John L. Willis Jr.
John L. Willis Jr.
JOHN LOUIS WILLIS was well-known in fraternal circles in North Camden and was politically active after World War I and the democrat leader of Camden’s 10th Ward. After the election of 1922 when Camden changed to a commission form of government, he was given a job in the city assessor’s office. He was quite active in Camden Lodge No. 111, Loyal Order of Moose and other fraternal organizations such as the Improved Order of Red Men and the Patriotic Order Sons of America. John L. Willis was also quite active with the Pyne Poynt Athletic Association, the Carnation Social Club, the Camden Maennerchor Yearly Benefit Association and the Don’t Worry Social Club.
Great-granddaughter Michelle Willis wrote the following:
I do not know a whole lot about him. He was my grandfather’s (Harold Louis Willis) father. His name is John Louis Willis Jr. He was born April 17th 1882 in New Castle, Delaware. His parents were John L. Willis and Sophie Middleton. He moved to 528 North 5th Street in Camden NJ sometime between 1904 and 1905 with his parents and siblings. His brother was Foster Willis who was also part of the Pyne Poynt Athletic Association. His sister Sophie (Sophie C. Willis Goodyear Smith) married Otis Smith who was the care taker of Pyne Poynt Park. In 1905 John L Willis’ occupation was a brass finisher. In 1908 he married Helen Cooper Lange whose father Ernest Lange lived across the street at 625 North 5th Street. Her mother Kate Streich Lange died when she was about 7. At some point she was placed in an orphanage.
Her orphanage bible is still in our family with a date of 1902 on it. At some point after that she reunited with her father who had remarried. John L Willis Jr. and Helen Cooper Lange had 3 children George William Willis (1908–1978) Gladys Eleanor Willis (1909–1910) and my grandfather Harold Louis Willis (1919–1999). In 1913 John L. Willis’ occupation was listed as an iron worker. He moved in 1914 to 522 Vine Street. His parents also moved with him to that address. His occupation at that time was listed as a Sheet metal worker. Between September of 1918 and January 1920 he moved to 723 York Street in Camden and his occupation was listed as a superintendent. About 1923 he became a clerk in the assessors office. He died from pneumonia on June 7th 1930. He was buried in Arlington Cemetery in Pennsauken NJ.
Doings in the Social World
Camden Post-Telegram —
A very pleasant evening was spent at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mulford, 722 Pearl street, on Saturday, it being the eighteenth birthday anniversary of their son Albert. The program was commenced by Mr. Mulford with an address in his son’s behalf and he then sang a song entitled “Only Had Fifty Cents.” He then introduced Mr. John L. Willis, Jr., as entertainer of the evening. Mr. Willis started a bunch of fun by introducing the Ellmore Bros., the comedians, who made it very pleasant for all. At 11 p. m. the guests were ushered to the table by Albert Mulford, where lots of good things were awaiting the hungry ones. Mr. Mulford received several useful presents and at 12 p. m. all departed for their respective homes.
Those present were: Misses Elva Ross, Georgiana Ross, Helen Lange, Sophia Willis, Nellie Willis, Ruby Richter, Mabel Mulford, Gertrude Dalbow, Viola Dalbow, Lillian Dalbow; Messrs. Joseph Bennett, George Comly, Albert Murray, John Coll, James Woods, Ed. McDonald, Percy Dudley, Clifford Mulford, Fred Theis, Master William Willis, Edward Wells, William Lukings, John L. Willis, Jr., Foster E. Willis, Albert Mulford, Harry W. Watson.
News Notes of the Poynts
Camden Daily Courier —
Interesting Bits Gathered Here and There in North Camden
A very pleasant and interesting evening was spent at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Willis, Sr., 628 North Fifth street, on Wednesday evening, April 17. It marked the twenty-fifth birthday anniversary of their son, John L. Willis, Jr.
Mr. Willis has many associates in North Camden so, of course, the event called together quite a number of his intimate friends who spent the evening in playing games of all sorts and several song selections were rendered by George Glenn, Sr., and Edward Jacobs. But to top it all off George Glenn, Jr., had to sing his sentimental song entitled “Somewhere somebody’s waiting for you.”
