Henry Braid Wilson Sr.
H.B. Wilson
Henry Braid Wilson was born in Providence, RI in 1828. In 1849, he moved to Gloucester City with his parents and worked as a clerk for the Gloucester Manufacturing Company until 1854. In the same year, he came to Camden and became an active organizer of the Republican Party in Camden County. During this same time, he opened a coal office and hardware store at Front and Kaighn Avenue. He made his home during 1870s and through at least the latter part of 1889 at 339 Mt. Vernon Street. By the time the 1890–1891 Camden City Directory was compiled, Henry B. Wilson Sr. and family had moved to 345 Mt. Vernon Street.
Younger brother George E. Wilson was also involved in the coal and ice business, and after serving with distinction in the Civil War, worked with Henry Braid Wilson. After the war, Henry Braid Wilson’s interests turned to banking, insurance, and politics. George E. Wilson became president of the Wilson Coal and Ice Company and eventually expanded it to four locations, two in Camden and two in Atlantic City.
When Camden was divided into three wards; middle, north and south, Henry Braid Wilson represented the south ward in City Council for a number of years. During the term of President Rutherford B. Hayes, from 1877 to 1881, Henry Braid Wilson was postmaster of Camden City. He was also a member of the Board of Education and was a second term member of the Commission of Public Instruction, the precursor of the city Board of Education, at the time of his death.
Mr. Wilson was probably more prominent in business circles than in politics. He was one of the founders, and one-time vice-president of the Camden National Bank; president and director of the Camden Fire Insurance Association; had an active interest in church work and was a senior warden of St. John’s Protestant Episcopal Church for nearly a half century.
Early in his life, Mr. Wilson married Miss Mary Ann Wilson (no relation). They had four children: Henry B. Wilson Jr., Lizzie Wilson, James B. Wilson and Phillip Wilson.
Henry Braid Wilson died of blood poisoning on June 7, 1898 in his home at 345 Mt. Vernon Street. He was 70 years old.
The H.B. Wilson Elementary School, at South 9th and Florence Streets, was named in his honor, and when a new school was built adjacent to the old one in the 2000s, the name H.B. Wilson Elementary School was retained.
Henry Braid Wilson’s son, Admiral Henry B. Wilson Jr., went on to fame as a naval officer. The Admiral Wilson Boulevard, leading from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to the Airport Circle in Pennsauken, is named in his honor, for his service as the commander of the American fleet in French waters by the First World War. Admiral Wilson convoyed troops and supplies to France during the war without the loss of a single life.
Another son, Philip Wilson became president of the Central Trust Bank. He married Emma Foulon, whose father Charles Foulon and brother, also named Charles Foulon operated a bakery and ice cream parlor on Federal Street for many years.
Henry B. Wilson Sr. had another son, James, and three daughters, Elizabeth, Mary, and Jane. Elizabeth Wilson was married to prominent businessman Frank B. Hineline. Mary married a man named Evans and moved to Boston. Jane O. Wilson never married. She lived with her sister Elizabeth until passing away in Miami in January of 1928. James Wilson was then living in Atlantic City.
Republican Association of South Ward.
The New Republic —
Republican Association of South Ward.—The Republican voters of South Ward, met Tuesday evening 22d inst., and organized a Ward Association, by the adoption of a Constitution and By-laws, and the election of the following officers: President, J. Kelley Brown; Vice-Presidents, James H. Townsend, Samuel M. Gaul, Wm. Wiatt, John Stephens; Recording Secretary, J. Harned Morris; Treasurer, Thomas A. Wilson; Executive Committee, Christopher J. Mines, Henry S. Bender, A. J. Morris, S. M. Gaul, James H. Kerns, Charles Wood, A. D. Nicholls, Edward Cline, Geo. G. Bundick. The following gentlemen were appointed a committee to secure a temporary hall for meetings, and to enquire into the expediency of forming a Co-operative Association to build a hall: C. J. Mines, T. A. Wilson, Richard Perks, H. B. Wilson, Jehu Osler, John W. Campbell, Charles Parker, Jr.
The Association met again last Tuesday evening, at Kobus’ Hall, which was secured for a year. The attendance has been excellent. The Republicans of the Ward are specially urged to attend the meeting next Tuesday evening as business of importance to every voter will be presented, and addresses delivered on political topics by earnest, able Republicans.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER THE RIVER
Last evening the justices of the peace of Camden, and the constables, held a meeting in the court house to take preliminary measures towards forming a permanent organization for the protection of their interests
Yesterday Josiah Ewings had a hearing in the Camden District Court, on the charge of refusing to support his wife. She testified that he had not provided for her the past nine months. It was shown, however, that she was not a resident of Camden, and the case was dismissed
Joseph Fury and James Ayres, two young men who, several days ago, committed an assault and battery on James Dudley, had a hearing before Mayor Bradshaw yesterday morning, and were held in $100 each to answer at court.
It is stated that there are ten cases of small-pox in Marlton, and fears are entertained that it may become epidemic. That place contains about one thousand inhabitants.
