Mary W. Kobus

Mary Walsh Kobus was one of the first female politicians to rise to prominence in Camden NJ. Born Mary Walsh in New Jersey around 1876, she married well-known Camden businessman Joseph Kobus around 1910, and was the daughter-in-law of Anthony Kobus, who founded the Kobus shoe business and also served as president of the Broadway Trust Bank at Broadway and Walnut Streets. After women won the right to vote, Mary Kobus involved herself in politics. She also studied law, and was the only female graduate in 1930 from the South Jersey Law School, now a part of Rutgers University, in Camden NJ.

Mary Kobus was elected to the City Commission on May 1, 1935. She was a Democrat and a political ally of George M. Brunner, who served as Mayor of Camden from 1935 through 1959. When a recount added Frank Hartmann Jr. to the Commission, the balance of power shifted, and Mary Kobus was named director of public safety, and George Brunner replaced Frederick Von Nieda as mayor. Von Nieda sued to keep his position, but his suit was rejected in the New Jersey State Supreme Court.

Mary Kobus and her husband, Joseph Kobus, lived at 429 Haddon Avenue in Camden. Joseph Kobus passed away in June of 1939. Mary Kobus continued to serve in Camden city government after his passing. In February 1942, following a political upheaval on the bi-partisan City Commission, she was moved from director of public safety to director of parks and public property.

Fifteen sizzling amateur boxing bouts, together with nine acts of vaudeville, were presented to a capacity crowd in the St. Joan of Arc Church gym, Fairview. The proceeds derived from the affair will go toward the church building fund.

In the feature bout, Bob Zimmerman, of Fairview, unintentionally fouled Eddie O'Tell of South Camden, in the first round and Referee Joe Bonnell immediately stopped the fuss. Zimmerman was in the lead when O'Tell, in attempting to avoid a left hook to the body, leaped into the air with the result that the punch landed low. Zimmerman, in order not to disappoint the crowd went three rounds with Mickey Murtha. Battling Mack and Pee Wee Ross staged a clown act, while Johnny Lucas met Billy De Lue; Tommy Lyons clashed with Jack Stanley; “Peaches” Gray tackled Terrible Pine; Joe Colon faced Billy Osborne, and George Anderson encountered Milton Bamford. All bouts were limited to three rounds.

Deputy Boxing Commissioner Edward A. Welsh attended the affair, and when introduced by Announcer Bill Kennedy received an ovation that lasted fully five minutes. Mrs. Mary Walsh Kobus, a member of the city board of censors also was present. Sergeant Ray Smith assisted Bonnell in refereeing, while John McGraw was timekeeper. It was one of the most successful affairs ever conducted by the church athletic association.

Patrons and patronesses for the first military ball of the Camden Post No. 960, Elks auditorium, Seventh and Cooper Streets, are announced today. The following prominent men and women are listed: Mrs. J.W. Connor, Miss C.M. Day, Mrs. J.H. Forsyth, Mrs. H.J. Goodyear, Miss B. Graham, Mrs. R.E. Green, Mrs. E.F. Haines, Mrs. J. Hood Jr., Mrs. W. Hurley, Mrs. J. Jarrell, Mrs. T. Keefe, Mrs. J.F. Kobus, Mrs. L. Liberman, Mrs. F.L. Lloyd, Mrs. M.A. Logan, Mrs. T.P. McConaghy, Mrs. F.F. Neutze, Mrs. L.K. Marr, Mrs. J.A. Pennington, Mrs. M.E. Ramsey, Mrs. E. Truax, Mrs. S.M. Shay, Mrs. W.J. Staats, Mrs. B.G. Tarburton, Mrs. R.W. Waddell, Mrs. E. Watson, Mrs. E.P. Wescott, Mrs. C.A. Wolverton.

David Baird Jr., William T. Boyle, Isaac Ferris, William Hurley, John Hood Jr., John Jarrell, Victor King, William J. Kraft, Thomas Keefe, Joseph F. Kobus, Hon. Edmund B. Leaming, Dr. A. Haines Lippincott, James H. Long, L.K. Marr, Dr. Thomas P. McConaghy, Hon. Frank F. Neutze, Samuel P. Orlando, Albert E. Simmons, Edwin Watson, Ethan P. Wescott.

George B. Bitting, candidate for surrogate in Burlington County, was one of the principal speakers on behalf of the candidacy of David Baird for governor last night at a rally of the Pennsauken Township Republican Women’s League. Other speakers were Assemblyman George D. Rothermel, Mrs. Mary Walsh Kobus and George R. Braunwarth and Russell F. Walton, candidates for reelection to the township committee. Mrs. Thomas Thorpe sang two solos and Mrs. Herbert Longacre gave a reading. More than 150 women attended the rally.

Plans for a campaign to raise funds to cover the budget of the Salvation Army Corps here were discussed yesterday at a meeting of members of the executive board at Hotel Walt Whitman. William D. Sayrs, chairman of the committee presided and requested that a successor be appointed. The nominating committee selected Earl Lippincott, chairman; Mrs. Arthur Casselman and John J. Robinson, vice chairmen.

