Introduction
JOSEPHUS JENNINGS, also known as Joseph Jennings, was well-known musician and bandleader in Camden. His band, popularly known as Jennings Band was also known as Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band and later as Jennings’ Third Regiment Band was quite famous in Camden from the 1880s right on up America’s entry into World War I in 1917. It was organized as the National Cornet Band in 1868 and became the Sixth Regiment Band in 1871. In its later years the band was known as Jennings’ Third Regiment Band, as the old Sixth New Jersey Regiment had been replaced in Camden by the Third in a reorganization of New Jersey’s National Guard Units. The name stuck even after Joseph Jennings retired as bandmaster in 1910.
George Reeser Prowell wrote about the band’s early days in his History of Camden County, New Jersey, published in 1886:
The National Cornet Band was organized in 1868, with Joseph Jennings as leader. In 1871 the name was changed to the Sixth Regiment Band and it was mustered into the service of the National Guard, and was the only regimental band in the State for years. Their present band-room is at the Sixth Regiment Armory, southwest corner of West and Mickle Streets. The present members are Joseph Jennings, John Roth, Augusta Buese, Gordon Phillips, Lewis Seal, Charles Landwehr, Charles Felcon, John Brown, D. C. Newman Collins, Alfred Colbins, Charles Bowyer, Isaac Heins, Joseph Young, Richard Richardson, Benjamin A. Woolman, Harry Carles, William Stevenson, Frederick Klaproth, Henry Myers, G. Philip Stephany, Adam Markgraft, Charles Ellis, Emerson Ogborn, Charles Frost, Hiram Hirst.
Bandleader Joseph Jennings was in the newspapers for a tragic reason in the fall of 1902, when his son, W. Price Jennings, and another boy, John Coffin, were murdered. Their killer, Paul Woodward, was quickly arrested, tried, and executed.
The Sixth Regiment Armory, which was the home of the band for many years, was destroyed by fire in 1906. Three Camden firefighters, George W. Shields, William Hillman, and William Jobes, were killed while fighting this blaze, and several other firefighters were injured.
Joseph Jennings led the band into 1912 when he retired. Joseph Bossle Sr. took over as bandmaster and reorganized the band. He led the band until 1919 when he took over the Tall Cedars of Lebanon band, which his son, Joseph Bossle Jr., had organized a few years before.
Joseph Jennings last resided at 319 North 3rd Street in Camden. He died on April 5, 1914 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetery in Camden.
Music Has Charms
Camden Post-Telegram —
MUSIC HAS CHARMS
As Was Shown by the Enthusiasm at the Jennings’ Band Concert.
The first of the series of promenade concerts by Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band assisted by Miss Jennie Foell, soprano; and Euterpean Male Quartette, John Urban, first tenor; R. Williams, second tenor; Linwood Moulton, first base; Gilbert L. Hindermyer, second base; Miss Therosan Parrot, accompanist, was given at the Pennsylvania Railroad Y. M. C. A. rooms, Third and Bridge avenue, to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience of more than eight hundred persons who demanded encore after encore from Professor Jennings and the vocalists.
The large assembly hall was tastefully decorated with potted plants, palms, ferns and cedar trees while the walls and balcony were prettily festooned with green cedar, intertwined with mammoth pink rosettes which gave the room a most unique but pretty adornment.
The band, consisting of thirty pieces, occupied the stage, and as usual covered themselves with glory, rendering choice selections as only this body of crack musicians can.
The program of fifteen numbers was as follows: Sacred potpourri, “Joy to the World,” J. B. Barnhouse; Euterpean Quartette, Waltz Song, Temer; selection, Robin Hood, Wiegand; soprano sola, Conseils à Nina, J. B. Weckerlin, (Miss Jennie Foell); duet for cornets, Damon and Pythias, Hassolman (Comfort Bros.); tenor solo, selected, John Urban; overture, Poet and Peasant, F. V. Suppe; quartet, Phyllis; piccophone solo, Fire Fly, Galop, Stobbe (Harry W. Wakefield); baritone solo, Hear the Wild Winds Blow, Mattel (Linwood Moulton); Recollections of the War, Beyer; Descriptive, Drummer’s Call, Reveille, Grand March, For God and Country, Marching Along, The Assembly, The Flag of Columbia, Attention, Prayer, Commence Firing, The Battle, Star Spangled Banner, The Vacant Chair, Marching Through Georgia, Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, Glory Hallelujah, The Battle Cry of Freedom, Kingdom Coming, Finale; soprano solo (a), Persian Serenade, Colyn; (b) The Other Day, Borsey (Miss Jennie Foell); quartet, Banks of Allan Water; Indian War Dance, Wallstadt, Jr. (by members of organization); overture, Around the Metropolis, Beyer.
There will be two more concerts by the band, assisted by other talent which, no doubt, will be equally well attended.
The Entertainment Committee, consisting of C. S. Wilkinson (Chairman), Joseph A. Connell, Thomas Bodell, S. L. Jones, E. G. Blaisdell, L. E. Sheppard, John N. West and Thomas Dibble (Secretary), deserve great credit for the manner in which they conducted this their first concert.
