Introduction
CHARLES M. BALDWIN was one of the original members of the Camden Fire Department, entering service on December 7, 1869 as an extra man of the Hook and Ladder Company, the original designation of what is now Ladder Company 1. Prior to entering the fire department he had worked as a driller for the Camden & Amboy Rail Road. He was living on South 4th Street below Liberty Street when he joined the department in the fall of 1869.
Charles M. Baldwin was born in New York on March 29, 1842. He married in February of 1866. His wife, Kate, was born and raised in England. A trained nurse, she came to America in 1864. The Baldwins had one child, a son, Clifford E. Baldwin, born in Camden in 1870.
Charles M. Baldwin was active in a fraternal organization known as the Seven Wise Men. Kearney Conclave, No. 1, Heptasophs (or Seven Wise Men), was organized in Test’s Hall, October 15, 1869, when George P. Oliver, of Maryland, Supreme Chancellor; Dr. G. Jennings, Supreme Ephor, of Pennsylvania, and others, initiated and installed these members and officers: A., Harry H. Franks; C, S. C. Hankinson; Pro., Charles H. Cook; R. S., Theodore F. Higbee; F. S., Charles M. Baldwin; T., D. W. Neall; I. G., James E. Carter; H., Caleb H. Taylor; W., David B. Sparks; S., Wm. Acton; Wm. Higbee, Wm. Darby, Henry Hollis, Frank Rawlings, Samuel K. Batchelor, Isaiah Morton, John D. Mahoney, Samuel Pine, George Parson, Benjamin F. Richards, George W. Williams, Absalom Dougherty, Henry Rhinehart, Wm. H. McKee, S. R. Hankinson, John Laning, Richard Bozarth, Alexander Simpson, Nathan Jacobs and William Middleton. Edward S. Andrews, who served with the Camden Fire Department in the 1870s, was also a member.
George Reeser Prowell, in his History of Camden County, New Jersey, published in 1886, wrote the following:
The Conclave has paid out for benefits about seven thousand dollars. The membership is ninety-seven, and the meetings are held in Independence Hall. The officers are: A., J. A. Ross; Pro., John W. Lamb; Pre., William A. Rudderow; I. G., J. S. Casto; H., Frederick Morschauser; W., Joel H. Stowe; R. S., Samuel C. Hankinson; F. S., George E. Boyer; T., Daniel W. Neall. George E. Boyer, of this Conclave, is now the Supreme Chancellor of the order.
On September 2, 1869 City Council enacted a municipal ordinance creating a paid fire department. It provided for the annual appointment of five Fire Commissioners, one Chief Marshal (Chief of Department) and two Assistant Marshals. The City was also divided into two fire districts. The boundary line ran east and west, starting at Bridge Avenue and following the tracks of the Camden and Amboy Railroad to the city limits. District 1 was south of this line and District 2 was north. The commissioners also appointed the firemen who were scheduled to work six 24-hour tours per week. William Abels, from the Weccacoe Hose Company No. 2 was appointed Chief Marshal with William J. Mines, from the Independence Fire Company No. 3 as Assistant Marshal for the 1st District, and William H. Shearman as the Assistant Marshal for the 2nd District. Abels had served with the volunteer fire departments of Philadelphia, Mobile, Alabama and Camden for sixteen years prior to his appointment as Chief of the paid force.
On November 10, 1869 City Council purchased the Independence Firehouse, the three-story brick building at 409 Pine Street, for $4,500. The building was designated to serve as quarters for Engine Company 1 and the 1st District. On October 29, 1869 City Council authorized construction of a two-story brick building on the northwest corner of Fifth and Arch Streets as quarters for the 2nd District. On November 25th the Fire Commissioners signed a contract with M.N. Dubois in the amount of $3,100 to erect this structure. The 2nd District would share these quarters with Engine Company 2 and the Hook & Ladder Company, and the facility would also serve as department headquarters for the new paid force. The original contract remains part of the Camden County Historical Society collection.
Engine Company 2 with 1869 Silsby Hose Cart. Photo Circa 1890. Note badges upon derby hats worn by Fire Fighters.
Two Amoskeag second class, double pump, straight frame steam engines were purchased at a cost of $4,250 each. Two Silsby two wheel hose carts, each of which carried 1,000 feet of hose, were another $550 each and the hook & ladder, built by Schanz and Brother of Philadelphia was $900. Each engine company received a steam engine and hose cart. Amoskeag serial #318 went to Engine Company 1, and serial #319 to Engine Company 2. The Fire Commission also secured the services of the Weccacoe and Independence steamers in case of fire prior to delivery of the new apparatus. Alfred McCully of Camden made the harnesses for the horses. Camden’s Twoes & Jones made the overcoats for the new firemen and a Mr. Morley, also of Camden, supplied the caps and belts which were manufactured by the Migeod Company of Philadelphia. The new members were also issued badges.
This is the earliest known photo of fire headquarters on the northwest corner of Fifth and Arch Streets. Originally built in 1869, the building shows signs of wear some twenty years later. Note the weathervane shaped like a fireman’s speaking trumpet atop the tower. Also, the fire alarm bell is pictured to the left of the telegraph pole above the rooftop. The bell was removed from the building once the fire alarm telegraph system was expanded and in good working order.
