Hugh Boyle
HUGH BOYLE born in Pennsylvania to John J. Boyle and his wife, the former Mary Harris. Various dates appear for his birth, with the 1900 Census stating October of 1845, but 1851 is probably a lot closer to the truth. He came to Camden in the 1860s. Hugh Boyle appears in Camden’s North Ward in the 1870 Census, living with his sister Angeline and her husband Harry Carles. His mother and sister Mary were also at home. Soon after the Census enumeration he married Mary Eisenhart. She gave birth to a daughter, Ella in July of 1871. In April of 1876 another daughter Catherine (also known as Cassie and as Katie) arrived.
The 1878 Camden City Directory lists him as a foreman working for the Knickerbocker Ice Company. The Boyles live at 3 Church Place, then moved to 533 Stevens Street in 1879. Hugh Boyle remained in the employ of Knickerbocker Ice until at least 1889. The Census of 1880 shows Hugh Boyle at 533 Stevens Street, working as a collector for an ice company, with his wife and daughters Ella, 9 and Catherine E. “Cassie,” 4. A son, Walter, was born on December 30, 1882. By 1885 The Boyles had moved to 567 Carman Street. In 1887 daughter Ella Boyle married railroad engineer George M. Wilkinson. The 1887–1888 City Directory has the Boyles at 589 Bridge Avenue where they remained at least into the following year. By 1891 Hugh Boyle and family had moved to 563 Bridge Avenue. He had taken employ with the bottling firm of Berry and Rudderow, 429 Cherry Street, as a driver. The Boyle family remained at 563 Bridge Avenue as late as the summer of 1900. Daughter Catherine married Theodore Price in 1899, sadly, Hugh Boyle’s wife, Mary Eisenhart Boyle, died on November 25, 1899.
On February 28, 1896 Hugh Boyle was injured when the wagon he was driving was hit by a trolley car belonging to the Camden Horse Railroad. Hugh Boyle sued, and was awarded $900 in October of 1896.
During the 1890s Hugh Boyle became involved in politics as a Republican where he lived in the Ninth Ward. On August 1, 1898 Hugh Boyle was appointed to the Camden Police Department by Mayor Cooper B. Hatch. He served at City Hall as the hall officer until his promotion to Captain in 1899.
On February 17, 1899 Mayor Cooper B. Hatch elevated Hugh Boyle to Captain, replacing H. Frank Pettit. This was one of many moves by Mayor Hatch, who had been elected the previous spring, to reform the police department by promoting the capable and bringing new men and putting them into command positions. These moves included the promotion of John Foster to Chief of Police and the hiring and the promotion to Captain of Arthur Stanley.
The 1900 Census lists Hugh Boyle at 563 Bridge Avenue with his three children and son-in-law Theodore J. Price, a railroad engineer. Son Walter Boyle was working as a day laborer, he later joined his brothers-in-law on the railroad. Ella Boyle Wilkinson and Walter Boyle are also listed at 654 Washington Street, i.e., they were counted twice in the Census.
By the time the 1901 Camden City Directory was compiled, Hugh Boyle, daughter Katherine and son-in-law Theodore Price had moved to 593 Carman Street. Hugh Boyle moved to 594 Carman Street before the end of 1904, his daughter and her husband stayed there to at least 1931.
Around 1906 Hugh Boyle married Mrs. Sarah Frances “Sallie” Worrell. His mother, Mary Harris Boyle died in 1909 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetery.
Captain Boyle fell seriously ill in the summer of 1917. His illness and advancing years caused him to file retirement, effective January 1, 1918. Hugh Boyle’s wife Sarah F. “Sallie” Boyle died in May of 1918 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetery. He moved in with his daughter, Ella and son-in-law George M. Wilkinson at 654 Washington Street, and was there through January of 1920.
Hugh Boyle later moved to 419 Royden Street and married Mrs. Alice Fletcher, in October of 1923. He was 72 at the time. Mrs. Fletcher was 73. The aged couple lived at the Royden Street address until Alice Boyle’s passing in March 10, 1926. Hugh Boyle then returned to 654 Washington Street to live out his days with his daughter, Ella and son-in-law.
Hugh Boyle passed away at home on August 3, 1928. He was buried with his wife at Evergreen Cemetery in Camden.
George Wilkinson’s nephew, John Dibble, was a career officer in the United States Army, who retained the Washington Street address for voting purposes throughout his life. A doctor, he had reached the rank of Colonel and had been named as the Surgeon of the United States Third Army, in charge of all medical operations in the Pacific, after Pearl Harbor. Colonel John Dibble was killed in a plane crash in the Pacific on February 7, 1943.
Circuit Court
Camden Post —
CIRCUIT COURT.
Judge Miller in the Circuit Court this morning commenced the hearing of the trial for $5000 damages by Hugh Boyle against the Camden Horse Railroad Co. Boyle claimed that he was injured at Second and Federal streets on February 28, 1896, by being struck by one of the company’s cars and his spine injured. He claimed at the time he was driving a mineral water wagon and was making $30 a week. The case will last all day. When the special jury of eighteen were called counsel on each side had exhausted their challenge when a juror stated that he was on the registry board of the fifth precinct of the Sixth ward which met at one o’clock, and begged to be excused.
The Court stated that it did not wish to interfere with such an important affair, and if there were no other jurors, the juror must be excused and the case laid over until tomorrow.