Brigadier James A. Harvey, commanding the Philadelphia region of the Army reviewed the work accomplished at the Camden headquarters, under direction of Captain Charles W. Schafter. An itemized report of receipts and expenditures together with a budget outline were submitted by Captain Schaffer.

Included among the members at the meeting were Reverend John Pemberton, Mrs. Charles A. Wolverton, Mrs. Casselman, Mrs. Mary W. Kobus, Herman Hensgen, Joseph Tweedy, Frank C. Propert, and Robinson. Other members of the committee include Howard Hemphill, George C. Baker, Patrick Harding, Dr. James Rodgers, Dr. F. William Schafer and Dr. Albert Pancoast.

Point Pleasant, June 8—Mrs. Mary W. Kobus, of Camden, South Jersey district regent, was one of the principal speakers today at the quarterly meeting of the Amboy District, Diocesan Parent-Teacher Association, in St. Peter’s Church. More than 300 attended. Other speakers included Rev. Father Reilly, rector of St. Catherine’s Church, Spring Lake, and chancellor of the Trenton Diocese; Rev. Michael Dalton, diocesan superintendent of schools, and Rev. Father Adolph, O.M.C., rector of St. Peter’s Church.

Earl R. Lippincott, real estate broker, has been named chairman of the advisory board of the Camden unit of the Salvation Army, succeeding William D. Sayrs. Elections of officers for the group were held yesterday following a luncheon meeting at Hotel Walt Whitman. Vice chairmen of the organization include John J. Robinson and Mrs. Arthur J. Casselman. Other officers include Mrs. Charles A. Wolverton, treasurer, and Miss Elizabeth Magill, secretary.

Members of the executive committee selected the following committees: Woman’s committee, Mrs. Arthur H. Holl and Mrs. Wilfred W. Fry; finance committee, Dr. F. William Shafer, William D. Sayrs, Frank C. Propert, Mrs. Wolverton and Mrs. Holl; property committee, Howard Hemphill, John J. Robinson, Herman E. Hensgen, Arthur J. Casselman and George C. Baker; public relations and publicity, Rev. John Pemberton, Joseph G. Tweedy, Mrs. Mary W. Kobus, Dr. Albert B. Pancoast and Patrick H. Harding; program committee, Dr. James Rodger, Propert, Robinson, Tweedy and John L. Shannon.

Calls for 100% Efficiency and Promises Square Deal for All in Talk to Commanders; Stresses Fact Colsey is Chief

“I want 100% efficient police department and not a political machine.”

Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, new director of public safety, made that declaration yesterday afternoon at a joint police-press conference in her office at city hall before she was served with a writ restraining her from taking that office.

Commissioner Kobus was the kindly mother talking to her “boys” for the most of the conference—but at times she became the stern parent—with the birchrod in the cupboard—as she instructed the police heads to “divorce themselves from politics.”

“For many years I have nursed in my heart a desire to see Camden with a 100% efficient police department,” the commissioner said. “Now that time is at hand.”

“I have known all of you men for many years,” she told the assembled commanders, “and I don’t care what your respective political affiliations might be. You have a right to your opinions, but I want the police department to divorce itself from politics.

“You must know what is going on in your city and you must let me know. I must have 100 percent cooperation if I am to succeed in this new undertaking.

“If you have any complaints, don’t go around and growl, undermining the department. Lay your cards on the table, I guarantee you a fair deal.

“Chief Colsey is head of the police department and not in name only. You others in the rank you occupy are also commanders in fact and not in name. It is up to you.”

The commissioner urged a closer co-operation between police and the press and concluded by saying she wanted her “family” to be honest-to-goodness policemen “because there is no room in the department for those who are not.”

Attending the conference was Chief Arthur Colsey, Lieutenant Herbert Anderson, chief clerk of the bureau; Lieutenants George Frost, Ralph Bakley, Walter Welch, Samuel E. Johnson and George Ward.

Shaw Made Assistant in Place of Koerner

By Charles L. Humes

Rosedale Residents Object to Permit; Excise Board Ponders Action

The newly created city excise commission last night called a third public hearing on the application of Frank Caromano for a saloon license at Thirty-sixth street and Westfield avenue. The hearing was set for 10 a. m., Saturday. The city commission held one formal hearing and one informal hearing on the application, protested by 881 citizens of the Rosedale section of the Eleventh ward, led by Rev. W. Douglas Roe, pastor of the Rosedale Baptist Church. Granting the application, Roe and others have contended, will open the Rosedale section, now without saloons, to other applications.

The excise commission—formally the Municipal Board of Alcoholic Beverage Control—in practice adopted a policy of “go slow.” It was the first business meeting of the board, composed of John L. Morrissey, chairman; Mrs. Ann Baumgartner, secretary, and Curtis O. Sangtinette.