This maker’s plate once was attached to a harness made by A. McCully & Sons, 22 Market Street, Camden, New Jersey. This firm provided the first harnesses for the paid fire department in 1869.
Badges worn by the marshals, engineers, stokers and engine drivers bore the initial letter of their respective positions and their district number. The tillerman and his driver used the number “3” to accompany their initial letter. The extra men of the 1st District were assigned badges 1–10; 2nd District badges were numbered 11–20 and the extra men of the hook & ladder wore numbers 21–30.
Although the Fire Commission intended to begin operation of the paid department on November 20, 1869, the companies did not actually enter service until December 7th at 6 P.M. because the new apparatus and buildings were not ready. The new apparatus was not tried (tested) until December 9th.
The new members of the paid force were:
Hook & Ladder Company Roster
Camden Fire Department Hook & Ladder Company, 1869
Officers
| Name ↕ | Position ↕ | Badge ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| Edward J. Dodamead | Tillerman | |
| Frank S. Jones | Driver |
Extra Men
| Name ↕ | Position ↕ | Badge ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| Charles Baldwin | Extra Man | 21 |
| Charles G. Zimmerman | Extra Man | 22 |
| John Durkin | Extra Man | 23 |
| William C. Lee | Extra Man | 24 |
| James M. Lane | Extra Man | 25 |
| James Cassidy | Extra Man | 26 |
| Robert S. Bender | Extra Man | 27 |
| Thomas McCowan | Extra Man | 28 |
| Howard Lee | Extra Man | 29 |
| Abraham Lower | Extra Man | 30 |
The first style of breast badge worn by members of the career department in the City of Camden. 1869. (Courtesy of the C.C.H.S. Collection).
The Board of Fire Commissioners consisted of Rudolphus Bingham, Chairman, and Samuel C. Harbert, Richard Perks, Jonathon Kirkbride and Jacob Daubman.
Leather helmet of natural grain believed to have been worn by Fireman Charles Baldwin, Hook & Ladder Company 1 when paid force was organized in 1869. Number 21 at bottom of frontpiece indicates member’s badge number. (Courtesy of the Camden County Historical Society Collection.)
Annual salaries for the members of the paid force were: Chief Marshal, $800; Assistant Marshal, $200; Engineer, $600; Driver, $450; Stoker, $450; Tillerman, $450; Extra Men, $50. All but Extra Men were paid monthly.
Not long after Charles Baldwin was appointed to the Fire Department as an extra man, he moved to the northwest corner of South 3rd and Mechanic Streets, and opened up a grocery.
On March 7, 1873 it was reported in the Philadelphia Inquirer that Charles M. Baldwin had been nominated to run for the office of Constable of the Fifth Ward by the local Democrats. He ran for office again as a Democrat in November of 1873, for the office of Coroner. He was defeated in both elections. He later changed his party affiliation to Republican and was active in local politics in the 1890s and 1900s.
Charles Baldwin served with the Camden Fire Department without interruption until May 7, 1874 when he was one of ten firemen removed from service, six of whom were from the Hook & Ladder Company. The removal may have been for political reasons, as partisan politics played a great role in appointments to the police and fire departments in those days, and Chief of the Fire Department was an elective office.
By 1878 Charles Baldwin and his family had moved to 903 North 3rd Street in North Camden. He worked as an “agent,” and for a time as a paperhanger. The 1880 Census shows Charles M. Baldwin, wife Kate, and son Clifford J. Baldwin, then 10 years of age, at 903 North 3rd Street.
By the mid-1883 the Baldwin family had moved to 524 South 3rd Street. Charles Baldwin was then working as a conductor for the Pennsylvania Railroad. He was still in that job in 1885, by which time he had moved his family to 602 Spruce Street. He stayed with the railroad until about 1895.
During the 1880s Charles M. Baldwin was a member of Gatling Gun Company B of the New Jersey National Guard.
The 1895–1896 City Directory shows that Charles M. Baldwin had gone into the real estate business at 1023 Newton Avenue and had also been elected Justice of the Peace. He was still living at 602 Spruce Street when the 1906 City Directory was compiled, and had an office at 1023 Newton Avenue, where he conducted his business as the Justice of the Peace and alderman in what was then the Sixth Ward.
On March 6, 1907 Kate A. Baldwin passed away. Services were held at 602 Spruce Street, then she was laid to rest at Harleigh Cemetery.
The 1910 Census shows that Charles M. Baldwin had remarried. He was living with his wife, Margaret and her three daughters, May, Margaret, and Alice Chamberlin, at 516 Cherry Street. The 1910–1911 Camden City Directory also shows that Charles M. Baldwin had remarried and was living with his wife Margaret at 516 Cherry Street. He was still Justice of the Peace and a Commissioner of Deeds, working out of 1023 Newton Avenue.