Ex-Judge Armstrong, counsel for the defence, was willing to excuse the juror, and after some controversy Harry S. Scovel, counsel for the plaintiff, acquiesed [sic], and another juror was called.
Circuit Court
Camden Post —
CIRCUIT COURT.
The case of Hugh Boyle against the Camden Horse Railroad Company before Judge Miller was continued this morning. Boyle sues for $5000 damages. He claims he was driving a mineral water wagon and was struck at Front and Federal streets and permanently injured in the spine by one of the defendant’s cars.
Dr. McAllister stated that he was physician at the Cooper Hospital when Boyle was brought into that institution and that the injuries Boyle received were due to shock caused by the collision. He was badly injured. Harris Graffen, acting adjuster of the company, testified that Boyle called at the office and only demanded ten dollars for the loss of the bottles broken in the accident.
At the time of the accident Boyle never complained of being injured, and said he would be perfectly satisfied if he received the amount he asked.
M. W. Hall, secretary for seven years of the company, substantiated Mr. Graffen’s testimony, and further said that Boyle offered to him to adjust the affair for ten dollars.
Boyle Gets $900 Damages
Camden Daily Courier —
Hugh Boyle, the bottler, was awarded $900 damages by the Circuit Court jury which tried his case against the Camden Horse Railroad Company, late last night. Harry S. Scovel was Boyle’s counsel.
Police Appointments
Camden Daily Courier —
Five New Men Named to Fill Vacancies Made Last Week.
Mayor Hatch last night appointed the following new policemen:
George Nowrey and James Roach, Sixth ward, to succeed Thomas Brothers and Alfred Haydon.
John Reader, Seventh ward, to succeed John Anderson.
Harry Hope, Third ward, to succeed Alfred Myers.
Hugh Boyle, Ninth ward, to succeed Edward Cooper.
These men went on duty to day.
Brown Surprised the Hall Officer
Camden Daily Telegram —
John Brown, a farm hand, got boisterous on a Kaighn Point ferry boat, last night, and refused to be quiet. As a result Special Officer Knox gave John a ride in the patrol wagon. In the Recorder’s court, this morning, Brown said he had no home, but during the summer had been “banging up” in various parts of Jersey. Thinking he would appreciate a short stay in the County Jail, the Recorder gave him ten days. He was led back to the jail and as Hall Officer Boyle was locking the cell door Brown asked him if he could pay his fine. Boyle told him he could if he had the money and Brown almost took Boyle off his feet by pulling a large roll of greenbacks from his pocket and extracting therefrom a five, from which the $3.75 was taken and Brown was dismissed.
Hall Officer Boyle Injured His Finger
Camden Daily Courier —
Hall Officer Boyle injured his finger a few days since and that member is causing him no end of pain.
Drunks Were Scarce
Camden Daily Telegram —
Drunks were scarce in this city Saturday and yesterday and as a result the police had little to do. Richard Fowler, a respectable looking old gentleman who claimed Philadelphia as his home, was one of the unfortunates. He was picked up by Officer Hovis on Saturday, being too drunk to care for himself. He was unable to account for his presence in this city and as he appeared sorry for his actions, the Recorder allowed him to go this morning.
John Burdsall, of Gloucester, met some friends on Saturday night and got loaded, so much so in fact, that he was unable to stand and fell in the street, doing considerable damage to his face. Sergeant Albert sent him to the City Hall and this morning the Recorder suspended sentence, Burdsall having a family to support.
Annie Joyce, who says that Hall Officer Boyle is just the right thing, paid a flying visit to this city on Saturday and flew until she alighted in a City Hall coop. Her heart disease story was listened to again this morning by the Recorder and for the next ten days she will be under the care of County Physician Jones.
Nelson Hart, without a home, arrested for drunkenness, will have all the comforts of home life with the Sheriff for the next ten days.
Police Indicator Ran Wild
Camden Daily Telegram —
Slipping of a Dog Caused Consternation in the Stall.
On Saturday afternoon, while the police were making their 2 o’clock reports and Hall Officer Hugh Boyle was hustling in his efforts to register each pull, the tape began running at a rapid rate. Hughey at first thought that several of the officers were pulling together, and when the tape continued to unwind, with no prospect of ceasing until the roll had become exhausted, Hughey sat back and pondered. “Guess the whole town is pinched,” remarked Hughey.
“You’re wrong,” added “Bill” Miller, “that means special meeting of Council every night next week.”
“Come off,” chimed in “Jim” Brown, “that’s Bateman’s pull.”
“Gee” ejaculated Pat Clark, “Smith has opened another barrel.”
“Guess Ben Meloney has cut down the price of rib roasts,” slipped in the “Telegram” man, who by the way is a slipper of no mean variety.
Hughey was about to bring out the prisoners to get their opinions when Electrician Janke made his appearance, and by touching a little lever put a stop to the wild career of the tape. He explained that a dog had slipped, causing the tape to have a free foot. The “stall” then assumed its usual composure.
Hughey Has a Cinch on Officers
Camden Daily Courier —
A new long distance transmitter has been placed on the police telephone receiver at the City Hall, and now Hall Officer Hughey Boyle says he can distinguish what “brand” the officers have been using when they send in their hourly calls.
Amusing Scene at the City Hall
Camden Daily Telegram —
Elwood Police Force Visited Chief Foster.
ENTERED WITH THE AID OF A CRUTCH
After an Interview With the Head of the Local Force Business Was Forgotten and the Distinguished Visitor Left With a Light Step.