The gentlemanly and handsomely ushers who added to the comfort of the audience were: Messrs. W. T. Rogers, Chas. Van Duyn, George Kadel, W. D. Cook, Aaron Watson, H. L. Jones, Thomas R. Dibble, W. A. Baird, A. M. Willetts, James Hope, A. McCall and W. P. Wolkert.
Camden’s Pride Parades Before City’s People
Philadelphia Inquirer —
John Foster, Chief of Police
His Honor Mayor Hatch and the Judges Reviewing the Parade
Samuel S. Elfreth, Chief of Fire Dept.
Policemen and Firemen Make Their Initial Turnout and Present a Creditable Appearance—Reviewed by Officials—How the Departments Have Grown
With a line up that could not be surpassed by the famous “Broadway Squad” of New York, Camden’s policemen, or most of them, turned out in review yesterday. The military carriage of the men excited much favorable comment, especially among those who were not aware that the men have been drilled every week for a year past by Colonel D. B. Murphy, of the National Guard of New Jersey. The policemen were followed by an array of firemen and a variety of apparatus that made many of the natives gasp in astonishment. Altogether the procession was a revelation to Camden residents who thought they were well informed about their city.
The procession was headed by Jennings’ Third Regiment Band. Then came Chief John Foster, of the Police Department, followed by a line composed of Police Captains Stanley, Alberts and Doyle and Sergeant Bentley. Following them under the silken folds of “Old Glory,” which he carried with a steady grasp, was Policeman George A. Donovan, a colored member of the force. Two platoons of forty policemen each were led by Sergeants Horner and Hyde. The police patrol wagons and the city ambulance brought up the end of the policemen’s line. The total police force of the city consists of ninety nine men.
The City Band, followed by Chief Samuel S. Elfreth, of the Fire Department, in a carriage, marked the head of the firemen’s line. The seventy-two men of this department were in two sections, the first being led by Assistant Chief Samuel Buzine, of the department headquarters, and the second by Assistant Chief Benjamin Kellum of the East Side. Between the two sections marched the Ivy Fife and Drum Corps. The apparatus in line consisted of six hose carts, five engines, three hook and ladder trucks, two chemical engines and a supply wagon.
The growth of Camden’s police department may be seen by a comparison of the present with the year 1862, when six policemen sufficed to protect the entire city, which was then divided in three wards. In 1876 there were only sixteen policemen in the city and nine regular firemen under one chief. There were, however, thirty extra men subject to call by the chief.
The parade yesterday was reviewed by Mayor Hatch and the City Councilmen from the balcony on the Broadway side of the Court House.
The Paul Woodward Murder Case — October 1, 1902 to January 14, 1903
On October 1, 1902 Paul Woodward murdered two young boys by giving them poison, one of them being Joseph Jennings’ son, Walter Price Jennings. Frank T. Lloyd, then Camden County prosecutor, was responsible for leading the investigation and prosecuting the case. Paul Woodward was arrested on October 4, 1902, and was quickly indicted on murder charges. Woodward was tried and found guilty in November of 1902. Woodward was sentenced to death, with sentence to be carried out on January 7, 1903. Efforts to gain a new trial failed, as did the appeal for clemency. Paul Woodward was executed on schedule at the Camden County jail, with Sheriff Christopher J. Mines Jr. supervising.
People involved in this case: Joseph Jennings — Jennings’ Third Regiment Band — Frank T. Lloyd — Dr. William S. Jones — William D. Hart — Dr. Paul N. Litchfield — F. Morse Archer — John Foster — John Painter — John Cherry — Isaac Toone — Paul Woodward — George M. Beringer — Charles G. Garrison — J. Wesley Sell — Christopher J. Mines Jr. — Frederick A. Rex — J. Frederick Voigt — George F. Kappel — Isaac Toy — Harry S. Scovel — Francis Ford Patterson Jr. — John S. Smith — Hugh Boyle — George H. Stineford Sr. — Frank S. Albright — Thomas Walton — Dr. William H. Iszard — Fred George
Two Camden Boys Have Disappeared
Philadelphia Inquirer —
John Coffin, 11 years old, son of William Coffin, division freight agent of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and Price Jennings, 14 years, son of Leader Joseph Jennings, of the Third Regiment Band, are missing from their homes and the Camden police have been asked to locate them.
They started for the Trenton fair Wednesday and failed to return. All intermediate points have been communicated with, but the lads have not been heard from.
Two Camden Boys Are Still Among Missing
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Nothing has yet been learned as to the whereabouts of John H. Coffin, the eleven-year-old son of William Coffin, division agent of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and Price Jennings, fourteen years old, son of Joseph Jennings, leader of the Third Regiment Band, the two Camden boys who disappeared on Wednesday when they left, it is presumed, for the Trenton fair.
The Coffin boy has light hair, brown eyes and weighs 64 pounds. When he left home he wore a blue cheviot suit, knee trousers, a blue and green golf cap and a pink and white shirt waist. While somewhat older the Jennings lad bears a striking resemblance to his missing companion.
