Introduction
George Clayton, circa 1939
GEORGE MAURICE CLAYTON, also known as Babe Clayton, was born October 26, 1886 in Pleasant Plains, Ocean County, New Jersey to George Clayton and the former Susan Gallagher. His uncle, Patrick Gallagher, was a well-known political figure in Camden. The family included older siblings Thomas, William, Mary Anna, Angeline, Clara, John, Kate, Charles and Frank Clayton.
The Clayton family had been living in the 600 block of Mt. Vernon Street as early as 1876. The 1880 Census shows them at 610 Mt. Vernon Street, by the time the 1881 City Directory was compiled they had moved to 605 Mt. Vernon Street.
When the Census was taken in June of 1900, 15 year old George Clayton had already left school to work as a pressman. Sadly, older brother William died in July of 1903, and older brother William passed in December of that year.
George Clayton was an excellent baseball player. He came up as a catcher and by the spring of 1905 was playing for the Camden Athletics team, and was recognized as one of the top young catchers in the city. He played some ball in the minor leagues, a newspaper report refers to a spell with the Baltimore Orioles in the Eastern League.
In 1903, sister Clara Clayton married George C. Boone, who later would be appointed to the Camden Fire Department. The young couple lived with the Clayton family at 605 Mt. Vernon Street for a few years. The 1910 Census shows the Boones and their four sons, George L., Harry, Maurice B. and Charles at before moving to 630 Mt. Vernon Street. On July 1, 1910 George C. Boone was appointed to the Camden Fire Department. Clara Clayton Boone died around 1912; George C. Boone and his sons moved back in with the Claytons at 605 Mt. Vernon Street.
George Clayton married in late 1906 or early 1907. His wife, the former Eleanor “Ellen” Schenck Howell, gave birth to a daughter Ida Clayton, in 1908, and a son, Howard Wesley Clayton, in 1909.
George Clayton played baseball for the Camden Athletic Club and Camden Police team, among others, in the 1900s and 1910s. He went out of town to play with the Baltimore team in the short-lived Union Professional League in 1908, but returned home in May. The league folded in June. He also played some minor league ball with a Connecticut team in the Eastern League. A hand injury and a family derailed any major league baseball career, sports not paying in those times what it does today.
George Clayton, circa 1910
George Clayton and his family resided with his parents at 605 Mt. Vernon Street to at least 1912, then moved to 821 Division Street. During the years on Division Street, at 822 Division lived Robert Knox. Both men worked for the American Ice Company. In January of 1917, while cutting ice at a lake in the Kirkwood section of Voorhees Township, both men and four others took part in rescuing a skater who had fallen through the ice. Both Knox and Raymond Burgess, who was one of the other rescuers, went on to join the Camden Fire Department.
Living in the Seventh Ward, he became involved to a small extent in local politics, allied with Alfred L. Sayers, for whom he named one of his twins sons, born August 11, 1917. Sadly, both little Alfred Clayton and brother Robert died in November of 1917, three days apart. In 1918 George Clayton worked as driver for the American Ice Company during the 1910s until he was appointed to the Camden Police Department in 1918. His neighbor, Robert Knox, had been appointed to the Camden Fire Department earlier in the year.
George Clayton family moved to 912 Mt. Ephraim Avenue in 1919. The Claytons were blessed with a daughter, Doris, in 1925.
George Clayton worked for the Camden Police Department for the rest of his life. He rose through the ranks serving in most every possible capacity— patrolman, motorcycle police, mounted police, jailer, desk sergeant, detective, and chief clerk of the department. He was cited a number of times for bravery. In 1932, while on a stakeout at the Camden post office, he arrested Robert I. Mears, a fugitive wanted for a string of over 20 robberies in Delaware, Maryland, and elsewhere.
George Clayton also served as acting Chief of the Police Department at times in the 1930s when Chief Arthur Colsey was away from the job. He was up for a promotion to captain in 1935, but was made chief clerk to save the cash-strapped city some money. He was promoted to captain in 1939.
George Clayton fell ill in August of 1947. He passed away at his home on Mt. Ephraim Avenue on November 16, 1947.
As stated above, George Clayton’s brother-in-law, George C. Boone, was a member of the Camden Fire Department. His sons, the nephews of George Clayton, both became Camden firemen, George L. Boone in, and Maurice B. Boone, in. Maurice’s son, David Boone, is a noted painter, specializing in watercolor paintings of tugboats on the Delaware River.
Social Chat and Gossip
Camden Daily Courier —
Rev. M. E. Bric will officiate at two weddings in the Church of the Sacred Heart this week. On Wednesday Miss Clara Clayton and George Boone will be married and on Thursday Miss Rosaria Pupa and Frank Pipito will be married.
League Clubs Meet To-Night
Camden Post-Telegram —
Magnates Will Confer With President Koelle and Discuss Plans.
Hill and Wagner Leave the Elms
There will be an important meeting of the Camden City League held this evening at the home of President Koelle, when various plans will be discussed looking towards the betterment of the league in general and the respective clubs individually.
During the last few days there has been a strengthening up in all departments of the teams, and the weaker players have been weeded out. Out among the Fairviews, George M. Clayton, the popular and speedy catcher of Camden City, has been signed, and will take part in the game on Saturday, when Fairview plays the East Ends, of Frankford, on their own grounds. Fred Schwab, second baseman of the Fairviews, has resigned because of being unable to play, which will be regretted by his many friends who have turned out to see him play. Manager Gibbs intends to carry on a general weeding out process and the weak places in his team will be found and better players secured.
Manager Garrett Cowls, of the M. W. Taylors, has put in a busy week since his last game and has signed good men. Wesey Wright, Samuel Noblett and C. Weisgerber. The old veteran intends to have a winning combination, and takes great pride in the fact that his team was the first to play an errorless game. In order to stay within the twelve-man limit, Lee G. Allen, William Pierson and Harry Smith have been dropped from the roster of the M. W. Taylors.
‘Squire William Davis, manager of the Camden Mechanics, has also been working hard to put his team in better shape. He has signed two of the best of local men in Chester Gandy and Otto W. Hofmann, and says his team has this Saturday off and plays a game on their home grounds at Woodlynne, in all probability their next appearance at Camden Ball Park will be quite a revelation to the South Camden club’s followers.
Harry J. Holeton and William L. Yeager have been released from the Mechanics, to make room for the two new men.
The Elm A. A. has lost the services of “Pete” Hill, undoubtedly the best catcher in the league, and “Jake” Wagner, who are going out of town to play ball. “Joby” Corbett, the popular down-town second baseman, has been secured, which will undoubtedly mean that Captain Rushworth will take care of the third corner. The Elms seem to be picked by many to win the pennant, but the season is yet very young and there are several very strong contenders for the “rag.”
The other East Side representative in the league, the Frank Foys, are practicing hard every evening, for they want to still have that 1,000 percentage after Saturday afternoon’s battle with the Camden Field Club. Manager Osborn will give his other twirler, Bennett, a chance on Saturday. Mr. Foy gave his men a grand “feed” and general good time last Saturday night on the strength of their victory, and the players appreciate the interest he has taken in the team named after him. Their mascot made a great hit with the spectators last Saturday.
The Camden Field Club played a great game against Camden City last Saturday, and the boys are in fine condition for their game Saturday. Manager Cole hopes to break the hoodoo that has followed his team the last three Saturdays and will make a strong bid to get out out [sic] of last place.
Altogether the teams will make a better showing this Saturday, and as the season advances will give Camden as good ball games at Twelfth and Federal streets as were ever played there under “Bob” Black’s regime. Being all local boys, it is up to Camdenites to come along and cheer their own home players.
Base Ball Bits
Camden Daily Courier —
Philadelphia Giants the Attraction at the Camden Grounds To-Day.
The Philadelphia Giants to-day, with Monroe down in Alabama.
George Clayton is sure a coming catcher. He is a chunky-built Irish-American lad with a strong, accurate aiming arm, and with his steady habits and good-natured disposition, is bound to be heard from in the very near future.
Camden to Play Benefit Game
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden will wind up its season next Saturday with a benefit game, the receipts of which are to go toward a fund being raised for Ike Toy, one of Camden’s most popular ball players of the early ‘90’s, who is at present very sick and most [sic] seek another climate. The Camden players have volunteered their services, and they will be opposed by a team composed of Wid Conroy, Kid Gleason, Harry Gleason, Danny Green, “Farmer” Steelman, George Clayton, Billy Fischman, Perry Verga and Eggie Lennox all local men playing in the various leagues. The police have the game in charge, and another big crowd is looked for.
Camden Beats All Stars
Philadelphia Inquirer —
In Benefit Game for Ike Toy Jersey Men Came Out On Top
The base ball season in Camden came to a close yesterday with a game between the regular Camden team and a nine made up of natives of Camden who played in the various leagues the past season. The game was for the benefit of “Ike” Toy, a former semi-professional star, but now a member of the Camden police force, and who is dying with consumption. Toy was a pitcher, and Harry Davis, the captain of the Athletics, was his catcher.
On the All-Star team was “Wild” Conroy, of the New York Americans; Eggie Lennox, whom the Athletics farmed out to Rochester; Smith and Kite, of the American Association; Wagner and Ross, of the Connecticut League; Corbett and Black, of the Southern League, and Clayton, of the Camden A. A.
The Camden team won by a score of 4 to 1, and only during base running by Conroy after he had made a hit in the first inning saved the Stars from a shutout.
CAMDEN.
r. h. o. a. e.
Flynn, lf. 1 1 2 0 0
Fisch’n, ss. 0 0 0 3 1
Berry, c. 1 1 7 0 1
Perkins, 1b 1 1 15 0 0
Heintz, rf. 0 0 0 0 0
White’k, 2b 0 0 2 5 0
Conley, ss. 0 0 1 3 0
Dobbins, cf 1 1 0 0 0
Weinb’er, p 0 0 0 1 0
Nowland, p 0 0 0 1 0
Totals 4 4 27 13 2
ALL STARS.
r. h. o. a. e.
Conroy, 3b 1 2 1 4 0
Smith, lf,ss 0 0 0 3 2
Len’x, ss,lf 0 0 1 2 1
Clayton, c 0 1 6 2 0
Wagner, 2b 0 0 1 0 0
Corbett, rf 0 1 0 0 1
Kite, cf 0 0 2 0 0
Black, 1b 0 0 12 1 1
Ross, p 0 0 1 5 0
Totals 1 4 24 17 5
All Stars 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0–1
Camden 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 x–4
Earned run—Camden. Two-base hits—Berry, Dobbins, Corbett. Stolen bases—Perkins, [?] Flynn. Struck out—By Weinberger, 5; by Nowland, 2; by Ross, 5. Bases on balls—Off Nowland, 1; off Ross, 4. Double play—Conley, Whitelock and Perkins. Time—1h. 30m. Umpire—Stanton.
Camden’s Team Will Not Be in Full Blast Until May 4, But There’s Much Doing
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden City Will Get Going on April 27, and Is in Shape to Play Ball Now
Camden’s baseball fans are anxiously waiting for the coming of May 4. That is the date on which the season across the river will be formally opened. While the event is in itself one calculated to stir all supporters of the national game, the opening of the season in Camden will be doubly attractive from the fact that the city’s two biggest teams, Camden and Athletics, will line up against one another. This contest will enable the fans to get a line on the respective teams right at the outset of the season and will help them to decide as how best to place their wagers when the championship battles are fought later on.