An amusing incident occurred at police headquarters this morning. Chief Foster was busily at work at his desk when Hall Officer Hugh Boyle announced that the police force of Ellwood, Atlantic county, was awaiting an interview with the chief, on important police matters.
“Show them up!” commanded the chief and in obedience Officer Boyle ushered into the handsome apartment of the chief an elderly man with long white whiskers. He was leaning heavily on a crutch and apparently labored under much difficulty when he locomoted.
The police force of Ellwood, for such the visitor proved to be, he being chief, captain, jailor and the whole shooting match, was given a cordial welcome, and invited to an easy chair. He placed his crutch in a corner, against the chief’s desk, and then proceeded with his business, which, however, has no bearing on the incident. At the conclusion of his interview, he bid the chief a cheery “good morning!” and stalked from the chief’s office with a light step.
Recorder Nowrey happened in the chief’s office at this moment and espying the crutch inquired of the chief to whom it belonged.
At first Chief Foster could not identify the article, but it suddenly dawned upon him that the crutch was the property of the Ellwood police force.
“Hey, Glen!” called the chief to Hall Officer Stackhouse, “run over to Haddon avenue station and tell the Ellwood police force that he can’t walk; he forgot his crutch.”
Glen was just putting on his coat to carry out the order when a bunch of white whiskers darted in the door from the corridor, then into the Chief’s office and grabbing the crutch from the corner remarked: “Oh, I knew I forgot something.”
Tucking the crutch under his arm, the old man hobbled out again. Chief Foster took a big swig of ginger tea, Recorder Nowrey said he was through with the County Democracy, while “Hughey” Boyle began telling Bill Harvey about the mother chasing her boy around the block.
His Wife Must Suffer
Camden Daily Telegram —
While After Medicine McNeil Fell by the Wayside
With one kid glove on, hair parted in the middle and the remnants of a good sized skate still clinging to his feet, Harry McNeil, a frequent visitor at the Police Court, with Hugh Boyle as his guardian, was before Recorder Nowrey, this morning, to answer to a charge of drunkenness. “Mac,” with his wife, has been picking cranberries up in Burlington county and exposure caused her to contract heart disease, so “Mac” says. She became rapidly worse, according to his statement, and yesterday friends advised him to come to this city and purchase some medicine. He accepted the advise [sic] and after laying in a stock of castor oil, liver pads and other cures, “Mac” proceeded to get loaded and right royally did he do it. Not a saloon in the Fifth and Eighth wards escaped his attention. He became exceedingly boisterous in two of the saloons and was thrown out and was finally arrested by Officer Hyde. He was given a hearing this morning by Recorder Nowrey, and pleaded to be discharged, saying his wife demanded his attention, but he will hold a ten days’ reunion with his friends at the County Jail.
"De" Buck in Police Court
Camden Daily Telegram —
Recorder Nowrey Enjoyed a Little Diversion on New Year’s Day.
“Three diminutive specimens of humanity, small for their years, probably because of the absence of proper food and clothing to successfully develop and nurture their young systems, and so densely black in color that charcoal would almost make a white mark on them, were spectators at the hearings in Recorder Nowrey’s Court, yesterday, where they were no doubt attracted by the warmth of the room.
They were the observed of all observers and made quite considerable noise. After the routine work incidental to a large holiday had been disposed of, in a spirit of fun Recorder Nowrey sternly ordered Hall Officer Boyle to bring the offenders to the bar of the court, which the officer promptly proceeded to do by carrying them in his arms, as one would a bundle of old clothes.
“What were you boys doing back in the corner, shooting crap?” asked the Recorder.
“No, sah, we doesn’t know de numbers, we wuz jist laffin,” replied the spokesman.
“Can you pay a fine for disorderly conduct?” queried the Recorder.
“Ef tain’t more’n six cents” was the answer.
“Well the usual fine will be imposed. What can you do towards paying it?” asked the Recorder.
“Clarence kin dance de buck,” replied the pickaninny.
“All right, Clarence, you will have to dance the fine out,” and turning to the polite and painstaking Clerk of the Court, the Recorder instructed “Willie” to furnish the music. Being naturally of a retiring disposition “Willie” sought the inner recesses of the “Chief’s” room from where, shortly after, came floating through the air in succession, from a harmonica thro’ “Willie’s” instrumentality, the strains of “Johnny Get Your Gun,” “At a Georgia Camp Meeting” and “The Buck.”
By this time the spectators were bubbling over with merriment at the antics of the trio and “Clarence” tearfully remarked, “dat everybody iz making so much noise dat I can’t g’it de right time of de music.”
The Recorder, with a merry twinkle in his eye, handed a piece of silver to the spokesman and said: “Boys, you mean well, but this is no place for you to come; take my advice and stay away; now run along and have a good time.” With a chorus of “yes sahs,” and “yah, yahs,” and laughs and looks that would warm the cockles of one’s heart, be he ever so gouty or grumpy, three dusky kids went out to enjoy an unexpected happy New Year’s day.
Before the Recorder
Camden Daily Courier —
Disposition of the “Slate”—Not a Case in Banc, to be Sure.
James Hanley, a sexuagenarian [sic], found stiff on a step, sentence suspended; Henry Myers, a Trenton corn salve fakir with his nose in court plaster chancery, twenty days for insulting a woman, and James Sharp, a young man fired out of the Sixth ward ball and who then tried to lick Policeman George Anderson, fined $3.75. The court was out of change and there was a long wait while Hughey Boyle broke the prisoner’s five dollar bill.