When the boys disappeared Price Jennings had about $10, but the Coffin boy had nothing of value about him except a small silver watch. The police of near-by cities have been communicated with, but they are unable to find any trace of the missing boys.
JOHN H. COFFIN.
The above photograph was taken two or thre[e] years ago, but is a good likeness of the bo[y] as he appears to-day.
Missing Camden Boys Murdered in a Field
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Young John Coffin and Price Jennings Believed to Have Been Poisoned—Companion Arrested and Committed to Jail
John H. Coffin
Price Jennings.
Where body of young Jennings was found.
Where Coffin’s body was found.
The discovery of their bodies cold in death, the victims of an atrocious double murder, yesterday solved the mystery surrounding the disappearance from their homes in Camden on Wednesday of John H. Coffin, the 11-year-old son of William Coffin, division freight agent of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and Price Jennings, his chum and playmate, the 13-year old son of Josephus Jennings, leader of Jennings’ Third Regiment Band, of Camden.
Paul Woodward, 18 years old, a companion of both the boys, is charged with their murder and is locked up in the county jail awaiting the further action of the authorities. There are no evidences of external injuries and the only theory to which the police can attribute the cause of death is that the assassin of the boys administered poison to them, and it is along this line that County Physician Jones and Prosecutor Lloyd are conducting an investigation.
The details surrounding the atrocious crime makes it one the like of which has never been known in the criminal history of this section of the country. The youth of the boys, their heretofore relations of good companionship, and many other circumstances make of it an almost unparalleled crime, and while there is said to be every evidence of a motive for the murder, in the opinion of those who are in close touch with the case, it is an instance in which the work is that of a degenerate boy in whom all sense of right and wrong have long since been dead. Certain it is that the crime has stirred the people of Camden and vicinity to a feverish heat to which it has not been stirred since the days following the murder of Annie Leconey.
Found in a Field
The bodies of both the lads were found yesterday morning in a field near the Haddon Heights Station of the Reading Railroad on what is known as the Lippincott farm, about a quarter mile from Station Avenue. The body of young Jennings was found lying in a clump of bushes and less than forty yards away lay the remains of Coffin. Both bodies were stiff and in a state of decomposition. Coffin’s body was the first discovered, and it was not long after when that of his companion was found.
No sooner did the news of the discovery become known than the greatest excitement prevailed through the city of Camden and its suburbs. All sorts of rumors began to circulate, some of them hinting that the bodies were in a horribly mutilated condition and that the work was that of a negro. In a short time, however, whatever element of mystery there was about the case, so far as present indications go, was dissipated when the identification of the bodies was made and the arrest of young Woodward was accomplished soon afterwards.
Then the mystery began to clear somewhat. Both boys disappeared from their homes on Wednesday afternoon. When they failed to return that night the police were notified and a description of them was sent around the country adjacent to Camden and also to Philadelphia. Some persons said they had gone to Trenton to the fair, while others told of having seen them in the vicinity of Haddon Heights Station. Nothing came of these statements at the time, and meanwhile the boys failed to return home. Coffin’s father was of the opinion that the boys had been kidnapped, but this theory was not held by the police.
First Body Discovered
Late Friday night, Clarence Kreuson, whose home is at Haddon Heights, and a friend of his, Frank Johnson, who lives in this city, were returning from an afternoon of blackbird shooting. While crossing the field they came across the body of a boy. It was lying in the bushes, half concealed, and when they made a closer examination they discovered that life was extinct. In alarm Kreuson and his companion ran to the home of A. H. Wood, near-by, and communicated their intelligence. Wood immediately sent a telephone message to Coroner Litchfield in Camden, apprising him of the discovery. That official, through some misunderstanding, thought it was a man named Brown who had been talking to him. He hitched up his horse and drove to Haddon Heights, but was unable to locate the body. He was also unable to locate anyone named Brown. Further investigation was, therefore, postponed until yesterday morning, when the Coroner again visited the scene and found the body in the bushes.
From the clothing worn it was thought at first it might be Coffin’s, and after it had been brought to the Morgue, William Coffin, the lad’s father, was sent for. He was accompanied by Kingston Jennings, elder brother of the other missing boy. Mr. Coffin when nerved to look at the remains, exclaimed, “My God, it’s Price. Where is my boy. He must be found.” The identification was then made complete by the dead boy’s brother.
Meanwhile a number of persons had been going over the field where the body had been found in the search for clues that might lead to a discovery of the murderer of the boy, when one of them chanced across the remains of the other lad lying under a dead tree. This body was identified on the spot by Detective Curtis, of the Pennsylvania Railroad. The lad’s body was also taken to the Morgue and laid on a slab alongside of his chum.
Police at Work
The police in the interim had not been idle, and after scouring the vicinity of the place where the bodies had been found, came across Lillian Martin, the 15-year-old daughter of J. Wilson Martin, who conducts a “Cyclers’ Rest” at Collings avenue and the White Horse pike. She remembered having seen two boys answering the description of the dead lads in their place on Wednesday. They were accompanied by an older and a taller boy. Jennings seemed to have considerable money and purchased three pies and three bottles of soda water. After that they left the place and she never saw them again until she looked upon their bodies.