During the past week big “Cy” Perkins, manager of the Camden team, has further prosecuted his search for material that will insure the city having the best team possible to get, and as a result of his labors Perkins has a large array of talent from which to pick. While the loss of Howard Berry is regretted by the management and fans alike, Perkins has a quartet of backstops to select from, and he is confident of getting a satisfactory one out of the four. Those under consideration are Arthur Vickers, George Clayton, William Burke and William Schiffler.
Clayton is negotiating with the Rochester team, of the Eastern League, and the likelihood is that he will sign to play there. If he decided to stay at Camden, though, it is pretty certain he will be found looking after the receiving end at the Twelfth and Federal streets grounds. Should Clayton sign with Rochester that team will have three Camden boys in its line-up—Eggie Lennox, whom Connie Mack got from Lancaster and then farmed out; Catcher Morris Stellman, on whom Mack also has a string, and Clayton.
Besides Weinberger and Nowland, Perkins has his eye on a crackajack left-hander for his pitching department. The infield will be picked from Fogel, Reynolds, Melcher, Carroll, Whitelock and Barr. Perkins, Heinze and Bakley will likely be the outfielders.
Contracts for improvements at the ball park have been let, and just as soon as the weather conditions will permit workmen will start getting the grounds in shape for play.
The Camden City Club, the pride of the southeastern section of the city, will open the season on April 27, with the Athletics as the attraction. Manager Gardner has re-signed nearly all of his last year’s players, and in addition will have Mike Halsinger, a star of twenty years ago, in his line-up. Halsinger was a side partner of Bill Gleason’s on the famous Camden team of the early ’80s, and is still as spry and as active as the Phillies’ captain. Gardner’s team will be made up as follows: Williams, catcher; Hughes, pitcher; Johnson, first base; Evans, second base; Price, third base; Smith, shortstop; Halsinger, right field; Costell, centre field, and Schultz, left field.
Old Camden Police Team Had Loads of Fun in 1907
Camden Courier-Post —
WHEN FATHER WAS A BOY!
Veteran Bluecoats Recall Days When Games Were Picnics
Two Now Pensioned
THE CAMDEN POLICE TEAM OF 1907. Front row, left to right — William Kiker, Walter “Weep” Stanton, “Dick” Haines, Lou “Dutch” Urban. Back row — Charles Whalen, Fred Lechleidner, George Hill, Otto Erdbrink, George “Babe” Clayton and Captain Lincoln James.
One score and two years ago, before racketeers and prohibition invaded the quiet and serenity of this then peaceful town, a jolly band of bluecoats hammered horsehides around sundry South Jersey lots. They comprised the Camden Police baseball team.
Today that same group of hardy men who climbed out of their brass buttons into the regalia of ball players still can gather to “chew the rag” about “those good old days.”
Three of them wore moustaches and the upper lip adornment didn’t create the comment that would result if tossers of the current era were to stroll out on the battlefield all bewhiskered. There is little to write about of their record of 1907. They played whenever they could book a game. These tilts were more or less in the nature of little picnics for the guardians of the law and each game stirred them to a point of enthusiasm that made them feel like kids once again.
The team pictured above was photographed at Blackwood during the hot, sweltering summer of 1907 when they played the Public Service nine there.
William “Bill” Kiker, whom youngsters will say is “one strict cop,” because he somehow seemed always around when they were hopping on wagons, or snitching a chunk of ice while the peddler of that cooling product was engaged elsewhere, played center field. He still lives on Spruce street, near Haddon avenue and patrols a downtown beat. A husky fellow, was Kiker, and he still steps with a lively gait although the thatches under his blue lid have greyed.
‘Weep’ Daddy of Veterans
The “daddy of all veterans,” that call him. He is Walter “Weep” Stanton and may be met any evening in the central part of the city as he jogs gaily over his rounds, seemingly unmindful of the years that have changed his hair to a snowy hue. “Weep” chased fly balls in right field and was a demon on the bases, and for many years was regarded as one of the foremost baseball characters in Camden.
“Dick” Haines, whose powerful right arm bent benders across the dish in a tantalizing manner, held the Public Service batters to one run that day while the “Coppers” tallied seven. Throughout the entire heaving career of this genial, smooth-faced lad his slants escaped the murderous aims of his opposing sluggers. “Dick” had a good whip, knew when to stick his fast one over and only required a fair amount of breaks in the field along with a good backstop to come out on top. Haines is now a prosperous furrier in Brooklyn, N. Y., and recently paid a visit to Camden, to renew acquaintances here.
‘Babe’ Played All Over
George “Babe” Clayton, whose black curly hair and ever-present smile drew attention from what few fair fans attended the games in those days, was battery mate to Haines. A peppery player who kept up a rapid-fire line of chatter “Babe” held Haines keyed up from start to finish and his snappy wing cut many daring runners off the bags or when they tried to pilfer the sacks. Clayton undoubtedly played with more teams than any other member of this squad. A consistent hitter, to a degree, he knocked around with nearly all of the leading teams in this city. Then he toiled under the banners of Merchantville, Medford, Vincentown and even down in Salem during the old South Jersey circuit. “Babe” later played with Baltimore of the Union League and had a fling up in Connecticut with an Eastern League outfit. He’s a bit enlarged around the waist now and it seems that his once jet-black locks are beginning to turn, but the “Babe” is just as jolly and can spin a police motor-bike around in his same lively fashion.
‘Cap’ James Still on the Job
Captain Lincoln James, then a veteran tosser for one of the old Camden clubs, played third base for the coppers, being teamed up in the infield with Charley Whalen, at first, George Hill at second and Lou “Dutch” Urban at the shortfield. Captain James is still in active charge out at the City Hall while Whalen and Hill both have retired via the pension route. Urban played with a number of teams hereabouts and is a keen follower of the national pastime today. This quartet proved a huge problem for any opposing players and freely handed out headaches to umpires.
Fred Lechleidner, one of the outfielders who sported a moustache, patroled the left side of the pasture. He is that dignified gendarme who occupies the post of sergeant-at-arms in the Camden Police Court where Judge Garfield Pancoast is the umpire-in-chief.
Otto Erdbrink, shown in the above photo, was one of those fellows who liked to travel around with “the boys.” He was a loyal fan, rarely missing a game in which the “cops” were booked to battle.
Camden Athletic Club — 1906
Camden Courier-Post —
From the Camden Courier-Post of June 8, 1930 — The writer got the year wrong, this is the 1906 Camden Athletic Club team.
Named: Camden Athletic Club, Claude N. Davis, George “Babe” Clayton, “Big Bill” Humphries, “Tip” O’Neill, “Seck” Hewitt, Frank Ziegler, Joe Harvey, William Pies, William H. Davis, William Gilmore, Thomas J. Doyle, Dick Halsberger, and Ray Fish.
Camden A. A. in an Even Break
Camden Post-Telegram —
Named: William H. Davis, Frank Verga, William Verga, Perry Verga Jr., Seck Hewitt, Frank Ziegler, Ray Fish, Claude N. Davis, Joe Harvey, George Litzenberg, George Clayton, Thomas Doyle, William “Big Bill” Humphries, William Gilmore, Bert Dopson, Evans, Eddie Smith, George Johnson, Schultze, Costell, Sharple, Vogeding, Robert W. “Bob” Black, William McCoach, and William McLean.
East End Did Not Get Look
Camden Post-Telegram —
Named: Charlie Gardner, Frank Vanhest, Marcus Carroll, John S. Campbell, “Mike” Bradley, Harry Davis, George “Deak” Johnson, Edward “Eddie” Smith, Frank Curry, William Lafferty, Clark, George Clayton, George Burger, and Frank “Pop” Hughes.
‘Georgia Magnet’ Gives Marvelous Exhibition
Camden Post-Telegram —
Miss Annie Abbott Amazes Large Audiences at the Broadway Theater by Her Wonderful Ability to Balk Strength of Ten Men
Miss Annie Abbott.
When it came to the time for Miss Annie Abbott, the “Georgia Magnet,” to do her world-famous turn at the New Broadway Theater at last evening’s performance, the orchestra struck-up “Way Down South in Dixie,” a slim, but shapely young woman clad charmingly in red and with a most pleasing personality tripped out on the stage and at once magnetized herself into the good graces of an audience that filled almost every seat in the house and three of the boxes.
Besides being a magnetic marvel, Miss Abbott is a Southern woman of high culture, possessing an irresistible faculty to please, as was shown in her spoken prologue preceding her almost supernatural feats as the veritable “load-stone” that she is. Miss Abbott weighs but eighty-eight pounds, and the claim that she can lift ten men but that ten men cannot lift her, was more than substantiated at the matinee and evening shows yesterday, and will be repeated all week.
Fifteen young men, all of them sturdy athletes, including Charles Errickosn [sic], George Clayton, Percy Verga, Jr., and Carlos Epifanos, constituted the judges at last night’s exhibition, and when they got through their twenty-five minute ordeal in futilely trying to make “the Georgia Magnet” get a move on they were puffing and blowing like a bunch of porpoises.
Miss Abbott put her subjects through a lot of amazing paces. As many as ten of them bore down with all their might upon a stick about eight feet high, which she held vertically aloft with the palms of her hands, but, tug as energetically as they would, they could not force it within two feet of the stage floor. The strongest could lift “the magnet” from the floor when she so willed, but when she brought her wonderful powers of resistance into action she was like someone glued or spiked to the spot.
Another inexplicable act of Miss Abbott is to bear aloft with ease in air ten men whose combined weight must have footed-up at least 1,200 pounds. Then again she placed the palms of her hands against a proscenium pillar, with the hands of two of the committee interposing, and called on a dozen or more to try and budge her from her position, but push and shove as frantically as they did they could not feaze her a little bit. Then she asked the committeemen whose hands intervened between the post and her if they left any extra pressure of her palms upon them, and they said not in the slightest.
As the climax of her astounding acts Miss Abbott hypnotized a little girl into duplicating her magnetic feats. She had big “Jim” Kirkley hold the child by the arms and in the main aisle told the girl to concentrate her thoughts upon what she, Miss Abbott, was thinking of. Then she instructed Kirkley to try and lift the little one. The large one heaved the girl above his head as if she were a foot ball. The child’s mind, however, had been distracted by the turmoil of the gallery, but when Miss Abbott secured absolute silence and gained the girl’s riveted attention Kirkley, huge and muscular as he is, was powerless to budge her an inch from the aisle.
In the vaudeville line at the Broadway this week there is simply a surfeit of good things.
James Kennedy and company, in a one-act play, “Jack Swift,” with that versatile comedian and singer James Kennedy in the title role of Jack Swift, the Bucket-shop Man, made a tremendous laugh hit, the cast of the delightful skit being as follows:
Rita Lindale, Adelaide Boothby; Mrs. O’Reilly, Who is it?; Tommie, the Messenger Boy, Master Charles Kennedy; Herbert Wyllie the Detective, Charles Latham; Jack Swift, the Bucket Shop Man, James Kennedy; George Washington, named by mistake, Kathleen Farroe.
