Introduction
GEORGE P. BAXTER was born on April 6, 1920 to David James Baxter and his wife Leta B. Baxter. His grandparents, James and Anne Baxter were living at 1113 Penn Street in 1910, David Baxter working as a stableman for the Pennsylvania Bottling & Supply Company at 14 Market Street. By 1912 Annie Baxter, now a widow, and her sons had moved to 1027 Penn Street.
The Baxters were living at 524 Elm Street in North Camden when David Baxter registered for the draft in June of 1917. He was then driving a wagon pulled by team of horses for the Campbell Soup Company. He learned to drive a truck soon afterwards. The family’s first child, daughter Leta E. Baxter, had already been born.
The 1924 City Directory shows the Baxter family at 828 Fern Street in North Camden, this may, however be incorrect. The 1927 Directory gives an address at 3419 River Road in Cramer Hill, while 1929 Directory shows a return to North Camden, with 334 Byron Street in the Poet’s Row section as the address.
The April 1930 Census shows the Baxter family, which included an older sister, Leta E. Baxter, living at 334 Byron Street. During these years David Baxter supported his family working as a chauffer, the word chauffer translating into today’s parlance as taxicab or truck driver. The family had moved to 118 State Street by the spring of 1942, David Baxter then working at the John R. Evans & Company leather factory at North 2nd and Erie Streets.
The 1947 Camden City Directory shows George P. and Dorothy Baxter at 118 State Street. His parents also were living at that address in 1947. George Baxter’s occupation was listed as “operator,” most likely indicative of factory work, while his father was employed as a watchman. Sister Leta and her husband, James Schoener, also lived at the State Street address.
George P. Baxter was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on December 30, 1950. He reported for duty with Ladder Company 1 at Fire Headquarters, North 5th and Arch Streets, on January 1, 1951. While with Ladder Company 1 he rescued a litter of puppies while combating a fire on Howard Street in North Camden on September 23, 1959. This fire was quite close to home, as the October 1959 New Jersey Bell Telephone Directory lists an address of 817 Howard Street for G.P. Baxter.
On April 1, 1961 George P. Baxter was promoted to Captain and assigned to Ladder Company 3, North 27th and Federal Streets in East Camden. On January of 1963 he was promoted to the post of Chief Fire Marshall.
Sadly, George P. Baxter would not remain in this position for long. He passed away on September 30, 1966. His last address on record with the Camden Fire Department is 151 North 35th Street in East Camden.
George P. Baxter, Camden Fire Department
37 Camden Men Pass Tests for City Firemen
Camden Courier-Post —
Thirty-seven candidates have passed the Civil Service test for fireman in the Camden City fire department. Thirty-two of those who qualified are former service men and three of them, disabled veterans, were placed at the top of the list under the preference given by law.
Joseph T. Hackett, of 158 Branch Village, is listed first, Owen D. Gale, 320 Marlton avenue, second and August L. Johnson, 916½ Chestnut street, third.
The salary on Jan. 1 will begin at $2400 and reach a maximum of $3160 after four years.
Following is the complete list of those who qualified in the test:
Joseph T. Hackett, 158 Branch Village; Owen D. Gale, 320 Marlton avenue; August L. Johnson, 916 Chestnut street; Harry Sterling, 112 Ablett Village; Albert A. Stinger, 1423 Bradley avenue; Jesthroe Hunt, 753 Walnut street; Harold H. Pike, 429 Penn street; Roy R. Moffa, 216 Morse street; Allen F. Hess, 2733 Sherman avenue; Franklin W. Whylings, 602 North Thirty-second street; William L. Gosnell, 3303 Crescent drive; David W. Humphries, 3017 Mickle street; William G. Winstanley, 510 Penn street; Joshua H. Robinson, 1934 Kossuth street; Henry S. Keubler, 936 Broadway; Adolph S. Zubrzycki, 1223 South Tenth street; Ralph H. Palmer, 585 Mickle street; Alexander P. Matis, 903 Haddon avenue; Earl G. Robinson, 1036 Penn street; Anthony J. DiMaggio, 530 South Eighth street; Earl A. Smith Sr., 201 Biedeman avenue; Philip J. MacDonald, 123 North Eleventh street; Robert P. Olesiewicz, 321 Mt. Vernon street; Eugene E. Demers, 2034 High street; Chester J. Gedrich, 1154 Thurman street; John F. Chudzinski, 1043 Thurman street; Samuel D. Siniscalki, 803 Line street; Santo DiMaggio, 319 Beckett street; Ludwig Polniak, 471 Pfeiffer street; George P. Baxter, 817 Howard street; Ralph F. Schaffer, Canterbury apartments; Joseph J. McTaggart, 3135 Waldorf avenue; Louis J. Monahan, Canterbury apartments; John DiMaggio, 319 Beckett street; William N. Stone Jr., 950 Vine street; Casper J. Martelli, 220 Mt. Vernon street; and H. Raymond Dixon, 439 Trenton avenue.
Woman Gas Victim Saved by Camden Rescue Squad
Camden Courier-Post —
The hour-long effort of a fire department rescue squad Friday night saved a woman who tried to kill herself by gas.