Prosecutor Frank Lloyd at once set to work, and Detective Hart was sent in search of young Woodward. Inquiry at his home, at 221 Benson street, brought the response that he was not at home. His mother learned what he was wanted for, and about 2 o’clock sent for Detective Hart and turned the boy over to him. She accompanied him to the Prosecutor’s office and, talking to the newspaper reporters, said that beyond being addicted to the use of cigarettes Paul was a good boy. She persisted that he could not have committed the crime as he was home all of Wednesday, Thursday and yesterday until the afternoon, when he went to Philadelphia to visit relatives. What the police are reported to view with importance is a statement that the mother is also alleged to have made to the effect that on Wednesday he had bothered her a great deal about money for a hat and shoes. While the authorities will make no admission, it is intimated that the motive they ascribe for the crime is robbery, and that the fact that Jennings had $10 when he disappeared was what led to his murder, and the murder of the other little fellow followed as a necessity for hiding the crime, as well as to get possession of a silver watch he is said to have had.
Identified Woodward
After young Woodward was taken into the Prosecutor’s office, besides the Prosecutor there were present Assistant Prosecutor F. Morse Archer, Court Stenographer Berry, Chief of Police Foster, of Camden; Chief of Police Linderman, of Merchantville, and Detectives Painter and Hart. In a few minutes Detective Cherry arrived with Lillian Martin. The latter had been cautioned not to say anything to anybody, either in or out of the room. She was inside for less than thirty seconds, and when she came out she is reported to have said that Woodward was the young man whom she had seen with the boys on Wednesday in her father’s place. She was taken back a second and a third time, and after the latter, it is said, she told the detectives that she was certain he was the person. She then left for her home, where she resisted all attempts to interview her.
In the meantime Recorder Stackhouse issued a commitment for Woodward on the oath of Detective Cherry, charging the young man with the murder of Coffin. Jennings’ name was not mentioned, as Coffin’s answered the same purpose.
While this was going on County Physician Jones was holding an autopsy in the basement of the jail, where the morgue is located. A personal examination showed that there were no external marks of violence, and in order to clinch the result of the autopsy he summoned from Philadelphia Professors Copeland and Rosenberger, of the Jefferson Hospital. Dr. Copeland performed the autopsy, and was at work until nearly 6 o’clock, when it was announced that no results other than that death was not due to external injuries, had been accomplished.
Prosecutor Lloyd said: “There was a double murder. Of that much we are certain. Death was not due to external injuries. What we suspect you will have to conjecture. The organs of both the boys have been sent to a chemist for examination. More than that I cannot say, except that we have arrested Paul Woodward on suspicion and that he is charged with the murder. The same man that killed one of the boys no doubt killed the other. All I ask now is that judgment be suspended for a few days, when I believe all will be cleared up.”
Woodward Visited Mr. Coffin
Mr. Coffin, whose home is at 305 North Third street, yesterday said: “It’s an awful blow that has come to me and I hardly know what to say. It does seem to me that Paul Woodward exerted an evil influence over my boy. I remember now that on Thursday he came to the house and wanted me to hire him to look for John. He then said that he thought he could find him.”
At the Woodward home it was stated that the mother and father of the boy had gone to Philadelphia. Charles May, a boarder, said there would be no trouble in proving that Paul was home all day of Wednesday, as well as the day following. He said that on each of those nights the boy had been in bed by 8 o’clock. This testimony, he said, would be corroborated by the boy’s mother, father, sister and himself. The only time Paul was out of the house, he said, was when he went several errands for his mother.
Late yesterday afternoon Coroner Litchfield empaneled the following jury: David Kaighn, George Leathwite, Isaac Toone, George J. Pechin, Elmer E. Cox and T. L. Bear. At 5 o’clock they viewed the remains, after which the bodies were sent to their respective homes. No date for the inquest has been fixed.
The stomach and other organs of both the youthful victims are in the possession of George M. Beringer, a druggist and chemist, at Fifth and Federal streets. Last night he said he had begun his examination, but it would take him probably a day or two more to complete his analysis.
Camden’s Mystery Is Still Unsolved
Philadelphia Inquirer —
While Authorities Are at Work, Public Watch and Wait. Weaving a Net About Paul Woodward, the Young Suspect Now in Jail
Paul Woodward.
Mrs. Edith Barber.
It is now generally believed that the Camden county authorities have succeeded in establishing a clear case against young Paul Woodward, who is in the county jail, charged with the crime of taking away the lives of little John Coffin and Price Jennings. It was just a week ago yesterday when the boys went on their trip to Haddon Heights from which they were destined never to return alive.
Since the discovery of the bodies last Saturday partially hidden in rain-soaked weeds, the Prosecutor’s office, assisted by County Detectives Smith and Cherry and City Detectives Painter and Hart, have left no stone unturned.
No Confession
Prosecutor Lloyd yesterday reiterated his statement that Woodward had made no confession, but it is generally conceded as true that the accused youth did tell a story in which he makes some one else the principal criminal in the case.