At the annual meeting of the stockholders of the Camden Fire Insurance Association yesterday afternoon the following directors were elected for the ensuing year: Josiah D. Rogers, Henry B. Wilson, Jonathan Burr, Edmund E. Reed, Christopher J. Mines, William P. Tatem, Jesse E. Hueston, E. E. Reed, Jr., George W. Gilbert, William S. Scull, William W. Bozarth, John Burr, Charles Wilson. Subsequently the directors organized by electing Henry B. Wilson, president; Jonathan Burr, secretary; R. W. Birdsell, assistant secretary; Edmund R. Read, treasurer, and Christopher J. Mines, surveyor.
Mayor Williams, of Gloucester City, is lying dangerously sick at his home in that city.
Yesterday the convocation of Burlington P. E. Church held a session in St. John’s Church, Camden, for the transaction of general business. Bishop Scarborough was present. The Communion was celebrated at nine o’clock in the morning, after which the usual services took place. In the evening missionary services were held, and addresses in furtherance of the cause were made.
Revivals are in progress in nearly all the Camden Methodist Churches, and the results are said to be large. In consequence of the continued illness of Rev. Mr. Relyes, pastor of the Broadway Church, Dr. Hanlon, of Pennington Seminary, has been appointed to take charge of that congregation until the pastor recovers.
Yesterday afternoon Justice Cassaday committed a colored man named Purnell, on a charge of practising medicine illegally, in default to answer at court.
At an adjourned meeting of the Camden City Council last evening, Mr. Wartman was made chairman in place of Mr. Donges, absent. Samuel Hibbs was elected election inspector of the First precinct of the Sixth ward. A motion to reconsider the vote by which the license of Ernest Gaetz was lost at last meeting was defeated. A resolution authorizing the Solicitor to compromise for damages caused by sinking a barge loaded with sulphur in Cooper’s Creek, by a water pipe laid across that stream was presented. The suit was commenced by a man named Wrigbtner, who proposed to settle his claim for $250. The resolution was lost—8 to 11. Committee on Special Legislation reported in favor of granting to the city of Camden all riparian rights in front of the same city. Other recommendations were made, and the report was adopted. The matter was authorized to be presented to the Legislature. Adjourned to next Wednesday evening.
St. John’s Church Vestrymen Chosen
Philadelphia Inquirer —
St. John’s Church chose the following Vestrymen—George E. Wilson, Dr. D. P. Pancoast, John C. Garland, George W. Laughlin, Frank F. Michellon, John R. Grubb, John Hollowell, Lewis H. Bundick, Thomas B. Brooks, Charles A. Herbst Delegates to the Diocesan Convention—Dr. D. P. Pancoast, Frank F. Michellon, Charles H. English Alternates to Diocesan Convention—John C. Garland, Henry B. Wilson, Thomas Brooks Delegates to Convocation—John Hallowell, senior warden; A. H. Williams, junior warden; Henry B. Wilson.
Fire at Henry B. Wilson’s, South Front Street
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Camden firemen also had their share of hard work. At eleven o’clock in the morning they were called to the engine house of Henry B. Wilson, kindling wood manufacturer, on Front street, above Kaighn’s avenue. The flames spread at once to the adjoining houses and sheds and to a one-story frame coal office belonging to Mr. Wilson. The firemen worked hard in the blazing sun, but for some time the terrestrial blaze defied their efforts. Half a dozen families set their goods out on the pavement. Nos. 1159 and 1161 South Front street were burned, Mrs. Anderson escaping from one house and Mrs. Williams from the other just in time to save their clothing from taking fire. The flames spread to Webb’s barber shop, to a neighboring spar yard and to the residences of Mr. W. M. Day, No. 27; Mr. Keifer, No. 29, and Mr. Vasey, No. 31 Kaighn’s avenue, and also to No. 33. The total loss is about $14,000. Mr. Wilson suffering to the extent of $2000; Mr. Baymore, $5000, Hatch & Brothers, $1000, and John Dobbins & Sons and the others between $500 and $700 each.
Camden News
Philadelphia Inquirer —
CAMDEN NEWS.
Notes of Interest from the City Across the Delaware.
The stockholders of the new Camden National Bank held another meeting yesterday and elected the following Board of Directors: Henry B. Anthony, Dr. George W. Bailey, Irvin C. Beatty, Howard M. Cooper, John Cooper, James Davis, Herbert C. Felton, Philip H. Fowler, George P. Halnes, Zophar C. Howell, Zophar L. Howell, Rudolph W. Birdsall, William B. Mulford, Charles E. Thomas, Isaac C. Toom, Henry B. Wilson, Charles B. Coles. Zophar C. Howell was chosen president; John Cooper, vice president; Howard M. Cooper, solicitor, and Isaac C. Martindale, cashier. The committee, on procuring a suitable location, reported in favor of securing the store of Thomas Boyle, Kaighn’s avenue, above Locust street. The were instructed to procure the same and to make necessary alterations as speedy as possible. Fifty per cent. of the capital stock was paid in at the meeting.