“You must excuse us,” remarked Recorder Nowrey, “but this is not a court in banc.”
Cake Walk a Success.
Camden Daily Courier —
The grand cake walk given at Newton Hall last night under the management of “Bill” Miller, assistant janitor of the City Hall, was a red hot affair. The walk, which was judged by Hugh Boyle, David Rankin, C. H. Elfreth and Alfred Haydon, was captured by William Ford and Miss Johnson. Special mention is due Ed. Laws, of the Post. He was a “warm baby” and came very near landing the prize.
Captain Pettitt Reduced.
Camden Daily Telegram —
Hall Officer Boyle Promoted to the Captaincy.
Mayor Hatch, this morning, issued an order to take effect at once, reducing Captain of Police Frank Pettit to the rank as a patrolman and promoted Hall Officer Hugh Boyle to the captaincy of the Northern district. Policeman John Pedrick has been made hall officer in place of Boyle. Captain Pettit was assigned to do street duty in Policeman Pedrick’s place. Mayor Hatch has given no reason for the changes made.
Bitter Primary Elections
Camden Daily Telegram —
LIKE THE BLIZZARD, WERE NEVER KNOWN TO OLDEST INHABITANT.
For City Treasurer Councilman-at-Large Miller Takes the Plum—Wolfe Beats Burdsall for Receiver and the Present Excise Commissioners Appear to Have the Call.
The Republicans of the city last night held their primary elections to select delegates to the conventions to name candidates for City Treasurer, Tax Receiver and Councilman-at-Large, and to name candidates for members of City Council, Board of Freeholders and other minor offices. Out of the ten wards their [sic] were contests in eight.
The hottest fight occurred in the Seventh ward where the Blowites and the Hansonites were arrayed against one another. Long before the opening of the polls the ward was filled at every precinct with excited crowds made of both factions and a number of petty fights occurred. In the First precinct, Eighth and Spruce streets, the Blowe faction was forcibly put out, it is claimed, by reform policemen. Their places were then taken by the Hansonites. In the Third precinct the polls opened with the regular ballot box in possession of the Blowites while the opposing faction had a starch box. In the beginning both boxes were used, but later the Hansonites secured possession of the polling place and conducted the election.
Mayor Hatch was notified of the condition of affairs and sent Captains Stanley and Boyle with a detail of seventeen policemen. However, their presence did little toward stopping the rows. A patrol wagon was constantly on the move through the ward.
In the Fourth precinct the polling place was at the headquarters of the Mutual Republican Club, supporters of the Blowites [?]. Immediately after the polls opened a fight ensued, which resulted in the Hansonites getting into possession. During the melee Alonzo Berry and Daniel Jackson, supporters of Sayrs, were arrested and sent to the City Hall. When the two men were arrested a general fight ensued during which Policeman Moore was badly beaten. In the meantime someone succeeded in cutting the wires on the down town circuit of the Police Department so that word could not be sent to headquarters. Late in the night the votes were counted and Hanson was declared elected by a large majority. The Blowe-Sayrs faction immediately gave notice that they would contest the nomination before the City Committees.
Death of Mary Boyle
Camden Post-Telegram —
DIED.
BOYLE.—On the morning of September 25, 1899, Mary Boyle (née Eisenhard), beloved wife of Hugh Boyle, at her husband’s residence, No. 563 Bridge avenue. The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral services, on Thursday morning, September 28, at 10 o’clock, from the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. George Wilkinson, No. 654 Washington street, Camden, N. J. Interment private, at Evergreen cemetery.
The Paul Woodward Murder Case
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On October 1, 1902 Paul Woodward murdered two young boys by giving them poison. County Detective Cherry was involved in the investigation. Woodward was arrested on October 4, 1902. Captain Hugh Boyle was among the police officers who participated in the investigation. Woodward was indicted, tried, convicted of murder in the first degree, and on January 7, 1903 executed at the Camden County Jail.
Full coverage of the Paul Woodward murder case is available on the Paul Woodward page, including extensive Philadelphia Inquirer coverage from October 1902 through January 1903.
Col. Felton Committed Suicide in His Office
Camden Daily Courier —
Closed the Place Up Tightly and Turned on Gas Jet.
His Family at Stone Harbor
The Real Estate Operator’s Confidential Clerk Made a Startling Discovery When He Opened the Office This Morning—He Had Been Acting Strangely for Weeks.
Colonel George G. Felton, the well known real estate dealer, former City Treasurer and Deputy Quartermaster of the National Guards, committed suicide sometime last night or early this morning by asphyxiating himself in the Felton building, northeast corner of Second and eFderal [sic] streets.
The suicide caused a great sensation when it became generally known and a large crowd of people surrounded the building all morning until the removal of the body by Funeral Director Fithian Simmons to his office on Market street. Mr. Felton resided at 413 Washington street, but his family has been summering at Stone Harbor.
The death of Col. Felton was not discovered until half-past 7 o’clock this morning, when Confidential Clerk Smith on opening the doors of the office detected the smell of gas. Col. Felton had been absent from the office for several days and Clerk Smith’s suspicions were aroused, knowing that County Colector [sic] Mahlon F. Ivins was a bosom friend and business confidante of Col. Felton, he hastened across the street to his office and informing him of his misgivings, asked him to assist him in making an investigation. Before accompanying Mr. Smith to the Felton building, Collector Ivins ‘phoned to the City Hall and the police in turn notified Coroners Robinson and Litchfield. The Central station also directed Policeman George Kappel to take charge of the premises and when he arrived there was joined by Policeman Harry Hiller. Chief Foster and Captain Boyle were also soon on the scene.