Mrs. Pauline F. Caperoon, secretary to City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety, took stenographic notes of the meeting. She explained this was merely to keep the board straight until the new board becomes more familiar with procedure. City Clerk Otto E. Braun also recorded the minutes and said he will continue to do so in collaboration with Mrs. Baumgartner. The meeting was held in Braun’s private office. Only the members of the board, Mrs. Caperoon, Braun and newspaper reporters attended.

A license was granted to the Eleventh Ward Democratic Club, 1014 North Twenty-seventh street. A transfer of the license of Charles T. Bateman from 600 Mt. Vernon street to 1900 South Sixth street was approved. Police investigation was requested by the board on the applications of Peter Bradsky for 801 Chestnut street and Frank D’Alesandro, 523 South Third street. The police department will do the bulk of the investigating for the new board, Mrs. Kobus has announced. A personal investigation by members of the board was decided upon in the application of Dominic Guglielmo for a transfer from 245 Chestnut street to 2222 Federal street. Action was deferred on the application of a transfer of the license of Mary Hinkson to Edgar H. Beattie at 949 North Twenty-fifth street.

Civil Service Commission Asked to Approve $1500 Job

Action Declared Economy Move

The State Civil Service Commission has been requested to authorize appointment of a staff physician for the Camden City department of public works at an annual salary of $1500, and Dr. Maurice E. Baker has been named to the post on an ad interim appointment by Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, Jr.

Dr. Baker, a Democrat, was a candidate for city commissioner last May on the New Deal-Non Partisan ticket, which elected Hartmann and Commissioners Mary W. Kobus and George E. Brunner. Hartmann said last night that Dr. Baker has been acting as staff physician for the past four days and has made 12 examinations. Some of these, Hartmann said, were for city employees with frost-bitten toes, fingers and ears, who are claiming compensation, and one was of a woman who slipped and fell on a sidewalk.

“Dr. Baker, of course, is not getting paid a salary now,” Hartmann said, “but we hope he can be placed on a salary as a money-saving movement. Heretofore the physicians examining city workmen on compensation claims have charged the city $10 for each examination. I expect Dr. Baker to make 600 to 700 calls a year, most of them examinations, and thus get the work done for $2 in each case. I expect also to save money on compensation claims by having Dr. Baker make examinations of any new men hired, so that we may be sure they are in good physical condition.”

Hartmann said all members of the city commission except Mayor Frederick Von Nieda have endorsed the employment of a staff physician. City Solicitor E. G. C. Bleakly also has approved the move as offering a chance to save money, Hartmann said.

Members of Health Class Urge Areas to Cut Down Juvenile Delinquency

Mrs. Kobus’ Aid Sought

By E. Cecilia Cummings

Camden High School senior girls in 12th year health classes recommend play streets, especially in South Camden, as a preventive measure for juvenile delinquency. Death by automobile, vandalism and petty crime, they think, all spring from the same root—lack of safe places for supervised play.

This is a direct outcome of discussions in Miss Marjorie Van Horn’s health classes, and of a campaign whittled to make Camden residents “reform school disgrace” conscious. In their study of child welfare, they have been impressed above the eyebrows by the effects poor housing, crowded conditions and lack of recreation have on health, and how all these tie together to mould the typical reform school occupant.

Discussions during class period weren’t getting them anywhere, however. Up spoke Frances Allebach impatiently: “We talk and talk, but why don’t we DO something.” She was promptly voted chairman, and Margaret Baker, secretary, of an embryo campaign.

A group went to Director of Public Safety Mary W. Kobus and asked her to authorize the roping off of little-traveled streets. Reconnoitering on auto trips, armed with city maps and pencils, showed them suitable locations for play streets. Mrs. Kobus promised them her hearty support, but reminded them the signatures of all residents on those thoroughfares were necessary to rope them off as playground substitutes.

Girls active in the campaign as speakers were Olive Patterson, Madeline Danner, Lois Davis, Dorothy Schoellkopf, Henrietta McCausland, Miss Allebach, Margaret Baker, Rose Shectman, Helen Brown, Mary Burke and Ruth Austermuhl.

Policeman Fires from Ground and Liquor Raid Fugitive Stops

Four men were arrested amid revolver shots after a Camden policeman was knocked down by a police car during a raid yesterday afternoon. Acting on orders of Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, who is continuing her drive to rid the city of speakeasies, three policemen and two detectives surrounded the home of James Ford, colored, at 1124 South Ninth street, shortly before 3 p. m.

Patrolmen Edward Shapiro and Thomas Kauffman arrived in a radio car. So did James Brown and John Houston, two colored detectives. Patrolman Earl Stopfer arrived on foot. Three policemen went to the back door. Kauffman stayed in the radio car at the front. Shapiro knocked at the front door. The policemen at the rear were ahead of those at front. As a result four men ran out through the front door and bowled over Shapiro. The man in the lead, who later was identified as Wilbur “Lackey” Davis, of 821 Mt. Vernon street, raced up the street, a quart bottle of liquor in hand.