Several incidents transpired yesterday that threw off the monotony of waiting for developments. Joseph Jennings, brother of one of the murdered boys, was taken to the cell in which Woodward is confined. He had no difficulty in recognizing the prisoner before. But as to whether he ever saw him in company with the dead lads he was not permitted to say.
Wild Rumor
There was much excitement about the Court House when it became rumored that Mrs. Edith Barber, the woman detained as a material witness against Woodward, had the small pox. To allay the alarm County Physician Jones called in representatives of the Board of Health, who concluded she had no sign of the disease.
After matters quieted somewhat the woman was taken into the Prosecutor’s office and questioned. When taken back to her cell she was crying and appeared to be almost unable to walk.
Woodward spent the day in his cell, smoking cigarettes as usual. He was visited in the morning by Lawyer Harry Scovel, who has not yet been engaged as counsel, as reported. Again in the afternoon Lawyer Scovel visited the youth in company with Woodward’s mother. At first Mrs. Woodward was denied admittance, but after waiting on the jail steps for nearly an hour she was permitted to go in and see her son. Lawyer Scovel and Mrs. Woodward were with the young man for a couple of hours.
Talked a Whole Lot
To all questions Lawyer Scovel said: “Woodward talked a whole lot, but I have nothing to say.”
He said he had not confessed to him. On the other hand Woodward had maintained his innocence.
When asked if Woodward could have a hearing if he demanded it Mr. Archer said he could. Asked if enough evidence was in hand to hold him, Mr. Archer said there was.
“On a simple assault charge?”
“No, sir, for the crime he is charged with—committing the murder of John Coffin,” replied Mr. Archer.
Coroner Litchfield said last night he would not set a date for the inquest before some time next week. Despite all reports to the contrary, Coroner Litchfield says Chemist George M. Beringer, who is analyzing the internal organs of the boys, will not complete the work before the end of the week.
Prosecutor Lloyd, who is still confined to his home with rheumatism, would make no statement last night, although admitting that the day’s work had not resulted in anything of material importance.
Woodward Bought Poison, Says Druggist
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Telling Points Brought Out at Woodward’s Trial
Fellow-prisoner in county jail swore that Woodward told him he (Woodward) placed strychnine poison in water, which the Coffin and Jennings boys drank.
Druggist testified to having sold strychnine poison to Woodward.
Philadelphian swore that Woodward, after the alleged murder, showed him a silver watch and a ring, the latter inscribed “Brother to Fayetta,” and the prisoner asked the witness if he had heard of the murder in Camden.
Miss Fayetta Jennings, aunt of Price Jennings, testified that on the day he disappeared he was seated in her room in which there were some envelopes containing small sums of money. After he left some of the money was found missing, as well as a ring inscribed “Brother to Fayetta.”
Fellow Prisoner Tells of a Confession Made by the Alleged Murderer — Relatives of Dead Boys Give Damaging Testimony
“He said he put the poison in a can of water and gave it to the boys who wanted a drink,” said David J. Horgan, yesterday, star witness in the murder case of Paul Woodward, who is being tried for his life before Judge Garrison, in Camden, on the charge of killing John Coffin and W. Price Jennings. It was the culmination of many important points brought out by the State against Woodward.
First a witness was produced who proved Woodward had purchased strychnine from a Camden drug store on two separate occasions. Then his actions on the day of the murder were traced by witnesses whose testimony could not be shaken.
Horgan, the last witness called during the day, was the most important and Prosecutor Lloyd through him scored a point against the defendant.
Horgan is a Gloucester saloonkeeper serving four months in the county jail for illegal liquor selling. To him Woodward told how he had killed the boys. The witness said he had spoken to the defendant several times since he has been confined in the jail, both their cells being on the third tier. Woodward asked him if he thought he would be hanged. Horgan told him he did not think so. Then Woodward told him the story.
Horgan’s Story
“Woodward said he met the boys at the Haddon avenue station on Wednesday afternoon,” said Horgan. Then Woodward said they went out the White Horse pike and stopped at the Cyclers’ Rest, at West Collingswood and bought three pies and three bottles of soda water. Then they continued their way to Haddon Heights and to the field where the bodies were found.
“At that place Woodward told me he got a can and filled it with water. He said he put the poison in the water and gave it to the boys, who wanted a drink. I asked Woodward how he had left the boys. He said they were sitting in the field and both were complaining of headache. He left them and said he was going to Haddonfield for a doctor. What he did after he got there Woodward did not say.”
Horgan also said Woodward told him he secured $12 in bills, a gold ring, a silver watch and breastpin from the boys. He spent one dollar, but the Saturday morning following he dropped the balance of the money, which was in a pocketbook, and the jewelry in the Delaware while crossing in a ferryboat.
Prisoner’s Actions
All during the testimony Woodward moved about in his seat and when Horgan spoke of the method of administering the poison, the accused youth gave a low, nervous chuckle. His face reddened and he appeared to be more moved than at any time previous during the trial.