Charles M. Baldwin passed away on March 12, 1913. The 1914 Camden City Directory states that his widow, Mrs. Margaret Baldwin, was then living at 320 Mickle Street. Clifford E. Baldwin was still living at 602 Spruce Street when he passed on July 2, 1937. Grandson Clifford A. Baldwin Sr. had a long and distinguished career in Camden as a lawyer and served as Camden County Prosecutor in 1930.
Besides his affiliation with the above-mentioned Seven Wise Men, Charles M. Baldwin was also a member of Camden’s Volunteer Fireman’s Association, the Legion of the Red Cross, the Knights of the Golden Eagle, the Commercial Club, and the Sixth Ward Republican Club.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER THE RIVER.
BURGLARY AND THEFT—MALICIOUS MISCHIEF—VIOLATING THE REVENUE LAWS—FORTUNE TELLING—POLITICAL—CRIMINAL BUSINESS OF THE COURT.
...The store of Mr. Dorran, on Central avenue, in the Eighth Ward, was broken into on Monday night and robbed of a lot of meats, potatoes and other articles. The thieves effected an entrance by boring out a panel in the door.
...Yesterday Justice Cassady held Charles Powell, John Fowler, Isaiah Dill, Charles Brown, William Seeds and Josiah Sulkey, to answer charges of tumultuous assemblage and malicious mischief.
...Mahlon Vonbeskirk and John Cavarly were before United States Commissioner James M. Cassady, yesterday, on a final hearing, for violating the United States Revenue laws in selling liquors and segars without taking out the special license as required. They were held to answer at the United States District Court.
...Justice Cassady yesterday held Abraham Williamson and Ellen, his wife, who reside in the Seventh Ward, to answer at court a charge of keeping a disorderly house, and professing to be fortune-tellers.
...Both parties in Camden county have now completed their tickets to be voted for on the 4th proximo. They are as follows:—Democratic—Sheriff, Henry Fredericks; Collector, Frederick Bourquin; Coroner, Thos. L. Rowand, Charles M. Baldwin, William H. Griffin; Assembly, Ebenezer Westcott, Caleb F. Rogers, Chalkley Albertson. Republican—Sheriff, Henry Fredericks; Collector, Ezra Stokes; Assembly, William H. Coles, George H. Carse, Isaac Forman, Coroner, James A. Armstrong, William Ross, Alexander A. Powell.
...The criminal business of the Camden courts has been set down to commence next week.
...The court house was crowded yesterday by an anxious concourse of people to hear the lawyers plead in the Mickle will case, and a deep interest was manifested. The pleading did not close until about half-past six o'clock last evening. Judge Woodhull will charge the jury this morning, when they will retire to deliberate upon their verdict.
...A man, giving his name as Pritchett, residing in the country, while driving his team along Market street, near the railroad crossing, fell under the wagon, the wheels of which passed over his left shoulder, bruising and injuring him quite severely, but no bones were broken.
...Last evening a man, named Patrick McDevlin, was arrested and committed to the city lockup, charged with creating a disturbance and fighting on one of the ferry boats.
History of Camden County, New Jersey
George Reeser Prowell, 1886
GATLING GUN COMPANY B, of Camden, was organized in 1878 under the now law providing for the organization of two companies of infantry to be drilled in the use of Gatling guns. Captain E. D. French was the prime mover in its organization and the first commandant. The membership was recruited principally from old Battery B. The artillery uniform was worn, and in addition to the Gatlings, the company was armed with rifles and sabers.John H. Piatt was elected first lieutenant on July 24, 1879, and the first conspicuous public display made by the new company was at Grant’s reception in Philadelphia, December 16, 1879. In 1880 the company participated in the State G.A.R. encampment at Bonaparte Park, Bordentown, and took a prominent part in the sham battle with their Gatling guns. Captain French resigned on April 17, 1880, and Mr. Piatt was elected captain and John J. Brown first lieutenant, George G. Randall having been elected second lieutenant on January 18th. Mr. Randall resigned in June, 1881, and Charles Shivers, Jr., was elected to his position October 13th. Two weeks after this the company turned out in the Bicentennial military parade with its Gatlings.
This command is attached to the Second Brigade under General William J. Sewell as the brigade commander. In September, 1883, Lieutenant Brown resigned and on October 1st Captain Piatt and Lieutenant Shivers also resigned. Lieutenant-Colonel D. B. Murphy was placed in command until December 28, 1883, when its present efficient commandant, Captain Robert R. Eckendorf, was elected. The company was then recruited up to the legal standard. Gatling Gun Company B occupies quarters in the new armory adjoining the Camden Battalion.