Kauffman had driven his radio car behind another machine. He started the engine and attempted to back out to give chase. Shapiro ran behind the car and as he did, the machine struck him, knocking him into the middle of the street. Prone, Shapiro drew his revolver and opened fire on Davis. Three shots were fired in the air. Two others were closer to the fugitive, who halted. With the sound of shooting, the other three men yielded to the assembled policemen. They gave their names as Ford, Herman Hopkins, 21, of 1124 South Ninth street, and Harry McLane, 29, of 746 Kaighn avenue. All will be arraigned today. Ford, Hopkins and McLane will be charged with violating the state A.B.C. act. In addition, Davis will be charged with resisting arrest. Patrolman Shapiro was hurt but slightly.

Measure to Limit Size and Fix Fees Protested at Noisy Hearing

The ordinance approved on first reading January 29 amending the present law regulating the distribution of circulars was voted down by the city commission on second reading yesterday, after a public hearing. Public hearings scheduled on five other ordinances were postponed. These included three refunding measures, one amending present laws designed to stop littering the streets, and the other extending the closing time for barber shops.

Opposition to the circular ordinance, which would have restricted the size of such advertising matter to 6 by 4 inches and required a permit and tax for distribution, was voiced by merchants and representatives of the Socialist and Communist parties. The hearing was a noisy one, with sporadic outbursts from the audience causing Mayor Frederick von Nieda to rap for order frequently.

A. David Epstein, attorney representing the South Jersey Grocers Association, with a membership of 200 independent grocers, was vigorous in his opposition to the amendment. He argued that circulars provide the only means for members to advertise their wares and said the proposed size hardly meets their requirements.

Commissioner Harold W. Bennett said many justifiable complaints had been received declaring porches, steps and yards were littered with circulars and other advertising matter. He said such papers should be attached securely to doors or handed in. Commissioner Mary W. Kobus said she saw no need for the proposed amendment, declaring the existing law requires distributors to place circulars on a doorknob with a rubber band.

Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, original sponsor of the ordinance, then moved that it be tabled. Charles S. Danenhower, Camden and South Jersey organizer for the Communist party, objected that the measure should be killed outright “in the interest of the working classes.” Hartmann called for action on the ordinance, and it was voted down by unanimous vote.

Amateur Creators of Brain Twisters Open Three-Day Conclave Tomorrow; Mrs. Kobus To Greet Delegates on Arrival

Puzzledom, that world of cryptograms, psychology and pseudonyms, will have its capital in Camden beginning and continuing through Sunday. It will be the 105th semi-annual convention of the National Puzzlers’ League, Inc.

Back in 1926, sesquicentennial year of American Independence, the puzzlers held their 86th semi-annual convention here. The fact Joseph Kobus, retired Broadway merchant, is a charter member of the organization, founded in 1883, and that his wife, City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, is now first vice president, may have had something to do with the selection of Camden for both gatherings. Mrs. Kobus was president in 1929.

Close to 100 members, from all sections of the country east of the Mississippi, are expected. Convention headquarters are to be in the Walt Whitman Hotel. In puzzledom each is known by a pseudonym, self-chosen. Mrs. Kobus, for instance, is H. S. Law, which is a reverse spelling of her name before marriage, Walsh. Commissioner Kobus—beg pardon, H. S. Law—is chairman of the reception committee which will welcome members as they arrive tomorrow afternoon and night.

Many attractive entertainment features will be crowded into the two-day session. Features of Sunday’s program, after breakfast and church services, will be a puzzle broadcast from Station WCAM at 11:00 AM, the closing session of the convention in the afternoon, to be followed by award of a cup to the winner of a puzzle contest. The WPA leisure time band, directed by Joseph Fuhrman, will give a musical program at the hotel for the benefit of the visitors Saturday night.

Other officers of the league are: Charles Jacobsen (Oedipus), of Whitestone NY, president; Paul E. Thompson (Blackstone), Cleveland Heights OH, second vice president; Lewis Trent (C. Saw), New York NY, secretary; John Q. Boyer (Primrose), Baltimore MD, treasurer; Rufus T. Strohm (Arty Ess), Scranton PA, official editor, and J. H. Wickham (Wick O’Cincy), Cincinnati OH, Ohio trustee.

City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus will deliver the principal address today at the Camden County Real Estate Board luncheon in Hotel Walt Whitman. Her topic will be “Vandalism and the Police Department.” Another speaker will be Emanuel Smith, who will speak on “The Development of a New Idea For State Taxation For Schools.”

To the Editor:

Sir—Will you please print the following article in your Mail Bag. Now, my fellow citizens, where IS your howling and crying over the moneys spent by the city not being used for anything productive? Folks like to talk about others, but never a good word for those who deserve it. Mr. Hartmann has treated WPA workers like men, and they responded like men. I am one of them. I worked all day February 13 in the snow and storm and have not heard any grumbling from any of my buddies.

Did the public ever stop crying the blues long enough to realize that I got $76 per month from relief? Of course I have a family and my wife never was satisfied, like lots of others, to take all and give nothing. Now I get $60 a month and we (my family) are happy again. Why? Because I can at least make an effort to earn what I get. It’s mine and I keep my kids dressed warmly and they go to the movies every Saturday afternoon. I feel 100 percent better than living on E.R.A.