The first witness called yesterday by Prosecutor Lloyd was Isaac G. Seibert, a drug clerk, now at Trenton, but who was formerly employed at Collins’ Pharmacy, Third and Arch streets, Camden. Seibert is one of the most important witnesses for the State, because through him was established a missing link in the chain of evidence, namely, just where and how Woodward purchased the poison.
Seibert said he had seen the defendant before at Collins’ Pharmacy. He said he sold Woodward strychnine on two occasions, once in the summer and again sometime before the murder. He sold on each occasion from two to five grains of strychnine. Woodward gave a plausible excuse saying, on his first visit he wished to kill a cat. When he returned the second time he said the previous dose had done no good and he wanted more.
Major Edward Coffin, the grandfather of John Coffin, was next called. He said he lived on a farm near Ashland, N. J. Woodward was there last August while Major Coffin’s grandsons were enjoying their vacations, and the boys became friendly.
Brother Testifies
William Coffin, a brother of the murdered boy, said he saw Woodward the Monday preceding the tragedy, and he asked young Coffin as to the whereabouts of his brother John. On the following Thursday Coffin again saw Woodward, who said John knew of a boy who had $800, and they were going South. He asked to be employed to find the boys and wanted a railroad ticket. Coffin identified a watch shown him by the Prosecutor as one belonging to him. John had a similar watch, he said.
Mary Eiler, a school girl, said on Wednesday, October 1, she was coming home from school, and at Front and Penn streets saw John Coffin and Price Jennings in company with a young man who she since recognized as Woodward.
“I heard Price Jennings say he would meet Woodward at a place in the country,” said the witness.
At Cyclers’ Rest
Lillian Marshall, daughter of the proprietor of Cyclers’ Rest, on the White Horse pike and Collings road, said that on Wednesday, October 1, two boys came to her father’s place. They bought three pies and three bottles of soft drinks. Afterwards a third boy came in.
“Who was the third boy to come in?” was asked.
“Paul Woodward; that’s him there,” said Miss Marshall, pointing to the defendant.
She said John Coffin paid for the drinks and pies.
John C. Farmer, colored, a gardener employed by James Carroll at Haddon Heights, said he saw the defendant twice on Wednesday, October 1, once when he was driving the Carroll family to the railroad station and again on his return. On the latter occasion he saw the boys had turned into the Lippincott farm and had stopped in a woods. Woodward was sitting on a rail pile. The following Saturday Farmer saw the body of Jennings in the field and at once recognized it as one of the trio of boys he had seen.
Mrs. Coffin Testifies
“Mrs. Coffin,” called the Prosecutor, and there was a hush as the mother of the murdered boy appeared. She was in deep mourning and when she threw back her heavy black veil a sweet, motherly face was seen. She shook with emotion and occasionally wept bitterly. Many spectators were moved and half the jurymen turned away with their eyes filled with tears. Only Woodward looked on with his stoical nonchalance.
Mrs. Coffin, amid sobs, said she had seen her boy on the Wednesday of his disappearance when he came from school. He took out a little silver watch and asked if he could get it fixed. Mrs. Coffin was shown a watch, but she said it belonged to her other boy, similar to the one owned by John. On the morning following John’s disappearance, Woodward visited her and she asked him if he knew where her boy was. Mrs. Coffin said she cried and Paul said: “Don’t cry; he’ll come back.”
Later the same day she again saw Woodward. On this occasion he was well dressed. On his previous visit he was dressed like a tramp.
Father on the Stand
William Coffin, father of the boy, was called and said he had seen a man answering Woodward’s description loitering about his house early the Thursday morning suceeding [sic] the murder. This was between 3 and 4 o’clock. Mr. Coffin had not gone to bed because of worriment over his boy. He heard some one in his vestibule, and, hurrying down stairs, saw a figure resembling Woodward several doors above.
William F. Smith, a news agent at the Haddon avenue station, said Woodward wanted to buy his watch. Woodward said he expected to have some money about the 1st or 2d of October.
James Sheiding, who has been locked up since Friday, October 10, as a witness, was placed on the witness stand. He said he talked with Woodward the afternoon of October 3. At that time Woodward said he guessed there was a murder in Camden as two boys were missing. Later the defendant pulled out a ring and wanted him to pawn it for $4. Again Woodward pulled a watch from his pocket. This was a silver watch, the same as the one belonging to young Coffin’s brother.
Telltale Ring
Lee Hubert also testified to seeing a gold ring in the possession of Woodward on the inside of which was engraved: “Brother to Fayetta,” the latter the aunt of the Jennings boys.
Miss Fayetta Jennings said when Price, the missing boy, disappeared he took with him about $9 from a box and also a ring in which was engraved “Brother to Fayetta.”
Joseph Jennings, father of one of the murdered boys, told of giving the ring to his sister Fayetta.
After County Detective John Smith had testified to getting a duplicate watch and ring from the Coffin and Jennings home, David Horgan was called.
When court adjourned until this morning Woodward was blazing with anger. Especially did he berate Horgan.
It was stated Woodward will probably be placed on the stand next Monday.
The frogs which were injected with acetic acid and strychnine on Thursday by Dr. Marshall to demonstrate the action of the poison on the system, were alive yesterday and had apparently fully recovered.