Police said Mrs. Florence Marshall, 46, of 330 North Tenth Street, locked herself in the bathroom and turned on a gas jet. They added she was despondent because her daughter, Eva, 22, was planning to marry and leave home.
A son, William, 19, broke down the bathroom door and dragged the mother from the room. Patrolmen John Voll and Harrison Wilkinson were called and summoned the rescue squad headed by Captains Godfrey Patterson and George Boone.
It took the squad an hour to revive Mrs. Marshall by artificial respiration. She was taken to Cooper hospital and later to police headquarters, where she was released for a hearing Monday on a charge of attempted suicide.
Other members of Rescue Squad 1 are George Baxter, William Watkin, John Mogck, Edward Brendlinger, Arthur Ballinghoff, Christopher Moll, Edwin Decker, Carl Wirtz, Robert Olesiewicz, John Kolessar and Raymond Banford.
Firemen Here Get Advanced First Aid Course
Camden Courier-Post —
More than 40 members of the Camden Fire Department have completed the Red Cross course in advanced first aid according to announcement today by Howard F. Keller, Collingswood, chairman of the Camden County Chapter’s first aid committee.
Instruction sessions were under the direction of Fire Chief William V. Pfefferle, Drillmaster Anthony Dzinski, a member of the local chapter first aid group, assisted by Nicholas E. George, were instructors. Dzinski is a member of the Red Cross faculty at the National Aquatic School held in this area each year for instruction in advance safety techniques. Dick Harris, director of Red Cross safety services, supervised.
All members of the graduating class are personnel of several units housed at fire department headquarters here. These include the Headquarters Company, Engine Company 2, Rescue Squad 1 and Truck Company 1. These groups include:
Rescue Squad: Captains Arthur Batten, Philip A. Stinger and Albert Weller; Edward Brendlinger, Harrison MacNeir, Robert Olesiewicz and James W. Smith.
Headquarters Company: Raymond Banford, John K. Voll and John W. Yates.
Truck Company 1: Captains Daniel Jiannetto, Robert E. Dukes and Otto V. Kaiser; William Watkin, Chester Gedrich, George Baxter, John Mogck, George C. Hennessy, Charles Devlin, Ambrose W. Faust, Joseph McTaggart, Howard R. Taggart, William G. Winstanley and Elmer Johnson Jr.
Engine Company 2: Captains James R. Asher, Thomas Winstanley; Carl Wirtz, james mcgrory, Edwin V. Decker, james stewart, Francis X. McTaggart, anthony t. orme, Mario D. Fattore, james o. jones, Francis P. Stibi, william hopkins, Robert E. Briggs, john Giuliano, casper martelli, Harold H. Pike, john j. vane, William Stibi, john dimaggio and Harry Kleinfelder.
A Very Lucky Litter
Fireman George P. Baxter of Ladder Company 1, displays the fruits of his labor, a newborn litter of pups, rescued from a working fire on Howard Street in North Camden on September 23, 1959. Fireman Baxter’s home was at 817 Howard Street at the time of this fire. Photo by Bob Bartosz.
Promotional Appointments to Captain 1961
From Left: Harold Pike, Albert Stinger, George Baxter, William Winstanley
Relax With Job, Credo of City’s Fire Inspector
Camden Courier-Post —
—Courier-Post Photo by Sam Kushner
GEORGE BAXTER, Camden’s new Chief Combustible Inspector, examines one of the 3,000 fire inspection reports on file in his department. The reports he uses to brief district fire chiefs on the latest potential fire hazards in their zones.
“When I want to relax, I grab a fire book and bury myself in it. You would probably call that crazy.”
The words are George Baxter’s, new chief combustible inspector of Camden since Jan. 1 and a 13-year veteran of the fire department.
The imposing title is a new civil service designation for fire marshal, the office which supervises all fire prevention activities in the city.
As the new man in the job, the 43-year-old Baxter brings to it plenty of technical know-how.
“You have to,” he says candidly. “It’s a full time job just keeping up on the latest developments in this business.”
“This business,” as he puts it, is something Baxter “lives, eats, and sleeps.”
He studies it as well.
* * *
HIS HOMEWORK goes back to his first day with the department in 1950.
“On the way home I picked up a copy of ‘A Fire Chief’s Handbook’ for $4.50, took it home and studied it,” he says.
His home at 151 N. 35st. [sic] today contains a fire book collection he values at $350. Many an evening he’ll slip away from his wife and five daughters and relax by reading up on a technical fire problem.
His knowledge of the fire business was a handy asset last October when he competed with 11 local fire captains in a civil service examination for the job he now holds. As the top scorer, he was promoted to inspector by Camden Fire Chief Edward R. MacDowell.
The new inspector has attended several fire courses over the years and to prove it has “enough certificates to paper a wall.”
His favorite, though, is a fancy, gold-bordered parchment which honors him with membership in Her Majesty’s Royal Fire Brigade.
“They probably thought I deserved it for buying so many books through their British Fire Service,” he comments.