At 11 p. m. the guests were ushered to the dining room by Mr. Willis, where a table laden with things to suit all tastes awaited the hungry ones. Mr. Willis received many useful presents. At a late hour all departed for their respective homes, wishing Mr. Willis many future birthdays and expressed themselves as having had a delightful time. Those present were as follows: Mr. and Mrs. John L. Willis, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. George Glenn, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. John Sullivan, Foster E. Willis, George Glenn, Jr., John Zook, William Willis, Percy Dudley, Charles Kelter, E. Jacobs, John L. Willis, Jr., Misses Nellie Willis, Helen J. Lange, Elva Ross, Georgia Ross, Mary Campbell, Carrie Ledner, Fannie Conrow, Alice Borgard.
News Notes of the Poynts
Camden Daily Courier —
Interesting Bits Gathered Here and There in North Camden
CARNATION SOCIAL’S ANNUAL BANQUET.
The Carnation Social held its annual banquet at the home of Joseph A. Forbes, 616 North Fifth street, on New Year’s eve, and it proved to be a grand success. The evening was spent to everybody’s liking, as there were several games procured to make it pleasant for all who attended. But the most interesting part of the evening was up to John L. Willis, Jr., who entertained the guests with his talking machine and fully 100 records of up-to-date selections. He was assisted by Foster E. Willis. There was also some very delightful singing rendered by Mr. Errickson, Mr. Binker, Mr. Glenn and Miss Helen J. Lange. At 11 p. m. the guests were ushered to the table by the president of the social, J. Willis, Jr., which was laden with things suitable to all hungry one, and some one said they heard Mr. Glenn say he was going to eat all night. But Mr. Forbes gave him a hot chase. At 4 a. m. all departed for their respective homes, stating it was the best time they had had all year and wishing the “social” the best of success for the next banquet. Those who participated in the banquet were Miss Katherine Baake, Miss Helen J. Lange, Miss Grace Moniote, Miss Fannie Conrow, Miss Ida Conrow, Miss Marguerite Pierce, Miss Anna Ambrose, Miss Elva Ross, Miss Alice Borgard, Miss Nellie Willis, Miss Ruby Vandegrift, Mrs. Joseph A. Forbes, Mr. and Mrs. John L. Willis, Jr., Frank Errickson, John L. Willis, Jr.; Foster E. Willis, William J. Willis, Imly Binker, Joseph A. Forbes, Carl Starn, William Ehrman, Percy Dudley, John C. Zook, George C. Glenn, Jr.
Grist of Newsy Bits Gathered in North Camden and Up Pyne Poynt
Camden Post-Telegram —
The degree team of Washington Camp, No. 21, P. O. S. of A., under the direction of Brother John L. Willis, Jr., Degree Master, will journey to the headquarters of Camp 25, at Twenty-seventh and Saunders streets, to-morrow evening.
The degree team will perform the initiatory ceremony on six candidates for admission to Camp 25. All the members of Camp 21 are urged to go along with the degree team, and all who do go will have a good time. Camp 21 has the best degree team in the State of New Jersey, or so the local boys believe. It has been called to perform ceremonies for many different camps in this section of the State.
The following are the officers of the degree team: John L. Willis, Jr., past president; Clarence R. Gaunt, president; E. R. Adams, vice president; George W. Dobbins, master of forms; Percy H. Dudley, conductor; Allen Jarvis, inspector; Ralph C. Madden, chaplain; Samuel R. Smith, guard; William J. Steele, right sentinel; Milton C. Pritchard, left sentinel; William J. Steel, lecturer.
Patriotic Sons of America Conducting Successful Home
Camden Post-Telegram —
Wyoming Tribe of Red Men Will Give Family Entertainment. Tall Cedars of Lebanon Arrange to Attend Divine Service—United Workmen’s Emergency Fund Reaches $204,252.