Accompanied by Mr. Ivins, Clerk Smith returned to the Felton building. Passing through the main office they treaded their way down a dim, narrow corridor to the private examining room of the U. S. Pension physicians. Opening the door the stench of gas was so overpowering that it nearly knocked them down. They, however, bravely ventured into the room and threw open the windows, the gas escaping into the street and enabling them to pursue their gruesome search. They found it on a sofa in a corner of the room, a small but high ceilinged apartment. On the sofa lay the dead body of Col. Felton, disrobed of his outer garments and wearing a calm, peaceful expression in sad discord with his worldly troubles. Overhead the gas stove connection was on full tilt, graphically explaining the mode of death. On a chair nearby were found his trousers and vest, while his hat, coat and watch were found in his own main office.
Coroners Litchfield and Robinson gave a certificate of death of heart failure, superinduced by inhaling gas. From the pink discoloration about the wrists where the blood was leaving the veins, Dr. Litchfield said that the body had been dead at least six hours, though he may have been dead ten or twelve.
Col. Felton was seen to enter his building at exactly 12.10 o’clock this morning. A citizen, whose name is withheld at his own request, had been talking with Night Watchman Clarence Hires on Federal street. He bade Hires good night and when he reached Second street saw the Colonel come around the corner. He came as though to enter his office by the front door, but turned and going back up Second street entered the side-door. Mr. Hires says the light was burning in the Colonel’s front office from 7 o’clock last night to 5 o’clock this morning, when he went off duty and Mr. Smith found it still burning when he arrived.
Colonel Felton has been acting strangely for several weeks and had not been at his office for two or three days.
When asked by anxious friends what the trouble was, he would put his hands to the side of his head and complain that it was in bad shape. He was seen in the hotel at Haddon avenue station on Saturday afternoon. He carried a grip and appeared very cheerful. Asked if he had been to the shore he replied no, he had been down the country, Bridgeton.
Grocer Charles F. Eastlack, by whom Col. Felton was at one time employed, went to Stone Harbor this morning to notify the family of his death. Col. Felton leaves a widow and adopted daughter, Miss Leona Felton.
Col. George G. Felton was born at Westville, Mass., and was fifty-six years of age. He had been a resident of this city for about quarter of a century. Previous to that he was engaged in the grocery business at Burlington. On coming to Camden, he entered the employ of Grocer Charles F. Eastlack, at Third and Washington streets, but later entered the employ of his brother, Charles H. Felton, who had an extensive real estate business. On the death of the latter the Colonel went into the same business for himself, his brother’s widow continuing the old business under the name of Charles H. Felton & Co. It is not known, however, whether business troubles impelled him to end his life.
Col. Felton was prominent in political, military and society circles. In 1892 he was appointed by Mayor Wescott a member of the Board of Public Works.
In 1896 he was appointed City Treasurer to fill the unexpired term of the late F. F. Michellon. In 1897 he was elected City Treasurer for two years, his election being contested by his Democratic rival, Freedom C. Lippincott, but was confirmed by the County Board of Elections.
He was Deputy Quartermaster on the Governor’s staff and a member of the Masonic order and A. O. U. W.
Colonel Felton was active in building and loan association circles. He was treasurer of the Mechanics’ and Workingmen’s Building and Loan Association and was former secretary of the People’s. He was also a director of the Security Trust Company. He had also been a director in the Central Trust.
Mrs. Felton will arrive from Stone Harbor this evening, when arrangements for the funeral will be made. The flag at Post 5 Hall is flying at half-mast in Col. Felton’s memory, for he was a Grand Army veteran, having gone to the front when a mere boy.
Notable Growth of Labor Unions
Membership of the Telegraphers Union Increasing in the West.
By “The Courier’s” Own Wire.
Chicago, July 7.—President Samuel Gompers, of the American Federation of Labor, was in Chicago yesterday on his way to San Francisco, and while here addressed a meeting of the Commercial Telegraphers’ Union. President Gompers expressed himself as pleased with the action of the telegraphers in organizing, and with the condition of labor organizations throughout the country. He stated that there were more unions and larger memberships of the same than at any time in the history of labor. President MacDonald, of the Telegraphers’ Union, said that the membership was increasing, and that there were similar unions now established at Milwaukee and Kansas City. About five hundred telegraphers were present at the meeting.
Florist Fish Dies Suddenly
Expired Yesterday Morning at Pleasantville Where He Was Visiting Friends.
Walter C. Fish, a well known florist of Broadway and Spruce streets, this city, died suddenly early yesterday morning at Pleasantville, N. J., where he had been visiting friends since the Fourth. For some months past he has not been well and complained frequently of pains in his head.
Yesterday morning he arose as usual, and at about half-past 6 o’clock was taken with severe pains in the head. He continued to grow worse and two physicians were summoned. They ministered to the sick man, but without any apparent success, and at twenty minutes after 7 o’clock he died.
A member of the family could not state this morning just what Mr. Fish’s malady was. It was thought probably that he suffered from brain trouble.
