Robert F. Miller
Robert F. Miller
ROBERT F. MILLER worked as a policeman and in elected office as a constable in Camden from the late 1880s until his untimely death in December of 1911. He was born in New Jersey in March of 1855. He appears in the 1878 City Directory at 418 South 2nd Street, working as an oysterman. The 1880 Census, living in Camden’s Third Ward and working as a “waterman,” i.e., on boats on the Delaware. The street name is obscured on the Census sheet’s microfilmed image, but is most certainly the 400 block of South 2nd Street, as his landlord, David Laughead, appears in city directories before and after the Census. Robert Miller appears at 428 South 2nd Street in the 1881, 1882 and 1883 Directories, and it is probable that he was boarding with David Laughead throughout the three years in question.
Robert F. Miller married Ottilia “Tillie” Shaffer around 1883. They were blessed with two children, Robert Franklin Miller in 1890 and Blanch Marie Miller in 1893.
Robert F. Miller was appointed to the Camden Police Department on November 22, 1886. He served until 1902, with a three year hiatus in between from 1895 to 1898 when political interests dictated who would be a policeman and who would not. The Millers had a milk and butter business and Tillie Miller made dresses in these years.
The 1887–1888 City Directory shows Robert Miller, working as a policeman, at 223 Benson Street. By the time the 1888–1889 Directory was compiled, he had moved to 234 Benson Street. The Millers stayed at that address into 1898. From 1899 to 1902 they were at 336 Stevens Street.
Long active in local politics as a Republican, Robert F. Miller lost his job as policeman over the assault on George V. Murry at the riot at a polling station on the day of the primary election, July 28, 1902. The police committee of Camden City Council met, heard evidence presented by Mayor Joseph Nowrey (a Democrat) and chose to dismiss Robert F. Miller from the police department. Robert F. Miller and Albert Keaser were indicted on charges of assault in October of 1902 and both were acquitted on January 27, 1903. Given what would be revealed in later years about Murry, it is small wonder that Miller was acquitted.
Robert F. Miller moved to 528 South 3rd Street in 1903 and stayed there into 1905. He worked in sales for a couple of years, then, in October of 1905, he was hired by the residents of the neighborhood between Cooper and Penn Streets and between South 2nd and South 4th Streets to serve as a night watchman. He appears in Camden’s City Directories at 302 South 5th Street in 1906 and 1907.
By 1908 he had moved to 315 Pearl Street. Still working as the “special officer” in the Cooper and Penn Street neighborhood, Robert F. Miller ran for constable in 1911 and was elected. His triumph was short-lived, unfortunately, as he died of a heart attack on December 21, 1911.
On Jersey’s Soil
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Notes of Interest from the City Across the Delaware.
Robert Miller, of the Third ward, has been appointed a patrolman in that ward, to take the place of Officer Griscom, whose resignation will take effect on the 1st of December.
Philadelphia Inquirer — July 23, 1888
Policeman Robert Miller arrests Stephen Thomas
Policeman Robert Miller early yesterday morning captured Stephen Thomas with a set of harness in his possession. He acknowledged taking them from John Dungan's livery stable at Front and Pearl streets, and was locked up for a hearing to-day.
Policeman Robert Miller early yesterday morning captured Stephen Thomas with a set of harness in his possession. He acknowledged taking them from John Dungan’s livery stable at Front and Pearl streets, and was locked up for a hearing to-day.
A Camden Free Fight
Philadelphia Inquirer —
A CAMDEN FREE FIGHT.
Too Many Original Packages at a Party. Other Cross River News.
A party at Joseph Flanigan’s house on Mickle street, above Second, on Thursday night, had a bad ending. It was a package party, and some brought “original packages” with them. As soon as the bad whisky in the latter commenced to work free fist fights followed.
It was while Policeman Harvey and Robert Miller were patrolling their beats that they heard the cry of murder. They traced the cries to the Flanigan house, where they found at least a dozen men in the back yard engaged in a free fist fight. At the sight of the officers the men all scampered, with the exception of Edward Bates, who lay on the ground with blood running freely from a wound in his head. The police went in the house and arrested Charles Bates and William Harris.
After Edward Bates had his wounds dressed at the Cooper Hospital, he and the others were locked up for a hearing, and yesterday Mayor Pratt compelled the two Bateses and James Lafferty to pay fines and costs, while Harris was dismissed.
Dennis Corbitt tried to “do up” Policeman Mullane on Kaighn avenue, near Fourth street, yesterday afternoon. He succeeded in throwing Mullane down, and was about to escape when Policeman Harvey appeared. Corbitt tried to escape from both, but was subdued by blackjacks. His wounds were dressed at the Cooper Hospital. He is locked up at the City Hall for a hearing to-day.
Winter Sport
Camden Post-Telegram —
WINTER SPORT.