I have two very close friends on E.R.A. who laugh at me for working on W.P.A., but when they need a few pennies they look me up. Due to Mr. Hartmann we were kept on our jobs instead of being laid off. His efforts put us on the snowy streets. I’ve lived in this town for 38 years, my mother 57 years and my dad 68 years and all of us say the same thing. God give us some more Hartmanns and Kobuses instead of David ? regime. That’s all, folks, your street improvements to date have cost you taxpayers practically nothing. Just a word to W.P.A. workers: Layoff of Kelly, he is a good man when you understand him.

HERBERT BARD
213 Penn Street.

Proprietor of Wall Street Club Charged With Hitting Policeman

Four persons were arrested early yesterday during a free-for-all fight in the Wall Street Club, 340 Federal Street, according to police. Edward Markowitz, 38, proprietor of the place, was arrested and charged with assault and battery on an officer, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Ambrose Brown, 31, and his brother, Asher, 27, both of 2104 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, were arrested on complaint of George Brown, 29, of 1214 Mt. Ephraim Avenue, who charged them with assault and battery.

Patrolmen Earl Wright and Gus Fortune were passing Fourth and Federal streets at 1:45 AM in a radio car with Commissioner Mary W. Kobus when a man ran out of the Wall Street Club and shouted to them that some men had been beating him. When the policemen entered, Markowitz is alleged to have tried to eject the police. He said they had no right in his place, according to Wright and Fortune. Markowitz was arrested with the three Browns. Wright alleges Markowitz struck him in the face.

At police headquarters Mrs. Eleanor Brown, wife of Asher Brown, said she, her husband and brother-in-law were getting ready to leave the place when George Brown struck her in the face. She said her husband and brother-in-law struck George Brown in retaliation. Police said when they reached the interior of the taproom men were fighting, women screaming and tables were being overturned.

Markowitz was held in $1000 bail. Ambrose and Asher Brown in $500 bail each and George Brown in $200 bail as a witness. They will have hearings today in police court. Markowitz last night denied he struck Wright but alleged the patrolman knocked him unconscious at police headquarters. He said he was placed in a wheel chair and pushed into a cell. He charged he was not permitted to use a telephone until 7:00 AM. “There was no fight in my place,” Markowitz declared. “The fight was out on the street and Wright rushed into my place, grabbed me and hustled me to the patrol box.”

‘Nedmac’ (Spell It Backwards) Elected; Wife Retires as Vice President

By Thomas O’Halloran

Joseph F. Kobus, retired Camden merchant, was elected president of the National Puzzlers League, Inc. at the closing session yesterday of its 105th semi-annual convention. The convention opened Saturday in the Hotel Walt Whitman. The new president, husband of City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, was one of the earliest members of the organization, founded in 1883. His nom-de-plume in puzzledom is Nedmac. Mrs. Kobus, retiring first vice president, is H. S. Law in the world of cryptograms, “flats” and “posers.”

Others elected were: R. P. Woodman (Macropod) of North Quincy, Mass., to succeed Mrs. Kobus; Mrs. G. H. Ropes (Evero), of Detroit, Mich., second vice president; Lewis Trent (C. Saw), of New York, secretary for his 26th consecutive term; John Q. Boyer (Primrose), of Baltimore, treasurer; Rufus T. Strohm (Arty Ess), of Scranton, Pa., official editor, and J. H. Wickham (Wick O’Cincy), of Cincinnati, O., trustee.

Following the business session about 50 members participated in a prize puzzle contest in the junior ball room of the hotel and the M.M.M. (Minute Men of Mystery), a social organization within the league, held a dinner meeting. A silver bowl was presented to C. Saw as a testimonial to his 25 years’ service as secretary of the league.

Mrs. Kobus, who was chairman of the convention reception committee, introduced several members as speakers on a broadcast program from Station WCAM in the morning. Anderson recalled the organization of the league by a group of young men who met in Pythagoras Hall, on Canal Street, New York City, July 4, 1883. Boston was selected for the 106th convention which will be held September 5, 6 and 7.

Commissioners Agree on Kobus Suggestion

Camden’s city commissioners yesterday agreed to select a paid financial adviser to guide the city out of its financial morass. A special gathering of the commissioners in Mayor Frederick von Nieda’s offices at noon today was arranged to hear applications of candidates for the job. No candidate will be considered unless he has a plan to submit that looks attractive to the commissioners.

Decision to select the paid adviser came near the end of a hectic two and one-half hour conference of the commissioners with their citizens’ advisory committee, members of the Freeholders budget committee, various bond brokers, and bankers and attorneys for the city and the bond dealers. The commissioners decided to engage the adviser against the recommendation and despite an eloquent plea of their bond attorney, L. Arnold Frye, of Hawkins, Delafield and Longfellow, New York attorneys. It was at the suggestion of Commissioner Mary W. Kobus that the decision to bring in paid help was taken.