The body was brought to this city yesterday afternoon at 5 o’clock, and the funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon next at 2 o’clock. Mr. Fish was a member of Fidelity Lodge, No. 3, A. O. U. W., Improved Order of Heptasophs; Camden Conclave, No. 215; Witherspoon Circle, No. 1, Brotherhood of the Union.
“Just a Gentle Touch.”
That Was All, But Joseph’s Watch and Money Went With It.
Annie McAntee, alias Hayes, twenty-four years old, of Philadelphia, and Joseph Costello, thirty years old, also of Philadelphia, were arraigned before Recorder Stackhouse this morning on a charge of being drunk and disorderly. The twain were picked up by Policeman Matlack on Sunday morning about 3 o’clock at Third and Walnut streets, very much the worse for liquor.
The aimless wanderings of the couple and their suspicious actions first caught the attention of the policeman and he followed them. Costello became tired of walking and went to sleep on a convenient door step. At this stage of the game the Hayes woman was seen by the officer to abstract something from the clothes of the sleeping man, and then to slip away and hide behind a tree on the opposite side of the street. In a few moments the man awoke and not seeing the woman started off down Walnut street. As soon as he was out of sight the woman skipped down Third
Woman Involved in Camden Mystery
Philadelphia Inquirer —
After Being Questioned by the Prosecutor She Is Committed to the County Jail—Believed to Be an Important Arrest
Crowds in Front of the Jennings Home During Funeral
George M. Beringer.
The Camden chemist who is making an examination of the internal organs of the two boys.
While mystery apparently as absolute as ever still obscures the motive and the criminal in the case of John Houseman Coffin and W. Price Jennings, the unfortunate Camden lads whose trip to the country at Haddon Heights last Wednesday resulted so tragically, it is surmised from hints dropped now and again the matter may soon be cleared. However, those who are working so assiduously to bring the guilty person to justice are as close-mouthed as the proverbial clam, and but meagre information reaches the public.
Last night a woman, about 45 years old, was committed to the county jail by Recorder Stackhouse. On the commitment her name is given as Mrs. Barber. She was committed on complaint of County Detective John Cherry “as a material witness to prove certain allegations pending against one Paul Woodward, who is committed to the county jail charged with the murder of one John Coffin.”
The woman was placed under arrest after a long conference in the Prosecutor’s office. Prosecutor Lloyd said last night that the woman lives on a farm at Marlton, and that she is a very important witness in the case, so important, in fact, that she cannot regain her freedom without a good round sum being put up for her security.
Woodward Again Examined
The investigation into the case was somewhat retarded yesterday owing to an attack of rheumatism that made Prosecutor Frank T. Lloyd remain at home. The day’s responsibility rested on F. Morse Archer, the assistant prosecutor. The latter yesterday morning had Woodward brought into his office, where he underwent for the sixth time a thorough cross-examination. Mr. Archer said Woodward had made no confession, as had been rumored. On the contrary, he still maintained his innocence.
In answer to a question Mr. Archer said: “We are doing our best and while we are in possession of information which we consider important and vital to the case, it is impossible at this time to make it public.”
On the other hand, County Physician Jones was very emphatic in this particular, saying the boys were murdered beyond a doubt.
Boys’ Funerals
Yesterday afternoon the funeral of the boys took place at the same hour and within a square of one another’s homes. Although the hour set for the obsequies, 2 o’clock in the afternoon, had been kept secret scores of persons stood about in knots discussing the tragedy and eager to get a glimpse of the caskets containing the remains of the boys.
Police Captain Boyle and Policemen Kappel, Toy and Ridgeley guarded the houses, and no one except relatives and intimate friends were permitted to enter. But when the caskets were carried from the houses the crowd could not be kept back. Many persons crowded about, and the mourners entered the carriages between two solid phalanxes of curiosity seekers.
The services over Jennings were conducted at his home, 219 North Third street, by Rev. C. A. Adams and Rev. John Lyell. At the Coffin home, 305 North Third street, Rev. William H. Fishburn had charge of the obsequies. Companions of the boys acted as pallbearers. Jennings was buried at Evergreen and Coffin at Harleigh Cemetery.
George M. Beringer, a Camden chemist, who has the important duty of discovering, if possible, traces of poison in the stomachs of the boys, said yesterday he is making a thorough chemical analysis and is of necessity proceeding slowly. He said he will not be able to report the result for some days to come.
A pathetic little incident occurred at the Cooper School during recess yesterday morning when the children, school mates of the lads, gathered about and listened to the muffled beats of a drum. The school flag was at half mast and in every room there was a flag draped with black crepe. The youngsters were visibly affected.
Blazed Away at a Negro Footpad
Philadelphia Inquirer —
BLAZED AWAY AT A NEGRO FOOTPAD
Early yesterday morning Policeman Benjamin Cattell, of Camden, saw a colored man who tallied with the description of the one who robbed Mrs. Clara Savelle, of 714 Royden street, while she was walking near the City Hall, Thursday evening, acting suspiciously near Newton avenue and Clinton street. On the approach of the policeman the fellow ran. The chase continued for over a block, but the man escaped by jumping fences and disappearing through an alley leading into Pine street. Shortly after daylight Police Captain Boyle came across the same man, and another chase followed, during which Boyle shot at him twice, but again the negro got away.
The police seem inclined to the belief that the man is responsible for all the recent robberies in Camden, and say that the work closely resembles that of Theodore Lambert, who murdered William Kairer some years ago, and who was hanged.