Scene—Drawing room, Lindale Manor.
Another hilariously funny sketch is “The Unexpected,” with its convulsively amusing race track episode, presented by Jack Wyatt and Miss C. Blanche Rice, created a pandemonium of merriment.
Pelzer and Whyte, song eccentriques in a richly melodious and whimsical burlesque novel comedy singing act, got the glad hand times galore.
Ned Monroe and Frank Ely Mack, black face comedians in the fun overbubbling “Taking the Third Degree,” furnished infinite jests amid repeated recalls.
Claude Thardo, “The Song Tailor” with the sunny smile, catchy topicals and the freshest of gags, made such a popular impression that he ultimately had to genially bow his declination to respond to almost unceasing demands for more, and Nellie and Edith Hart, clever singers and fanciest of dapper dancers, were other exceeding enjoyable features of the bill.
“In the Heart of a Race Track Tout,” the Kinetograph graphically shows all the thrilling sights of a New York race track on a big handicap day.
Another Phase of Democrat Row
Camden Post-Telegram —
Another phase of the row at a Democratic mass meeting at Broadway and Mt. Vernon street, Thursday night, was aired in Police Court this morning when George Clayton, of 821 Division street, was arraigned before Acting Recorder Knight on a charge of assault and battery preferred by Joseph M. Foster, of 707 Royden street.
According to the statements of reputable eye witnesses Aaron Hand, a jailor at the county prison, was making a speech during which he paid particular attention to the tariff as it affects textile workers. During his talk he invited any one in the audience to get on the platform and disprove his statements.
His invitation was accepted by Joseph Lufthouse, a representative of the Industrial Workers of the World, who produced authentic figures to prove that Mr. Hand did not know what he was talking about.
After Mr. Lufthouse finished Mr. Hand proceeded to criticize Mr. Lufthouse’s talk when Joseph, alias “Friz” Gallagher, a Democrat, interrupted Hand calling him a Greenback and a few impolite terms. Special Officer Richardson tried to quiet Gallagher and a rough house followed, during which Gallagher was taken away from the officer by a crowd.
Reserve Policeman Brothers and several others appeared on the scene and quiet reigned for a while. A few minutes after they had gone Clayton, it is alleged, called Foster to one side and struck him in the eye inflicting an injury which was treated at Cooper Hospital.
Acting Recorder Knight held Clayton in $200 bail and it was furnished immediately.
George Clayton Dies in His Seventieth Year
Camden Post-Telegram —
Virtually a life-long resident of the Sixth ward, George Clayton, aged 70 years, of 606 [sic] Mt. Vernon street, died Saturday night at his home from ailments incident to his advancing years. He is survived by his widow, three sons and two daughters.
About two years ago Mr. Clayton suffered a fall which resulted in the fracture of a leg and this injury seemed to weaken him to such an extent that he never fully recovered. He was widely known in the southern section of the city.
(Baseball return note)
Camden Post-Telegram —
The many friends of George Clayton who at one time was as good as any local catcher that ever donned the wire mask, are pleased to see that he is back in harness. George is playing with St. Anthony, in the Camden County Catholic League, and with Lyceum in the Twilight League, and despite a badly mangled thumb, the cause of his retirement from the great national pastime. George is playing a bang-up game and has already received several offers to gain play in the “big smoke.” At one time George was slated for the major leagues, but bruised hands handicapped him. Some catcher.
The many friends of George Clayton who at one time was as good as any local catcher that ever donned the wire mask, are pleased to see that he is back in harness. George is playing with St. Anthony, in the Camden County Catholic League, and with Lyceum in the Twilight League, and despite a badly mangled thumb, the cause of his retirement from the great national pastime. George is playing a bang-up game and has already received several offers to gain play in the “big smoke.” At one time George was slated for the major leagues, but bruised hands handicapped him. Some catcher.
St. Anthony Notes
Camden Courier-Post —
“Happy” Kowal broke into the batting column on Saturday and helped to put the crimp on “Jim the Great’s” Babies.
Joe Hyde is without question the best shortstop in the league. Joe’s heavy hitting figured in the downfall of the Mulligan crew. Joe had a perfect average on Saturday, both in the field and at bat.
“Sapho” Tully keeps adding scalps to his belt. He now has eight victories to his credit. As a strikeout artist he is in a class of his own.
“Smiling Johnny” Blair is proving himself to be the best backstop in the circuit. Johnny’s great throwing arm foils many visiting henchmen.
As a third baseman “Whitey” Urban has it on anyone in the league, and also holds a batting average of 350.
George “Babe” Clayton, the king of first basemen, is playing like in his good old balmy days. He is is [sic] leading the column both in batting and fielding, holding an enviable average of .475.
Joe Christian is playing fast ball in the outfield, but at present Joe is in a batting slump. When he gets hold of his batting eye opposing pitchers take heed. Here’s hoping.
“Dutch” Fisher is worse than a German submarine or a 43 Centimeter gun to opposing pitchers. As an extra base specialist “Dutch” shines like “Sapolio.”
As a lead off man “Dutch” Barry needs no introduction. The midget outfielder has a record to be envied by older and more experienced players.
Smiling Jimmie Mangold requests all the loyal rooters to be on hand Saturday for the conflict with Lyceum. The Saints have an envied record of wins to their credit. As a hitting team they beat anything living, having 121 safe hits in eleven games. Here’s hoping they keep the good work up.
Turn out you loyal rooters on Saturday for the game.
(Death notice — Susan Clayton)
Camden Courier-Post —
After a short illness Mrs. George Clayton, a widely known South Camden woman, died at 2 o’clock this morning at her home, 605 Mt. Vernon street. The estimable woman was the mother of George Clayton, the well-known ball player and attache of the American Ice Company. Mrs. Clayton, who was 74 years of age, was also the sister of the late Patrick Gallagher, whose demise recently occurred. Funeral arrangements are being completed.
After a short illness Mrs. George Clayton, a widely known South Camden woman, died at 2 o’clock this morning at her home, 605 Mt. Vernon street. The estimable woman was the mother of George Clayton, the well-known ball player and attaché of the American Ice Company. Mrs. Clayton, who was 74 years of age, was also the sister of the late Patrick Gallagher, whose demise recently occurred. Funeral arrangements are being completed.
(Funeral notice — Susan Clayton)
Camden Courier-Post —
CLAYTON—On Jan. 28, 1916, Susan, widow of George Clayton.
The relatives and friends of the family, also Sacred Heart Beneficial Society and Altar Society of the Church of the Sacred Heart, are invited to attend the funeral, on Tuesday morning, February 1st, at 8 o’clock, from her late residence, 605 Mt. Vernon street, Camden. High Mass at 9.30 o’clock at Church of the Sacred Heart. Interment at Calvary Cemetery.
CLAYTON—On Jan. 28, 1916, Susan, widow of George Clayton.
The relatives and friends of the family, also Sacred Heart Beneficial Society and Altar Society of the Church of the Sacred Heart, are invited to attend the funeral, on Tuesday morning, February 1st, at 8 o’clock, from her late residence, 605 Mt. Vernon street, Camden. High Mass at 9.30 o’clock at Church of the Sacred Heart. Interment at Calvary Cemetery.
Skater Drowns at Forest Hill
Camden Post-Telegram —
Charles Evans Loses His Life and Several Companions Have Narrow Escape.
SNOW CONCEALED DANGEROUS SPOT
One skater lost his life and several others narrowly escaped a like fate yesterday at Forest Hill Park by going through a hole over which there was a coating of snow. Upwards of 300 persons, mostly skaters, saw the tragedy. The dead man was Charles R. Evans, aged 19 years, of 189 South Thirty-second street, East Camden. He was a member of Company C, Third Regiment, N.J. N.G.
In attempting to rescue their companion, Harry Haas, aged 14 years, of 512 Walnut street, and Graham Wishart, aged 18 years, of 30 South Thirty-fifth street, almost met similar fate. In their frantic efforts to rescue those two, Wilbur Crane, of 1468 Haddon avenue, and Matthew Yingling, of Eighth and Florence streets, also broke through the ice and were dragged out to safety after much difficulty.
Evans, Haas and Wishart were skating together with Evans leading. They apparently forget the hole in the ice on the east bank opposite the sluice box and to the horror of all the three skaters disappeared into the water. Haas and Wishart came up immediately, but Evans did not reappear. Going to the rescue of the men in the water, Crane and Yingling were precipitated into the water. They attempted even then to help Haas and Wishart to the edge of the ice, but their strength was soon exhausted and they had to look to their own safety. They grasped the edge of the ice and tried to pull themselves clear of the water, but their efforts resulted only in the further breaking of the ice and they repeatedly slipped back into the water. Finally they managed to scramble out.
In the meanwhile long poles and ropes were secured and by means of those Haas and Wishart were dragged out more dead than alive. Evans had not yet appeared and it was apparent that he was under the ice. Long poles, fitted with grappling hooks, were obtained, and Evans finally was drawn from the lake, after being under the water seven minutes.
Noting a flicker of life remaining, Dr. Charles Jackson, summoned by automobile, worked over the stricken youth, but without avail. The youth was sent to the Homeopathic Hospital, where a lungmotor was called into service, but all efforts to revive him proved in vain. The others were taken home in police automobiles after drying out their clothes in the park house.
The fatality had little if any effect on the other skaters, who only stopped when the snow made skating out of the question.
Falling through a thin place in the ice while skating on the lake at Kirkwood, yesterday afternoon, Raymond Harris, aged 22 years, of 2219 Arch street, Philadelphia, had a narrow escape from death. He was recued [sic] by a number of employes of the American Ice Company who heard his cries for help, who were cutting ice less than one hunndred [sic] yards from where the young skater broke through.
The ice cutters, including Raymond Burgess, George Clayton, Charles Armstrong, Robert Knox, Arthur Kees and Joseph Rush, all of this city, lost no time in procuring boards and rushing to the scene of the near-tragedy. The boy had gone beneath the surface, but by probing in the hole the rescuers succeeded in catching the end of one of the boards in young Harris’ clothing and brought him to the surface.
Unconscious and apparently dead, the Philadelphian was carried to the engine house of the company, which is located near the lake and after several minutes time he was revived and given a hot bath. Later, after being administered medical attention, he left for his home, apparently none the worst for his trying experience.
(Recovery from pneumonia notice)
Camden Courier-Post —
George Clayton, a popular attache of the American Ice Company and a well known ball player, is about again after being confined to his home, 812 Division street, for six weeks, suffering with pneumonia. His friends are pleased to learn of his recovery.
George Clayton, a popular attaché of the American Ice Company and a well known ball player, is about again after being confined to his home, 812 Division street, for six weeks, suffering with pneumonia. His friends are pleased to learn of his recovery.
Death Takes Twin Brothers
Camden Courier-Post —
His twin brother Alfred dying on Monday last and laid to rest the following day, George Clayton, aged three months, son of Mr. and Mrs. George “Babe” Clayton, of 821 Division street, died yesterday and was buried to-day at Calvary Cemetery. The parents are grief-stricken over the loss of the twins, both of whom died of intestinal complaint. The funeral was in charge of Undertaker Frank Leonard.