Carr and Koerner Will Be Questioned In Holdup Case

Caution Is Urged by Justice Lloyd

Detective Stanley Wirtz, suspended by Police Chief Arthur Colsey yesterday pending investigation into charges that he supplied the guns and an automobile for a holdup, has been ordered to appear today before Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety. Wirtz, who has been in charge of the city accident bureau, will be asked to “give his side of the story,” Commissioner Kobus said. Later the public safety head will question City Detective Clifford Carr and Police Sergeant Gus Koerner in connection with the capture of an alleged bandit last Friday night, in an attempted holdup of the Eavenson & Levering Company payroll clerk.

County Detective Chief Lawrence T. Doran yesterday charged that Wirtz had supplied the guns and automobile to be used in the holdup and then posted Carr and Koerner inside the plant to capture the bandits. Wirtz, Doran said, admitted the charges in a statement given in the office of Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando.

Doran’s statement follows: Stanley Wirtz, Camden city detective, supplied the gun and the automobile used in the attempted hold-up of the Eavenson & Levering Company payroll office Friday night. Statements were given us by three suspects all tally. Walter Lewandoski worked at the Eavenson & Levering plant, but was laid off there February 28. On March 3 he had money coming to him and he returned to the plant. Joseph Powell accompanied him. Powell talked to Lewandoski then of the payroll, and suggested the holdup. Powell then got in touch with Stanley Wirtz, and told him that Lewandoski was going to stick up the payroll March 4. Wirtz on that night loaned Powell a car but someone got cold feet, and the holdup was not attempted. The following week, on March 13, last Friday, Wirtz took a car to Powell’s home and there turned over to him two guns and the automobile. Wirtz then had detectives posted at the scene to arrest the bandits when they made the holdup attempt.

Wirtz is 37 and lives at 1197 Thurman Street. He was one of the first of the new policemen to be appointed to the department in 1924 after Civil Service was put into effect following the adoption of Commission government in 1924. He is a veteran of the World War and got a special rating for that reason when he took the Civil Service examination. In 1931 Wirtz was appointed as an accident investigator in the detective bureau and has served in that capacity ever since.

Colsey Doubts Cop Will Face Charges; Case to Go to Grand Jury

Decision on any action to be taken against Stanley Wirtz, suspended Camden detective charged with having furnished the guns and automobile for a holdup, will be made today by Commissioner Mary W. Kobus and Police Chief Arthur Colsey. Wirtz, with Sergeant Gus Koerner and Detective Clifford Carr, was questioned yesterday, and decision was reserved. Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando, however, said he would place the case before the grand jury.

“No charges have been preferred against Wirtz,” Mrs. Kobus announced after the investigation. “And I don’t believe any charges will be made,” Colsey commented, adding: “Commissioner Kobus and I are going over the reports and statements of all concerned at 10:00 AM tomorrow and a decision will be made then.”

Asked for a statement at the conclusion of the investigation, Mrs. Kobus said: “No charges have been preferred against Wirtz. This was not a hearing on any charge. This was an investigation of reports which I read in the newspapers. It is the duty of the police officials to investigate any such report, and Wirtz and the other two detectives who figured in the case were called in to make statements. This was not a trial and I do not care to make a statement now about what went on.”

Eli Hunt Bids Farewell to Fellow Members of City Force

Officials Laud Term of Service

G.O.P. Unit to Honor Patrolman John S. McTaggart Tuesday Night

Commissioner Kobus Continues Move for Elimination of ‘Acting’ Officers

Expresses Belief Camden is ‘Remarkably Free of Vice and Gambling’

Issues Decree for Police to Tighten Up on Gaming Racket — FBI Agents Join Probe Here of $50,000 Bank — Phila. Leaders Held Lottery Czars Here

Mrs. Kobus and 27 Members of Police Department Pass Tests

Rulers Approve Resolution Setting Up New Department Under Brunner

Camden Department Advances to Third Place in State Among Second-Class Cities for Prevention Work; Ranks 22nd in U.S. and Canada

Doubt ‘Brawl’ Explanation in Fatal Bellmawr Shooting of Andrew Scarduzio

County Detective Chief Orders More Quizzing

Prevents Meeting and Halts Plan to Make Wood Director

By A. Charles Corotis

An attempted coup by David Baird in his drive to rebuild his fallen fences for the primary election next May was frustrated yesterday by one lone freeholder, and the baby member of the board, at that. Edmund A. Walsh elected from Camden’s Eighth Ward to fill the unexpired term of the late Ferdinand J. Larkin, foiled Baird’s well laid plans when he refused to attend the annual organization meeting after the Republican League bloc of freeholders had been maneuvered into a position of agreeing to support James W. Wood, Baird satellite, for director.

Walsh’s loyalty to City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, long-time political foe of Baird, had the effect of stalemating the 1940 organization, the last under the large board, since the Democrats, upon learning of the G.O.P. decision to support Wood, bolted the meeting room. Walsh took the stand that to vote for Wood would be to sell out to Baird. Walsh was ready and willing to vote for any other Republican. The 20 Republican freeholders present could have transacted business and elected Wood if they had gone into session, but Walsh’s refusal to be a party to the Baird-Wood scheme left only 19 freeholders willing to meet, and that number is one short of the quorum required by law.