* * *
AS CHIEF combustible inspector he heads a five-man department that inspects the city’s industrial and merchantile [sic] establishments, schools and hospitals, correcting fire hazards and fire code violations.
The department checks out all residential fire complaints. It supervises fire-drill evacuations in the city’s schools; instructs in the use of basic fire fighting appliances; campaigns for fire safety; investigates arson, false alarms—and among other things is now in the midst of updating 3,000 fire inspection reports.
Baxter uses the reports to brief district fire chiefs on the latest potential fire hazards in their zones.
His approach to the job is one of a crusader. And his department, he will tell you, is on a perpetual crusade to save lives.
“To this aim,” he says, “we don’t overlook the slightest fire hazard.”
To make that point stronger he adds:
“If we do our job right not an engine-wheel in the department will have to turn.”
To this aim the new inspector approaches his duties like a man on fire.
Spring Clean-Up Week
Camden Courier-Post —
Spring Clean-Up Week in Camden began Monday and will continue through Saturday with emphasis given on fire safety by “Sparky,” the dog and “Smokey,” the bear, who will travel around the area with firemen giving fire prevention talks. From left to right are Col. Bedell, director of public safety; City Fire Marshal Baxter as “Sparky”; Deputy Fire Marshal Gaffney as “Smokey”; and District Fire Chief Marks.
SPRING CLEAN-UP WEEK in Camden began Monday and will continue through Saturday with emphasis given on fire safety by “Sparky,” the dog and “Smokey,” the bear, who will travel around the area with firemen giving fire prevention talks. From left to right are Col. Bedell, director of public safety; City Fire Marshal Baxter as “Sparky”; Deputy Fire Marshal Gaffney as “Smokey”; and District Fire Chief Marks.
GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION Public Buildings Service Camden, New Jersey
September 17, 1963
Chief Edward McDowell 30 Arch Street Camden, New Jersey
Dear Mr. McDowell:
Thank you very much for your help in preparing a program for Fire Prevention Week October 6th to October 12th, 1963.
At our meeting on September 11, which was attended by your Fire Marshal George Baxter and Chief Louis Martelli, the Post Office Safety Officer Frank Wallace and myself, the following tentative plans were formulated for this installation, to take place Wednesday, October 9th, 1963, at 9:00 a.m.
A demonstration of the various types of fire extinguishers on the different types of fire. This would be attended by all our safety personnel and aides.
At 9:45 a.m., a general evacuation of the entire building.
At 10:00 a.m., a demonstration by the Fire Department and Rescue Squad on how persons can be rescued from the roof of a burning building, also the use and technique of the life net. A first-aid demonstration by the Rescue Squad was elaborated on by Fire Marshal Baxter to be conducted in conjunction with the “Rescue.” From the amount of enthusiasm shown by all, this should be a very good demonstration.
In the lobby of the Post Office, I will have a large display board with the different types of extinguishers and cards to show what kinds of fire they should be used for. (How I wish a universal extinguisher could be invented.) It seems no matter how often we are shown that, most of us have a tendency to forget the different types and uses. That’s why I always like to keep hammering on this one subject.
We hope to get good coverage from the press on this and I believe demonstrations of this sort are a great help in keeping the public informed to the great service that is there at their beck and call when the need arises. Mr. Baxter will arrange another meeting with this group when he has completed his plans for this forthcoming Fire Prevention Week. May I again thank you for your wonderful help in sending your men to help us.
Very truly yours, A. Espeland Buildings Manager
Fire Safety to Highlight Clean-up Week in Camden
Camden Courier-Post —
Mayor Issues Appeal
This week—May 5 to 11—is Spring Clean-Up Week in Camden. In a proclamation announcing the week, Mayor Pierce said the purpose of it is to eliminate conditions that create fire hazards.
“Major causes of substantial damage result from untidiness and carelessness in storage, unnecessary collections of trash and debris in and around the home,” the proclamation said.
During the week, City Fire Marshal George Baxter and City Fire Inspector John Gaffney will conduct fire safety demonstrations in elementary schools in Camden. They will be dressed as Smokey the Bear and Sparky the Dog, well-known fire fighters.
Distribute Literature
In conjunction with activities for the week, Baxter said a major effort would be made to distribute literature on how to protect against fire and fire dangers.
He suggested that homeowners inspect their properties for these, among other, fire hazards: the workshop for wood shavings, oily rags, scraps and old paint; electrical appliances to see if cords and plugs need repairs; the garage, the trash. He advised residents to get rid of dead grass and brush around the house.
In keeping with the spirit of Clean-Up Week, several residents of Parkside section last week made a mass sweep-up of their block—the 1400 block of Bradley ave.
Their object was to push the broomstick as a weapon against blight and set an example of “urban cleanliness” for all to follow.
Other Areas Cited
But some other areas of Camden last weekend needed to be cleaned up much more than the 1400 block of Bradley ave. These included the 600 block of Cedar st. in North Camden, and a blighted back yard at 348 Sycamore st., South Camden.
One former resident of the 600 block of Cedar st. visited the area last week and told the Courier-Post she boarded up her house awhile back and moved to the suburbs.