Detective Smith.
Prosecutor Lloyd.
Joseph Jennings Identifies the Ring.
Daniel Horgan.
Cycler’s Rest.
Woodward Hanged To-Day
Wilkes-Barre Times —
CAMDEN, N. J., Jan. 7.—Paul Woodward, the youthful murderer of the boys, John Coffin and W. Price Jennings, was hanged at 10:01 this morning.
Sheriff Christopher J. Mines conducted the execution, which was his first, with decency and dispatch.
The crime for which Paul Woodward forfeited his life was the murder of two boys, John H. Coffin, and W. Price Jennings, aged 11 and 14 years, respectively. The former was the son of Wm. Coffin, division freight agent of the Pennsylvania railroad company and the latter of Joseph Jenkins, the well known leader of the Third Regiment band. [The line or lines joining crop 1 to crop 2 are not in the crops.] both of this city, on Wednesday morning, November 11 last. The boys left home ostensibly to visit the Trenton fair. As they did not return home that night the police were informed and a general alarm sent out. The following day the bodies were found near Haddon Heights. At once, the police set to work to apprehend the murderer. Woodward was indicted by the grand jury October 24 for poisoning with strychnine for the purpose of robbery. The trial lasted five days, the jury convicting him in the first degree November 17, only one ballot being taken. A reprieve was granted by Governor Murphy to carry the case before the board of pardons, but the latter refused to act in the case and the law took its course.
Woodward met his death bravely and without fear. For over an hour previous to his execution he sat in his cell playing on a harmonica, the Marseilles hymn and In the Good Old Summer Time as calmly as possible. He ate for breakfast ham and eggs. The Rev. John Warner called later and administered the last rites of the Episcopal Church. Woodward was busy smoking a cigarette during the march to the gallows, but it was taken from him before he reached the foot of the scaffold, where a guard wiped his face with a handkerchief. While standing on the trap he said to Sheriff Mines: “I would like to say something, please.”
The sheriff quickly arranged the black cap, adjusted the noose and pulled the lever, swinging Woodward into eternity. His neck was dislocated and his heart ceased beating at 10:11. The body was cut down a few minutes later and removed to Philadelphia, where it was interred.
Jennings’ Band at Moorestown
Camden Post-Telegram —
There will be no fireworks at Moorestown on July 4. The entertainment on that day will be furnished by the Moorestown Field Club and Jennings’ Band of Camden.
Regimental Band Has New Leader
Philadelphia Inquirer —
REGIMENTAL BAND HAS NEW LEADER
Joseph Bossle Is Named as Head of Famous Third With Headquarters in Camden
One of the important happenings in National Guard circles in New Jersey recently is the retirement from the chief musician’s position of the Third Regiment, N. G. P., of Joseph Jennings, who, for many years waived the baton at the head of Jennings’ Third Regiment Band. Colonel Mather, in looking about for a bandmaster, decided that the best in the land was, none too good for his regiment and he selected Joseph Bossle, long connected with the old band, a resident of Camden, and one of the foremost men in Philadelphia’s musical circles.
Bossle has for many years been the leader of Bossle’s Orchestra, and his high position in the musical associations insures him the very best talent for his uses.
Bossle’s Third Regiment Band made a fine impression at the Grand Army review at Atlantic City.
JOSEPH BOSSLE
Well-known musician who has been appointed leader of the Third Regiment Band.
Jennings’ Band and Moose Band
Camden Post-Telegram —
JENNINGS’ BAND
At Munger & Long’s To-night. — Moose Band Friday Night.
Josephus Jennings, Sr
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Josephus Jennings, Sr.
After a week’s illness from pneumonia, Josephus Jennings, Sr., died yesterday at his home, 319 North Third street, Camden. He was 69 years old and is survived by three sons and a daughter. Mr. Jennings was widely known as leader of the Sixth and later the Third Regiment Band, N. G. N. J. Of late years he was leader of Jennings’ Band, known throughout this section of the country. The funeral will be held Wednesday.
Political Chat / Odds and Ends by I. T. Nichols
Bridgeton Evening News —
Two weeks ago we met on the street in Bridgeton our dear old friend, Josephus Jennings, of Camden. It was for the last time so far as this life is concerned, but how little we knew that such was to be the case. Who was Josephus Jennings? the reader will say. Well, he was a plain, everyday citizen, traveling salesman for Taylor & Company, Camden, whose specialty was grain and feed. In that line of trade he visited most of the towns in South Jersey from Ocean County to Cape May. Affable and gentle in approach he was a successful salesman. But it was as a musician that he was best known. Jennings’ Sixth Regiment Band was one of the finest in the country. We have heard all the great bands that have existed since the Civil War—Gilmore’s, Cappa’s, Sousa’s, Pryor’s, Creatore’s, the National Marine Band at Washington, and many others—but Jennings’ Band was the equal of the best of them. When on parade with his full corps of performers (seventy to eighty men), there was no musical organization in America superior?