BROTHERHOOD ENJOYED THE OPEN HOUSE; OTHER INTERESTING NEWS FROM LODGES
The annual report of Emmet [sic] B. Berger, President of the home for the aged and infirm members of the Patriotic Order, Sons of America, their wives, widows and orphans, has been issued and is proving of gratifying and special interest to the members of that order. While the home is located at Chalfonte, Pa., it is open to eligible applicants from camps located wherever the order exists, and for that reason a brief sketch of the institution it is thought will be interesting to all who have been unable to visit it.
During the early part of 1905 a movement was launched in Philadelphia to establish such a Home. After much effort on the part of the instigators, with the co-operation of some of the Philadelphia Camps, they received enthusiastic encouragement at the meeting of the State Camp of Pennsylvania, August 1905, at which a resolution was passed giving to the home movement the moral support of the State Camp and most heartily commended to the members of the organization the good cause. With this encouragement, the Home Association renewed its efforts to secure financial aid, with the object of having the Home incorporated. Their labors were crowned with success, and on the 19th of June, 1906, Court of Common Pleas, No. 4, of Philadelphia, granted the charter, which makes the Home a lawful institution. In 1907 a farm was purchased by the Home Corporation, situated at Chalfonte, Pa., consisting of seventy-two acres of land in a fair state of cultivation. The improvements were a large fourteen-room stone house, nearly new, a large cellar, a barn capable of housing twenty head of stock, a carriage house and other buildings, for which $10,000 was paid, $4,000 in cash and $6,000 on mortgage. So valiantly did the Camps rally to the aid of the corporation that on July 13, 1908, when the ceremonies of dedication were held at the Home, only $5,000 indebtedness remained. This was a day long to be remembered by the Sons of America who were fortunate enough to be present, which gave to the order a Home whose doors are open for the aid of deserving brothers of Camps and Commanderies, (which are members of the Corporation); their wives, widows and orphans. Since the Home was dedicated $2,500 has been paid, leaving on January 8th, 1910, an indebtedness of only $2,500.
The Camps and Commanderies belonging to the corporation have furnished the entire house, except the dining-room and kitchen, which were fitted out by the corporation, except a beautiful sideboard, which was placed there by one of the Camps. The house is heated with hot water and is supplied with hot and cold water throughout. In fact, it contains all the conveniences and improvements needed for a first-class and up-to-date Home. The Home at the present time has two inmates. It is in the charge of a superintendent, a member of the order, with his wife as matron.
The Home has as complete a stocked farm as is to be found in Bucks county, and one and all are invited to inspect the same. In the future the management expect to make the farm a factor in the support of the Home.
National and State Officers and members of Camps and Commanderies have made contribution for its support. All members of the order, no matter where located, are asked to contribute and render assistance to deserving members, some of whom, no doubt, are depending on other charities, some having spent the best years of their lives in this noble work that they may now enjoy its privileges.
Some of the conditions for membership in the Corporation are: First, the payment of $25 as an entrance fee for membership, affording the privilege of participation in the monthly meetings of the corporation. Second, an assessment of one cent per member per week on Camps and Commanderies that hold membership in the corporation. Third, the charter of incorporation and the Constitution gives to each Camp represented by a delegate an equal voice in the management of the Home.
The Home as it now stands is worth $18,500, and is a credit to the order. All brothers and sisters are cordially invited to visit and inspect the institution.
The following Board of Directors deserve great praise for their untiring zeal and hard labors in managing the Home: President, Emmett B. Berger; Vice President, A. L. Wolfe; Secretary, Walter Cunningham; Treasurer, S. B. Krout; Directors, S. M. Beidler, W. R. Worrell, A. N. Carpenter, F. H. Danenhower, W. H. Montgomery, G. A. Smith, G. H. Merker, G. W. Underkufler, A. S. Packer, S. C. Graham, W. C. Loane.
PATRIOTIC SONS OF AMERICA.