The following are its officers and members: Captain, R. R. Eckendorf; First Lieutenant, John R. Jones; Second Lieutenant, G. Walter Garton; First Sergeant, Owen B. Jones; Second Sergeant, James Duffy; Third Sergeant, Harry M. Dey; Fourth Sergeant, Harry Nichuals; Fifth Sergeant, Samuel Grovier; First Corporal, Louis B. Harris; Second Corporal, Harry Tobin; Third Corporal, Ulie J. Lee; Musicians, David Mead, Charles Mead; Privates, Charles M. Baldwin, Harry F. Campbell, Alonzo W. Powers, John J. Chambers, William Grover, David Ewan, Earnest Haines, Leander Hyatt, George H. Beard, Thomas F. Miugen, Samuel C. Grover, John Mulholland, Harry G. Rathgeb, Charles Enger, Jacob Haines, Edwin Hillman, Webster McClellan, Charles A. Fowler, James J. Duffy, Charles H. Jefferies, Frederick W. Kalt, Harry D. Nichuals, William Lawler, Dalgren Albertson, George Middleton, John E. Shannon, John Nixon, George H. Snowhill, William H. Adams, J. R. Smyth, Ralph Bond, Archie S. Royal, G. Parker Johnson, Frank Smith, D. Harry Condit, M. A. Cole, Frank T. Hayes, Charles P. Householder, Samuel Donaldson.
Gossip of the Lodge Rooms
Philadelphia Inquirer —
GOSSIP OF THE LODGE ROOMS.
A LARGE NUMBER OF INSTITUTIONS DURING THE WEEK.
Cincinnatus Lodge to Visit Chester Odd Fellows in a Body—The Meeting of the Supreme Commandery.
Things have been quiet to a degree during the past week, and beyond the Marigold Tea at the Odd Fellows' Home there was little to excite attention. Social amenities continue in various lodges, and winter entertainments will be in favor for some time to come.
KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN EAGLE.
P. C. Frank Koehler has been elected Captain of the Drill Corps of Germania Castle, No. 174.
Two membership teams have been organized in Washington Castle, No. 3, of Camden. The one proposing the highest number of candidates will enjoy an oyster supper.
Teutonia Castle, No. 381, has presented Grand Instructor George Arnold with a handsome cane for valuable services to the castle.
Sir Knight Charles M. Baldwin, of Washington Castle, No. 3, of Camden, and his wife celebrated their silver wedding on Friday.
Old-Time Fire Laddies.
Philadelphia Inquirer —
They Ran With a New Machine and Revived Memories of Former Service.
The old-time volunteer firemen of Camden renewed their youth last night, when they donned their uniforms, and amidst the clanging of bells and cheers and fireworks, dragged proudly through the streets a handsome new hose carriage.
Although the volunteers have been out of active service since 1869 they keep up their organization, and have headquarters at Broadway and Mount Vernon streets, where they meet to swap stories of the halcyon days when they were young and ran with the machine.
The new carriage was built in Reading and brought to Philadelphia last evening. A committee from the Philadelphia Volunteer Firemen’s Association escorted it to the Market Street Ferry. On the Camden side a parade was formed.
First came Marshal Charles M. Baldwin, with Abraham E. Jackson and Alfred Matlack as his aids. Then the line was made up of Woodbury and Friendship Companies, from Woodbury; Haddon Fire Company, of Haddonfield, with a handsome hose carriage; William Penn Hook and Ladder Company, No. 1, of Stockton, bearing a handsome banner, and finally, the escort of Philadelphia volunteers and the Camden firemen dragging their new carriage, which bore the date “1815” and was decorated with flowers.
The police authorities had suspended the order against fireworks, and the volunteers were greeted with pyrotechnics all along the line of march. The decorations and display at No. 2 Engine House, the headquarters of the Camden Fire Department, were especially lavish.
After the carriage was paraded and housed the visiting firemen were entertained at the headquarters of the Camden Volunteers.
Talked About in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Talked About In Camden
Justice Charles M. Baldwin has been selected as Chief Marshal of the Volunteer Firemen’s Association for the parade at Haddonfield on Thanksgiving Day.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER IN CAMDEN
St. Joseph's Polish Beneficial Society filed articles of incorporation yesterday in the County Clerk's office.
Charles G. Monroe, colored, aged 62 years, dropped dead yesterday in front of his residence, at 321½ Division street.
Edward Dorigan, of Port Richmond, was seized with a hemorrhage yesterday at Point and Pearl streets and died before a physician could be summoned.
A dispute in the Volunteer Firemen's Association over the manner of celebrating Washington's Birthday has resulted in the resignation of Charles M. Baldwin as president and a member.
Commissioners Beldon and Black expect to resume taking testimony in the municipal investigation within a few days, as they have nearly completed the examination of the books in the Tax Receiver's office.
Plans have been accepted for the new Catholic Lyceum Association Building, to be erected at Broadway and Federal streets, by the members of the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Work on the building will be commenced about May 1.
Testing the Lloyd Law
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden Justice Marries a Couple Without a License and Is Held in Bail.
Camden justices of the peace having been advised that the Lloyd marriage license law is unconstitutional, have determined to carry it up to the Supreme Court on a test case. Justice Charles M. Baldwin volunteered to be the vicarious sacrifice and risk the penalty of $500 fine or six months’ imprisonment for marrying a couple without a license. He performed the ceremony yesterday. The groom was a Philadelphian and the bride a resident of Vineland. They were not deterred by the possibility of the legality of the marriage being questioned.
Immediately after the ceremony Justice Baldwin was arraigned before Justice of the Peace Schmitz and held in bail, charged with violating the Lloyd marriage license law. When the case comes before the court it will be certioraried to the Supreme Court. Lawyer and Assemblyman H. S. Scovel, who advised the justices that the law is not constitutional, will represent Justice Baldwin.