The Camden base ball grounds have been leased by a company of Camden gentlemen who will turn it into a skating park. It will be commenced about December 2d and they hope to have it open by Christmas. There will be music on Wednesday and Saturday nights. It will be lit up and a series of contests in the form of fancy skating, hurdle skating and fast skating will be held every week for which there will be a handsome prize given to the winner of each contest. They have also made arrangements for perfect order. Ex-Policeman Robert Miller of the Third ward will be the chief of a body of special officers who will preserve order. The ice will be formed from the bottom up until it is about two feet thick and there will be no danger of breaking in, regardless of the crowd.
Swinging the Official Ax
Philadelphia Inquirer —
SWINGING THE OFFICIAL AX
Camden Reformers Chop Off Heads of Policemen and Others
Eight policemen were discharged from the force by Camden’s City Council last night, and reform supporters named in their stead. The Republican employes of the Water Department must also make way for their reform successors, appointed at the same time.
The policemen discharged were: Lincoln James, Albert Stein, John Sinclair, William Selby, Caleb Williams, Abraham Jackson, Jacob Hicks and Frederick Laird. Their successors are: Isaac Lovett, Albert Keyser, Robert Miller, John Wagner, Isaac Brown, Thomas Moore, William Harrison and Albert Batten.
The appointments by Mayor Hatch of William L. Hurley as a member of the Commissioners of Appeal, and Charles Watson a member of the Board of Health, were confirmed.
Council voted unanimously for the ordinance to issue $85,000 thirty-year bonds to be used in building a high and manual training school.
When the ordinance providing a change in the terms of Water Department employes from two years to one year came up for second reading, Councilman Sayrs vigorously opposed it. His protests were ignored by the passage of the ordinance. An ordinance to appoint Water Department employes was then passed, and the following were named: Martin McNeil, resident engineer; John Wallace, Henry Taliafarro and Joseph Cline, engineers; Horace Huelings, George Riley and Owen Macey, foremen; Lee S. Mills, extra fireman; Albert Primrose, George Davis and Joseph Wagner, coal wheelers; Henry Schafer, engine wiper; Henry Hertline, foreman; Joseph Wilgus, caulker; John T. Rodan and James Melon, tappers, and John K. Esler, Jr., teamster.
In the report of the Finance Committee came the bill of City Clerk Kramer for $480 salary. Objection was made to the payment, and a tie vote decided against the bill.
In Police Dragnet
Philadelphia Inquirer —
IN POLICE DRAGNET
Successful Raid on an Alleged Pool Room in Camden
SEVEN MEN CAPTURED
Keefer, Who Says He Spent His Employers’ Money in the Place, Identifies the Prisoners
The Camden police yesterday raided the alleged poolroom at 25 South Third street, where Walter H. Keefer, former manager of the Merchantville Light and Power Company, claims he lost $254 belonging to his employers. Seven men were captured in the raid, including W. Harry Getty and Charles Metz, who were committed in default of $1500 bail each as principals. The others were James Boone, of Fourth and Benson streets; George Armstrong, Charles Loriaux, George Smith and Victor Thompson. Each furnished $300 bail except Thompson, who was unable to get surety up to a late hour.
The police for months past have been trying to get evidence against this alleged poolroom. The place was so closely guarded that the officers could not get direct evidence that the law was being violated. The details of the raid and the successful manner in which it was carried out were made known at the hearing before Recorder Nowrey last evening. The defendants were represented by Lawyer John J. Crandall. Mayor Hatch, City Counsel Bleakly and Councilman Silvers, of the Third ward, were interested spectators. Before the prisoners were brought in Deputy Sheriff Hartshorn appeared with Walter H. Keefer, who was brought over from the county jail to identify the proprietors and employes of the alleged poolroom. The prisoners scowled at Keefer as they were brought into the hearing room.
City Detective Hart was the first witness. He said he swore out the warrant for the raid from information obtained from Keefer.
Keefer, the star witness, was next called. He pointed out Metz as the man who operated the “ticker,” collected the bets and paid the winnings. Keefer said he had played the races there on Monday last and on several other occasions. He stated that W. Harry Getty guarded the door and scrutinized every one who applied for admission.
Police Captain Boyle testified that he made the raid, assisted by City Detective Hart and Officers Painter, Shaw, Robert Miller and George Anderson. When they knocked Getty opened the front door just enough to peer out at them. A chair prevented the door from being opened wide. The warrant was read, but Getty refused to admit them. They then broke the chair and forced an entrance. Rushing up stairs they found the door to the third-story back room barred. They forced the door and found themselves in what appeared to be a furnished bedroom. Wires ran through a rear window, but there was no telegraph instrument or other evidence of a poolroom.