Suspect Admits Robbery Charge
Camden Post-Telegram —
Alleged “Dope” Fiend Gives Up Pawn Tickets for Gold Watch and Chain.
WOMAN ACCUSES ANOTHER NEGRO
Confessing to breaking into the home of John Henry, 509 Branch street, on Wednesday afternoon and stealing a gold watch and chain, Jonas Davis, colored, aged 19 years, of 752 Sycamore street, was committed this morning by Recorder Stackhouse in default of $500 bail on a charge of breaking and entering.
Neighbors saw the negro leave Henry’s home, and Policeman Clayton later arrested Davis, who is said by the police to be a “dope” fiend. Detective Hunt testified that Davis confessed to the theft and gave up the pawn ticket for the watch and chain.
Charged with the larceny of the pocketbook of Mrs. Mary Caslicia, of 1444 South Tenth st., while the woman was making purchases in a Kaighn avenue store yesterday, Robert Fortune, aged 21 years, colored, of 224 North Eleventh street, was this morning held by Recorder Stackhouse under $300 bail. Fortune had nothing to say.
Mrs. Caslicia stated that she laid her pocketbook on the counter while she made a purchase and when she turned about Fortune picked up the pocketbook and started from the store. The woman folowed [sic] the negro and pointed him out to Policeman Whittaker. The purse, containing $7.07, was found on the floor in the store.
'Cycle Policeman Pinned by Machine
Camden Courier-Post —
Thrown from his motorcycle when the front tire struck a large stone while he was leaving the Homeopathic Hospital last night, Motorcycle Policeman George Clayton was rendered helpless when the heavy machine pinned his leg.
Shouting for help Clayton was unable to attract anyone and he suffered excruciatingly. Dr. Strong, of Haddon Heights, almost run over the helpless copper when he came into the hospital yard in the darkness with his machine.
The doctor assisted Clayton and he was treated at the hospital for a badly sprained and lacerated right leg. Clayton had been visiting Mounted Officer Stiles Whittaker, who is in the hospital with a fractured knee.
World War I Draft Card
World War I Draft Card — September 12, 1918
Found Senseless With Gas Flowing
Camden Courier-Post —
Found unconscious from gas in a room he occupied at 1875 Mulford street, Lucius Thomas, aged 50 years, colored, was this morning taken to Cooper Hospital where he was revived in a short time. Thomas was on his back in bed when he was found by his brother. He was placed under arrest by Motorcycle Policeman George Clayton as he was leaving the hospital on a charge of attempting suicide.
At police headquarters he told Captain Humes that he had no intention of ending his life.
“In the South where I came from,” he said to the Police Captain, “I always used an oil lamp and when I found gas in my room I was afraid to use it and kept on using an oil lamp.”
It was explained that there was a bad leak in the gas pipe but the occupants of the house were not aware of the fact until Thomas was found unconscious.
Camden Motorcycle Police
Circa 1922
From Left: Unknown civilian — Unknown civilian — Charles J. “Jeff” Kay — George Clayton — unknown civilian in sidecar — Unknown Policeman — Unknown Policeman
30 Cops Shifted Today in Opening of New District
Camden Courier-Post —
Shake-Up in Camden Force is Most Drastic in History
SMITH AT CITY HALL
Drastic shifts in the Camden police department, affecting more than 30 members of the force became effective at 8 a.m. today.
The shake-up, announced yesterday by Commissioner David S. Rhone, director of public safety, is the result of creation of a fourth police district.
The outstanding changes are the promotion of Sergeant of Detectives George Ward to acting lieutenant in the First district, supplanting Sergeant Samuel Nayler, who is sent to headquarters, and the return to the city detective bureau of Acting County Detective Howard Smith.
Smith was detailed to the second district today and was assigned to a robbery investigation in the thirteenth ward.
District Captaincies Abolished
With the shifts, the rank of district captain is abolished. Instead, lieutenants will be in charge of the districts. Captains will be in charge only of the traffic and detective bureaus and headquarters, Commissioner Rhone said.
The removal of Sergeant Naylor from the First District was not unexpected, since he had been “on the carpet” last October as a result of a speakeasy shooting in his district. Naylor, though holding the rank of sergeant, was acting captain of the district.
He was threatened with dismissal by Chief Stehr and Commissioner Rhone if the vice conditions in the First District were not cleaned up. The situation came to a climax with the wounding of Charles Arini and Louis Dei Duca in a speakeasy at Third and Mickle streets in October. It was reported Naylor was to be removed from the district several times since.
Ward Again Promoted
Ward was promoted to sergeant of detectives two months ago. Under the transfer, he is promoted again, remaining as acting lieutenant for a year, until he takes an examination for a lieutenancy.
Other police officers now acting-lieutenants will become lieutenants after examination.
Naylor, who was in charge of the First district for several years, will serve as desk sergeant under Capt. A. Lincoln James.
The return of Smith to the city detective bureau was requested by Prosecutor Clifford A. Baldwin, it is understood. Smith has been a county detective for more than eleven years. He first was transferred to the prosecutor’s office at the request of Prosecutor Charles A. Wolverton. Although a Republican, he was retained there under Prosecutor Ethan P. Wescott. Although some surprise was occasioned by the announcement of Smith’s return to the city force, inasmuch as the new prosecutor is a Republican, it was said that Baldwin wished to begin his term with an entire new force.
Worked For City Also
Although Smith acted for the county and was paid by the county, he received a salary of $1 a year to retain him in the city so that he could be recalled at any time.
Through the shift, Sergeant Charles Laib, serving under Traffic Inspector Charles T. Humes, is elevated to acting captain of the traffic department. In the future all motorcycle men with the exception of George Clayton will report direct to Humes and Laib instead of to headquarters.
Ralph Bakley, who has been acting sergeant of the First District, has been named acting lieutenant of the Second District, and Thomas Cunningham, who was acting captain of the Second District, becomes acting lieutenant of the new Fourth District. William Horner, who has been acting captain of the Third District, is elevated to the rank of acting lieutenant and remains in charge of that district.
Cop Arrests Suspect In Postoffice Crowd and Is Mistaken for Bandit
Camden Courier-Post —
Spectator Thinks Man With Pistol Is Crook and Seeks to Save Victim; Floored by Punch From Sleuth
A policeman’s punch proved as potent as his gun yesterday.
That was demonstrated by Patrolman George M. “Babe” Clayton, who in plain clothes was mistaken for a bandit when he pressed his gun into the back of a suspected “bad man” for whom he was laying in wait at the Camden postoffice.
As he was about to effect capture of the suspect, a stranger grabbed Clayton’s arm. Fearing to fire and possibly injure other persons in the postoffice, Clayton walloped his attacker on the jaw. He went down—and remained on the floor to learn the “bandit” was a policeman.
Clayton, in the meantime, was just as relieved as his would-be assailant, after explanations were made. He first thought the stranger was an accomplice of the man he was placing under arrest.
The exciting bit of police drama climaxed a four-day quest for an alleged safe robber who gave his name as Robert I. Mears, 33, of Milton, Del. He was sought as a suspect in 40 robberies, in one of which he shot his way to freedom when two pals were captured in a postoffice “job.”
Cop on Watch
Clayton had been assigned by Lieut. Herbert Anderson, First district commander, to watch at the Camden postoffice for Mears. Lieutenant Anderson had information that the man had relatives in this city and was getting his mail here.
After a four-day vigil, Clayton was standing near the general delivery window when he saw Mears approach. The description Clayton had tallied with Mears and when the latter asked the general delivery clerk for mail for a “Robert Mears” the officer knew his wait was ended.
Having been informed that Mears was a dangerous character and fearing the man was armed, Clayton took no chances of a shooting affray in the crowded postoffice. He drew his gun and pressed it against Mears and told him he was under arrest.
At that moment, a patron of the postoffice saw the gun in Clayton’s hand. As the officer was in civilian clothes and wearing a cap, the bystander jumped to the conclusion that he was witnessing a holdup.
He grabbed the policeman’s arm. Clayton, taken by surprise, instantly believed the bystander was Mears’ accomplice.
Clayton wasted no time in explanation, but struck the man, who fell to the floor. The officer kept his gun aimed at Mears during the excitement. Then explanations were made all around, and the bystander ruefully apologized.
Held for Delaware
Mears was taken to police headquarters to be held for Delaware authorities. He denied the charge against him and said he had been staying at 713 Blaine street with a sister for a few days. He stated that he probably would waive extradition and return to Delaware.
The Camden police had been notified that warrants were out for Mears’ arrest in connection with a recent robbery at Laurel. State police asserted that they surprised three men who had removed a safe from the Laurel postoffice and were loading it on a truck. Two men were captured, but the third drew a gun and shot his way to liberty. The Delaware state police charge that the third man was Mears.
According to the Wilmington police, Mears and two other men are charged with the theft of seven safes, nine automobiles and $1000 cash in lower Delaware and along the Eastern Shore. Layton Conway, 26, and Linwood Mears, no relation to the Camden prisoner, are both in jail at Georgetown awaiting trial. They are alleged to have confessed to the many robberies, saying they met Robert Mears while all three were in the New Castle county workhouse on charges of larceny.
The series of robberies started on Oct. 27 last when the Houston, Del., postoffice was robbed, according to Delaware state police.
Prisoner Unarmed
Mears, when searched, had no weapon, but several photographs of women were in his pockets. He had received from the general delivery clerk a postcard from a woman named “Helen,” who asked him to meet her in New York on Sunday. Photographs of other women were found in his room on Blaine street.
Acting Lieut. Louis Shaw, of the city detective bureau, who notified the attorney general of Delaware of the arrest, said that the two men held in Georgetown had told the authorities there that Mears had a sister in Camden. He had told them, according to Shaw, that if they wanted to reach him at any time, to send a letter to general delivery at Camden.
Mears had served a three-year term for larceny at New Castle and was released Oct. 20, a week before the series of 40 robberies started. He will be arraigned in Camden police court this morning as a fugitive from justice.
Cops and Firemen Will Elect Today
Camden Courier-Post —
The Camden Police and Firemen’s Association will hold election of officers today at its headquarters, 1175 Whitman Avenue, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Herbert Bott is unopposed for re-election as president. William Thorn is unopposed to replace Richard Middleton for financial secretary and Walter Vecander is unopposed for the new post of assistant financial secretary. All these are police officers.
The police trustees will be named from the following nine candidates: William Marter, George Ward, William Britner, Joseph Shreeve, William Schriber, Joseph Mardino, Joseph Dunnett, Leon Feltz and Russell Young. Two police sergeant-at-arms will be chosen from among Stanley Wirtz, Harry Cattell, Joseph Schultz and George Clayton.
Three candidates are seeking the post of vice president, which goes to a fireman. They are William Spencer, Charles Edwards and Albert Dukes. Warren Rich, a fireman, is slated to succeed himself as recording secretary and Winfield Leviseur is unopposed for the new post of assistant recording secretary, which goes to a fireman.
Four fireman trustees will be chosen from ten candidates. They are Charles Cook, Henry Baumgartel, Walter Eastlack, Arthur Batten, William Getner, William Toy, Lawrence Newton, James Young, Russell Anderson and William Taylor. Three firemen are seeking two posts as sergeants-at-arms. They are William Judge, John Mulligan and Furman Price.