The reporter from Camp 21 writes: “Washington Camp, No. 21, the uptown lodge of quality, is composed of some of the best citizens of North Camden, they being very careful as to whom they ask to affiliate with them. At the present time in order to begin the New Year in a successful manner, under the supervision of Chairman George W. Dobins, of the progressive campaign to extend for a period of six weeks. The object in view being to double our present membership. On Monday evening, January 30th, the Camp will have one of the greatest times in its history, it being called ’Boom’ night. There will be a class initiation of twenty-five candidates. The degree work will be exemplified by Camp No. 21’s own degree team, under the direction of Brother John C. [sic] Willis, Jr. Besides this there are many surprises in store and it will be worth any member’s time to be with us on this date. We have just closed a year of success and at this time also wish to thank the Post-Telegram for the space allowed us during the year. The Camp has elected a man to fill the office of Recording Secretary, Brother John L. Willis, Jr., for the fifth year, as they have found him to be honest and upright and the right man in the right place. Last Monday evening the following officers were elected for the ensuing term: Albert S. Dudley, Past President; William J. Steele, President; Milton C. Pritchard, Vice President; Stanley J. Pritchard, Master of Forms; John L. Willis, Jr., Recording Secretary; Ralph C. Madden, Financial Secretary; Allen Jarvis, Conductor; George W. Dobbins, Inspector; Charles P. Abbott, Treasurer; Foster E. Willis, Guard; Trustees, Samuel R. Smith, C. R. Gaunt, Percy H. Rudley.”
A picture of Recording Secretary John L. Willis, Jr., printed on a postal card, was forwarded by the correspondent from Camp 21, but it was found too light in print to enable a cut to be made from, consequently the features of this energetic and hustling brother cannot be reproduced at this time, as the Post-Telegram does not want to do an injustice to so faithful a worker.
Washington Camp, No. 107, is known as the hustling camp, as the boys are full of action and always have something on hand to interest the members. “Peace, harmony and fidelity” is fully exemplified at each meeting and the hand of brotherly love is always held out to visitors. The book officers, Brothers Jones, Hudson, Norris and Beckett, are a quartette that cannot be excelled and they manage the affairs of the Camp in a creditable manner. Last Monday night, the first meeting in the new year, was one that will never be forgotten, for not only was a large amount of business transacted, but the social feature, with mirth, melody and music, held full sway. It was a splendid beginning for the year and those who missed it can only blame themselves for not being present to enjoy the Camp’s hospitality—and the good things so lavishly provided by the energetic entertainment committee. The new officers were on hand and a big turnout of brothers, along with several visitors who were welcome and enjoyed the evening’s fun. After routine business was completed the entertainment committee got busy and provided an amusing program. With Brother Garman, pianist, at the piano, there was music galore. The glee club sang selections that were worth hearing. Brother Walter Norris and a friend gave a splendid demonstration of physical culture that was hugely enjoyed. Brother Tom Hudson’s recitation entitled “It’s My Ring,” was a masterpiece of elocution. Recitations by Recording Secretary Jones were finely rendered. The Camp’s quartette was in good trim and received hearty applause for their nice singing. The comic sketch by Brothers William W. Norris and Josiah Beckett was a rib-tickler and had to be repeated the second time. Distinguished visitors, Brother Samuel Reihl, of Camp 29, and Brother John S. Himmelein, of Camp 25, editor of the Camp Fire, also contributed largely to the evening’s enjoyment. Brother Reihl gave one of his famous characteristic talks which was very interesting and instructive and Brother Himmelein amused all with comic songs and intricate dancing that brought him great applause. Many more amusing features were enjoyed but the surprise of the evening came when the entertainment committee placed tables the entire length of the room and invited all to be seated and partake of refreshments which consisted of fried oysters, Thorn’s Jersey crackers and excellent coffee. The treat was thoroughly enjoyed. After all had eaten to their heart’s content more fun was indulged in and the evening’s festivities came to a close by all hands heartily singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” Camp 107 wishes to thank the Post-Telegram for the many courtesies extended during the past year and for the liberal allowance of space each week for news which has been a wonderful help to the Camp, and the unanimous wish is that the Post-Telegram prosper and live many years to enjoy the goodwill of its many readers.