The men in the room were placed under arrest and a search was instituted for evidence. They found a man hiding in a closet and took him into custody. A locked box was found on the mantelpiece in the front room. Mrs. Getty claimed that it contained her jewelry. The officers finally found a key that opened the lock. The “jewelry” consisted of the missing telegraph “ticker.” Several about the New Orleans races and betting were seized.
Policeman Shaw said that Loriaux told him the wires were cut and the “ticker” carried over into the front room while the police were coming up the stairs. Officers Painter and Anderson gave corroborative testimony.
Charles Loriaux swore that he had been in the place only eight minutes when the police swooped down on it. He admitted telling Officer Shaw that the “ticker” was hustled out of the room when they heard the police trying to get in.
George Armstrong admitted having been in the pool room before.
“What did you go there for?” asked Recorder Nowrey.
“Do you wish me to incriminate myself?” asked Armstrong, after hesitating some time.
The Recorder did not press the question.
James Boone, who said he had resided at Fourth and Benson streets for the past twelve years, claimed that he went to the alleged pool room to hear the result of a handicap race at Lexington. He admitted being there before to get similar news.
George Smith swore that he went there to hear the results of horse races. He admitted that he had bought pools there before.
For several terms of court there has been an indictment hanging over Getty’s head on a charge of conducting a pool room at Seventeenth and Federal streets with George W. Sterling, but for some reason it has never been moved. Chief of Police Foster stated last evening that one of the reasons for the dismissal of Police Captain H. Frank Pettitt was that Getty’s place on South Third street was in his district and he failed to suppress it or secure evidence on which a raid could be made.
That there is war to the death between the police and the policy dealers was shown yesterday by a bold retaliatory move of Washington Ketline, who brought suit for damages against Policemen Henry Miller and Isaac Brown. The officers furnished $1500 bail each. Ketline was arrested by the officers a few days ago on the charge of engaging in policy selling.
Ketline placed some pieces of paper in his mouth that the officers supposed were policy slips. Because he refused to open his mouth, Ketline says, the policemen used him roughly. Ketline has already served a sentence for policy writing.
Gilbert Now in Jail
Philadelphia Inquirer —
GILBERT NOW IN JAIL
County Detective Cherry, of Camden, at an early hour yesterday morning arrested Charles Gilbert, for whom he had been searching since Thursday afternoon. Gilbert was committed by Justice Finley without bail on a charge of uttering a forged check, which he passed on Saloonkeeper Flood at Second and Stevens streets.
Gilbert was arrested at his home, at 227 Benson street. He was seen entering the house about 1o’clock yesterday morning by Policemen Harry and Robert Miller and they at once notified Detective Cherry.
County Detectives Smith and Cherry have been running out several clues in connection with the bogus checks that have turned up in Camden during the past fortnight. They believe that they the work of an organized gang of swindlers and arrests may follow shortly.
Quo Warranto Proceedings Issued Against Their Successors
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Quo Warranto Proceedings Issued Against Their Successors.
Trenton, N. J., Oct. 4.—Counsel for Henry S. Scovel, of Camden, to-day began quo-warranto proceedings in the supreme court on behalf of eight Camden policemen recently ousted from their positions by the common council of that city to require their eight successors to show by what warrant and authority they hold their respective offices and exercise the duties thereof.
The ousted officers are Abram Jackson, John Lighthouse, Josiah Sage, John Sinclair, William Selby, Thomas Buchanan, Albert F. Meyers and Caleb Brown, and their respective successors, Thomas Moore, Fred. Triplet, Allen Hubbs, Albert Geaser, Robert Miller, William Harris, Harry Hope and Isaac Brown. The cases will come up before the November term.
Last Call on Mayor Pratt
Camden Daily Courier —
Last Call on Mayor Pratt.
Joseph Dougherty was found lying in the street by Policeman Robert Miller last night. Just as the policeman arrived some Italians were about to go through his clothes. This morning Dougherty said he had not been in Police Court since Mayor Pratt’s term. He was dismissed.
Police Court
Camden Post-Telegram —
Police Court.
Joseph Hennessy, Mary McCann and John Foster, (not the chief of police), were sentenced to ten days each by Acting Recorder Baldwin this morning for drunkenness.
Foster was arrested by Policeman Robert Miller and had in his possession a roll of new oil cloth which he said he bought in Philadelphia. The police believe the cloth was stolen.
Murder and Bloodshed in Camden Primary Elections
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Philadelphia Inquirer, July 29, 1902 — John Foster, F. Morse Archer, Joseph Nowrey, Eli Hunt, Harry Miller, Robert F. Miller, Albert Keaser, F. Neil Robinson, Edward Hartman, South 3rd Street, Beckett Street, Liberty Street, Locust Street
Murder and Riot in Camden Primary;
Trenton Evening Times —
Trenton Evening Times, July 29, 1902 — John Foster, F. Morse Archer, Harry Miller, Robert F. Miller, Walter Middleton, South 3rd Street, Beckett Street, Liberty Street
Held for Morrison’s Death
Philadelphia Inquirer —
HELD FOR MORRISON’S DEATH
James Bland, of Camden, in Serious Trouble Because of the Riot.