“The (city) sweepers can’t get through the block,” she said.
Looking along the street she indicated where trash was curb-high under a row of second-hand cars parked at the curbs. The cars stay there despite signs that prohibit parking on sweeper days, she said.
Other Laxities
Present residents of the area complained that when the streets aren’t kept clean other laxities set in.
Children don’t respect the property of others. Adults neglect their houses.
One home owner reported she paid $59 for six storm windows which children “pelted with stones.” She also spent $35 for two concrete steps, but children crushed them, she added.
The people who care about the block have conflicting opinions about who is to blame for its decline.
“Give Tenants Nothing”
Said a housewife who is a landlord herself: “They (landlords) expect high rents but give tenants nothing in return except perhaps a leaking roof over their heads.”
Says another landlord: “It’s the fault of the tenants.”
Average assessments of the homes run between $1,500 and $1,800—roughly half their market value. But a man who owns a two-story brick house there couldn’t give it away, he said.
A friend to whom it was offered said, “I wouldn’t take it. It would cost more to fix it up than it’s worth—ceilings are down, bricks need repointing, the plaster walls are cracked.”
Replicas of the house described are on both sides of Sycamore street. Their cost to the city is hundreds of dollars in reduced ratables; to owners, thousands more if they try to sell.
“Just As Bad”
On the other side of town, in South Camden, some areas are just as bad as the 600 block of Cedar ave.
The backyard at 348 Sycamore st. is strewn with trash, a discarded mattress and other debris. The owner, Mrs. Madeline Saracino, of 329 Sycamore st., said tenants moved recently and didn’t clean the place. A neighbor reported that rats live in the cellar.
Many Camdenites wish residents of the city’s blighted areas would take a hint from the people living in the 1400 block of Bradley ave., and get in the spirit of Spring Clean-Up Week.
—Courier-Post Photo by Arthur C. Jarvis
BACK YARD BLIGHT at 348 Sycamore st. has brought several complaints to City Health Department from a neighbor. City health official Ray Meadows reports his department is pressing a new order for elimination of the mess.
Fire Prevention Week: Correct Home Hazards
Camden Courier-Post —
‘Let Inspectors In’
By WILLIAM G. HOPKINS
Camden Fire Marshal George Baxter today appealed to home owners to “open their doors to city fire inspectors for the purpose of correcting fire hazards in the home.”
The fire department is making preparations for National Fire Prevention Week which starts tomorrow and runs through Oct. 12.
“It’s in the home that most lives are lost,” Baxter said, citing national fire statistics. He said the private home is most prone to fire because people aren’t aware of fire hazards that exist under their roofs.
Child Victims
He said that 50 per cent of fatalities in home fires are children.
The fire marshal listed faulty heating and electrical systems and carelessly discarded cigarettes as the biggest causes of home fires.
Another potential fire hazard at this time of year, he said, is tall, uncut weeds. “They are dry now, and children playing in fields and yards set them afire while at play.” Cut them down, he warns.
Other Hazards
Other home fire hazards listed by Baxter are: defective wiring, improper fuses, frayed extension cords and trash which is collected in closets, attics, basements and yards.
The fire marshal’s office works ‘round the year inspecting and correcting fire hazards in schools, businesses and industries. “However,” Baxter said, “we can only go into private homes by invitation.”
Fire Chief Edward R. MacDowell said the department will conduct special fire exercise demonstrations during the week.
Drill on Bridge
On Tuesday at 10 a.m. a drill including Camden and Philadelphia fire units will fight a simulated fire at the Camden tower of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Water will be drawn from the river by a fire-pumper boat.
On Wednesday at 10 a.m. city fire units will evacuate the Camden Post Office, 4th and Market sts. The demonstration will include the rescue of two mannequins on stretchers from the roof and a rescue-jump by a fireman from a second floor window into a life net.
The week will be highlighted by fire drills in all city schools. Some 750 fire prevention posters in color have been placed in schools, businesses and industries to call attention to fire prevention.
‘Let Inspectors In’
By WILLIAM G. HOPKINS
Camden Fire Marshal George Baxter today appealed to home owners to “open their doors to city fire inspectors for the purpose of correcting fire hazards in the home.”
The fire department is making preparations for National Fire Prevention Week which starts tomorrow and runs through Oct. 12.
“It’s in the home that most lives are lost,” Baxter said, citing national fire statistics. He said the private home is most prone to fire because people aren’t aware of fire hazards that exist under their roofs.
He said that 50 per cent of fatalities in home fires are children.
The fire marshal listed faulty heating and electrical systems and carelessly discarded cigarettes as the biggest causes of home fires.
Another potential fire hazard at this time of year, he said, is tall, uncut weeds. “They are dry now, and children playing in fields and yards set them afire while at play.” Cut them down, he warns.
Other home fire hazards listed by Baxter are: defective wiring, improper fuses, frayed extension cords and trash which is collected in closets, attics, basements and yards.
The fire marshal’s office works ‘round the year inspecting and correcting fire hazards in schools, businesses and industries. “However,” Baxter said, “we can only go into private homes by invitation.”