The reporter from Camden Commandery, No. 34, writes: “Our interview on Wednesday was called to order by Commander Mastin, and the regular order of business carefully attended to. We have only one sick, Brother Peace, who is improving. Captain Richardson wishes to pay him a fraternal visit in a body this coming Saturday evening. All members are requested to meet him at P. R. R. Terminal at 7.45. The uniform rank are requested to be in uniform. Please do not neglect this. We had our friend and brother, Rev. Kidd, with us, and as is his custom, he gave us much food to digest that if used right will be very profitable, especially to the degree staff. All uniformed members are requested to be present Wednesday, January 11th, our next interview, as it will be drill night of the degree staff, preparatory to the initiation of a class on January 25th. Only sickness or death is excusable. We have several honored citizens to advance to the commandery. The work will be done in full. We have a very efficient board of officers to lead us, and it is our duty to rally around them.”
Washington Camp, No. 2, met on Tuesday evening. It was encouraging to see the members paying their dues, showing they have some interest in this camp. It was a very sociable evening. All are requested to be present next meeting as the officers are to be installed and Degree Master Scott and staff will do the work of initiation in their full dress costumes. A visit will do the members good and assist the regulars in their duties.
A union Bible class of P. O. S. of A. and P. O. of A. members was organized in the Tabernacle Baptist Church last Sunday with very favorable prospects of making a large class of men and women, and this coming Sabbath a number of new members are promised, both of ladies and men. It is hoped all who do not attend Sabbath-school elsewhere will join, and a cordial invitation is extended to all who are in any way connected with the camps. It will be a mark of credit to the camps to have the class one which shall be second to none.
The reporter from Camp 12 says: “Our camp is on the boom. Renewed interest and zeal is awakening in some of our members, and it will be but a short time before we will be independent if we stick to our colors, be true Americans and never let a traitor unfurl our flag. Our last meeting was interesting. Be at your post and work for the interest of Camp 12. We will win. On the second Thursday there will be initiation with team and lantern.”
IMPROVED ORDER OF RED MEN.
Great Incohonee George B. Griggs, in his January bulletin, calls attention to the following resolution adopted by the Great Council of the United States
Letter to the Post-Telegram
Camden Post-Telegram —
Editor of the Post-Telegram.
Dear sir:—On Saturday morning I met with a serious accident in my place of employment, Merritt & Co., and was taken to the West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital, West and Stevens street, by a gentleman who happened to be on Arch street above Front with an automobile. If possible through your paper I would like to learn who the person was as I feel I owe him a great deal of praise and credit for his kindness. Would be pleased to have the gentleman communicate with me if he will. Thanking the Post-Telegram for the insertion of this article in this worthy cause, I remain
Respectfully yours,
JOHN L. WILLIS, JR.,
628 North Fifth street.
World War I Draft Card
World War I Draft Registration Card — John Louis Willis Jr. Registered September 12, 1918. Address: 522 Vine Street, Camden. Occupation: Foreman, Dexter Metal Mfg. Co., Front and Arch Streets, Camden.
Glorious Fourth for Pyne Poynt
Camden Post-Telegram —
A. A. Appoints Committee to Plan for Celebration Details
Other News Items in North Camden
At a meeting of the Pyne Poynt Athletic Association held last night in the club headquarters at Fifth and Erie streetas [sic], the following committees were oppainted [sic] for the coming Fourth and July celebration:
Public meetings—John L. Miller, Jr.; grounds and police—Charles Johnson, Edward Miller, William Hughes; fireworks—John D. Adams; stands—Amos Stauts; badges—James Sullivan, David H. Simpson; music—Alonzo Hires; baby show—Mrs. Lillian Walker, Mrs. MacMullen, Mrs. Lillian Dorsey and Mrs. Ella Cox; rifle range—William Floyd and A. H. Smith; base ball—G. H. Clouden; sports—William H. Kelley; programs and prizes—Purnella Schofield; lights—George Griffe, Norman Hudson; dancing—A. H. Smith; permits—David H. Simpson; Red Cross—Fran Sheridan; publicity—Frank Sheridan, Horace S. Miller; chairs—A. H. Smith, Samuel J. Edawrds [sic], Alonzo Hires, Edward Miller; tents—John J. Robinson, David H. Simpson and Samuel J. Edwards; refreshment stand—George H. Clouden.