Another Fine for Sunday Violator
Camden Daily Courier —
A Baker is Hauled Before the Recorder’s Court for Selling.
RIVAL SET A TRAP FOR HIM
The police added one more unfortunate to their list of victims of the prohibitory Sunday selling ordinance this morning, when Christian Beck, of 950 North Front street, was arrested, charged with selling bread on last Sunday.
The accused is a German and conducts a baker shop on the premises mentioned. The complaint was made by Police Captain Hugh Boyle, and it is said that about fifty witnesses were ready to testify that they had made purchases at Beck’s place. This was not necessary, however, as Beck admitted that bread had been sold at his place on the date mentioned, but qualified the confession by stating that it was without his knowledge and consent.
Beck’s excuse was that both he and his wife have been ill for some time, and last Saturday night he instructed his better half to see that the place was closed on Sunday. Instead of doing so, he asserts, his wife opened the store.
Fall Hurts Hugh Boyle
Camden Post-Telegram —
First District Police Captain Painfully Injured During Chase After Prisoner Who Escaped.
HE LAY SENSELESS ON THE PAVEMENT
As the result of a hot chase after “Scoop” Devlin, at Eleventh and Penn streets, shortly before 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon, Police Captain Hugh Boyle had such a hard fall that he is still suffering from the severe injuries and shock sustained.
Captain Boyle and Policeman Samuel Bakely had been called to the corner of Eleventh and Penn by a complaint against several young men on a drunken racket. A Mrs. Bates keeps a small variety store on the corner, and in the course of their rampage the booze-befuddled youths smashed a window pane and threatened to “do her up” if she sent for them. It was while the gang was making these demonstrations of violence that Captain Boyle and Policeman Bakely appeared on the scene. Bakely succeeded in catching a young man who gave the name of Elijah Laerty. He made no resistance.
Captain Boyle was not so successful in corraling the slippery “Scoop” Devlin. The Captain managed to catch Devlin by the coat collar, but he slipped out of its sleeves like a snake and wriggled away. Captain Boyle pursued Devlin, not so long out of State’s Prison after doing a five-year term, but in his chase he slipped on the icy sidewalk and fell with stunning violence on his face.
The fall painfully injured the big Captain, several of his upper front teeth being knocked out, his right cheek badly gashed and his right hand severely cut and bruised. It was several minutes before he recovered consciousness, and he still felt dazed and sore last night, when the family physician was called in to attend him. He was still confined to his home to-day.
Laerty, who made no trouble when apprehended by Policeman Bakely, was fined $3.75 in Police Court to-day, after Mrs. Bates had testified (that the young man’s father paid for the broken window pane.
Probing Camden’s Saloons
Jersey Journal —
Inquisitor Backes Threatened to Jump on a Flippant Inspector.
PRESIDENT FISK GRILLS CITY OFFICIALS
Camden, Aug. 11.—How the excise inspector fails to inspect, how the police close their eyes when laws are being violated, how the saloons pay political tribute and dives flourish under the eyes of the police, were parts of the revelations produced before Gov. Fort’s excise investigators yesterday. Most of the questions were fired by Peter Backes, member of the State Board, and who was counsel for the Church Union which stood sponsor for the famous Bishops’ bill.
President Fisk also asked some questions and the grilling which some of the city officials got was enough to keep them shaking for a month. Excise Inspector Jacob Schiller was disposed to be flippant and defiant of the probers, but Mr. Backes said: “Answer my questions properly or I will jump all over you in a minute.” Asked what his duties consisted of, Schiller replied: “To see that every saloon in the city has a license.” He seemed to enjoy the laughter that followed this bit of wit.
He was sure that the saloons of the city were obeying the law, but when told that others had discovered many rank violations such as Sunday selling, selling to minors and intoxicated people and from back rooms, contrary to the Bishops’ law, the inspector was duly shocked. He had not seen it he said. Mr. Backes advised him to get a pair of glasses, although he claimed that his eyesight was good. Mr. Backes advised him to get a pair of glasses, although he claimed that his eyesight was good.
When Captain of Police Boyle was asked by Mr. Backes whether there were any violations of the Bishops’ law in his district, he said that as far as he knew the saloonkeepers were abiding by the law.
Captain of Police Albert told the probers that there was little lawlessness in East Camden; that the saloonkeepers, as far as he knew, respetced [sic] the law.
County Detective John S. Smith emphatically denied that it was he who made a round of the county “tipping off” the license holders against Sunday sales for awhile. He knew nothing about it, he declared. The Commission will take up the presumably “dry” town of Millville to-day.
Mrs. Mary Boyle in Last Resting Place
Camden Post-Telegram —
The funeral of Mrs. Mary Boyle, the venerable and beloved mother of Police Captain Hugh Boyle, who passed away at the latter’s residence, 594 Carman street, on last Friday, within four years of the century mark, took place this morning, and was attended by many sorrow-stricken relatives and friends of the family.
Religious services were conducted by Rev. John W. Lyell, pastor of the First Baptist Church, of which faith Mrs. Boyle was a life long and devout member.
The remains of the deceased, the features a veritable picture of holy calm, reposed in a square walnut casket and was the centre of an array of many beautiful floral tributes. Interment was privately made in Evergreen Cemetery.
Captain Boyle About
Camden Daily Courier —
Gratifying indeed is the news of the recovery of Captain of Police Hugh Boyle, who has been ill for several days. Cap was able to walk about for the first time in many days this morning and that same contagious smile illuminated his cheerful countenance.
