers’ Hall, Fifth and Chestnut streets.
—Councilman-at-Large W. R. E. Miller states that he is thankful for the letters congratulating him upon his nomination, but he desires to inform his friends that they are mistaken, as it is R. R. Miller, who received the Republican nomination as his successor.
—War Veterans’ Association, No. 1, last night adopted resolutions indorsing the Republican candidates and proposing Under Sheriff H. L. Hartsnorn as a candidate for Sheriff next fall. George E. Martin presided. Addresses were made by City Treasurer Felton, Mayor Westcott, Councilmen Potter and Hillman, Recorder Braker and Candidates R. R. Miller, E. E. Reed, Jr., Arthur Bedell and A. F. Shultz. A collation was served.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Walter F. Toms and ex-City Surveyor Jacob H. Yocum are the latest additions to the list of candidates for the position of Chief Engineer of the Water Department. City Council will elect at its meeting next Thursday night.
No one having identified the corpse of the man found drowned at Gloucester last Sunday it was buried in Potter’s Field yesterday.
The Camden bicycle ordinance has been certioraried to the Supreme Court to test its legality. Lawyer Rex yesterday served the writ on Mayor Westcott. George B. Fithian, who was fined by the Mayor for driving on a bicycle path, is contesting the ordinance.
Game Warden Guthridge yesterday arrested Bladimer Blominski, a Polander, for killing a thrush. The bird cost him $20, as that was the amount of fine imposed by Justice Braker.
A large delegation from Camden Lodge, No. 15, F. and A. M., attended the funeral of David G. Patterson, a Past Master of the lodge, at Woodbury yesterday.
Rev. Matthew Register, colored, was held in $500 bail by Justice Colding, charged with threatening to do bodily harm to Helen Jones, of 1008 Kaighn avenue, who, it is alleged, did not appreciate the attention paid to her by the preacher.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler John H. Fort of the B. P. O Elks, has received a dispensation for the institution of Passaic Lodge, at Passaic city, on October 8.
John Galvin, charged with prying open a shutter of the house at 508 North Front street early yesterday morning, was committed in default of $300 bail.
Articles of incorporation were filed in the County Clerk’s office yesterday by the Overhead Railway and Switch Company.
Charged with maintaining a nuisance in the shape of a piggery at Oaklyn, Jacob Fossell, colored, was held in bail yesterday by Justice Schmitz.
The discount of 5 per cent. on taxes will be discontinued after to-day.
Walter Blair, Charles Blair, Charles Curliss, William Dolan and William Meser [sic], boys, were held in bail by Justice Schmitz, yesterday, charged with destroying property belonging to Joseph B. Tees, of 608 Vine street.
S. Conrad Ott, president of the Good Roads League, has been elected a State Representative to the New Jersey Division, L. A. W.
George Brown was fined $20 by Recorder Braker for having a robin in his possession. He was arrested near Pensauken by Game Warden Guthridge.
George N. Gregg, of Merchantville, has been appointed trainmaster of the West Jersey and Seashore Railroad, to succeed A. L. Sparks, resigned. Mr. Gregg has been assistant trainmaster for several years.
The funeral of John C. Garland, late cashier of the Western National Bank, of Philadelphia, took place yesterday. Services were held in St. John’s P. E. Church.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Among the aspirants for the Republican nomination for Recorder next spring are the following Justices of the Peace: O. Glen Stackhouse, Philip Schmitz, George R. Thompson, Benjamin M. Braker, Charles M. Baldwin, James D. Chester and Charles Kauffman.
A Youthful Disorderly
Camden Daily Telegram —
Dennis McBride, aged 20 years, was sentenced to ten days in the County Jail by the Recorder this morning for drunkenness. McBride was arrested by Officer Butts last night. He cursed the officer and also used profane and insulting language to his mother, who was trying to get him home.