Bott Chosen Head of Policemen, Firemen
Camden Courier-Post —
Spencer Wins 3-Corner Fight for Vice-President of Association
Lauded by the members for his splendid work in behalf of the club, Herbert Bott, a patrolman attached to the Third Police District, last night was re-elected president of the Camden Police and Firemen’s Association.
The praise was heaped upon the patrolman following announcement that he had received 107 of 110 votes cast in yesterday’s balloting. He was unopposed for reelection.
In a three-cornered fight, William P. Spencer, a fireman, was elected vice president of the association. He received 73 votes. His opponents were Charles Edwards, given 12 votes, and Albert Dukes, 18 votes. Both are firemen.
Others unopposed for office were: William Thorn, financial secretary; Walter Vecander, assistant financial secretary; Warren Rich, recording secretary, and Winfield Leviseur, assistant recording secretary. The last two are firemen while the first two are policemen.
Lieutenant George Ward, Patrolman William Marter, and firemen William Taylor, William Getner, James Young and Lawrence Newton were elected to the board of trustees.
Sergeants-at-arms named were Stanley Wirtz and George Clayton, police, and William Judge and John Mulligan, firemen. All had opposition.
After the ballots had been counted William H. Iszard, former assemblyman, appeared on behalf of the Elks Crippled Kiddies Committee, and asked police to support the wrestling show to be staged by that group February 13.
Jailed for Ill Intent
Camden Courier-Post —
If you want to hit a man but can’t because a member of the constabulary is at hand, that’s assault.
Police Judge Garfield Pancoast so ruled yesterday in making an interpretation of the law to Walter Beasley, 25, colored, of 1128 Cooper Street, who was sentenced to 60 days in jail because he said he desired to punch another man.
Beasley was arrested Sunday night at Tenth and Cooper Streets by Patrolman George Clayton. Clayton was assisting an ill man when Beasley approached and threatened to hit the man. Clayton locked him up.
“I’d still like to take a punch at him,” Beasley said in court yesterday.
“You would, would you?” asked the judge. “Well, intending to strike someone is assault. If you do hit him, it’s assault and battery. So I sentence you to 60 days for assault.”
2 Ice Dealers Held as License Violators
Camden Courier-Post —
Camden’s drive against unlicensed ice dealers last night netted two alleged violators of the city ordinance.
On complaint of Dr. David D. Helm, city health inspector, Alphonso D’Alonzo, 45, of 804 South Fourth street, and Isaac Anderson, 29, colored, of 837 Bridge avenue, were arrested by Policemen Howard Harden and George Clayton. They will be arraigned in police court today.
Tenth Arrest Made Here in Numbers Quiz
Camden Courier-Post —
1 ADMITS GUILT AND POLICE SAY LINKS OTHERS
Klosterman Named by Man Found With Slips on Him After Arrest
3 BIG BANKS INVOLVED IN MOVE TO CLEAN UP
Others Must Face Trial; More Arraigned and Bonds Fixed By Court — Campaign Against Writers Pushed With Feitz Probe — ALLEGED ‘BARON’ IS HELD IN BAIL — Mayor Pledges Aid of Camden Cops to State on Illicit Liquor
Arrests in the numbers racket in Camden continued today simultaneously with the continuation of the inquiry into the murder of City Detective William T. Feitz Jr.
With the Feitz slaying probe in its eleventh day—the detective was slain September 2 at 243 Sycamore Street, an alleged disorderly house—city and county authorities were still questioning witnesses in an endeavor to obtain sufficient evidence to name the murderer or murderers.
The arrest this morning of Crawford Smith, 51, of 702 Carman Street, as a numbers writer, brought the total of those apprehended this week in the numbers racket to 10.
At the same time Police Judge J. Harry Switzer held Fred Klosterman, 33, of 1050 Mechanic Street, in $5000 bail for the grand jury on a charge of operating a numbers game.
Klosterman’s brother, Joseph Klosterman, 35, of 1400 Mechanic Street, was released in $3000 bail yesterday by Judge Switzer on a charge of operating a numbers lottery.
The Klostermans, according to police, are among the topnotch numbers barons of the city. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
No Testimony Taken
Fred Klosterman surrendered voluntarily yesterday afternoon when he learned that police were seeking him as an alleged numbers operator.
He was arraigned in police court today on complaint of George Zeitz, a city detective, who charged him with operating a numbers game. Police did not reveal where Fred Klosterman allegedly operated.
There was no testimony taken at the hearing of Fred Klosterman. His bail bond was signed by John Zubien. Police say they do not know Zubien’s address. Mrs. Anna Bubnoski, of 1426 Mount Ephraim Avenue, posted the $3000 bail for Joseph Klosterman. Zeitz also had made complaint against him.
Fred Klosterman surrendered yesterday, according to police, after a defendant in police court testified that he was employed at an alleged numbers bank operated by Fred Klosterman. Zeitz swore to a warrant for Fred Klosterman’s arrest based on the police information, he said.
Hearing Tomorrow
Smith, who was arrested by George Clayton, a policeman, will be given a hearing in police court tomorrow as an alleged numbers writer.
Meanwhile no disposition was made in the case of Mrs. Mollie Schwartz, 42, who was arrested yesterday on a charge of operating a still at a double dwelling at 3404 Rosedale Avenue. Police Lieutenant John Potter said the woman admitted operating the still.
A man said to be a brother of Mrs. Schwartz fled in his undershirt at the time of the raid, as Sergeant Edward Hahn and Policeman Joseph Keefe were making the arrest and seizure. The seizure included 13 barrels of alleged mash, a stove, one cooler, three gallons of liquor, and a 75 gallon still. Police reported that one of two cars without license tags which had been parked in front of the house disappeared later.
Cops to Aid State
Strict cooperation with the State Alcoholic Beverages Commission in the detection, closing up, and prosecution of speakeasies is being given by the Camden Police Department.
That statement was made today by Mayor Roy R. Stewart, who is the director of the department of public safety, and came as a result of an interview which Howard B. Dyer, an investigator with the state beverage commission had with the mayor. Dyer was formerly deputy city clerk.
“Dyer came in and asked for the cooperation of the police department,” said Mayor Stewart, “and I told him we would cooperate fully.”
The state alcoholic beverage commission, through its investigators, has been busy in running down speakeasies, stills and other illicit liquor practices.
Mickey Blair Admits Visit to Heisler Home on Fatal Night
Camden Courier-Post —
Mickey Blair Admits Visit to Heisler Home on Fatal Night
Boxer Tells of His Attempt to Borrow Money From Woman
STEWART LAUNCHES BANK ACCOUNT PROBE
Mickey Blair yesterday admitted to the Courier-Post that he was in Mrs. Emma Heisler’s house trying to borrow money a few hours before Detective William T. Feitz was shot to death.
Mayor Roy R. Stewart, at the same time, announced that he will launch an investigation of the bank accounts of “certain policemen” to determine their wealth.
The two statements summarized the day’s progress in the search for Feitz’s slayers and in the mayor’s investigation of police connections with vice graft.
Blair not only admitted to a newspaperman that he was in Mrs. Heisler’s house to negotiate a loan a few hours before the slaying but charged the police with manufacturing a fake alibi for him, for the purpose of tearing it down later.
Reports that patrolmen drawing from $25.50 to $36 a week were owners of expensive automobiles and spending money lavishly and still were amassing fortunes were believed to have stimulated the mayor to action in his bank account probe.
He would not amplify his statement other than to say that he will question those policemen whom he desires to question and are now on leave when they return.
In his broadside against the police, Blair said:
“Chief Colsey lies if he says police have broken down my alibi. I have no alibi, only that I know nothing about this murder.
“I told Lieutenant Ward, after I had voluntarily walked into detective bureau, where I had been from Saturday night until last Monday. At no time did I say that I was in New York at the time of the shooting.
“I told them I was at a roadhouse in Berlin at the time of the shooting, that I returned to Camden on Sunday and remained here for the funeral of my brother-in-law on Monday. I did not leave for New York until Tuesday afternoon, almost three days after the killing of Feitz, and I did not know they wanted to question me then, or I would not have gone away.
“Police have given out statements to the effect that I told them I was in New York at the time of the shooting. That is a lie. Many of my friends and acquaintances saw me Saturday night at Berlin and others saw me the following day and on Monday. I can prove everything I have told the police to be true.
“I knew Emma Heisler and have known her for several years. I wouldn’t say she was a close friend, but I did know her fairly well. Police have accused me of attempting to shake her down for money. That is not my racket.
“I did attempt to borrow from Emma on Saturday, but I can’t see anything wrong in that. I tried several friends, because I needed a little money at the time to purchase flowers for my brother-in-law’s funeral.
She Promised Loan
“When I saw her early Saturday night, she told me to come back on Monday and she would lend me the money. I was thankful because of the favor, so why should I try to do the woman any harm?
“Police say I am the ’finger-man’ in the shooting. That makes me laugh. They know they haven’t a shred of evidence to prove such a lie. They’ve got to hang it on somebody, so they blame it on me.
“It’s been the same in all big cases. Somebody has to get blamed. It was just unfortunate for me that I happened to be talking with Mrs. Heisler a short time before the slaying. I had nothing to hide when I went to her for a loan and I have nothing to hide now.
“Two or three persons were there when I asked to borrow the money. Do you think anyone who was attempting to frighten the woman would do it before all these witnesses? I knew this woman when she had a place down the street from where Feitz was shot. I knew her when she conducted many other places in the city, and she knew me. I would have been crazy to try anything wrong with her, even if I wanted to, which I didn’t, because everybody in Camden knows me and would recognize me.
Says He Attended Wake
“I told police that I left Fourth and Spruce streets about 1 a. m. Sunday, and arrived at the roadhouse in Berlin about a half hour later.
Many people saw me there. I stayed at the place until late Sunday afternoon and then returned to Camden.
“I was at home all of Sunday night until I attended a wake at the home of my sister on Decatur street. Then on Monday I was at the funeral and Monday night I visited several places in the city. I had made arrangements to go to New York, but postponed my trip until Tuesday after my brother-in-law’s death.
“While in New York I heard from a friend who told me police were looking for me. I immediately telephoned Edward V. Martino, who has represented me in other matters, and asked him to learn if that were true. He called me back and said it was. I told him my business in New York would be completed on Monday and that I would return to Camden at that time and visit detective headquarters.
“I paid my own expenses to get here, and since the time I gave myself up, police have constantly walked me about with handcuffs on. Do you think I would have surrendered to police if I had any intentions of running away?”
Martino Raps Police
“I have told the truth and I am innocent of any connection with the death of Detective Feitz. If police want to give out the true story, they will verify that everything I have told you is what I told them. And every word of it is the truth.”
Martino, who was present during the interview, added that it was “a disgrace” to the police department in the manner in which Blair has been treated since his surrender.
“When Blair gave himself up,” Martino said, “I instructed him to go to detective bureau by himself. I did not request the right to protect his constitutional rights, because it was my idea that by not interfering, the police could not find any excuse in their failure to solve the crime. They not only failed to appreciate the co-operation given them, but are continually giving out so many contradictory statements that the general public is given the impression that Blair is deliberately lying.”
Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando, meanwhile, disclosed yesterday that the new grand jury will not hear witnesses in the Feitz murder case, or open a probe into vice conditions in Camden at its first session next Thursday.
“Facts in the murder probe and pertaining to vice conditions will not be ready in time for consideration by the new grand jury next Thursday,” the prosecutor said. “The veniremen will act on pending cases, including those of several alleged numbers barons arrested during the last week.”
Meanwhile, the police continued their crusade against the numbers racket, making their tenth and eleventh arrests in a week.
At the same time, Fred Klosterman, an alleged numbers baron, who surrendered Wednesday, was held in $5000 bail by Police Judge J. Harry Switzer for the grand jury. His brother, Joseph Klosterman, was held in similar bail previously, also on a charge of operating a numbers game.
The two men apprehended yesterday were arrested by George Clayton, a policeman, charged with being numbers writers. They will be given a hearing in police court today. The men gave their names as John Geronio, 52, of 1042 Cooper street, and Crawford Smith, 51, of 702 Carman street.
Fred Klosterman is 33 and gave his address as 1050 Mechanic street. Joseph Klosterman, 35, gave his address as 1400 Mechanic street.
The Klostermans, according to police, are among the topnotch numbers barons of the city. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
No disposition was made in police court of the case of Mrs. Mollie Schwartz, 42, who was arrested Wednesday on a charge of operating a still at a double dwelling at 3404 Rosedale avenue. Police Lieut. John Potter said the woman admitted operating the still.
Strict co-operation with the State Alcoholic Beverage Commission in the detection, closing up and prosecution of speakeasies is being given by the Camden police department.
That statement was made yesterday by Mayor Roy R. Stewart, who is the director of the department of public safety, and came as the result of an interview which Howard B. Dyer, an investigator of the state beverage commission had with the mayor. Dyer was formerly deputy city clerk.
An anonymous letter to Camden police led yesterday to the arerst [sic] of Glenn Brown, 48, colored, on a charge of operating a 50-gallon still at 141 Mt. Vernon street. Brown was held in $500 bail at police headquarters for a hearing today in police court.
Brown was arrested by Police Lieut. Walter Welch, who said the still was found in the basement of the Mt. Vernon street address and it had been in operation shortly before the raid.
The technical charge against Brown is violation of Section 48
Police Admit Feitz Slaying Is ‘Mystery’
Camden Courier-Post —
POLICE ADMIT FEITZ SLAYING IS ‘MYSTERY’
‘Still in the Dark,’ Cops Say After Three Weeks of Vice Probe
BLAIR LAWYER SCORES ‘FARCE’
Editorial: “The Cop, the Criminal—And Who Else?” appears on page ten.
Three weeks after the slaying of Detective William T. Feitz, police admitted yesterday that they are “completely in the dark” in their efforts to solve the murder and find the slayer.
Although Mickey Blair, former pugilist, is held as the most important witness in the case and police say they believe Blair knows who killed Feitz, they have no one under direct suspicion, the police said.
This was in direct contradiction to a police statement of several days ago, in which it was said that a New York gunman of peculiar appearance was sought as the trigger man.
Lawyer Flays Police
The conflicting stories coming from the police department yesterday drew a scathing fire of ridicule from Blair’s attorney, Edward V. Martino.
In a review of Blair’s surrender, Martino flayed the police for “many contradictory statements” and said their handling of Blair is a “disgrace to the department.”
The handling of the case drew this comment from Martino:
“Such conduct on the part of an intelligent police force is detestable.”
Martino’s criticism of the department and the announcement that Mayor Roy R. Stewart will present such facts and evidence as he has gathered in his probe of police connivance with vice or dereliction in duty to Supreme Court Justice Frank T. Lloyd constituted the only developments in the case yesterday.
Double-cross Hinted
Stewart said he will give Justice Lloyd and Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando his complete data on the police and Feitz probes and is ready to present the same data to the grand jury if Lloyd and Orlando consider this course advisable.
Martino, describing step-by-step the events leading to Blair’s surrender and his subsequent examination drew the conclusion that Police Chief Arthur Colsey is “either telling a deliberate falsehood” or has been double-crossed with misinformation by his detectives. Martino said:
Police Admit Defeat In Vice Slaying
“On Saturday past, I received a New York telephone communication from Mickey Blair, and he told me that he had been advised that the police were looking for him. He requested me to ascertain whether this was true, and if so he would gladly come to Camden.
“I talked to Lieutenant George A. Ward on Sunday afternoon, and he told me that they did want Mickey. I talked with Mickey that afternoon, and he told me that he would come to Camden at about 1 p. m. on Monday.
“He entered my office at about 12 noon, and after talking to me about five minutes, during which time he told me that he knew absolutely nothing about the shooting, I advised him to go to the detective bureau alone.
Would Not Interfere
“I did not request the right to protect his constitutional rights, because it was my idea that by not interfering, the police could not find any excuse in their failure to solve the crime.
“They not only failed to appreciate the co-operation given them, but are continuously giving out so many contradictory statements that the general public is given the impression that Blair is deliberately lying. Chief Colsey has repeatedly told the newspapers that Blair stated that he was in New York at the time of the crime.
“Colsey is either telling a deliberate falsehood or he has been misinformed by one or two of his examiners. I talked with Blair at the county jail, and although he appeared tired and worn, he was surprised to learn of the story given out by Colsey.
“It is difficult to understand why the police did not arrest Mickey before he left Camden for New York, since he was in Camden until the Tuesday following the murder.
“He attended a wake at the home of his sister on Sunday, and attended the funeral on Monday (Labor Day) from his sister’s home on Decatur street, Camden. He did not leave Camden for New York until some time on Tuesday afternoon.
Called a Disgrace
“The general physical appearance of Blair before Judge J. Harry Switzer was a disgrace to the Camden City Police Department. He was handcuffed and chained, although he was thoughtful enough to pay his own expenses in traveling from New York, and willingly submit to the police. Such conduct on the part of an intelligent police force is detestable.
“My only hope is that the crime is solved, but in doing so, the officials in charge should be careful that they charge the guilty man or men with the crime.”
The sweeping grand jury investigation of crime and vice ordered of the grand jury by Justice Lloyd is not expected to start, Prosecutor Orlando disclosed, for at least two weeks.
“Our evidence is not entirely at hand,” said Orlando, “and until it is ready I will not proceed. Another reason why I can’t go ahead with it is the large number of cases which I have ready at this time and which must be presented to the grand jury when it opens its sessions next Thursday.”
Earlier, both Prosecutor Orlando and Police Chief Colsey admitted that the authorities were no nearer a solution to the murder of Feitz than they were 20 days ago when he was shot and killed in an alleged disorderly house in South Camden.
Furthermore, previous statements of the police notwithstanding, the identity of the killer or killers is shrouded in as much mystery as it ever was.
“Who killed Feitz?” was a question asked Prosecutor Orlando.
“I don’t know—do you?” was Orlando’s “two-way” reply.
Still ‘In Dark’
The prosecutor’s statement was the first revelation that police and Camden county authorities are still in the dark.
Police Chief Colsey echoed Prosecutor Orlando’s statement by telling newspapermen upon being questioned that he “wished he did know who killed Feitz.”
“We’re entirely in the dark,” he added.
Heretofore the police, through statements made by Chief Colsey, have expressed their confidence that they knew who the slayer or slayers of the detective were and were following important clues which would lead to their arrest.
While the authorities were admittedly groping about for clues in the Feitz murder, the police drive on gambling continued yesterday with the arrest of two alleged “numbers” bankers.
Held in $2000 bail to await the action of the grand jury on charges of operating a “numbers” lottery by Police Judge Switzer were Crawford Smith, 51, of 702 Carman street, and John Deronio, 52, of 1042 Cooper street. Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge which grew out of Deronio’s admission to police that he “wrote” the “numbers” for Smith for a considerable period of time.
Both Smith and Deronio were arrested by Patrolman George Clayton. Deronio pleaded guilty to the charge.
Will View 3 Suspects
Three suspects charged with the robbery of a South Camden candy store Wednesday night were either to be brought to Camden or material witnesses in the Feitz murder were to be taken to Chester, Pa., where they are being held, to learn whether either suspect could be identified as one of the killers.
Mayor Stewart continued his questioning of police yesterday, seeking data on crime and vice in this city.
Questioned by the mayor in his office were Lieutenant George Frost, commander of the police department’s one-man vice squad who is said to have told the mayor considerable about conditions, former City Detective Ben Simon who is now a patrolman; Vernon Jones, one of the 13 suspended policeman [sic] and the officer on the beat at Second and Sycamore streets the night Feitz was killed, and Detective Stanley Wirtz.
Chief County Detective Lawrence T. Doran, who is conducting Prosecutor Orlando’s investigation into the murder, said a search of the records of the city assessor’s office revealed the property in which the late Mrs. Emma Heisler was charged with operating a disorderly house is owned by the Hyman Varbalow Building and Loan Association.
Rented in Oct., 1933
It was rented, Chief Doran said, by Nathan U. Katz, a real estate agent of 410 Kaighn avenue, to a “Mary Dudley” on October 18, 1933, for $15 a month. However, the occupants did not enter the house immediately, according to Doran, because of needed repairs, which were made.
Katz told detectives that the rent was always paid in advance by a man who called at his real estate office. There was no lease on the property, it being rented from month to month.
“Had I known the place was being used for immoral purposes I would have ordered the people out long ago,” Katz told detectives.
At the same time, Chief Doran disclosed that after a conference with Police Chief Colsey, orders were issued that every person arrested in Camden, whether the charge is trivial or serious, will be placed in a police “lineup” and the material witnesses will face them to see if any of Feitz’s killers are among them.
Chief Doran was not sure whether Camden county authorities would be able to bring the two robbery suspects to Camden because they are also wanted in Pennsylvania for almost a score of other holdups and burglaries.
In the event Chester authorities will not turn the two men over to Camden detectives, the witnesses will go to Chester to examine them, Chief Doran said.
“We are letting nothing slip through our fingers at this stage of the investigation,” Chief Doran said. “There is a bare possibility that either of these two suspects may be implicated or have some knowledge that would be useful to us in solving this crime.”
Walter Smith Gets Pension From City
Camden Courier-Post —
Detective to Be Retired as of Feb. 15 After 18 Years’ Service
Walter Smith, for 18 years city and district detective, has been placed on the pension list.
Smith applied for a pension to take effect April 1 but the Police and Fire Pension Commission voted to place him on the retired list as of February 15. Attending the hearing on the application were Mayor Roy R. Stewart, Fireman Newton Ash and Policeman George Clayton. Commissioner Harold W. Bennett and John J. Robinson, other members of the commission, were absent.
The widow of former Police Chief Elisha A. Gravenor applied for a pension. He died recently in Maryland. She will receive $1000 yearly.
The chief had received $1700 on the retired list.
Smith was appointed to the force by Mayor Charles H. Ellis on April 30, 1914, and three years later was made a plainclothesman.
He was paired with the late David Kates, Lieutenant Ralph Bakley, and Detectives John Trout, Louis Schlam and Joseph Carpani.
Sleuth to Retire
WALTER SMITH
George Clayton Made Chief Police Clerk
Camden Courier-Post —
George “Babe” Clayton yesterday afternoon was named acting chief clerk of the Camden police department by Chief Arthur Colsey, who held the post under former Chief John W. Golden.
