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 —
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 treated his team to a supper and a 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 makes a strong bid to get out 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 the ones 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 must seek another climate.
Camden Beats All Stars
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN BEATS ALL STARS
In Benefit Game for Ike Toy Jersey men Came Out On Top
Camden’s Team Will Not Be in Full Blast Until May 4, But There’s Much Doing
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden’s Team Will Not Be in Full Blast Until May 4, But There’s Much Doing
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.
1907 Camden Police Department Baseball Team
Camden Courier-Post —
From “When Father Was A Boy” — Camden Courier-Post, June 23, 1929
WHEN FATHER WAS A BOY!
[Uniform lettering visible on the players: “C P”.]
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.
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 —
George Clayton’s night at the New Broadway Theater, Broadway & Sycamore Street
‘GEORGIA MAGNET’ GIVES MARVELOUS EXHIBITION
Abbott Amazes Large Audiences at the Broadway Theater by Her Wonderful Ability to Balk Strength of Ten Men
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 —
GEORGE CLAYTON DIES IN HIS SEVENTIETH YEAR
Virtually a life-long resident of the Sixth ward, George Clayton, aged 70 years, of 605 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 —
(Baseball return note)
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 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 —
(Death notice — Susan Clayton)
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 —
(Funeral notice — Susan Clayton)
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 —
SKATER DROWNS AT FOREST HILL
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 is 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 the search for him as 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 several 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 23 years, of 2219 Arch street, Philadelphia, had a narrow escape from death. He was rescued by a number of employes of the American Ice Company who heard his cries for help, who were cutting ice less than one hundred 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 were able to catch hold 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 —
(Recovery from pneumonia notice)
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 —
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 followed 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 —
30 Cops Shifted Today in Opening of New District
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 Nayler 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. Nayler, 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 in Louis Del 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.
Nayler, 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 is required 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 will report direct to Humes and Laib instead of to headquarters.
Ralph Bakley, who has been acting lieutenant 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 Third. 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.
Cop Arrests Suspect In Postoffice Crowd and Is Mistaken for Bandit
Camden Courier-Post —
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… (Continued on Page Eight)
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
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.
Where Police Seized Still, After Year’s Operation
This double dwelling, at 3404 Rosedale Avenue, was the scene of a still seizure early yesterday, after it had been operating for one year, according to a neighbor. The occupant, Mrs. Mollie Schwartz, 48, was arrested and admitted she operated the plant, according to Acting Lieutenant of Police John Potter. A man said to be a brother of the woman fled in his undershirt, while Sergeant Edward Hahn, recently transferred to Third District duty from the traffic division, and Patrolman Joseph Keefe were making the arrest and seizure. Eleven barrels of mash, a stove, one cooler and three gallons of liquor were seized with the 25-gallon still in the house, police reported. One of two cards without license tags, which were parked in front of the house when raided, disappeared later.
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 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.”
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’
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 tell-
(Continued on Page Four)
Police Admit Defeat In Vice Slaying
(Continued from Page One)
“On Saturday past, I received a New York telephone communication from Mickey. I told him at that time that he had been advised that the police were looking for him. He indicated at that time in our talk that this was true, and if so he would give himself up to police.
“I talked to Lieutenant George A. Ward on Sunday afternoon, and he told me the detectives had seen Mickey. I talked with Mickey that evening, and he told me that he would come to Camden at about 1 p. m. on Monday.”
“He came to my office at about 12 noon, and after talking to me for about five minutes, during which time he told me absolutely nothing about the shooting, I accompanied him to the detective bureau alone.”
Martino said: “I shouldn’t Net Interfere”
“I wanted to protect the right to protect his constitutional rights, believing it was no idea that by not interfering, the police could not find any lacuna in their failure to solve the crime.”
“They not only failed to appreciate the opportunity given them but are continuously giving out so many contradictory stories that when the general public is given the impression that Blair is deliberately lying. Chief Colsey has done a great deal of the press announcements that has been trying to fasten on Blair’s attorney the blame for the crime.”
“Blair is either telling a deliberate falsehood or he has been mis-informed by one or two of his examination of the facts and all developments in the case yesterday.”
“Stewart said he will give Justice Lloyd 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 it accurate information.”
Furthermore, previous statements of the police as to whether the identity of the killer or killers is shrouded in as much mystery as it ever was.
“Who killed Feitz?” was a question Prosecutor Orlando said: “I don’t know—do you?” was Orlando’s “bewildered” reply.
“Still in Dark”
The prosecutor’s statement was the first confession by police that Camden county authorities are still in the dark.
Police Chief Colsey echoed Prosecutor Orlando’s statement by telling newspapers, when urged upon him, 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, had expressed their confidence that they knew who the slayer or slayers of the detective were and were following a path that would eventually lead to their arrest.
While authorities were admittedly groping about for clues in the murder, the police drive on gamblers resulted in the recent application of two alleged “numbers” men.
Held in $2000 bail to await the action of the grand jury on charges of running a “numbers” game before Police Judge Switzer were Crawford W. Smith, 846 Carman street, and Herbert Deronio, 52, of 44 North Thirty-first street. Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge. Smith and Deronio’s admission to police that he operates “numbers” for Smith was admitted by George Clayton. Both Smith and Deronio were arrested by Patrolman George Clayton, Deronio pleaded guilty to the charges.
Still View 3 Suspects
Three men accused in connection with the robbery of a South Camden candy store on September 14 were either to be brought to Camden for questioning as witnesses in the Feitz murder were being held in Chester, Pa., where they are being held, to learn whether they could be identified as one of the killers.
Walter Smith Gets Pension From City
Camden Courier-Post —
Named: Roy R. Stewart, Walter Smith, John Trout, Newton Ash, George Clayton, Harold W. Bennett, John J. Robinson, Elisha A. Gravenor, Charles H. Ellis, David Kates, Ralph Bakley, Joseph Carpani, and Louis Schlam.
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
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 247 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 identified at detective headquarters where McMullen told police he was one of three men who held him up 825 Wednesday night.
Joseph Procelli, 23, alias Joe Rizzo, of 220 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 8 p. m. and 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 head, cutting his forehead. A deep gash was cut on his arm and they took $22 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 auto loan, he said.
After they ran from the house and jumped into a car parked around the corner. It is alleged Procelli was sitting at the driver’s wheel with the motor running.
As they left the house one of the men shouted to McMullen: “You know what’s a good tip for you better not report this to the police or they’ll find you in a lot.”
Procelli was arrested, Carpani said, from a description given by McMullen.
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 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 Wonsetler, 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.
To Be Promoted
Camden Courier-Post —
Rocco Palese — George Clayton
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.
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
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 —
(Thank you notice — Clayton family)
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 —
(Death notice — John Clayton)
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.