Fire Chief Edward R. MacDowell said the department will conduct special fire exercise demonstrations during the week.
On Tuesday at 10 a.m. a drill including Camden and Philadelphia fire units will fight a simulated fire at the Camden tower of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Water will be drawn from the river by a fire-pumper boat.
On Wednesday at 10 a.m. city fire units will evacuate the Camden Post Office, 4th and Market sts. The demonstration will include the rescue of two mannequins on stretchers from the roof and a rescue-jump by a fireman from a second floor window into a life net.
The week will be highlighted by fire drills in all city schools. Some 750 fire prevention posters in color have been placed in schools, businesses and industries to call attention to fire prevention.
Lobby Display at the U.S. Post Office
1963
Lobby Display at the U.S. Post Office — 1963. From Left: Mr. Espaland, Building Manager; Mr. Wallace, Personnel Manager; Chief George Baxter, Fire Marshall
Photos
1964
George Baxter with Scouts Kathleen Wilson, Judith Moffa, Deborah Speno and Patricia Papandrea.
George Baxter
“SPARKY” and “SMOKEY” giving candy to school children. Left on the ladder is Sparky, Chief George Baxter. Below on the ground is Smokey, Inspector Kenneth Clark.
“SPARKY” and “SMOKEY” at the H.C. Sharp Elementary School. Sparky is Chief George Baxter; Smokey is Inspector Kenneth Clark.
“SPARKY” and “SMOKEY” at the H.C. Sharp Elementary School. Sparky is Chief George Baxter; Smokey is Inspector Kenneth Clark.
Battling spread of mosquito-borne St. Louis encephalitis firemen burning swamp lands at the foot of 36th st. yesterday hold the attention of Camden Deputy Fire Chief Godfrey Patterson (pointing) and Fire Marshal George Baxter. —Courier-Post Photo by Bob Bartosz.
North Camden — Winter of 1964. Mrs. Sara Sanderson, longtime friend of the Camden Fire Department and Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper reporter; Chief Fire Marshal George Baxter; and Camden Police Officer William Latham.
Camden Is 3d In Nation in Fire Prevention
Camden Courier-Post — 1965
Public Safety Director Keith Kauffman and Acting Fire Chief Edward Michalak on Tuesday, commended the citizens of Camden and members of the Fire Department for their work in fire prevention during the past year.
The commendation followed announcement by the National Fire Protection Association that Camden rated third in the fire prevention contest of last year. Jersey City and Plainfield placed first and second.
Starting last May and continuing during the year nearly every home in the city, manufacturing plants and places of business were inspected by teams of firemen in the campaign headed by George Baxter, fire marshal.
Particular attention was paid to schools where talks and demonstrations were given, stressing the theme, “Fire Prevention Is a Community Project.”
Firemen also worked with city health officials in burning off grass and weeds on vacant lots.
Baxter said 10,000 posters printed in Spanish also were distributed during the contest in areas where Puerto Ricans reside.
Camden Third in State Fire Prevention Campaign
Camden Courier-Post — 1965
CITATION as third place winner in statewide Fire Prevention campaign during last year is scanned by (left to right) Director of Public Safety Kauffman; Fire Chief Michalak, and Camden Fire Marshal Baxter. The award to Camden City was bestowed by the National Fire Protection Assn. Jersey City was awarded first place and Plainfield second.
Cleanup Campaign
Camden Courier-Post —
Capt. Charles Bates and Chief George Baxter check pile of discarded bedding at rear of house on Burns St. during cleanup campaign which started Monday.
City Fire Chief Cites Major Clean-Up Foes
Camden Courier-Post —
Litter War
Carelessness and ignorance are major enemies in Camden’s two-week clean-up campaign which started Monday.
So said Fire Chief George Baxter who, with other firemen, has been fighting both of them since the campaign opened.
Major tactics in the battle, according to Baxter, are the educational forays the firefighters are making into heavily littered sectors of Camden.
Literature Passed Out
There they are distributing literature and explaining why good housekeeping is a boon to fire prevention. They are also pointing out the dangers of trash accumulation and, where residents request, inspecting homes for potential fire hazards.
Firemen urge residents to bundle trash properly so it can be carted away during special pickup.
Purpose of the special pickup, Baxter said, is to get rid of accumulated trash. Purpose of the educational campaign, he added, is to prevent future accumulation.
Cites Benefits
But lessened fire hazards are not the sole benefit expected to result from resident cooperation in the clean-up campaign, Baxter said.
“If we can get rid of conditions like this,” said the chief, pointing to a pile of debris in an alley behind the 200 block of Burns st., “this town will get back where it belongs.”
Firemen continued to work in North Camden today. They will fan out in other areas of the city as the campaign shifts into high gear, Baxter said.
Litter War
Carelessness and ignorance are major enemies in Camden’s two-week clean-up campaign which started Monday.
So said Fire Chief George Baxter who, with other firemen, has been fighting both of them since the campaign opened.
Major tactics in the battle, according to Baxter, are the educational forays the firefighters are making into heavily littered sectors of Camden.