James Bland has been held responsible for the murder of John Morrison at the Camden primaries of Monday night by a coroner’s jury.
George Murray has been arrested as an accomplice and held under bail at the instance of Prosecutor Lloyd.
The death of Joseph Goddard, who was shot at “Dog Corner” near Merchantville, is momentarily expected.
Miller and Matlack Sentenced to Dismissal
Camden Daily Courier —
Camden Daily Courier, September 18, 1902 — Robert F. Miller, Albertson Matlack, Albert Keaser, John Corbett, George V. Murry, James S. Hanson, Samuel P. Jones, Theodore Leas, John S. Broome, Benjamin Lawton, Morris Odell, Joseph Nowrey
Police Committee Sustained; Matlack and Miller Discharged
Camden Post-Telegram —
POLICE COMMITTEE SUSTAINED; MATLACK AND MILLER DISCHARGED
City Council by a Big Majority Indorses Action to Maintain Discipline in the Police Department.
LIBERTY STREET WILL NOT BE CLOSED WHEN RAILROAD TRACKS ARE ELEVATED
City Council last night, in a most decisive manner, voted its approval of the action of the Police Committee in dismissing Policeman Robert Miller and Alderman B. Matlack of the Third ward from the police force.
Miller Gets a Certiorari
Camden Daily Courier —
MILLER GETS A CERTIORARI
Case of the Policeman Suspended from the Force to be Taken to the Supreme Court.
Lawyer Frederick A. Rex was to-day granted a writ of certiorari by Justice Garrison, carrying up the recent removal of Policeman Robert Miller from the force. Lawyer Rex claimed that Policeman Miller’s discharge by the Police Committee was unconstitutional, as it had merely recommended his dismissal and further that City Council had not complied with the provisions of the legislative act in the officer’s removal.
To Score a Political Point, Nowrey Upholds Police Brutality
Camden Post-Telegram —
TO SCORE A POLITICAL POINT, NOWREY UPHOLDS POLICE BRUTALITY
The Head of the Democratic Machine Has Adapted a New Line of Campaigning.
GIVES ONLY HALF THE FACTS IN HIS STREET SPEECHES
Mayor Nowrey has a new speech. He delivered it last night for the first time, and in conclusion appealed to the representative of the Post-Telegram to announce the decision of the Police Committee in dismissing the officers.
The Mayor spoke last night from a wagon on Sixth street between Market and Federal streets and had two audiences—one inside the County Jail and one outside. The inside listeners apparently paid the Mayor to the echo.
Much of the Mayor’s new speech is devoted to an arraignment of the Police Committee of City Council for failing to dismiss men he thought should be “fired” and for “firing” men he wanted kept on the force.
BOB MILLER’S CASE.
He referred to former Policeman Robert Miller as the most efficient police officer the city ever had, and defied the Post-Telegram to give the reason for the dismissal of Miller.
The Mayor did not tell his audience that the evidence warranted Policeman Miller’s discharge by the Police Committee, as any fair-minded man would admit after the testimony of the Police Committee, which was published in this paper.
His Honor is always careful not to give details, but presents his biased view only.
At the trial of Robert Miller it was shown that the accused officer was not a resident of the precinct in which he was intimidating voters, that he precipitated the row which ended in the riot and by his own admission brutally blackjacked George Murray while the latter lay in the gutter.
Not only did Miller make this admission as well, but he said he neglected to do his duty as an officer in not arresting Murray.
Further, look at the testimony of Alderman Matlack also a policeman and one of Miller’s bosom friends. Keaser on his own admission stopped Harry Miller in his savage blackjacking of Murray. The evidence thought the latter had been beaten enough.
SILENT ABOUT MATLACK.
Did the Mayor explain why, the abuse of the Republican Police Committee, he made no reference to Alderman B. A. L. Matlack, the East Side Democrat, who was also indicted on charges of assault? Matlack was in full view at the election board, called upon by the election board to do so, in order that the election might proceed, but used a blackjack on the men that were doing their duty and urged others to assault the officers.
The Police Committee, like any other committee, is bound by its decisions on the evidence presented; and the testimony at Miller’s trial was clearly insufficient to warrant any more severe punishment than was inflicted.
For the information of the Mayor and solely that his auditors may more intelligently understand the transaction of the Ellis case, the Post-Telegram stated that Reiser is the name of the saloonkeeper with whom Policeman Ellis had trouble. It was Jacob Seiser, a saloonkeeper, of 118 Kaighn avenue. Mr. Seiser is in residence in the Fifth ward.