Clayton has been functioning in the post for the last four months, but had not formally received the title of acting chief clerk.
Colsey said Clayton will receive the same salary he has been getting as a patrolman, $2040 a year minus 15 percent. He had been discussed recently for an acting captaincy, but decision was reached to appoint him to the clerkship instead.
2 Held in Theft of Craps Winnings
Camden Courier-Post —
Money Won in Audubon Taken From East Camden Man, Cops Told
Money Won in Audubon Taken From East Camden Man, Cops Told
A second man was arrested last night and identified by David McMullen, 32, of 1015 North Thirty-fourth street, as a participant in a robbery in which winnings from an Audubon craps game were taken. Tony Scola, 45, of 347 Spruce street, was arrested at the corner of Fourth and Spruce streets, where he was selling ice cream, by Acting Captain George Clayton and Detective Clifford Del Rossi. He was taken to detective headquarters where McMullen told police he was one of three men who robbed him of $25 Wednesday night.
Joseph Proccell, 28, alias Joe Rizzo, of 229 East Atlantic avenue, Audubon, was arrested previously as the driver of the car in which the men escaped.
McMullen told police he won $10 in a craps game in the rear of a barber shop in Audubon Wednesday. He said he left the game shortly before 5 p. m. and at 10.45, two men came to his home and told his wife Margaret, they wanted “to see Dave.” When she went to the rear of the house to call her husband, the two at the door and another man forced their way into the house. One of them pointed a gun at McMullen and demanded the money he had won.
“Give us back the money you won from us,” they demanded.
McMullen was reluctant to turn over the money, and the man with the gun struck him over the bridge of the nose, inflicting a deep cut. McMullen then handed them his wallet and they took $25 from it and threw it back on a table, he said. The $15 additional was money his wife had given him to pay the building and loan, he said.
The men ran from the house and jumped into a car parked around the corner. It is alleged by police that Proccell was sitting at the driver’s wheel with the motor running. As they left the house, one of the men shouted to McMullen: “If you know what’s good for you, you better not report this to the police or they’ll find you in a lot.”
Proccell was arrested, Carpani said, from a description given by McMullen. He is being held to await possible identification.
Carpani said he notified the Audubon police of the attack and gave them the address at which McMullen said the craps game was held.
Clayton Named ‘Chief’ in Colsey’s Absence
Camden Courier-Post —
Acting Chief Clerk George Clayton was named to head the Camden police department during the absence of Police Arthur Colsey yesterday by Commissioner Mary W. Kobus.
Chief Colsey leaves today for Kansas City where he will attend the International Police Chief’s convention. En route to the convention, Chief Colsey will stop at St. Louis and will return here via Chicago after the convention ends next Friday.
The Chicago and St. Louis visit will be on police duty, Chief Colsey said. He will discuss improvements, supervision, and police methods with police officials of those cities.
‘Babe’ Clayton’s Son Appointed as Cop
Camden Courier-Post —
Howard Clayton, a son of Acting Captain George “Babe” Clayton, chief clerk of the Camden police department, yesterday was appointed a policeman by Chief Arthur Colsey upon instructions from Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, on vacation in the West.
The appointee is 28 and lives at 408 North Fortieth street. He has been assigned to the police motorcycle division. He is a graduate of Camden High School, class of 1929, where he excelled in football and basketball. His father was a baseball star in his younger days.
Clayton Promoted to Chief Clerk in Police Department
Camden Courier-Post —
Commissioner Kobus Continues Move for Elimination of ‘Acting’ Officers
In line with her plans to eliminate acting offices in the police department, Commissioner Mary W. Kobus last night announced the promotion of Patrolman George Clayton to chief clerk of the department.
Clayton, whose promotion has been rumored since last December, has been acting chief clerk for two years and was named chief clerk, August 16. The promotion carries an increase in salary of $360, the position paying $2400 annually less the 15 percent economy reduction now in effect. As a patrolman Clayton received $2040 a year.
The city commission is expected in the near future to pass a resolution giving the title of captain, as outlined in a city ordinance, and he then receives an additional increase of $180 in salary bringing the total to $2580. Clayton will act as chief of police in the absence of Chief Arthur Colsey.
Clayton Record Lauded
Commenting on Clayton’s promotion, Commissioner Kobus said: “This is another step toward the elimination of acting officers in the police department and more are to follow in the future. It is my purpose to replace all acting jobs wherever and whenever it is possible. Clayton is a fine officer with a splendid record and his promotion will increase the efficiency and uphold the morale of the department.”
Clayton, who is 49 and lives at 912 Mt. Ephraim avenue, was appointed to the department on February 2, 1918, while Charles H. Ellis was mayor. He has served in nearly every capacity in the department, having been a motorcycle patrolman, mounted policeman, jailor, acting desk sergeant and acting detective.
Clayton has been cited for bravery on several occasions.
Capturing a fugitive bandit single handed at the Camden postoffice on December 20, 1932, was one of Clayton’s most sensational exploits. The bandit, Robert I. Mears, was wanted in Delaware for more than a score of robberies and was spotted in Camden.
Floors Irate Interferer
Police were notified and Clayton was assigned to the postoffice to grab Mears when he appeared for mail. Clayton waited for several days before he was rewarded with the appearance of Mears. Not knowing whether the bandit was armed or not, Clayton pulled his gun.
A bystander thought a holdup was in progress and Clayton was the culprit. Clayton was assaulted by the bystander, making the chances of the capture look slim, but he promptly “floored” the would-be rescuer with a punch and then took Mears to headquarters where he was held for Delaware authorities.
City Police Praised at Fete Honoring Acting Lieutenant Bott
Camden Courier-Post —
Camden police and firemen gathered last night to pay honor to Acting Lieutenant Herbert Bott, retiring president of the Policemen and Firemen’s Association, heard their highest superiors make these statements:
Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of Public Safety, declared she had heard stories about the policemen “taking” but that she wanted to say “that the entire force was honest and she was proud to say that it was as good, as honest and efficient as any in the United States.”
Mayor George E. Brunner asserted “the city had gone to ____ before the three New Deal commissioners took charge, and they had brought order out of chaos, collected taxes so thoroughly that on January 1, 1939, the policemen and firemen will be given back the last five percent reduction that had been made in their pay.”
Bott, who has been at the head of the association for the past five years, retires because, as he stated, he felt he could not give such service as he felt he had rendered in the past. The affair was held at Kenney’s and the ranking officials of the police and fire departments were on hand, together with guests from other parts of the state.
Wallace Lauds Men
Bruce A. Wallace was toastmaster, and he emphasized the remarks of Commissioner Kobus as to “the honesty of the men.”
“When you got that 30 percent reduction in pay,” said Wallace, “I know how you came to my office, worrying about how you would meet your building and loans, how you would pay various debts that you owed, and I know that some of you even gave up your homes, because you couldn’t afford to pay for them longer. That would never have happened if you were doing any ‘put and-take stuff.’”
Mrs. Kobus started with a tribute to Bott, for his own efficiency as a policeman and his fighting qualities as shown in the battles he made for his brother policemen.
“I knew Herb Bott,” she said, “before I got into the department but once in there my sweet dream changed to a nightmare, because every day Bott was there with a delegation wanting something done for the policemen, or asking that something be not done to them.
“We have gone through stormy times together, through strikes and labor troubles and of course I have always found out, through others, naturally that ‘the police are always wrong.’ I have told the employers where they were wrong, and told the strikers that the police could not have abused them or wronged them because they belonged to an association of their own, fighting for the things that the policemen and the firemen felt that they wanted.
Citizens Gave Praise
“I hadn’t been four weeks in the department before I thought every-body in Camden was affected by ‘letter writingitis.’ But after four weeks the other kind of letters began to come in, and the police were being given the credit which they had deserved and which they had won for themselves.
“And the longer I am in the department the prouder I am of the police and the fire departments of the city of Camden. I am proud of every policeman and of every fireman in both departments. I have been out at 1:30 a.m. and heard a call come for the car in which I was riding, and in one minute and a half that car was at the scene, in two minutes there was another and in four minutes a half a dozen cars had appeared on the scene.
“I want to say for the men of the police department that nowhere in the United States is there a more honest or more faithful group of men.
“I hear a lot of talk about policemen, I hear lots of talk of how they are ‘taking,’ but I also want to say that I haven’t found one yet who wasn’t honest and to prove it crime today in Camden is at its lowest ebb.
“Crime today in Camden has been lowered 40 to 60 percent, and I say to anybody who wants to know that you couldn’t have had this condition unless Camden was guarded by an honest, efficient police department.
“That crime in Camden is at its lowest ebb is due entirely to the vigilance of the police department, and to its loyalty to duty. I want to pay tribute to Chief Colsey, to Babe Clayton, to Herb Bott and the other officers of the department for having the police department where it can be proudly acclaimed as without a superior in the whole United States.”
Mayor Brunner, after paying his tribute to a personal friend, Herb Bott, declared “Mrs. Kobus is your superior but I’m the man who has to find the money to pay you. And that hasn’t been any easy job, I can tell you, as the tax collector’s job in any community is a tough one.”
“I want to say that things in Camden have gone to ___ in the past, and until the three New Deal Commissioners took charge of affairs, things continued in just that manner. And that we have given an honest, efficient administration is the thought of the average citizen of Camden today.
Promises Pay Restoration
“When we first came into power the people thought they had to pay no taxes. I say now that we have collected the taxes as they should have been collected in the past and as they will be collected in the future.
“Camden doesn’t need any new taxes. We have been successful in collecting the taxes because we made those who could pay to pay. The men we put in front, for the first collection of taxes, were the politicians who thought they stood in a favored group and could get away with it.
“I want to assure you policemen that on January 1, 1939, I feel sure that we’ll be able to give you back the last five percent that we had to take from you, when things were left in such a shape for us that we could not do anything else.
“People are responding to our tax collections, and the people feel that we are giving them 100 cents for a dollar and that’s the reason.
“We have no favorites on the tax rolls. We saw to it that the politicians headed the list of those who were the first to pay, and we’ve given the little fellow a chance. We’ve let him pay by the week, or the month or anyway that would suit him best, because we believe that the little fellow is entitled to his own homestead, and we’re going to see that he keeps it, but those who can afford to pay and wont are going to be made to pay.”
Carlton W. Rowand related that his father, a former police official, had recently told his son that “the police department today was the best in the history of Camden.”
Surrogate Frank B. Hanna also added his tribute to the department and to the guest of honor.
“The spirit of the police department,” Hanna said, “is shown to no better advantage than in the manner your association aids the underprivileged children of this city. I know, too, that whenever a committee is formed for a job to be done for the men in the department, Herb Bott jumps into action and does his level best for his associates.”
N. J. Crime Bill 10 Millions
Harry B. Gourley, of Paterson, president of the State Police Beneficial Association, declared that crime was costing the state of New Jersey $10,000,000 every year, and that the crime bill of the nation was more than $15,000,000,000.
He asked co-operation in crime prevention and declared that “any attempt to break down the morale of the police was wrong, and the way in which it was easiest broken down was when you dip into the pay check.”