Literature Passed Out
There they are distributing literature and explaining why good housekeeping is a boon to fire prevention. They are also pointing out the dangers of trash accumulation and, where residents request, inspecting homes for potential fire hazards.
Firemen urge residents to bundle trash properly so it can be carted away during special pickup.
Purpose of the special pickup, Baxter said, is to get rid of accumulated trash. Purpose of the educational campaign, he added, is to prevent future accumulation.
Cites Benefits
But lessened fire hazards are not the sole benefit expected to result from resident cooperation in the clean-up campaign, Baxter said.
“If we can get rid of conditions like this,” said the chief, pointing to a pile of debris in an alley behind the 200 block of Burns st., “this town will get back where it belongs.”
Firemen continued to work in North Camden today. They will fan out in other areas of the city as the campaign shifts into high gear, Baxter said.
Trash Attack Aimed at Tragedies
Camden Courier-Post —
The fury of flames roaring through a house with elderly folk or infants trapped within makes seasoned firemen shudder.
That’s the reason Fire Chief George Baxter and his crews are combing Camden to rid the city of accumulated trash and trying to teach householders how to escape the dangers surrounding them. City trucks are being sent out to cart away piles of trash and debris and will continue to respond to calls for residents even after the current cleanup campaign closes a week hence.
The trash attack Baxter is leading differs from previous efforts. Loads of litter have been removed from many homes and alleys in North Camden. Circulars advising residents to be alert against the perils lurking in cellars, yards, and attics have been distributed. Other sectors of the city will receive attention as the campaign moves on. Vacant lots will be burned off and special paint sales are being promoted to encourage people to give their homes a new look.
Chief Baxter and his aides, and Raphael Meadow, city health officer, are spreading words of wisdom to banish carelessness and thus impress on the minds of residents that tragedy can be avoided by simple caution and care.
Every fireman knows that every litter bit hurts.
Councilmen Set Example
Camden Courier-Post —
2-Week Clean-Up Fix-Up Plan in Camden Begins
CITY COUNCIL members set the example today for a concentrated two-week campaign to clean-up Camden.
They donned white coveralls early today for their assignment—to beautify a vacant lot at 277 Mechanic st.
Plans for the two-week campaign have been mapped by the city’s health officer, Raphael Meadow and Fire Chief George Baxter, head of the city’s fire marshals.
TOMORROW, Baxter said, district fire companies will begin door-to-door inspections of homes for potential fire hazards. However, he emphasized that the inspections must be voluntary. “We only will go into homes if we are invited,” he said. Firemen also will have literature to give to residents they visit.
School children are being given accident home inspection blanks to take home to their parents, according to Meadow.
Special trash pick-ups also will begin tomorrow in North Camden. Meadow said as many special pick-ups as possible will be scheduled during the two-week period. He said those areas not included will have special pick-up days after the formal campaign ends.
ON WEDNESDAY, emphasis will be placed on beautifying the South Camden area, from Mickle st. to Kaighns ave. and from 2nd st. to the Cooper River. Meadow said extra crews will be available in the area.
On Thursday, clean-up crews will be working from Mickle st. as far north as possible, according to Meadow.
Fire engines and wagons will be in South Camden on Friday, Baxter said. A “hosing-down” of South Camden streets is planned for Saturday.
BURNING-OFF vacant lots will begin next Monday, according to Baxter. He said firemen will begin with an area behind Westfield Acres on Pleasant ave. Meadow said as many mosquito breeding areas will be burned-off as possible.
Next Tuesday has been designated as paint-up day, and the activities are being coordinated with local neighborhood councils. Local businessmen also are cooperating by staging special sales on paint.
Cramer Hill residents will have a special trash pick-up day next Wednesday. On Thursday, trash trucks will be in East Camden, from the Cooper River to 28th st.
BAXTER SAID THE “house of hazards,” will be set up in the lobby of City Hall on Friday.
The chief fire marshal emphasized that residents can eliminate fire hazards during their own spring cleaning this year. He suggested that newspapers, magazines, discarded clothing, old furniture and materials be thrown out of attics and closets.
Baxter also emphasized that safety precautions must be used in the annual paint-up, fix-up campaign. If flammable paint removers are used, the fire marshal said they should be worked with out-of-doors. If they are used indoors, Baxter said windows must be open, stoves turned off and there should not be any smoking.
Paint materials should be stored away from furnaces, exits and stairways, and only in capped metal containers.
Housing Inspection Bureau Report, September 1965
[handwritten at upper left:] George, info you requested
SEPTEMBER
1965
HOUSING INSPECTION BUREAU
Activities for the month of September were:
September — Cumulative 1965
New Inspections — 131 — 779
Units included in dwellings — 144 — 1,020
Reinspections — 66 — 1,026
Violations recorded — 824 — 5,015
Abatements noted — 162 — 2,709
All housing inspectors began the “Housing Inspection Course” sponsored by Rutgers University and the State Department of Health. The course will last seven weeks and all facets of housing “Code-Enforcement” activities will be covered in the curriculum. The Health Officer is one of the members of the State Housing Code Enforcement Committee and will act as instructor for two sessions. Following completion of the course, each attendee should be qualified to function as a “one man inspection team”.