In the Whirl of Camden Politics
Philadelphia Inquirer —
May Be Opposition to Ex-Sheriff Barrett’s Mayoralty Candidacy
CHAMBERS HESITATES
Thompsonites Hope to Coax Him Into Taking Their Nomination. Printing Registry Lists
Former Sheriff George Barrett, who is looked upon as the probable nominee of the Camden Republicans for Mayor, is likely to have opposition in the convention. He has stated that he will not accept the nomination unless it is tendered him unanimously. Delegates to the convention will be elected to-morrow night. The Fifth ward delegates will probably favor the nomination of Harry F. Wolfe, Director of the Board of Freeholders, for Mayor. Isaac Toone may be the choice of the Ninth ward delegation, while Lawyer John H. Fort is likely to have a few delegates. To insure Barrett’s acceptance of the nomination it will be necessary to overcome this opposition, but the leaders say this will be easy.
There are plenty of candidates for the City Recordership nomination. Among those who would like to preside in the police court are: Justices Philip Schmitz, O. Glen Stackhouse, Charles Baldwin, George R. Thompson and Frederick B. Kauffman. Recorder Benjamin M. Braker is also seeking renomination.
COAXING CHAMBERS.
The Thompson Democrats are working hard to induce David M. Chambers to reconsider his declination to stand as their candidate for mayor, despite the fact that Mr. Chambers has contributed to the funds of the Committee of One Hundred, has voted the “One Hundred” ticket, and is now a member of the Executive Committee of the reformers’ organization. Mr. Chambers has promised to withhold his formal declination until to-morrow morning. He told an Inquirer reporter last night that he had not receded from his determination to decline the nomination. He said he was getting along in years and had interests that would seriously interfere with his official duties if he was elected, to say nothing of the fact that his health compelled him to spend every summer out of the city.
If Mr. Chambers cannot be coaxed into accepting the nomination the Committee on Vacancies may select former Chief of Police W. H. Davis or Dr. J. W. Donges to head the ticket. Postmaster Harry B. Paul’s name is also mentioned.
The County Democracy has decided to save the expense of having ballots printed and distributed bearing their party caption. As they will indorse the Committee of One Hundred nominations they will use the committee’s tickets.
LISTS TO BE PRINTED.
For the first time in sixteen years the City Clerk will not order the registry lists printed. Lack of funds in the printing appropriation is given as the excuse. The Committee of One Hundred has ordered the lists printed at its own expense. Next Tuesday is the last registry day, and voters must appear in person to be registered.
Sheriff Baird, who went South with City Clerk Varney about two weeks ago, will return in a few days.
George W. Jessup, the Committee of One Hundred Councilmanic nominee in the Second ward, by order of his physician started yesterday on a ten-days’ trip through the South for his health.
Camden Political Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Prohibitionists have nominated Robert T. Lee, of the Second ward, for Mayor, and Alexander Heith, of the Fourth ward, for Recorder. Councilmanic nominations will be made next week.
Justices George Thompson and David Rankin have withdrawn as candidates for the Republican nominations for Alderman in the Fifth ward, in favor of Recorder B. M Braker.
John Furey will run as an independent candidate for City Council in the Eighth ward.
James O. Smith and Gabriel Hill have withdrawn from the contest for the Republican Councilmanic nomination in the Eighth ward. This leaves the field clear for Benjamin E. Mellor.
F. Morse Archer is the latest name mentioned in connection with the Republican nomination for City Recorder.
A mass meeting was held by the Committee of One Hundred last evening in Wilder [sic] Hall. Addresses were made by several of the Committee’s candidates.
Three mass meetings were held on Friday night, under the auspices of the Third, Fifth and Ninth Ward Reform Clubs.
Benjamin Braker Is Dead
Trenton Times —
Was Well Known Jerseyman and Personal Friend of Walt Whitman and George Lippard.
Camden, Dec. 16. Benjamin M. Braker, aged 79 years, one of the best known of Camden’s citizens, died Thursday afternoon at his home at 308 Sycamore street.