Milk Bottle Thefts
Camden Post-Telegram —
A number of complaints have during the past two days been made to Capt. Hugh Boyle, of the uptown police station by persons who have missed bottles of milk on numerous occasions during the past three weeks. One grocer, on Wednesday morning, had his milk box looted to the extent of sixteen pint bottles. Ice thieves have also been on the job during the past few days. A close vigil is being kept for these miscreants.
Captain Boyle Recovers
Camden Post-Telegram —
Seriously ill for several weeks, Captain Hugh Boyle, of the First District station house, was able to report for duty yesterday. The officer suffered a nervous breakdown and he lost over twenty pounds during his illness. Fellow officers and friends of the Captain hope for his early recovery. Sergeant Peter Stowe, who also has been ill for several weeks, was renewing old acquaintances yesterday. He expects to be able to return to duty shortly. Policeman William Todd has been acting Sergeant and Sergeant Charles Humes was acting Captain.
Captain Boyle Still Ill
Camden Post-Telegram —
Friends of Captain Hugh Boyle, of the First District station house, are pleased to learn that he is recovering after his serious relapse. Captain Boyle was bed-ridden for some time and his condition was very serious. He is still very weak but is able to be about. During Captain Boyle’s illness, Sergeant Charles Humes is acting as captain.
Captain Boyle to Retire
Camden Post-Telegram —
Still quite ill at his home, Police Captain Hugh Boyle, of the First District, will retire on a pension after the first of the year. Fellow officers of Captain Boyle regret his retirement as he was unusually popular and while a strict disciplinarian he was also fair in his treatment of the officers. Sergeant Humes has been acting captain during Captain Boyle’s illness.
Police Department Changes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
There were a number of changes in Camden’s Police Department yesterday, by Mayor Ellis. He appointed Sergeant John Golden successor to Captain Hugh Boyle, recently placed on the pension list. Patrolman Howard Smith was made a city detective, and Hall Officer James Clay was made a hall sergeant. Motorcycle Policemen Jefferson Kay and Charles Laib were appointed traffic sergeants, while Patrolmen Edmund Pike and Albert Cornog were made traffic policemen. Patrolman Robert Abbott was appointed a sergeant. Mayor Ellis has received the resignations of G. M. Beringer and Myers Baker as members of the City Plan Commission, the first getting out because of pressing business and the other because of going to Camp Dix.
Former Captain Boyle Recovering
Camden Post-Telegram —
The many friends of former Police Captain Hugh Boyle are pleased to see him looking so well. Captain Boyle has been ill for many weeks. But he is now well on the road to recovery. He has gained weight rapidly and is feeling much better. Yesterday he spent part of the time as the guest of his capable young successor, Captain John Golden, of the First district.
Death of Mrs. Sarah Boyle
Camden Post-Telegram —
Sympathy is extended to former Police Captain Hugh Boyle, of Carman street, in the loss by death of his estimable wife. Recently recovering from a long and serious siege of illness Captain Boyle is inconsolable in his grief. Mrs. Boyle’s funeral will take place to-morrow afternoon from her late residence, 594 Carman street.
Funeral Notice — Sallie Frances Boyle
Camden Post-Telegram —
BOYLE.—On May 27th, Sallie Frances, wife of Capt. Hugh Boyle. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral, on Thursday morning, May 30th, at 11 o’clock, from her late residence, 594 Carman street. Interment private, at Evergreen Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday evening, from 7 to 9 o’clock. (29)
Ex-Captain Boyle, 72, to Take Bride of 73
Camden Daily Courier —
Seventy-odd years should be no bar to married life, think former Police Captain Hugh Boyle and Mrs. Alice Fletcher, who has been his housekeeper at 419 Royden street for several years.
Captain Boyle, who retired from the Camden force eight years ago after serving for twenty years at the first district station, took out a license to-day to marry Mrs. Fletcher. He is 72 years old and his bride-to-be is 73. Both have been married before. Captain Boyle’s wife, who was Miss Sarah Worrell, died May 10, 1918, while Mrs. Fletcher’s husband, William, died in 1915.
Death Summons Wife of Ex-Captain of Police
Camden Courier-Post —
MRS. ALICE BOYLE PASSES AWAY AFTER AN ILLNESS OF SEVERAL WEEKS
Mrs. Alice Boyle, wife of Hugh Boyle, former Camden police captain, died today at her home, 419 Royden street. Death was caused by complications.
Mrs. Boyle had been ill for several weeks. Yesterday her condition became worse. She sank rapidly and passed away early this morning. No date has been set as yet for the funeral services. Her husband was for many years in command of the First District police station.
Hugh Boyle, 77, Dies; Ex-Police Captain
Camden Courier-Post —
Veteran Won Rank After 6 Months on Force
Capt. Hugh Boyle, 77, retired First District head, died last night at his home, 654 Washington street. He had been ill since March.
Boyle was appointed to the force August 1, 1898, by the late Mayor Cooper B. Hatch.
Little more than six months later, on February 18, he had risen to captain of the first district. He held that position until March 5, 1918, when he was pensioned.
He lived with Mr. and Mrs. George Wilkinson. A daughter, Mrs. T. J. Price, and a son, Walter, a P. R. R. engineer, survive. The funeral will take place at 11 a.m. Monday. Interment will be in Evergreen cemetery.