Joseph G. Corson, president of the asociation [sic], presided at the meeting which was largely attended and shows the interest the members are taking in this year’s celebration.
Charles A. Them, who for a number of years has ben [sic] the faithful vice president, resigned, due to impaired health.
It was with dep [sic] regret the colleagues of Mr. Them accepted the resignation. Frank Sheridan aulogized [sic] the work of Mr. Them, who was accorded a vote of thanks for the many things he has done for the club.
John L. Willis, Jr., one of the best known young men in North Camden, and who for some time has taken great interest in the advancement of the association was elected to the office left vacant by the retirement of Mr. Them.
Members of the club accorded Mr. Willis a wonderful ovation at the result of his election, and he to-day is being showered with congratulations.
Willis Injured at Dexter Metal Plant
Camden Post-Telegram —
John L. Willis, Jr., of 716 York street, one of the best known residents of North Camden and vice president of the Pyne Poynt Athletic Association, was injured about the head at the plant of the Dexter Metal Company where he holds a responsible position, when he was thrown under a loaded truck.
Mr. Willis, who was rendered unconscious, was rushed to the office of Dr. James Smith, Sixth and Vine streets, where a number of stitches were taken in the gash inflicted in his head.
John L. Willis, Jr., of 716 York street, one of the best known residents of North Camden and vice president of the Pyne Poynt Athletic Association, was injured about the head at the plant of the Dexter Metal Company where he holds a responsible position, when he was thrown under a loaded truck.
Mr. Willis, who was rendered unconscious, was rushed to the office of Dr. James Smith, Sixth and Vine streets, where a number of stitches were taken in the gash inflicted in his head.
July 20, 1922: John L. Willis, Jr., of 723 York street, who was injured at the Dexter Metal Company plant, where he holds a responsible position, has returned to his place of employment.
Pyne Poynters
Camden Daily Courier —
Away to Regain Health
Justice of the Peace Charles A. Them, Fifth and Grant streets, is spending a short vacation on the farm of T. Walter Reese, Mantua. Mr. Them is endeavoring to regain his health, having been ailing for the past ten months. He is well known in the Poynts, where he has resided nearly all his life, and is president of the Tenth Ward Republican Association. A card from him was received by John L. Willis, Jr., 723 York street, stating that he is improving rapidly.
PYNE POYNTERS
John L. Willis, Jr., 723 York street, who was severely injured recently when a pile of steel fell upon him, is recovering rapidly and is able to follow his daily occupation again. Foster Willis, his brother, who had his arm broken at Pyne Poynt on July 4, is improving slowly.
Miss Bonita Cox, 616 Vine street, is spending a few days with her sister, Mrs. Harry De Larentrie, Twenty-seventh and River road.
Mrs. Helen Willis, her sons, George and Lewis, and Mrs. Sophia Willis, 723 York street, are spending a vacation at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Mentz, Waterford. They will return early next week.
Install Officers at Camp 86, P.O.A.
Camden Post-Telegram —
Ella R. Cox Elected to Represent Camp No. 86 at State Meeting
To Give Moonlight Wednesday Evening
Camp No. 86, Patriotic Order of Americans, at their regular meeting Monday evening in P. O. S. of A. Hall, Sixth and Elm streets, elected Mrs. Ella R. Cox as a representative to the session of State camp to be held in Atlantic City in October.
District President Charlton was present and installed the officers-elect for the current term and the new password issued. The president appointed a new by-law committee, consisting of Sisters Jester, Johnson, Helen Willis, Bishop and John L. Willis, Jr., to arrange a complete set of by-laws for the camp.
Under the supervision of Sister Reau, chairlady, a moonlight excursion will be given down the Delaware on the steamer President, Wednesday evening, August 9. Tickets are 50 cents and can be procured from the committee.
Brother John L. Willis, Jr., well-known throughout fraternal circles, was appointed camp correspondent.