He had been ailing for several weeks from a dropsical affection and complications incident to old age.
Benjamin M. Braker was born October 24, 1826, in Bristol, England. With his parents he came to this country in 1830, settling in Lambertville, N. J. Later he removed to Camden. In 1861 he was connected with the Philadelphia Inquirer in a reportorial capacity. From 1882 to 1885 he edited the Gloucester City Reporter. In politics he was a staunch Republican. He was one of the few men who called the meeting on April 12, 1854, which resulted in the formation of the first Republican club, it is claimed in the United States. Two years later he assisted in organizing the Republican party in West Jersey and for the prominence he took in its interest, he was known far and wide as the “Old War Horse.”
He stumped the State from end to end for many years. In 1882 he was elected a justice of the peace and was continuously elected until his death. From 1877 to 1889 he was City Recorder. In 1885 he was elected to the Assembly. He was a close personal friend of George Lippard, the founder of the Brotherhood of the Union, and assisted in planting that organization in Camden. He was also a personal friend of Walt Whitman, the poet, the two often entering into discussions on literature. He is survived by a widow, two sons and two daughters.
The Young Syndicate
Camden Courier-Post —
FROM AN OLD DIRECTORY
‘Coop’ Carman and Willard Morgan Led Movement for New Blood in G.O.P. Culminating in Bitter Battles of Race Track Days
Second in a new series of articles on Camden affairs and personalities of yesteryear inspired by a 50-year-old directory.
By BEN COURTER
Allusion to officials of Camden half a century ago has brought a flood of memories to older residents and particularly those interested in the political game—the great American game. While the directory of 1882 speaks of Richard C. Thompson holding the office of city clerk, mention of whom was made last week, it also was stated that D. Cooper Carman had held the office from 1884 until his death in 1889, at the early age of 35 years. It is Carman’s name which has revived in the minds of veteran political workers his activity and that of the “young syndicate,” which had concluded, as is the case in all organizations, it was time for old stagers to step aside for those of more youthful years.
BEN COURTER
Carman had been elected to city council in the Spring election of 1882 from the Fourth Ward, his home then being at Broadway and Federal street, where the Munger & Long building now stands. But his election was contested by Frederick M. Bourquin and Carman did not serve. Two years later he was again elected, at the same time appointed city clerk, and this resulted in another contest in which the court laid down the dictum that a member of council could not vote for himself for public office. “Coop,” as he was known to his familiars, promptly resigned from Council and was promptly elected city clerk.
The ‘Young Syndicate’
With Carman, as former City Clerk William D. Brown recalls, was associated J. Willard Morgan and Henry M. Snyder, something of a balance between the two.
That combination carried things along pretty much as they pleased for a time and as one of the developments Maurice A. Rogers, down in the Fifth Ward and a councilman, was taken up as a Senatorial candidate against Colonel George Pfeiffer, Jr., a decade later to be the builder of Camden’s artesian water plant. The colonel, long one of Camden’s most popular men, had defeated the Republicans as a result of the factional fight between Henry L. Bonsall, editor of the Post, and Thomas Dudley, famed consul to Liverpool during Civil War days. But with the “young syndicate” back of him, Rogers won the Senate seat in 1890, taking his office January 1, 1891.
But in the meanwhile Carman suddenly died at his mother’s home, at 11.10 on the night of September 11, 1889. At the time apoplexy was given as the cause. His sudden demise caused a profound shock and at his funeral four days later leaders in business and politics paid homage, with such men as Gen. William J. Sewell, Sinnickson Chew, Howard Carrow, Wilson Jenkins, E. A. Armstrong, B. M. Braker and many others attending. The bell in the old City Hall tower tolled as the cortege passed on the way to old Camden cemetery. And even yet, after these more than four decades, “Coop” Carman is quite vividly recalled by those who were then active on the political stage.