He cited numerous instances of the heroism of the policemen, and asked that every citizen stand squarely behind the men in the matter of pensions.
Commissioner Harold W. Bennett also lauded the guest and the police department, as did Harry Wilkers, who succeeds Bott as president of the association and Robert Wonstetler, who becomes delegate to the state convention to replace Bott.
Mrs. Emma Shriver, retiring president of the Ladies Auxiliary, presented Bott with a check, while Wallace gave him the gift of his associates, 50 silver dollars. Mrs. Bott was remembered with flowers.
Willard Schriver was chairman of the committee having the dinner in charge, and associated with him were Charles Cook, Arthur Batten, Maurice F. O’Brien, William Marter, Edward Leonard, Mrs. Schriver, Mrs. Anna Gleason and Mrs. William McGrath.
House Passes Bill to Boost Clayton
Camden Courier-Post —
To Be Promoted
Measure Would Permit Elevation of Camden Police Clerk to Captain
George ‘Babe’ Clayton.
The Assembly in Trenton yesterday passed a bill by Assemblyman Rocco Palese which is designed to permit elevation of George “Babe” Clayton from chief clerk in the police department to police captain.
The measure, which now goes to the Senate, permits appointment as police captain of persons acting as chief clerk in second class cities.
Clayton’s salary now is $2400 a year. The salary of a police captain is $3200, which amount Clayton will receive when promoted.
Although the legislation applies to all second class cities, Clayton is the only chief clerk eligible for a captaincy.
Although Clayton could be elevated under a city ordinance, the post could also be abolished by that means. The State law is sought to create a permanent office, which could not be abolished with a change in local administration.
Clayton New Chief of Police Society
Camden Courier-Post —
Elected President of Camden Beneficial Association; Other Officers Picked
Captain George “Babe” Clayton, chief clerk of the police department, was elected unanimously yesterday as president of Camden Police Beneficial Association, succeeding the late Edward Middleton.
Detective William Dolan and Traffic Patrolman John B. Stanton were re-elected vice president and recording secretary, respectively. Neither was opposed.
Two offices were contested on friendly terms. Archie Reiss, principal clerk in the detective bureau, was elected financial secretary over Lieut. George Frost, the vote being 34 to 28. Sergt. Edward Carroll defeated Sergt. Walter Mattison for treasurer 38 to 23.
Sergt. Albert “Dick” Cornog was elected without opposition as sergeant-at-arms.
Trustees elected are Acting Police Chief Ralph Bakley, Acting Lieut. John Garrity, Detective Joseph Mardino, Acting Lieut. Herbert Bott and Patrolman Edward Leonard.
CAPT. GEORGE CLAYTON — All officers were elected for one year. Detective Dolan served as acting president after Middleton’s death.
Photos: George Clayton & Granddaughter Carol Clayton, 1939 & 1940
George Clayton & Granddaughter Carol Clayton, 1939 & 1940
World War II Draft Card
World War II Draft Card — April 1942
Photos: George Clayton
George Clayton
Magin’s Body to Lie in State In Commission Room Monday
Camden Courier-Post —
Acting Director
Abbott Named as Temporary Department Head by Mayor
CHURCH SERVICES TUESDAY MORNING
Frank A. Abbott.
Deputy director of revenue and finance, who was named yesterday by Mayor George E. Brunner as acting director of the department of public works to take over the duties of City Commissioner Henry Magin, who died suddenly of a heart attack yesterday. Abbott is Democratic leader of the Fifth ward.
The body of Commissioner Henry Magin will lie in state in the city commission chambers Monday night.
Mayor Brunner made that announcement today following completion of funeral arrangements with members of Commissioner Magin’s family. Magin died suddenly yesterday from a heart attack at the city incinerator plant.
On Tuesday morning, the body will be moved to the Church of St. Joan of Arc, Fairview, where a Requiem Mass will be sung at 9 a. m. Burial will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Philadelphia.
Half-Holiday Declared
The public will be permitted to pay its last respects after 7 p. m. Monday. Mayor Brunner has declared a half-holiday Tuesday morning so that city employes can attend the funeral. The mayor said employes of as many departments as can conveniently be closed will be given time off.
The four city commissioners will act as pallbearers. Commissioner Kobus is in Buffalo, attending a convention, but will be home Monday.
In addition to the commissioners, Thomas Jackson, an employe of the highway department, and Samuel Magill, a former commander of Fairview Post, American Legion, also will be pallbearers.
Jackson served as a sergeant with Magin during the World War and the two men had been close friends ever since. He was named a pallbearer at Mrs. Magin’s request. A list of honorary pallbearers is being compiled by Mayor Brunner.
City, county, State, Federal and veterans’ officials are expected to view the body Monday night. Several veterans’ organizations of which Magin was an officer or member will conduct their rituals at the cemetery.
Mayor Brunner said that James O’Brien, commander of the Disabled American Veterans and president of the Veterans’ Political League which sponsored Magin as a city commissioner, will be in charge of the arrangements for services by veterans.
Edward J. Quinlan, a vice commander of the Camden County American Legion, will be in charge of memorial services in the commission chamber Monday night and military services at the grave. The funeral will be a military one, Brunner said.
Quinlan requested all veteran groups assemble at the City Hall Plaza at 7.45 p. m. Monday so they can attend the services at 8 p. m. in a body.
The police and firemen also will attend the Monday night services in a body. Firemen will be led by Chief John H. Lennox while the police will be in charge of Chief Clerk George Clayton.
Brunner said parking at the plaza will not be permitted Tuesday morning until after the funeral party has left for the church.
Commissioner Magin collapsed in the arms of James Carr, assistant superintendent of streets, a minute after he had been photographed while conversing with Samuel Burgess, an official of the Nichols Engineering & Research Corp., New York, who was inspecting the plant. The commissioner was 44.
Mayor Goes to Home
When Mayor Brunner was informed the Commissioner was dead he immediately went to the Magin home at 3043 Alabama road to console the widow, Helen, and a daughter, Helen, 20. The Mayor remained two hours until Mrs. Magin regained her composure.
Mayor Brunner announced Frank A. Abbott, deputy director of revenue and finance, will assume temporary charge of the public works department, beginning Monday.
“I appointed Mr. Abbott acting director of the department of public works in order that business and functions of the department will not be curtailed,” Mayor Brunner said. “This is the largest department in the city and it requires a directing head until such time as a successor to Commissioner Magin is elected by the City Commission.”
Abbott is familiar with workings of the department, having been acting director several weeks last year when Magin was ill in a hospital. It is reported he will be named to succeed Magin.
Although he has the title of deputy director of revenue and finance, Abbott actually is first assistant to Mayor Brunner who heads the revenue and finance department.
Abbott is serving his second consecutive four-year term as deputy. For more than 15 years he has been Democratic leader of the Fifth ward. He lives at 346 Cherry street.
Native of Camden
Born in Camden, Abbott attended Fetters school and later learned and worked at the plastering trade. He was a Fifth ward Democratic leader in days when Democrats ran for but seldom were elected to public office.
He went through several torrid political campaigns against the late John Carroll, Republican leader of the ward and political lieutenant of the late former U. S. Senator David Baird, Sr.
Abbott learned to play baseball on the rocky vacant lots in the Fifth ward. He was regarded as a fleet-footed outfielder and a fast base runner.
For a short time he had a brief fling as a dancer in vaudeville, but Pater Abbott put his foot down, ordered him to return home and learn the plastering trade.
Close Friend of Mayor
The Damon and Pythias like friendship between Mayor Brunner and his deputy is a legend in the Democratic party of Camden. One of Brunner’s first acts when he was elected a city commissioner six years ago was to name Abbott as his deputy at a salary of $3000 a year.
Brunner has stated publicly that Abbott will be his aide in any position to which he is elected or appointed. Abbott’s loyalty to Brunner is little short of devotion.
It’s Abbott’s job to keep Brunner’s appointments, admit those the mayor wants to talk to and give the gate to those the mayor doesn’t want to meet. Abbott makes a perfect buffer for the city’s chief executive.
George Clayton Enters Hospital for Treatment
Camden Courier-Post —
Capt. George Clayton, chief clerk of the police department, was admitted to West Jersey hospital with a kidney ailment last night. His condition has not been fully diagnosed, doctors said.
Captain Clayton, 63, resides at 912 Mt. Ephraim avenue. In his youth, he was a widely known baseball player.
Capt. G. M. Clayton Succumbs at 63
Camden Courier-Post —
Chief Police Clerk Served on Force For 29 Years
Capt. George M. Clayton, 63, chief clerk in the city police department, died at 10.30 o’clock last night at his home, 912 Mt. Ephraim avenue, after an illness of 15 weeks.
Captain Clayton, known to his associates as “Babe” Clayton, was taken ill while on duty and remained at home until his death.
Captain Clayton was appointed to the police department Feb. 2, 1918, and served in virtually every capacity during his rise to captain.
Held Many Positions
Captain Clayton served as a motorcycle patrolman, mounted patrolman, jailer, acting desk sergeant, acting detective and acting clerk until he was named chief clerk Jan. 1, 1937.
He was cited several times for bravery in the line of duty. He made one of the most sensational arrests Dec. 20, 1932, when he captured a fugitive bandit, Robert I. Mears, wanted for more than a score of robberies in Delaware.
Mears was seen in Camden and Clayton was assigned to watch for him at the postoffice. After several days, Clayton spotted the suspect. Not knowing whether the fugitive was armed, Captain Clayton pressed a pistol against Mears’ body. A bystander, thinking a holdup was in progress, attacked the officer. Believing Mears had an accomplice, Clayton “floored” the man with a punch and took Mears to headquarters.
Fine Ball Player
Some 30 years ago Captain Clayton was a widely known baseball player and was considered one of the best catchers in this area. He played in minor leagues and with a number of… (Continued on Page 5—Column 8)
(Thank you notice — Clayton family)
Camden Courier-Post —
CLAYTON—The family of George Clayton wishes to thank their many relatives, friends, neighbors and Camden Police and Fire departments for their cars, kindnesses and floral tributes in their recent bereavement in the death of their husband and father. Mrs. George Clayton and Children.
CLAYTON—The family of George Clayton wishes to thank their many relatives, friends, neighbors and Camden Police and Fire departments for their cars, kindnesses and floral tributes in their recent bereavement in the death of their husband and father. Mrs. George Clayton and Children.
(Death notice — John Clayton)
Camden Courier-Post —
CLAYTON—On November 23, 1952, John, of 605 Mt. Vernon st., Camden, N. J., age 80 years. Relatives and friends of the family, also members of Lodge No. 111, LOOM, are invited to attend the funeral on Saturday at 8 a.m., from the Funeral Home of Frank J. Leonard, 1451 Broadway, Camden, N. J. Requiem High Mass at Sacred Heart Church, 9 a. m. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call Friday evening.
CLAYTON—On November 23, 1952, John, of 605 Mt. Vernon st., Camden, N. J., age 80 years. Relatives and friends of the family, also members of Lodge No. 111, LOOM, are invited to attend the funeral on Saturday at 8 a.m., from the Funeral Home of Frank J. Leonard, 1451 Broadway, Camden, N. J. Requiem High Mass at Sacred Heart Church, 9 a. m. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call Friday evening.