Not Ready for the Test
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Justice Baldwin Has Not Violated the Lloyd Law.
The well-laid plan of Camden Justices of the Peace to test the validity of the Lloyd marriage license law has not yet been fully consummated. Acting upon the advice of a prominent Camden lawyer, who holds that the law is unconstitutional, the justices proposed to have one of their number marry a couple without a license. Another justice was to hold him in bail and the case was to be certioraried to the Supreme Court for a decision upon the Lloyd law.
Justice of the Peace Charles M. Baldwin, who was to have taken the initiative in producing the test case, consulted with Prosecutor Jenkins on Saturday, and was advised not to incur the risk of the penalty provided for violating the Lloyd law. Acting upon this advice Justice Baldwin did not marry a couple without a license, in accordance with the pre-arranged plan, nor was he held in bail by Justice Schmitz.
The test case may yet be presented, however, as there is much dissatisfaction with the Lloyd law, and it is the belief of many lawyers that the Supreme Court would declare it invalid. The Camden justices believe that they would be doing a service to the public in testing the law.
Aspirants for Republican Nomination for Recorder
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.
Mayoralty Talk Over In Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
MAYORALTY TALK OVER IN CAMDEN
Election Not Far Off, But Leaders Cannot Agree on a Candidate
UP TOWN VS. DOWN
Committee of One Hundred Confident of Winning This Time—Democrats Divided
Camden’s municipal election, which will be held five weeks hence, promises to be one of the most hotly contested campaigns ever held in that city. The Committee of One Hundred, inspired by steady gains in the past, will make strenuous effort to wrest the control of municipal affairs from the Republicans. The prospects for their success seem brighter than in any previous campaign. A Mayor, Recorder and ten Councilmen are to be elected. The ordinances cutting off the fees of city officials will probably be passed in time to affect the officials elected this spring.
Although the election is not far distant the Republican leaders cannot agree upon a candidate for Mayor.
John Campbell, Jr., a wealthy real estate dealer, was urged to accept the nomination, and petitions were being circulated amongt he [sic] business men in his favor, but he announced yesterday that he would not stand.
City Clerk Varney and Street Supervisor John Blowe want a candidate from the lower section of the city, where the big Republican majorities are returned. Ex-Potmaster [sic] Henry B. Wilson, a coal dealer of Kaighn’s avenue, is the leading down-town candidate. City Counsel J. Willard Morgan is said to favor his candidacy. Harry Wolfe, Director of the Board of Freeholders, is looming up as a down-town candidate. He is backed by City Assessor Chris J. Mines, who aspires to be something more than a ward leader.
Mayor Westcott, who has had two terms, will not be a candidate for renomination. Isaac Doughten, the fearless foreman of the present grand jury, declines to stand as a candidate.
An effort is also being made to bring out R. H. Reeve, of the Second ward, for the Republican nomination for Mayor. He was a candidate for City Treasurer on the Committee of One Hundred ticket two years ago. It is claimed that he can divert some of the reform vote to the Republican ticket.
As the Committee of One Hundred name their candidates in secret conclave, but little is known of their plans. Either Cooper B. Hatch or Lewis H. Mohrman may head their ticket. Hatch came near defeating Mayor Westcott three years ago. Mohrman is the Reform leader in Council. Both are from the Second ward. Ex-Senator Maurice Rogers, of the Fifth ward, would like to head the Reform ticket.
The Democrats are split into two factions, the Regular and the County Democracy, and these are again divided on the question of making a hopeless fight with a straight ticket or indorsing the Committee of One Hundred nominees with the prospect of winning.
There will be a warm contest for the Republican nomination for City Recorder, which is to become a salaried position. The Councilmanic contests are still far from being settled.
Camden Political Chat
The Committee of One Hundred has certiorarled the ordinance creating two new precincts in the Fourth ward. The writ is returnable on February 19. Copies were served on City Clerk Varney and the County Board of Elections yesterday.
The County Board of Elections made several changes yesterday in precinct election boards. Secretary Fitzgerald called attention to precinct boards filling vacancies without notifying the County Board. The matter will be investigated.
Committee of One Hundred challengers started in yesterday to canvass for the spring election.
The Registry Boards will sit on next Tuesday, and again on the 18th instant.
The Sixth Ward Republican Club has indorsed Justice Charles M. Baldwin for the Republican nomination for Recorder.
Friends of Councilman Jesse C. Bond, of the First ward, want him to accept renomination on the Committee of One Hundred ticket.
The First Ward Republican Club has indorsed the candidacy of Joseph Potter for City Council. He also has the support of the Camden Republican Club. He was defeated for re-election as a Councilman last spring.
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.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER IN CAMDEN
By a fall on an icy pavement, Benjamin F. Pullen, of 449 Trenton avenue, broke his leg.
The Miller Ladies' Custom Tailoring Company, capital stock $10,000, with $2650 paid in, filed articles of incorporation in the County Clerk's office yesterday.
The remains of George Waters, who was burned to death in a Pittsburg hotel fire, were yesterday interred in Camden, services being held at his former home, 451 Liberty street.