All members of the camp are earnestly requested to be present next meeting night, as the first reading of the by-laws will be presented to the camp for their approval or disapproval.
A handsome ritual box was presented to Camp No. 86 by Brother John L. Willis, Jr., to keep the ritualistic work secure.
The camp is anticipating on a large class initiation, of which you will be advised o fthrough [sic] these columns.
Camp had as visitors Brother John Pease and wife and Past National President Jacob Baker
Camp 40, P. O. of A., held its semimonthly meeting Thursday evening, when the officers were installed by District President Mary Hunter. Marie Pullens, the new president, is taking hold in a very able manner and all wish her a successful term. Sister Banyard, the treasurer and delegate, was good enough to have her birthday last meeting night. All spent a very pleasant social time at the close of the meeting in her honor.
Camp 62, P. O. of A., met Monday evening with President Florence Bacon in the chair. Would like to see a large crowd go to Wildwood on August 15. They only owe $18 on the piano, which they expect to pay off this month. They are taking in new members right along.
Camp 52, P. O. of A., met Tuesday evening, Sister Lydia Girard in president’s chair. Were pleased to have some of the sisters and brothers from Camp 12 present and hope to see them again. The Wildwood committee reported progress. The chairman of the piano committee has something big to announce next week. Next week is initiation. All members on the team please appear in white uniform. The piano committee will serve refreshments. After the business session was over “Molly Pitcher” invited members and friends into the kitchen to see the aluminum demonstration, after which a full course supper was served and enjoyed by all.
The Rainbow Circle of the P. O. of A. held their regular meeting at the home of Mrs. Charles Truitt. Everything was reported in readiness for the cake, candy and ice cream sale to be held at Mrs. Stints’s, 1302 Atlantic avenue, on August 12th. The Rainbows are noted for their fine home-made cakes. Were pleased to have a number of visitors from the Sunshine Social. Next week the meeting will be held at 630 North Sixth street. Every member requested to be present. There is considerable new business to attend to. All were served with refreshments. After bidding the mosquitoes farewell, all returned to their homes.
Camp 52 held their regular meeting Tuesday evening with President Lydia Girard in the chair. Sorry to report Sisters Kellener and Mary Covey very sick. Are you going to Wildwood on August 15th? Are expecting a large delegation from Camp 86 next Tuesday night. A sociable time is promised. The Aluminum Social was a great success. Everyone was served with a fine lunch. All voted that it had been a profitable evening spent with No. 52.
The regular meeting of Camp 12 was held Thursday evening with Ruth Blumenthal in the chair. The relief reported the sick improving slowly. The Martha Washington Social announces a stunt social on August 17th. All members are invited to attend as they will also have the Hand-to-Hand degree team on the floor. There will be initiation, not a drill.
John L. Willis (center)
John L. Willis Jr. (center)
Oberman Wallops Willis, Then 'Rescues' Him Later in the Day
Camden Daily Courier —
Two personal combats—both sanguine but bloodless—upheld the reputation of the “Fightin’ Tenth” ward at yesterday’s primaries.
Shortly before noon, near a polling place, Frank Oberman, a city fireman, hit John L. Willis, campaign manager for the Edwards’ Republican faction. Oberman was electioneering for the Organization slate. He claimed Willis made an insulting remark in which his ancestry figured.
Late in the afternoon, however, Oberman went to Willis’ rescue when a voter started to attack Willis, according to eye-witnesses.
This second altercation occurred at the Northeast school. A voter, name unknown, swung at Willis, witnesses say. Oberman grabbed his arm. At the same time he seized Willis about the waist and held him in the air while he pacified the irritated voter.
Oberman is stationed at Fire House No. 4 and is a powerfully built man. Nobody was arrested.
Willis Receives Birthday Congratulations
Camden Daily Courier —
John L. Willis, Jr., 723 York street, is receiving hundreds of congratulations on his 42nd birthday anniversary. Willis is a Democratic leader in the Tenth ward and one of the best known members of that party in the city. He is employed in the Assessors office at City Hall.