Wildey Hall Association Stockholders Meeting
Philadelphia Inquirer —
At the annual meeting of the Wildey Hall Association stockholders H. B. Wilson was elected president, James B. Wilson, secretary and treasurer and George F. Fields, superintendent.
Mayoralty Talk Over In Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
MAYORALTY TALK OVER IN CAMDEN
Election Not Far Off, But Leaders Cannot Agree on a Candidate
UP TOWN VS. DOWN
Committee of One Hundred Confident of Winning This Time—Democrats Divided
Camden’s municipal election, which will be held five weeks hence, promises to be one of the most hotly contested campaigns ever held in that city. The Committee of One Hundred, inspired by stolen gains in the past, will make a strenuous effort to wrest the control of municipal affairs from the Republicans. The prospects for their success seem brighter than in any previous campaign. A March Recorder and ten Councilmen are to be elected. The ordinances cutting off the fees of the Recorder, which may be passed in time to affect the officials elected this spring.
As the election is not far distant the Republican leaders cannot agree upon a suitable candidate.
John Campbell, Jr., a wealthy real estate dealer, was urged to accept the nomination, and his name were being circulated among he business men in his favor, but he announced yesterday that he would not stand.
City Clerk Carney and Street Supervisor John Blowe want a candidate from the lower section of the city, while the Republicans of all majorities are returned. Ex-Postmaster Henry B. Wilson, a coal dealer of Kaighn’s avenue, is the up-town candidate. City Counsel J. Willard Morgan is said to favor his candidacy. Harry Wolfe, Director of the Board of Freeholders, is looming up as a down-town candidate. He is backed by City Assessor Chris J. Mines, who asserts he speaks for the entire Second Ward.
Ivor Westcott, who has had two terms, will not be a candidate for renomination. Isaac Doughten, the leader of the First, is being urged by his friends to stand as a candidate.
An effort is being made to bring out R. H. Reeve, of the Second ward, for the Republican nomination for Mayor. He was a candidate for City Treasurer on the Committee of One Hundred ticket two years ago. He would serve, if elected, to divert some of the reform vote to the Republican side.
As the Committee of One Hundred name likely candidates in great numbers, but little is known of their plans. Either Cooper B. Hatch or Lewis H. Mohrman may head their ticket. Hatch is recalled for defeating Mayor Westcott three years ago. Both are from the Second ward. Ex-Mayor Maurice Rogers, of the First ward, would like to head the Reform ticket.
The Democrats are split into two factions, the Regular and the County Democrats, and there seems to be now little question of making a hopeless fight with a divided candidacy. The prospects for the Committee of One Hundred nominees with the prospect of winning.
There will be a warm contest for the Republican nomination for City Recorder. The Councilmanic contests are still far from being settled.
Camden Political Chat
The common council last evening chartered the ordinance creating two new Election Boards. The ordinance, which is returnable on February 19. Copies were sent to the Governor, Secretary and County Board of Elections yesterday.
The County Board of Elections made several changes yesterday in precinct election boards. A resolution to request alterations to precinct boards filling vacancies without notifying the County Board. The matter will be investigated.
Committee of One Hundred challenged several nominations on the petition of the spring election.
The Registration Boards will sit next Tuesday, and again on the 18th instant.
The First Ward Republican Club has indorsed Justice Charles M. Baldwin for Councilman and Anthony Kobus for City Council. He also has the support of the First Ward Association. He was defeated for re-election as a Councilman last spring.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
OVER IN CAMDEN
The Ladies’ Relief Association on Wednesday sent 169 comfort bags and a number of magazines to the Sea Girt camp.
Howard Day, 8 years old, of 208 Mt. Vernon street, son of Building Inspector Day, fell yesterday and broke one of his arms.
Former Postmaster H. B. Wilson, who is suffering from blood poisoning, continues to grow weaker and a carbuncle yesterday appeared on his back to add to his other sufferings.
Obsequies of Henry B. Wilson
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Obsequies of Henry B. Wilson
The funeral of former Postmaster Henry B. Wilson, of 345 Mt. Vernon street, Camden, was attended yesterday by a large number of prominent business men of that city. Members of the Camden Commission of Public Instruction also attended in a body. Services were held in St. John’s P. E. Church and were conducted by the rector, Rev. G. R. Underhill. The floral offerings were profuse, there being nearly a hundred different designs. The pallbearers were Arthur W. Williams, Samuel T. Bailey, Attorney-General Samuel H. Grey, Herbert C. Felton, Elias Davis, Ex-Mayor J. Leighton Westcott, Dr. H. H. Davis and Frank L. Vinton. Interment was made at Evergreen Cemetery.
Evergreen Cemetery
Camden, New Jersey
Evergreen Cemetery — Camden, New Jersey
H.B. Wilson Elementary School
9th & Florence Street, Camden NJ — August 28, 2003
H.B. Wilson Elementary School, 9th & Florence Street, Camden NJ — August 28, 2003
H.B. Wilson Elementary School Official Website