Walsh emphasized that he favors Republican organization of the board and agreed to support any Republican for director except Wood. These are the sentiments of Mrs. Kobus. Too, it was the stand of the Republican League until at yesterday’s joint conference of the three G.O.P. factions the group headed by Raymond G. Price cast its lot with Wood. This in itself was a major surprise of the day, since Price and Edward J. Quinlan both elected with Kobus support had been considered anti-Baird-ites.

60,000 Pieces of Illegal Paraphernalia Taken to City Hall

Truck Disbanded, Engine Company Created; 13 Men Transferred

Commissioner Mary W. Kobus yesterday announced a number of changes in the fire department, including the disbanding of Truck Company No. 4; creation of a new engine company, No. 10, and the transfer of 18 officers and men, 12 of them captains. Most of the new captains have been serving as acting captains and promotion to full rank will involve no pay increases, inasmuch as the men signed waivers foregoing the raises. Commissioner Kobus explained most of the changes were made to conform with regulations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters.

The commissioner also announced she had appointed Junior Captain Raymond Smith as director of the school for firemen at Engine Company No. 10, Ninth and Morgan streets. Smith, one of the youngest of the recently appointed junior captains, will succeed the late Battalion Chief Rollo Jones. Senior Captain Leonard Megee was appointed acting battalion chief to succeed Jones. Junior Captain William Spencer, of headquarters company, was named relief captain.

Engine Company No. 10 will use the headquarters of the old truck company, at Ninth and Morgan streets. To the new company Mrs. Kobus assigned Senior Captain Mortica Clark and Firemen Frank Burt, Frank Esperance and Clifford Lane. Junior Captain Frank Oberman was transferred from Engine Company No. 10 to Engine Company No. 1, at fire headquarters. Other assignments include: Junior Captain Robert Wonsetler, Engine Company No. 11, to Engine Company No. 2; Fireman Harry Kleinfelder, Engine Company No. 6, to Engine Company No. 2; Junior Captain Edgar Ellender, Engine Company No. 2, to Engine Company No. 6; Junior Captain Ralph Bingemann, Truck Company No. 2, to Engine Company No. 7.

Mrs. Kobus Ouster Urged As Head of Public Safety Dept.

New Appointment Return Forces to 1938 Status; Defense Increases Need

Oldest Member of Department in Point of Service Honored by Fellow Workers, Officers and School Children in Exercises at Station House

Probe Concerns Vote Fraud Case; Court Asked to Oust 2 Freeholders

Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety, is to be among seven witnesses tonight before the grand jury investigating election frauds in Camden. This was announced yesterday by Assistant Prosecutor Patrick H. Harding after Circuit Court Judge V. Claude Palmer took under advisement the application of Republican attorneys to unseat Democratic Freeholders Stanley Ciechanowski and Ventorino Francesconi.

The court was asked to “declare the election of their Republican opponents, Charles A. Burkett and George Farrell, because of ‘fraud, corruption or malconduct’ in nine precincts of five Camden wards ‘sufficient to permit the court to reject the entire vote in those districts.’” Mrs. Kobus was summoned before the grand jury with six other persons whose identities were not revealed by Harding. It was reported the jury intended probing the police and firemen’s pay increase referendum in the last election.

In final arguments before Judge Palmer, Benjamin Friedman, counsel for the Republican candidates, characterized the persons who made the illegal markings as “culprits” and “stupid individuals without any degree of finesse.” He told the court that “these boxes are rife and reek of fraud and the results of the districts are fraught with doubt and fraud and should be thrown out.”

Alex Feinberg, attorney for the Democrats, told the court: “Giving the petitioners (Republicans) the benefit of every doubt and crediting to them the votes they contend the losing candidates were deprived of by alleged illegal means, the three Democratic freeholders still maintain substantial pluralities to continue in office.”

One Plaintiff Asks $70,000 for Cleaning Establishment; Another Seeks $25,000 For Loss of Two Homes

Trucks of Flowers in Funeral Cortege

Funeral services for City Commissioner Henry Magin were held today with his colleagues in official and veterans circles participating. Services were conducted in city commission chambers on the second floor of city hall, in charge of Rev. Dr. W.W. Ridgeway, rector of St. Wilfrid’s Episcopal Church. The casket was carried by war veteran associates of the public works director, who died from a heart attack Friday.

A color guard from the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion preceded the casket, followed by the four remaining members of the city commission, Mayor George Brunner and commissioners E. George Aaron, Mrs. Mary W. Kobus and Dr. David S. Rhone. A guard of honor lined both sides of city hall steps, 22 policemen on one side and 22 firemen on the other, representing Magin’s age, 44 years.