Mayor Nowrey also discussed the school bond issue which, by his obstinacy in refusing to sign, has already cost the city $500. He spoke lightly of a visit to him made yesterday by Treasurer Miller and other city officials, when he was again asked to sign the school bonds.
He said he had again refused, but added that if the court, so directed, he would sign the bonds. In the meantime the Board of Education is badly hampered in its educational work.
Grand Jury Gets Through Its Work
Camden Post-Telegram —
Camden Post-Telegram, November 19, 1902 — Robert F. Miller, Albert Keaser, George V. Murry, Max Lowenstein, Thomas Curry, Randolph Coleman, Charles Wagner, Harry Miller, David Ellis, Peter Shimp, Jessie William, James Bland, John Morrissey, Charles Van Dyke Joline
New Policeman Named
Camden Post-Telegram —
NEW POLICEMAN NAMED.
Ex-Bartender William Stanton Succeeds Robert Miller.
Mayor Nowrey late yesterday afternoon appointed William Stanton, of the Third ward, a policeman to fill the vacancy caused by the dismissal of Robert Miller.
Stanton went on duty last night. The new blue coat is familiarly known as “Pud” and is an ex-bartender.
Primary Riots to Be Aired in Court
Philadelphia Inquirer —
PRIMARY RIOTS TO BE AIRED IN COURT
Ex-Policeman Robert Miller, Policeman Albert Keaser, Charles Wagner, of Camden, and Thomas Curry and Randolph Coleman, of Pensauken Township, will be placed on trial in the Camden Criminal Court to-morrow on charges of assault and battery, growing out of the Congressional primary election riots on July 28.
Robert Miller and Keaser are alleged to have beaten George Murray, colored, and Wagner is charged with stabbing Policeman Harry Miller. During these assaults, which are alleged to have occurred at Third and Beckett streets, John Morrison, a Philadelphian, was shot and instantly killed. No indictment has been found for this murder.
Curry and Coleman are charged with assaulting with intent to kill William H. Gurley at Dog corner. During this riot “Joe” Goddard was fatally shot.
“Wagner’s Trial for Stabbing Miller”
Camden Daily Courier —
WAGNER’S TRIAL FOR STABBING MILLER
Witnesses Say Policeman Keaser Held Fellow Officer When He Was Knifed.
CUT DURING THIRD WARD RIOT
The main court room was crowded with interested Third warders this morning, when the first of the criminal complaints growing out of the riots at Third and Beckett streets, on the night of July 28, last, during the Congressional primary, was taken up. It charged Charles Wagner with assault and battery on Policeman Harry Miller. Judge Joline was on the bench. Prosecutor Lloyd appeared for the State and the defendant was represented by Lawyers Fred A. and William F. Rex. Some little trouble was experienced in getting a jury.
After Prosecutor Lloyd outlined the case, Policeman Miller was called to the stand. He said that on the night in question just before the close of the polls, a fight ensued between ex-Policeman “Bob” Miller and John Morrisey, the man who was killed. A general racket followed and “Bob” Miller, Policeman Keaser and others were brutally assaulting George Murray with a blackjack, when witness went to Murray’s aid. Keaser, he said, turned on him and grappled.
MILLER STABBED.
“He had a hold of me and I of him,” said Miller, “and while we were standing in that position, this man Wagner came up in front of me, jabbed his knife in my stomach, turned it like that (giving his hand a twist) and pulled it out. Keaser still had a hold of me and I could not help myself. Wagner ran away after stabbing me.”
Miller said he was taken to Cooper Hospital and was there four weeks.
On cross-examination by Mr. Rex, Miller said he was positive that Wagner was his assailant and denied saying in the hospital the morning after the stabbing, that he did not know who cut him. He also denied hitting Keaser with his blackjack.
When questioned concerning Morrisey, the man who was killed, Miller said he only met him that day and did not know whether he was a voter or not.
DIDN’T WANT DETAILS.
Mr. Rex tried to get the witness to detail a talk he had with Morrisey, but Mr. Lloyd objected. Mr. Rex seemed so anxious to carry the point that Mr. Lloyd said he was willing to withdraw the objection, provided Mr. Rex would not object to detailed conversation responses to his questions. Mr. Rex promptly vetoed the proposition and withdrew his questions.
Harry Selby, son of former Policeman Selby, followed on the stand. He said he did not see the stabbing, but that a few moments before the polls closed he saw Wagner try to stab Miller at the window of the polling place. The two, it appears, had had some words.
Dr. Grimes, of the Cooper Hospital staff, said that he helped dress Miller’s wound and that it was a dangerous one.
SAW WAGNER KNIFE MILLER.
William Laws, colored, corroborated Miller’s testimony. He said he saw Policeman Keaser hold Policeman Miller while Wagner stabbed him. This happened he said about four minutes of 8 o’clock.