The converted yacht Huntress, loaned by the Navy Department for the use of the Camden Naval Reserves, will not be brought from the Brooklyn Navy Yard to Camden until calm weather is assured.
Camden Justices of the Peace have organized to secure legislation that will increase their fees. Their president, Justice Charles M. Baldwin, will represent the organization at the State Convention of Justices to be held at Paterson.
Two colored lads stole a pocketbook containing $10 from Mrs. Bram in Camden a few days ago. Clarence Williams was arrested and committed to jail, and yesterday Clarence Sewell was taken into custody. The latter admitted that he and Williams took the pocketbook. He was committed for trial.
The officers of the Sixth Regiment, N. G. N. J., are considering the advisability of giving a ball, which would no doubt be a repetition of the very successful social function given last winter when their new army was formally opened. A meeting of the committee which had charge of that affair will be held at the office of Lieutenant-Colonel West, County Surrogate, at four o'clock this afternoon.
For Sale Advertisement: 610 Walnut Street, Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden
FOR SALE-CHEAP. NO REASONABLE OFFER refused: 8-room house, store front, suitable for dry goods or ice cream saloon; bath, gas and all improvements. 610 Walnut st., Camden. Inquire Charles M. Baldwin, 1025 Newton ave., Camden, N. J.
Police Court
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Joseph Hennessy, Mary McCann and John Foster, (not the chief of police), were sentenced to ten days each by Acting Recorder Baldwin this morning for drunkenness.
Foster was arrested by Policeman Robert Miller and had in his possession a roll of new oil cloth which he said he bought in Philadelphia. The police believe the cloth was stolen.
Camden Cop’s First Night on the Force
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Given an Ovation and Squire Headed a Crowd That Thought Murder Had Been Committed
Philip Knauf, appointed a policeman by Mayor Ellis, in Camden, yesterday, will not likely forget his appearance as an officer. Incidentally South Camden will also remember the incident. When Knauf went to make his first “pull” at 7 o’clock last night he was escorted to the box by a score of brother officers. Before he reached the box at Broadway and Spruce streets he was presented with a big bouquet by Adam T. Davis. He had only proceeded a square when George Horneff saluted him with a revolver shot and fireworks.
Just about this time ‘Squire Charles Baldwin appeared with a crowd, who thought someone had been murdered. The doughty ‘squire was armed, and the new officer was lost in the rapidly increasing crowd before matters were explained.
Simon Committed by Justice Baldwin
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Charles Simon, of Philadelphia, a lineman in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad, was committed to the county jail by Justice Baldwin, on the charge of attempted assault preferred by Mrs. Eliza J. Scofield, of Mt. Ephraim, N. J., and alleged to have been committed February 6, 1906.
Commercial Club Elects Officers
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Commercial Club has elected these officers. President, Jacob Daubman; vice-president, J. S. Gallagher; recording secretary, F. H. Goodfellow; financial secretary, Charles M. Baldwin; treasurer, Philip Wilson.
Camden Memorial Day Committee
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden Memorial Day Committee
In order that Camden veterans may have an elaborate celebration on Memorial Day, Mayor Ellis yesterday appointed the following committee of citizens to act in conjunction with them: William D. Vanaman, William Sangtinette, Frank W. Tussey, William Fox, Dr. J.W. Martindale, Walter L. Tushingham, Ira E. Lutte, Harry C. Kramer, John W. Coleman, Bernhard Schroeder, Edward H. Nieland, Daniel M. Stevens, W.F. Powell, Abe Fuhrman, Jacob Neutze, Francis B. Wallen, Charles A. Ackley, Louis T. Derousse, James M. Bentley, John K. Newkirk, William Schmid, John Larsen, Sigismund Schoenagle, Charles M. Baldwin, and Harry A. Whaland.
Camden Will Observe Decoration Day
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN WILL OBSERVE DECORATION DAY
Camden has completed its arrangements for the annual Memorial Day exercises. All the local G. A. R. posts will visit the cemeteries early in the day to decorate the graves of their comrades.
At the Soldiers’ Monument special exercises will be held, one of the features being the singing of patriotic airs by school children. The assemblage will be called to order by Comrade William Thompson, prayer will be offered by Rev. A. H. Newton, the children will sing and a volley of musketry will be fired. Exercises will afterwards be held in the First M. E. Church, the oration to be delivered by Hon. Isaac T. Nichols, of Bridgeton. Camp fires will be held at night.
Richard Dease is marshal of the parade and H. L. Hartshorn assistant.
The veterans have been assisted in their preparation by a citizens’ committee appointed by Mayor Ellis, as follows: William D. Vanaman, chairman; Charles S. Ackley, Charles M. Baldwin, James M. Bentley, John W. Coleman, C. K. Deacon, Malachi D. Cornish, Louis T. Derousse, William Fox, Abe Fuhrman, Harry C. Kramer, Ira E. Lute, J. W. Martindale, Jacob Neutze, Edward Nieland, H. S. Riddle, William Sangtinette, Bernard F. Schroeder, William Schmid, Sigismund Schoenagle, Daniel M. Stevens, W. L. Tushingham, Frank W. Tussey, Francis B. Wallen and Harry Whaland.