Hundreds of men and women waited outside the building to pay their respects as the solemn procession filed by. Mayor Brunner had declared this morning a holiday for city employees. Three trucks were required to carry the floral pieces from the scene of the services to the National Cemetery at Beverly, where burial took place. An estimated 8000 persons from all walks of life paid their respects to the late official by viewing the body as it lay in state in the commission chambers.

Commissioner Kobus, who knelt in prayer before the bier, arose and went over to Mrs. Magin and her daughter. Mrs. Kobus embraced and kissed the widow and daughter of the late commissioner.

Among prominent officials and citizens who came to pay their respects were Congressman Charles A. Wolverton and his son, Donnell, Assemblymen Joseph W. Cowgill and J. Frank Crawford, Sidney P. McCord, city comptroller, and others. Also former Assemblyman Rocco Palese, former Freeholder Maurice Bart and wife, County Detective James Mulligan, Deputy City Clerk William D. Sayrs, Postmaster Emma E. Hyland, and Samuel E. Fulton, member of the Camden local assistance board.

The political boss of Camden is a motherly, gray-haired woman who wears hats like those effected by Queen Mary of England. Nevertheless, and in spite of the fact that she denies it vehemently, Mrs. Mary W. Kobus, Camden’s Director of Public Safety and president of its Board of Education, is one of the shrewdest politicians in New Jersey and in no small degree responsible for the victory of the “Good Government” slate in yesterday’s primaries.

“Naturally I’m very much pleased with the results of the election,” she said today at her office in Camden City Hall. “I’m particularly pleased because it engendered no bitterness. Primary fights are always dangerous for that reason. The fact that there was no bitterness this time augurs well for the success of the party in the November elections.”

“I’m naturally interested in the career of Bruce Wallace because he’s been with me ever since I entered politics and even before that.” Wallace was nominated for State Senator by Mrs. Kobus’ partisans. He is a member of the Delaware River Joint Commission and was a member of the South Jersey Law School class from which Mrs. Kobus was graduated in 1930.

“I got interested in politics accidentally, son,” she continued. All men are “son” to her. The police and firemen are her “boys,” and her interest in the welfare of Camden is real and quite apart from any political ambitions she may have. “You know I always have been interested in welfare work and people. I knew nothing of the mechanics of politics then. In 1935 there seemed to be some anxiety on the part of some people to change our form of city government. It seems that the women wanted some representation in city government. Specifically, they hoped to elect a Commissioner. I guess they just said eeny-meeny-miny-mo—and I was it.”

Since those days, Mrs. Kobus has built up a political machine that is sometimes nothing short of terrifying to the regular Republican steamroller in Camden County. It is more than coincidence, too, that her machine has benefited the city of Camden. A single instance should illustrate the shrewdness which Mrs. Kobus brings to her job. A certain fire engine had reported being at a certain spot one day. It was generally believed it was somewhere else. Mrs. Kobus went down to the fire house and poked around the truck. On the rear step she found five small stones. The stones were nothing like what was to be found in the neighborhood and to her they indicated one of two things—either the truck had not been cleaned for some time, or the stones had been picked up when the truck was somewhere it shouldn’t have been. The firemen broke down and confessed she was right. They got a gentle reprimand and the stones now are kept in her desk as a memento of her amateur detective work.

As Director of Public Safety and President of the Board of Education, Mrs. Kobus controls the police and fire departments, the city clerk’s office, police court, the excise board, the municipal motor transportation bureau, the detective bureau and the bureau of charities. She is chairman of the police and firemen’s pension funds and is also fire marshal. She is also regent of the Camden District Parochial Parent Teachers Association and once taught school. She is a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Club. She is, as well, the only woman member of the International Association of Police Chiefs and attends all of the association’s conventions.

Mrs. Kobus was one of the five original organizers of the Camden County Chapter of the American Red Cross and she is a member of the board of directors of West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital. She is famous for her handling of the strike at the New York Shipbuilding Company yards several years ago. During the disastrous Hollingshead fire, she got no sleep for almost 72 hours. She was not merely on the scene, directing activities, but she administered first aid personally, visited the homes of victims and tore around in a frenzy of activity that soon had the rescue work well organized.

Mrs. Kobus’ day begins at 9 A. M. It should end at 5 P. M. It never does. Mrs. Kobus’ father was one of Camden’s original settlers. He ran a coal yard. Her husband owned one of Camden’s first shoe stores. He died two years ago. She now lives with a sister, Mrs. Anna Connor, at 429 Haddon Avenue. For relaxation Mrs. Kobus goes in for movie photography.

Board of Education: Dr. Ethan A. Lang, President; Dr. Henry Wisniewski, Vice-President; Albert Austermuhl, Secretary; Mrs. Mary W. Kobus; Mrs. Alice Kline Predmore; Dr. Richard Bowman; Samuel T. French; Benjamin Mackler; Albert E. Osmond; Russell L. Weldy. Dr. Leon N. Neulen, Superintendent of Schools; Alfred L. Dudley, Superintendent of Supplies; Raymond G. Price, Supervisor of Janitors and Buildings.