[stamped down the left margin in large letters:] C O P Y
Letter of Appreciation from Brooklawn Cub Scout Pack #56
Camden Courier-Post —
CUB SCOUT PACK #56 June 7, 1965
Chief George Baxter Fire Headquarters Camden, New Jersey
Dear Chief;
I wish to extend to you and the men of your department my sincere thanks and appreciation for the tour of the firehouse and equipment on Sat. June 5, 1965. The men on duty at that time really showed the boys a good time and also taught them a little bit about firefighting. The men on duty at that time certainly are a credit to the Camden Fire Department and they will long be remembered by the boys of Pack #56. Thanking you again.
Sincerely, Mr. William C. Packer Cubmaster, Pack #56 Brooklawn, New Jersey
60-Plus Club to See Home Fire Hazards
Camden Courier-Post —
The hazards of fires in homes and how to prevent them will be the subject of talks by Fire Chief Michalak and Fire Marshal Baxter at a meeting of the 60-Plus Club of Camden, on Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. in the Central YMCA, 614 Federal st.
A demonstration of hazards existing in homes will be given by the firemen through the use of the “House of Hazard [sic],” a miniature home model.
John Graw, club president, said the meeting is open to all men over the age of 60.
Demonstration With School Children On House of Hazards
House of Hazards
Lecture given to Neighborhood groups on Fire Prevention and Fire Safety
3 Boys Killed in Camden Fire
Camden Courier-Post —
2 Row Homes Destroyed
By EDMUND J. CHELLAND and JAY APT Courier-Post Staff
Three small boys died and four other persons were injured today as a flash fire swept two Camden row houses at 317-319 Mechanic Street.
One of the injured persons was hurt after leaping from a second floor window. Another was injured dashing through flames and smoke to safety. Two other persons escaped unharmed from the burning buildings.
Fire Marshall George Baxter and Fire Chief Edward Michelak said a kerosene space heater apparently malfunctioned and set off the blaze in the two-story frame home at 317 Mechanic Street shortly before 9 a.m.
Pronounced dead on arrival at West Jersey Hospital was Thomas Carter Ratcliffe, 9, of 317, and his nephews, Randy Smith, 1, of 319, and the latter’s brother, Robert, 2.
The baby was found dead in his crib. His brother and uncle were found dead in the uncle’s bedroom. The older Smith boy was believed to have run from his home through a second floor door to the adjacent home.
Treated at the same hospital were Mrs. Emiline Green, 66, of 321; Edwood Sharp, 39, of 317; Philip Borelli, a fireman attached to Ladder 2; and Patrolman James Snyder, 25, of 835 N. 35th Street.
Mrs. Green, a great-grandmother of the Smith brothers, was admitted for treatment of shock.
She tried to dash through a second-floor door linking her home to 319, but flames drove her back. She was led to safety by her husband, James, 60, custodian of a Glassboro dress factory.
Green also carried to safety the Ratcliffe boy’s sister, Shirley, 4, who had spent the night with them. Green and Shirley were unhurt.
Leaps 2 Floors
Sharp was admitted for treatment of a broken right ankle suffered when he leaped to the pavement from a second-floor window. He told police he was aroused by the fire, made a futile effort to rescue the Ratcliffe boy, then was forced to jump because of the intense heat and flames.
Borelli was overcome by smoke while battling the blaze. He was treated at the hospital and then returned to the scene.
Snyder was treated for an ankle injury. He and Patrolman George Pugh discovered the fire as they cruised in the neighborhood in Car No. 23.
They radioed an alarm, then tried to force their way into the house at 317 to rescue its occupants. A blast of heat and flame forced them to retreat as they opened the front door.
Firemen Find Bodies
More than 15 pieces of fire and rescue equipment responded to two alarms. They managed to keep the flames from spreading to the house at 321, although it suffered heavy smoke and water damage.
Five firemen searched the flame-and-smoke-filled buildings for the trapped boys and carried the bodies out.
The firemen were Benjamin Walter of Truck 2; William Kamman of Engine 3; William Stibi of Rescue 1; John DiMaggio, acting captain of Rescue 1 and John McGregory, a fire captain.
Three other occupants of the burned buildings were away at work at the time the fire broke out.
Coal Stove Out
Chief Michelak said they are Mrs. Emma Lou Ratcliffe, of 317, who is employed by a Swedesboro cleaning establishment; Mrs. Patricia Smith of 319, who is employed by a Pennsauken cleaning establishment, and William Roane, 25, of 319, who is employed by a Camden barrel reconditioning firm.
Mrs. Ratcliffe is the daughter of Mrs. Green. She is the mother of Shirley and Thomas Carter Ratcliffe and of Mrs. Smith. The latter is the mother of Randy and Robert Smith.
The fire chief said that Mrs. Smith told him that she had found a cellar coal stove had gone out when she awakened to go to work. He said she told him she lit the kerosene heater and left for work about 8:25 a.m.
—Courier-Post Photo by Sam Kushner
SHROUD-COVERED body of one of three boys who died in row house fire on Mechanic Street near 4th is carried out by firemen while neighbors look on from nearby porch.