Carman’s Death Big Loss
Carman’s death was a big loss to the “young syndicate,” but it did not halt its activity. Since Rogers had won so easily in the 1890 election it was concluded there would be nothing to it when he was renominated for another two-year term. Rogers was by no means friendly to “Billy” Thompson’s race track, then in the heyday of its popularity with the sports of Gloucester City, a period when that community had all the earmarks of a wild and wooly western city, attractive to thousands of lovers of horseflesh, touts, gamblers and the usual hangers-on.
Thompson concluded it would be far better to have someone in the Senate from Camden county who would regard his interests with more favor than Rogers.
Thus he decided on Frederick A. Rex, his personal counsel, a very able young attorney, and a Republican. Since at that time the Democratic police commission was in control of the cops it was considered easy to get possession of the polls. As Brown recalls it, the rivals of Rogers planned a “zero hour” at which cops, at the crack of a pistol, were to descend on polls considered close at the primaries, frighten off the regular voters and corral enough to elect Rex.
Particular effort was to be made to sweep the Sixth Ward, where Thad Varney, elected city clerk to succeed Carman, was “boss,” and thus give him a political black eye. In Varney’s precinct in particular when the rumpus started “Brockie” Deno and “Al” Haydon, both widely known firemen now dead, grabbed the ballot box, lowered it down a chimney, fished it out when the racket was passed, went to Avis’ livery stable, and later to Varney’s home, where the votes were counted. In these sophisticated days such counting would unquestionably not be considered “according to Hoyle,” but then anything went just so the particular faction had its bag of tricks in effective operation. Anyhow, Rogers won the primaries, but there still was the general election to hurdle and Thompson was by no means beaten. He had plenty of money and many followers, some sincere, many just sycophants.
Repeaters Foiled
It was charged a scheme was on foot to bring repeaters from Philadelphia, not an unusual procedure in the political game of Camden years ago in either party. One of the “young syndicate’s” lieutenants learned the plot, told General Sewell, who sent the informant to Dave Martin, then Philadelphia’s political boss, who heard the story. The upshot was General Sewell himself saw Martin later, who was quite willing to aid Jersey’s G.O.P. leader, flooded Camden with sleuths from over the river and such close tabs were kept on the repeating army its efforts were halted from the very dawn of that very stirring election day. Rogers was elected, was made president of the Senate and for a time loomed so large on Jersey’s political horizon he had gubernatorial aspirations, but they never were realized.
Thus out of the old yellowed book Frank Albright, city clerk of the present epoch, dug from the archives memories are revived of a very gallant young politician, “Coop” Carman, and some of the stirring incidents that make up Camden’s political history. The “young syndicate” was just one of the episodes, as the first “reform” outbreak in 1882, or the Committee of 100 scrap of 1897, or the Non-Partisan upheaval of ‘23, but such never lose interest to those who have joined those movements with enthusiasm, even though they were often not altogether satisfied with what had been accomplished.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Policeman John Zane, of East Camden, will have a hearing before the Police Committee of City Council to-morrow night, on fresh charges preferred against him by Police Captain Albert. He is accused of conduct unbecoming an officer and neglect of duty. When recently charges were preferred against him, Zane tendered his resignation, to take effect on February 1.
Police Captain Stanley and a squad of officers in Camden early yesterday morning raided the house at 249 Cherry street, on complaint of Fannie Clark. There was considerable excitement when the officers descended on the inmates, and while some escaped, Rose Mitchell, the alleged proprietress; Maud Trusty and Edward Nugent were captured. They were locked up at the city prison for a hearing before Recorder Stackhouse this morning.
The Fifth Ward Republican Club and Washington Circle, Brotherhood of the Union, last night viewed the remains of Benjamin M. Braker, at the latter’s home, [?]08 Sycamore street.
Everything was closed tight yesterday. The police reported the lid was down good and hard.
“The Treating Habit in Our American Saloons” was the subject of a sermon preached by Rev. F. A. DeMaris, at the State Street M. E. Church, yesterday, [cut off at the crop edge]