Policeman Edward Hartman told of seeing Wagner having an open knife in his hand, of seeing him jab at several people and that he grabbed at him.
“You saw all of that did you?” asked Mr. Rex.
“I certainly did,” replied the officer.
“Then why didn’t you as a policeman arrest him?”
“I tried to, but his brother interfered.”
Mr. Rex had no more questions to ask.
George Murray, also told of seeing defendant have a knife in his hand.
Detectives Smith and Cherry told of making an unsuccessful search in this city for Wagner and finally locating him at Hammonton. He was wounded.
Detective Cherry said that Wagner told him that he had been at Hammonton.
“Hammonton is in Camden county, isn’t it?” asked Mr. Rex.
“No, sir, Atlantic county.”
“My geography is twisted somewhat,” commented Mr. Rex.” With these witnesses the State rested.
WAGNER DENIES CHARGE.
Addressing the jury Mr. Rex said the defense would be an alibi. Wagner then took the stand. He said he lived at 668 South Second street and that on the night of July 28 he was at the polling place about quarter of eight o’clock.
“Did you have a penknife in your hands at all?”
“No, sir.”
“Did you cut Harry Miller?”
“No, sir.”
In answer to questions by Mr. Rex, Wagner said he was with Constable Bates and nearly everybody knew him at Waterford.
When questioned by Mr. Lloyd Wagner said he went to Waterford on July 30 — two days after the stabbing. He went to see his sick wife at Mr. Archer’s. His visit lasted until the middle of September, the time of his arrest. Previous to his wife’s illness he was away over a week. He said he had no knowledge that he was wanted for any crime until his later arrest. It was news to him in papers that he was charged with stabbing Miller. He said he had no knife.
He further said that no trouble had occurred at all while he was at the polls.
Charles Cahill, a clerk at the Reading terminal, said he was at the polls and about a quarter past seven o’clock he went up Beckett street in company with Wagner and another man. About fifty feet away, he said he went into an alley and Wagner proceeded up the street. When Cahill returned to the polling place just as the trouble began. He did not see Wagner.
Questioned by the Prosecutor Cahill said he was present as a challenger.
“For which party?” “For the party that was holding the election?”
“We wanted the best man,” snapped Cahill in reply.
DIDN’T HAVE ANY POLITICS.
The Prosecutor repeated the question several times only to receive evasive answers, such as “I was a Republican for that night,” and “I’m for the best man,” until Judge Joline was compelled to sharply reprimand the witness to answer the question. Even then the spectators laughed. Cahill said he had no politics, as he said he guessed he didn’t have any politics.
John McDonald testified to seeing Wagner and two other men pass up the street and despite the general excitement Mr. McDonald said he did not see Wagner until he got to Fourth street.
With the testimony of Butcher John Morrisey, who declared he did not see Wagner at all around the polls until after the trouble, was over court took a recess.
Policeman Albert Keaser was the first witness called after recess. He said he was present when the row started, that he took a blackjack from George Murray and also that he took a club from Policeman Harry Miller. The latter, he said, had hit him with the weapon. Witness said he was at the window of the polling place and at that time Miller was not cut.
“Did Mr. Archer, the Assistant Prosecutor, tell you that he had a talk with Miller and that Miller said he didn’t know who cut him?”
Mr. Lloyd objected to the question because it showed a willingness to allow it. Mr. Rex would let him call witness and then attack him.
Mr. Rex would not do so and the Prosecutor pressed his objection. It was sustained.
On cross examination Keaser denied agreeing to a man named Ogden that Wagner was the fellow who did Miller.
BEAT FELLOW POLICEMAN.
Policeman John Wagner, another of the defendants, said his brother went away before the fight started. In detailing the fracas Wagner voluntarily said he hit Hartman (the policeman) with his jack and that he also hit Policeman Hartman.
Policeman Pruitt also said he saw Wagner leave the polling place just before the disturbance. When Mr. Lloyd was cross examining the witness Mr. Rex objected to the form of a question and remarked that he had objected to that several times and “I suppose I’ll get the same ruling.”
Judge Joline rebuked Mr. Rex for making such a statement. Mr. Rex then made his objection but put it as an objection in regular form and it was sustained.
Anna Hutner, a sister of the defendant, said she saw him go away about quarter of 8 o’clock and that he did not have anything to do with the trouble. She explained her presence there by saying she had gone there to keep George Murray from shooting her brother.
William Ridgway said he was present during the trouble but did not see Wagner.
Constable “Bo” Bates said that Wagner was in his company nearly every day while he was visiting Waterford and that he made no attempt to escape.
SHIELDED WAGNER.
Prosecutor Lloyd’s only question was:
“You as an officer of this court knew that this man was charged with cutting Harry Miller and you did not report it to the authorities, is that right?”