Colsey Reelected Camden Moose Head
Camden Courier-Post —
Willis Defeats Mulvihill in Stiff Fight for Vice Dictatorship
For the fourth time Thomas A. Colsey will head Camden Lodge of Moose as dictator.
Colsey was reelected last night for his second successive term. He twice before filled the position of dictator and will begin his fourth term on April 28, when the newly-elected officers are installed.
The only contest in the election was for the office of vice dictator.
John L. Willis, Jr., who was backed by Dictator Colsey and the “Regulars,” defeated Michael J. Mulvihill. Willis won by a majority of 94 votes. The vote was Willis 225, Mulvihill 131.
Other officers elected were George E. Danford, prelate; Charles J. Harper, treasurer; Dennis J. Cooney, trustee; David B. Peterson, delegate to supreme convention; Charles J. Harper, alternate; Joseph B. Jones, delegate to state convention.
Friends Give Surprise to North Camden Man
Camden Courier-Post —
John L. Willis, Jr., prominent North Camden fraternal and Non-Partisan political worker, was presented with a traveling bag by a group of friends of the Don’t Worry Social at a birthday surprise dinner at his home, 723 York street, in honor of his election as vice dictator of Camden Lodge, No. 111, Loyal Order of Moose.
Among the friends who attended the gathering were Joseph Leaming, Mr. and Mrs. M. Gilroy, Mr. and Mrs. E. Gray, Miss Margaret Bryant, Mr. and Mrs. James Chalmers, Mrs. Sophie Goodyear, Charles Stewart, Mr. and Mrs. G. Devereaux, Miss Marion Jarvis, Mr. and Mrs. George W. Mason, Mr. and Mrs. W. Dudley, Sr., Mrs. Lottie Rubright, Miss Anna Mae McBlaine, Joseph D’Autrechy, Mr. and Mrs. B. Matthes, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Sweeten, Mr. and Mrs. L. Maiese, Mrs. Laura Austins, Mr. and Mrs. Foster Willis, Mr. and Mrs. William Willis, George Willis, Charles Willis, Mrs. Sophia Willis, Master Lewis Willis, E. Lange, Mr. and Mrs. John L. Willis, Jr., and William Willis, of Wilmington, Del.
Mannerchor Society Elects 1928 Officers
Camden Courier-Post —
William Maurer is the new president of the Camden Mannerchor Yearly Beneficial Association. Other officers elected at the meeting held in the association’s hall at 1063 North Twenty-seventh street, are: Christian Fink, vice president; John L. Willis, Jr., secretary, and Leopold Stazeski, treasurer.
Three trustees were named, Joseph Schmidt, William Opperman and Ernest Lange.
Willis was named secretary for the fifth consecutive term. He is prominent in the activities of German singing societies here, and is vice dictator of Camden Lodge No. 111, Loyal Order of Moose.
John Willis Dies, Well Known Moose
Camden Courier-Post —
Tenth Ward Political Leader Factor in Non-Partisan Movement
John L. Willis, Jr., 48, a clerk in the city assessor’s office and a political leader in the Tenth Ward, died early yesterday after an illness of six months.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, 2 p. m., at the home, 823 York street, and burial will be private in Arlington Cemetery.
Mr. Willis was a former vice dictator of Camden Lodge of Moose. He was elected in 1927 and re-elected the following year, but resigned shortly afterwards because of ill health.
Mr. Willis was one of those credited with swinging the Tenth ward to the Non-Partisan candidates seven years ago. He was one of the most enthusiastic backers for former Mayor Victor King, and it was his influence that enabled the Non-Partisans to win the Tenth ward. Shortly after the Non-Partisans took office he was made an assessor.
Mr. Willis was active in the P. O. S. of A. and Red Men, as well as the Moose, being a past president of Camp No. 107, P. O. S. of A.
A resident of North Camden 26 years, he is survived by his widow, Helen C. Lange Willis, two sons, George and Lewis; two brothers and a sister.
Grave Marker
John L. Willis Jr. — Arlington Cemetery, Pennsauken, NJ