A natural leader and born musician was Prof. Jennings. He was also a vocalist with a fine voice and for several years led the choir of one of the largest churches in Camden. His services as a band master were always in demand. For forty years past he has figured in Presidential inaugurations at Washington and in the great military parades of the large cities.
His splendid talents will be missed, greatly missed, sadly missed, on Memorial Day when the veterans turn out to deposit remembrance flowers on the graves of the comrades who have gone, for Jennings and his band were popular with the boys in blue who will shed many tears because of the dead leader whose face will no more appear in the line of requiem march.
Firemen to Parade in Gloucester City
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Fifteen Companies to Participate in Pageant Saturday When New Engine Is Housed
Special to The Inquirer. GLOUCESTER CITY, N. J., May 6.—At a meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners and Fire Department today arrangements were completed for the firemen’s parade to be held on Saturday in connection with the housing of the new fire engine. About fifteen fire companies will participate, and Mayor Mealey, who is chief of the fire department, will be marshal, with William Known and Thomas Cozan as his aides.
The parade will start from the hose house on Bergen street. At the reviewing stand, in front of the City Hall, the judges will decide the winners. The judges will be Sheriff Joseph E. Nowrey, Mayor Charles Ellis, of Camden; Mayor Milliard F. Cattell, of Woodbury; Chief Worthington, of the Camden Fire Department, and Chief Baxter, of Philadelphia. Jennings’ Band will head the line, followed by the city officials in automobiles.
The Boy Scouts will assist in patrolling the route, along with a number of Camden police. Prizes will be awarded for the company having the largest number of men in line; the company coming the furthest distance; the company having the best band, and the best equipped company.
’Uncle Joe’ Bossle, 86, Takes His Turn Waving Baton for Tall Cedars Band
Camden Courier-Post —
JOSEPH BOSSLE SR. … dean of bandmasters.
A musician since boyhood, Joseph Bossle Sr., dean of South Jersey bandmasters, has lived happily with his wife, Jennie, at 706 Linden street since their wedding day 56 years ago.
For more than 50 years “Uncle Joe” Bossle has been a band leader. In his day he traveled from coast to coast with the famous Conway Band. He also played with the famous old Jennings Third Regiment Band and eventually became its leader in 1912. In fact, he reorganized it during that year.
He played with Conway’s Band at Willow Grove park as well as tour the country. He was a warm personal friend of the late John Philip Sousa, king of bandmasters and composer in his day, and the late Victor Herbert, also a great leader and composer.
Made First Instrument
Bossle is now 86 and his wife is a few years younger. His father was a plumber and during his boyhood he made a flute by drilling holes in a brass pipe he obtained from his father’s workshop. Today he still plays a flute in the band of Camden Forest, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, of which he was bandmaster for years.
Frequently at meetings of the forest Lt. Albert Eckenroth hands him his baton and the venerable musician leads the musicians in playing Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” or the “Overture from William Tell.” “Uncle Joe” always gets a “standing encore” from the members.
He recalls playing the flute or cello with other famous bands such as the Royal Grenadiers of Canada, the National Cadet and Gil Irons old bands.
His son, Joseph Jr., was the organizer of the Tall Cedars Band in 1912. His father succeeded him as bandmaster in 1919 and continued several years until he was succeeded by Lieutenant Eckenroth.
Veteran Music Teacher
Bossle was born in Philadelphia on April 14, 1863. He moved to Camden after his marriage to Miss Jennie Richardson in 1886. They had four sons, three of whom are living. They are Joseph Jr., 817 Pearl street; W. Louis, attorney, who resides with his parents; and Dr. Frank N. R. of 116 North Center street, Merchantville. Another son, Charles, is deceased.
Not only has Bossle been a band leader but a teacher of music for many years. He still possesses the flute he made as a boy. He was one of the organizers of Local 77, American Federation of Musicians, and served as treasurer of this organization more than 20 years.
During the past few years he has been in ill health, but gets around with the aid of crutches. He says his happiest moments are when he is playing with the Tall Cedars’ band.
A Pleasant Surprise Party
Philadelphia newspaper — undated
Capt. Henry C. Lees, Lieuts. F. A. Rex and E. L. Thornton, of the 6th Regt., and Lieut.-Col. Wm. H. Hempsing and Paymaster Richard C. Wilkins, accompanied by the 6th Regiment Band; Prof. Joseph Jennings, leader, invaded Philadelphia on Thursday night, and made a raid upon Capt. Wm. C. Shinn, at the Markoe House, Chesnut above Ninth, when the gallant Captain and his estimable lady, together with the other inmates of the house, were treated to several delightful airs from that excellent band. It having been discovered, after a parley, that the apparently hostile demonstration of the N. J. N. G. was of a pacific character, Capt. Shinn allowed his countrymen to enter his winter quarters, and entertained them in the hospitable manner for which he is noted among his many friends. It being so near election, Mayor Fox’s vigilant political patrolmen surmised the intention of the foreign visitors was to bring the Captain back with them as a repeater; but when it was explained that Co. B. is mostly Democratic, while the Captain still adheres to the true faith, as expounded in the gospel of Republicanism, their suspicions were allayed, and the only repeating now desired is a repetition of the pleasant visit.