“I forgot it sir.”
When asked why, by Mr. Rex, the witness said the authorities could find out him at any time.
The defense rested and Mr. Lloyd replied with a brief but vigorous rebuttal. He testified that Keaser told him that Wagner did cut Miller and related the incident. Mr. Lloyd again rebuked Mr. Rex for his manner.
Argument commenced at 2.45 o’clock.
“Another Case in Third Ward Riot”
Camden Daily Courier —
ANOTHER CASE IN THIRD WARD RIOT
Policeman Keaser and Ex-Policeman “Bob” Miller on Trial for Assault.
WAGNER JURY COULD NOT AGREE
In the Criminal Court this morning George V. Tucker, who was convicted of a charge of assault and battery, was sentenced by Judge Joline to pay a fine of $50 and costs and stand committed until the money is paid.
Henry J. Shuster pleaded guilty to a charge of embezzling $260.16 from King David Lodge, No. 155, of which he was treasurer. Shuster served three months in the County Jail last spring on a similar charge. At that time he said he used the money to care for his wife, who was ill. It appears that he did use part of the money for this purpose, but that he squandered a large sum in poker playing.
Rev. Q. C. Davis, pastor of the Emmanuel Baptist church, testified that since Shuster has been out of jail he has led a correct life, and at the present time has a good position.
Prosecutor Lloyd made an appeal for clemency.
Judge Joline announced that he was not ready to decide the case and it went over.
POLICEMEN ON TRIAL.
The indictment against Policeman Albert Keaser and ex-Policeman Robert Miller, on charges of assault and battery on George Murray, was then called. This is the second case to be tried as the outcome of the election riot at the Third Ward polling during the primary election last July. Considerable time was occupied in securing a jury.
At the afternoon session Assistant Prosecutor Archer outlined the case, in which he said the two defendants “lined with a polling system” and the alleged assault took place at the polling place at Third and Beckett streets, and during the row, Robert Miller, struck George Murray several times with a blackjack, and Keaser, it is alleged, assisted Miller in the assault.
The first witness called was George Murray, the alleged victim, who testified that while standing near the polling place with several other “Bob” Miller, without any provocation, beat him with a blackjack. He said that Policeman Keaser was present and came to Miller’s assistance. During the row, Policemen Hartman and Harry Miller came to his aid.
BEATEN WITH A BLACKJACK.
On cross-examination witness said he had no pistol or blackjack, but that three days before the election Miller had struck witness with a blackjack. He further said that he had been told at the Third Ward Republican Club, in the presence of John Rodan, that if a certain man would come along, he would kill him.
William Laws, who testified next, gave further and corroborative testimony as to the blackjacking. He said that Murray did nothing to provoke the assault.
Spencer Moore, also gave corroborating testimony.
Policeman Harry Miller testified to seeing “Bob” Miller beating Murray while Policeman Keaser stood at the side of Beckett street. The witness said that he was not allowed to see Policeman Keaser at the same time explaining.
What are you trying to do, kill this man.
The witness said he was thrown down, and was pushed over by Keaser, and Miller grappled with him. He heard three or four pistol shots.
The witness identified the blackjack, in the possession of Lawyer Rex, which he used on the night of the primaries.
Edward Roberts, formerly Assembly man Roberts, also gave corroborative testimony.
DEFENSE OPENS.
At the afternoon session of the court the defense opened. Counsel said that the defendants were officers of the law, force to put the riot into subjection.
Policeman Toy testified that he saw two opponents quarreling, that Robert Miller, was acting as a peacemaker. He saw Murray shoot off a revolver.
Policeman Cunningham was also at the riot and heard Murray say that he would get some one before the night was over. He found the gunshot off a revolver under a tree.
On cross-examination Miller admitted that he struck Murray while attempting to arrest him. He also testified that he had a conversation with Murray; that some person had attempted to stab him. He exhibited his clothing which was cut with a knife.
Policeman Shaw testified that on July 23, visited George Murray’s residence and found George Murray in his home, where he was under arrest by Detective Burke, who also found a revolver from the wife of Murray.
Mrs. Widener, who was a witness in the trial yesterday, is not the same piece of evidence in this case.
CHEESEMAN SENTENCED.
At the noon recess Judge Joline imposed sentence on O. U. Cheeseman, the former secretary of Thomas Jefferson Council, No. 155, Jr. O. U. A. M., who was convicted of a charge of false pretenses on Thursday last. Rev. Samuel Ellesworth, Rev. R. A. M. Mason, pastor of the Kaighn Avenue M. E. church, and Rev. Robert Wesley Johnson, pastor of the Second Presbyterian church, made appeals to the court for clemency in his case. Judge Joline sentenced Cheeseman to four months in the County Jail and a fine of $50 and costs.