Camden Will Observe Decoration Day
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden has completed its arrangements for the annual Memorial Day exercises. All the local G. A. R. posts will visit the cemeteries early in the day to decorate the graves of their comrades.
At the Soldiers’ Monument special exercises will be held, one of the features being the singing of patriotic airs by school children. The assemblage will be called to order by Comrade William Thompson, prayer will be offered by Rev. A. H. Newton, the children will sing and a volley of musketry will be fired. Exercises will afterwards be held in the First M. E. Church, the oration to be delivered by Hon. Isaac T. Nichols, of Bridgeton. Camp fires will be held at night.
Richard Dease is marshal of the parade and H. L. Hartshorn assistant.
The veterans have been assisted in their preparation by a citizens’ committee appointed by Mayor Ellis, as follows. William D. Vanaman, chairman; Charles S. Ackley, Charles M. Baldwin, James M. Bentley, John W. Coleman, C. K. Deacon, Malachi D. Cornish, Louis T. Derousse, William Fox, Abe Fuhrman, Harry C. Kramer, Ira E. Lute, J. W. Martindale, Jacob Neutze, Edward Nieland, H. S. Riddle, William Sangtinette, Bernard F. Schroeder, William Schmid, Sigismund Schoenagle, Daniel M. Stevens, W. L. Tushingham, Frank W. Tussey, Francis B. Wallen and Harry Whaland.
Death Claims ‘Squire Baldwin
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Death Claims 'Squire Baldwin
One of the best known of Camden's Dobberrys, Squire Charles M. Baldwin, died early yesterday morning at his home at 516 Cherry street, at the age of 70 years. He had been ill several months with a complication of diseases. Squire Baldwin was one of the characters of South Camden and in point of service was the oldest magistrate in the city. For many years he had an office under Newton Hall, recently razed to make way for a more modern building. He had several thousand cases before him and because of his wide knowledge of human frailties he was able to patch up many differences, especially of a domestic character. He was a member of the Volunteer Firemen's Association, the Legion of the Red Cross, Knights of the Golden Eagle, Commercial Club and the Sixth Ward Republican Club.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN NEWS NOTES
Pleading guilty to a charge of stealing a suit of clothes from Mont Simkins, at whose Camden home he was visiting, and arguing for clemency on the ground that he had never before been in trouble, Jerome Marshon was freed on suspension of sentence by Judge Boyle.
The Thirteenth Ward Democratic Club has been formed with these officers. President, Thomas Bart; vice president, James Livezey; treasurer, John H. Moloney; secretary, George Gallagner; trustees, William Webber, Gus Marquard and Lewis Mickle.
Camden Aerie, No. 65, F. O. E., will give its annual dress ball at its own auditorium on Monday evening of next week.
Succeeding Charles M. Baldwin, deceased, R. L. Rosenthal has been made an Alderman in the Sixth ward. George Eately has been appointed constable in the Ninth ward, succeeding L. F. Middleton, resigned.
Taking the ground that it has never refused to repair streets for which it is under bond for a term of ten years, the United Paving Company has served notice on the city that it will not be bound by the action of Council in ordering the Highway Department to do the work at the company's expense.
Holdings valued at $503,119.33 are shown by the first account of the executors of the estate of Jane Grey Dayton.
The County Tax Board yesterday reduced the Eastern Telephone Company's Collingswood assessment from $10,250 to $8500. The board also cut the same company's assessment in Centre township from $8000 to $5200.
Hotel Holdup Denied By 3 On Witness Stand
Camden Evening Courier —
Alleged Bandits Tell Jury They Were Gambling at Time of Robbery
Waterhouse in Clash With State’s Attorney
Defendant Says Money Found in Taxi Had Been Won in Gloucester
Three Camden men on trial on charges of holding up the night clerk and elevator operator of the Hotel Camden November 21, and robbing them of $67.43, went on the stand in their own defense today and made a complete denial.
They are Rollie Waterhouse, 19, of 422 Mechanic street; Joseph McKenna, 29, of 550 Lansdowne avenue; and Ralph Endt, 23, of 1161 Van Hook street. Under direct examination by their counsel, Samuel P. Orlando, and in cross examination by Prosecutor Baldwin, they presented an alibi in which they said they had been gambling in Gloucester at or about the time of the holdup.
Waterhouse and the prosecutor clashed while the former took the stand as the first defense witness. It was after Waterhouse had retraced his movements of the morning of the holdup that Prosecutor Baldwin started to delve further into Waterhouse’s affairs.
Under cross examination, Waterhouse admitted that he hasn’t worked for a year. He stated he lived with a sister.
“Where do you get the money with which to gamble?” asked Baldwin.
“From my brother.”
Then, after Waterhouse averred he had left Gloucester for Camden between 5 and 5.30 a.m., “just at dawn,” Baldwin asked him if he knew that on that particular morning the sun rose at 6.51 a.m.
“I don’t know anything about the sun rising,” replied Waterhouse. “It was just beginning to become daylight.”