—Courier-Post Photo by Sam Kushner
SMOKE SWIRLS around fireman as he leans from second-floor window of row house on Mechanic Street near 4th where three small boys perished in blaze.
—Courier-Post Photo by Sam Kushner
CAMDEN POLICE lead woman tentatively identified as grandmother of three children killed in fire from scene of tragedy on Mechanic Street.
Spring Clean-Up Week
Chief, E.V. Michalak, T. Scappa, DPW and Fire Marshal, Geo. Baxter, on the job. Director, Kieth Kauffman, and others, discussing problem. Spring Clean Up Week held in City of Camden N.J. May 23, to May 28, 1966.
Spring Clean Up Week held in City of Camden N.J. May 23, to May 28, 1966. Director of Public Safety Keith Kauffman and Mr. A. Scappa of Department of Public Works sizing up vacant littered lot.
Debris littered lot being cleaned. Inspector John Gaffney, contacting tenants, regards hazardous condition.
Spring Clean-Up Week — May 1966
Toy House Not for Burning (photo)
Camden Courier-Post — 1964
TOY HOUSE not for burning is part of the Girl Scout Fire Prevention Week exhibition at Christ Lutheran Church, Yorkship and Tuckahoe rds., Fairview. Entertained by an explanation of Fire Chief George Baxter, city fire marshal, are (left to right) Scouts Kathleen Wilson, Judith Moffa, Deborah Speno and Patricia Papandrea.
—Courier-Post Photo by Jack Wolfer
Clean Up Week Is For Fire Safety
Camden Courier-Post — 1964
“Clean up . . . for fire safety.”
That is the basic reason for Clean Up Week, which is being observed now and continues through Saturday. A special proclamation by Mayor Pierce asks all Camden city residents to take part.
“Cleaning up brings a lot of benefits to the community,” says Fire Chief Edward R. MacDowell, “but one of the really major accomplishments is to get rid of the trash and rubbish which provide a breeding place for fire.
“Every 12 minutes one American home is destroyed or damaged by fire starting in rubbish, according to the National Fire Protection Association. And fire always carries with it the threat of death—about 6,500 persons were killed in house fires last year.
“So our goal for this spring cleanup is to make every home in this community safer from fire,” MacDowell says. “This means a concentrated attack on the spots in and around houses where fires start—accumulations in attics, basements, and closets, or any place where there is trash and rubbish.”
Deputy Fire Marshal George Baxter suggests you test yourself on the following cleanup quiz:
1. Do you dispose of ordinary trash and rubbish regularly?
2. Do you keep attic, basement, and closets free of accumulations of old clothing, mattresses, curtains, drapes, lampshades, old magazines and newspapers?
3. Are your oily mops hung up and oily rags kept in closed metal containers?
4. Do you empty ashtrays only when contents are completely cold, and are ashtrays large and deep enough to keep burning cigarettes from falling out?
5. Do you have your heating equipment and chimney checked and cleaned at least once a year?
6. Do you check appliance and extension cords regularly for frayed insulation and loose connections, and repair or replace promptly when necessary?
7. Are paints and solvents stored in tightly closed metal containers, away from heat, and do you dispose of empties and near-empties promptly?
8. Is the garage kept free of clutter, and do you store gasoline only in tightly capped, clearly marked metal cans—never in glass jugs?
The prize for “yes” answers to these questions is more safety for your family, says Deputy Fire Chief Austin Marks. Every “no” answer is a danger sign.
Poster Proclaiming Clean Up Week (photo)
Camden Courier-Post — 1964
POSTER PROCLAIMING Clean Up Week is displayed by Camden Public Safety Director Keith Kauffman, while Fire Marshal George Baxter looks on. The observance will be from May 3 to 9 and the posters will be distributed by the fire department beginning Monday to all schools, offices and industries in the city. Mayor Pierce has also noted the week with a special proclamation.
Personnel Card — Camden Fire Bureau: George P. Baxter
PERSONNEL CARD — CAMDEN FIRE BUREAU
NAME Baxter, George P. [handwritten:] FIRE HDQ. CO. [blank] GROUP NO. [blank]
TITLE [handwritten:] CHIEF COMBUSTIBLE INSPECTOR. TEL. NO. [handwritten, faint:] WO 4-043[?]
ADDRESS [handwritten:] 151 No. 35th St. WHERE [handwritten, faint:] Home
BADGE NO. [blank] Blood Type: O Negative
BORN AT Camden, N.J. DATE April 6, 1920
APPOINTED December 30, 1950 REPORTED FOR DUTY January 1, 1951
CHECK POSITIONS THIS MEMBER IS CAPABLE OF FILLING: ACTING CAPTAIN ( ) DRIVER ( ) PUMP OPERATOR ( ) TILLERMAN ( )
ASSIGNMENTS
1/1/51 - #1 Truck Co.
4/1/61 - Captain, #3 Truck Co.
1/1/63 - Promoted to Chief Combustible Inspector
Sept,30,1966...Deceased
FD 843—500—3-61—PPCo.