After being out for seven hours without being able to agree on a verdict the jury in the case of Policeman Harry Miller tried yesterday on a charge of stabbing Policeman Harry Miller, at the time of the election riot last, were discharged at 10 o’clock last night.
Policemen Acquitted
Camden Daily Courier —
Camden Daily Courier, January 28, 1903 — George V. Murry, Albert Keaser, Charles Van Dyke Joline, Robert F. Miller, Harry G. Schuster, Odd Fellows
Acquitted of Election Rioting
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Acquitted of Election Rioting
The second case to be tried as the outcome of the murderous political riot at Third and Beckett streets, Camden, on July 28 last, came up before Judge Joline in the Criminal Court yesterday. Ex-Policeman Robert Miller and Policeman Albert Keaser were charged with assault and battery on George Murray, who alleged they beat him with a blackjack. The court room was crowded. Both defendants were acquitted.
Two Burglars Ran from House with Valuables
Camden Daily Courier —
TWO BURGLARS RAN FROM HOUSE WITH VALUABLES
George Zimmerman Came Down Stairs in Time to See Two Thieves at Work
RACED OUT THE BACK DOOR AND OVER FENCE
Shortly after 1 o’clock this morning George Zimmerman came down stairs at his home, 215 Penn street, just in time to see two men vault the back fence. With them vanished a pair of gold spectacles, some napkin rings on which was the name “Ethel,” $10, a silk raincoat and a French piece of money.
Mr. Zimmerman’s daughter, who did not retire until a half hour after midnight, said she thought she heard a noise in the house just as she was about to lock the front door. An investigation was then made, but no one was discovered in the house who did not have a right there.
At half-past 1 Mr. Zimmerman, who is a commission merchant and an early riser, came down stairs. As he reached the lower hallway he noticed a lamp burning brightly in the dining room. As he entered one door two men raced pell-mell out another. In a jiffy they went over the back fence and vanished.
The neighborhood was aroused by the excitement and Policeman Kappell and Special Officer Bob Miller were attracted to the vicinity.
“I told George,” said Mrs. Zimmerman, “that I saw a suspicious looking man go up our alley last night at 10 o’clock. He was tall, well built, had red hair and moustache. I didn’t like his looks.”
Kappell laughed and poking Miller in the ribs, remarked to Mrs. Zimmerman: “Isn’t this the man?”
“Oh, yes, sir,” she exclaimed. “That’s him. Have you my money?” she asked Miller.
Kappell then laughed again, and said: “You’re right, Mrs. Zimmerman, he went up the alley, but he’s a private watchman and they never have money.”
Burglar Hunt at Early Hour
Camden Post-Telegram —
BURGLAR HUNT AT EARLY HOUR
Policeman George Horner, the ever vigilant, shortly after 1 o’clock this morning, saw a suspicious looking character lurking around the vicinity of Fourth and Cooper streets. Policeman Horner saw him dodge into a yard at the old Hatch property, on Cooper street near Fourth. The officer was soon joined in the hunt by Policeman Lyons and Special officer Robert Miller and the three of them made a careful examination of all the premises from Fourth street to the Centenary M. E. church. They searched the side street, the yards and alleys in the vicinity, but the suspicious character had disappeared. After this they made an examination of three of the properties on Cooper street and found everything all right and nothing disturbed.
From the description furnished the same man was seen in the vicinity of Broadway and Carman street, shortly after 12 o’clock.
Robert Miller for Constable
Camden Daily Courier —
ROBERT MILLER FOR CONSTABLE
As a candidate for the office of constable in the First ward on the Republican ticket Robert F. Miller, of 315 Pearl street, has an elegant chance for the nomination. Mr. Miller is so well-known to the residents of that section that he needs no introduction.
Robert Miller Drops Dead as He Plays Pool
Camden Daily Courier —
ROBERT MILLER DROPS DEAD AS HE PLAYS POOL
Former City Policeman and First Ward Constable Dies Suddenly
SUCCUMBS FROM APOPLEXY AT SECOND AND ARCH STREETS
While playing pool in Goldenberg’s parlor, Second and Arch streets, this afternoon at 2.35 o’clock, Constable Robert F. Miller, a former policeman, of 315 Pearl street, was stricken with appoplexy and died before medical attention could be summoned.
He served several years on the force and was well liked in the Third ward in which he resided.
He was re-elected constable last election by a good majority in the First ward.
Coroner Saunders gave a certificate of death.
‘Bob’ Miller Dies in Sudden Attack
Camden Post-Telegram —
‘BOB’ MILLER DIES IN SUDDEN ATTACK
Former policeman Robert Miller dropped dead this afternoon in Goldenberg’s cigar store, No. 10 North Second street. Mr. Miller, who was nearly 60 years old, was elected constable at the last election.
Mr. Miller who has a family, lived at 315 Pearl street.
Coroner Saunders was summoned.