Then Baldwin questioned him closely about a gambling den which Waterhouse said he had visited with McKenna and Endt early that morning.
He averred he did not know the name of the proprietor nor its exact address, except that it was on Jersey avenue between Seventh and Eighth streets, Gloucester. He didn’t know the names of any of the other men there, except there was an “Ed,” “Quirt” and “John.”
“Would you be willing to point out this house to the prosecutor if he went down there with you this afternoon?” asked Orlando.
“Yes.”
Refuses to Make Complaint
“If you showed it to me, would you be willing to sign a complaint against the proprietor?” pressed Baldwin.
“No. Why should I?” asked Waterhouse.
Waterhouse, in direct examination, testified that he and his two companions had gone to the private house in Gloucester and played dice. He said he won some money, and the three walked to Broadway at about 5.30 a.m., where they got a “hop” to Camden with a motorist whom they did not know. They alighted at Broadway and Federal streets, and decided to go to a Turkish bathhouse at Twelfth and Federal streets in Philadelphia. They went to Broadway and Cooper street, where they called a cab.
In the cab, Waterhouse said, he took out his winnings and started to count them in order to split with his companions. He referred to his friends as “Mr. Endt” and “Mr. McKenna.” He had the money in his hands when the cab was stopped by bridge police. He placed it on the seat. Under cross-examination, he said he did not know how the money came to be found under the seat. He said he might have had a P.R.T. token, as he sometimes used the tokens in Philadelphia. A token was in the loot stolen from the hotel.
He then told how the night clerk could not identify him or McKenna, and hesitated before identifying Endt, finally saying to the latter that “if it wasn’t you, it was your twin brother.” When questioned how he had happened to have a paper roll of five-cent pieces, Waterhouse said some of the money he had won was paid to him in that form. His winnings, he said, comprised one-dollar bills and change, and he had counted up to $50 when the bridge cops appeared.
Waterhouse was a state’s witness at the trial of Albert Saunders, who was acquitted of the murder of Angelo Solury, U.S. sailor slain in the Little Club, a Mount Vernon street speakeasy, last June. At that time it was not the state but the defense which brought out that Waterhouse to all appearances was a “man about town,” in that he did not work for a living.
At Saunders’ trial, Saunders and two other defense witnesses flatly accused Waterhouse of the Solury murder. When the jury exonerated Waterhouse, Prosecutor Baldwin was asked if Waterhouse would be arrested. The prosecutor averred that the “case is closed.” A short time later Waterhouse was arrested in the hotel holdup and was also identified as the “gunman” in a Paulsboro gas station holdup. McKenna and Endt had also been held as material witnesses in the Solury murder, but were not called upon to testify by the state.
Defense Motions Denied
The state rested at 10.37 a.m., and then Judge Shay denied two motions by Orlando for a directed verdict of acquittal. Orlando first moved for acquittal of McKenna and Waterhouse.
Orlando held that the state had failed to identify Waterhouse and McKenna with the holdup, and that the fact they were arrested less than an hour after the holdup with Endt in a taxicab in which $67.83 was found under the seat, was purely circumstantial evidence occurring after the holdup. Defense counsel also pointed out that while Harry A. Auman, the clerk, had identified Endt as one of three bandits, he failed to identify Waterhouse and McKenna, and had even refused to sign a complaint against them in police court.
Second Motion Denied
When Judge Shay dismissed the motion on the ground that there was enough evidence to permit the case to go to the jury, Orlando then moved for a verdict of acquittal for all three defendants. He said the joint indictment against them charges “robbery by force and putting in fear,” and that the state had failed to prove the elements of robbery, that any violence was used or that Auman was put in fear.
Judge Shay denied the second motion, averring that the hotel lobby was dark, and one of the bandits placed something, a finger or a weapon, against Auman.
“If I were in his position, I would be frightened under those circumstances regardless of whether it was a gun or not, especially since it was too dark to determine this,” stated Judge Shay.
The state today moved to spike what had appeared to be the foundation of a defense alibi. Yesterday, Edward Schreyer, 124 North Tenth street, driver of the taxicab in which the three were arrested, testified that at 5.25 p.m., he had picked up three fares at the Pennsauken police station and taken them to Camden. A short time later, he picked up Waterhouse, McKenna and Endt at Broadway and Cooper street.
This was brought out under cross-examination by Orlando, and it indicated the defense might contend that the money might have been placed under the seat by the previous fares.
Three Fares Called
Today the state called the three fares, James McGinnis, 1115 Federal street; Joseph Dent, 318 Taylor avenue, and his brother, Walter Dent. They averred they had been playing cards at a friend’s house the preceding night and were speeding on Crescent boulevard when their car overturned near Central Airport. They were either at Cooper Hospital or at the Pennsauken police headquarters between 1.30 a.m. and 5.25 a.m. They said they had not been playing for money and had little cash.
Two Pennsauken policemen, Fred Weyman and James Hoff, corroborated their testimony insofar as their whereabouts at the time of the holdup. Sergeant Michael Bachmayer, of the Camden Bridge police, the last state’s witness, described how two bridge cops chased Schreyer’s cab on the bridge and overtook it to arrest the three suspects.