Robert Whitley
ROBERT WHITLEY was born on in Ireland on October 26, 1876, the son of John Whitley. Little is known of his early life. According to the 1920 Census he came to the United States in 1884 and was naturalized as an American citizen in 1889.
On September 25, 1896 Robert Whitley married Anna Hennigen at Union Methodist Episcopal Church. The 1898 City Directory shows the Whitleys at 9 South 8th street, Robert Whitley then working as a finisher at the Keystone Leather works. The 1900 Census shows them at 826 Sycamore Street in Camden’s 7th Ward. There had been two children born, sadly, both had died. Robert Whitley was then working as a foreman. Robert Whitley’s marriage did not last, however, and the Whitleys had separated by 1907. The 1906 City Directory has him at 215 Stevens Street in Camden’s Third Ward, working as a hostler. He became involved in local politics as Republican.
The 1907 City Directory shows Robert Whitley living at 211 Channing Terrace, with a widow Anna Tallman Kilroy. Her husband, Charles Kilroy, had died in February of 1905. Charles Kilroy and Robert Whitley had both belonged to the Eyota Tribe of the Improved Order of Red Men. He was back to working as a leatherworker, probably once again at the Keystone Leather works, where it is known that he was employed in 1908. By 1908 Robert Whitley and Anna Kilroy had moved to 225 Stevens Street with her daughters Hannah J. and Mary A. Kilroy.
Not long after the 1908 City Directory was compiled, Robert Whitley was appointed to the Camden Fire Department and assigned to Engine Company 6.
The 1910 Federal Census shows him living with a widow, Anna M. Kilroy, at 225 Stevens Street. Also at home were her daughters, Hannah, 17, and Mary A., 15. In September of 1910 Robert Whitley sued for divorce from his first wife. Whether it was granted or not is not known as of this writing, but he eventually did marry Anna Kilroy.
Robert Whitley served as a driver with Engine Company 6 until July of 1913 when he was promoted to stoker and assigned to Engine Company 3, where he served until February 1, 1919 when he was transferred to Engine Company 5.
The 1915 New Jersey Census shows Robert and Anna Whitley living at 225 Stevens Street. Also at home was Mary A. Kilroy, aged 20, who worked as a cigar maker. The Whitleys were still at 225 Stevens Street when the 1917 City Directory was compiled. When Robert Whitley registered for the draft in September of 1918, the family had moved to 322 Mickle Street, a few doors away from the former home of poet Walt Whitman, who had lived at 330 Mickle Street.
The 1920 Census shows Robert and Anna Whitley living at 613 Clinton Street with their unmarried daughter, Mary A. Whitley, 25 and granddaughter, also named Mary A. Whitley, 6. A Camden firefighter to his last, Robert A. Whitley died at his home on Clinton Street on October 9, 1920 as a result of a duodenal ulcer. He was buried at Evergreen Cemetery.
Kilroy Death Notice
Camden Post-Telegram —
KILROY.—Died on February 24, 1905, Charles, husband of Anna M. Kilroy and son of Patrick and the late Fannie Kilroy, in his 33d year. The relatives and friends of the family, also Eyota Tribe, No. 105, Improved Order of Red Men, are invited to attend the funeral on Tuesday afternoon, at 1 o’clock, from his late residence, 95 North street, Camden. Remains may be viewed on Monday evening. Interment private at New Camden Cemetery.
Leather Workers Open With Victory
Camden Daily Courier —
LEATHER WORKERS OPEN WITH VICTORY
Before a crowd of over a thousand people the Keystone A. A. opened its season Saturday at Cannon’s ball park. It was a glorious day for base ball on the East Side. The Keystone had for their opponents the strong East Side Field Club, and it was a great game from start to finish.
It was a pitchers’ battle between Cliver and B. Carver, the latter having a shade the best of it, having eighteen strike-outs to his credit. Manager Whitley was joyful over the outcome. He is ready to book games with all uniformed teams in the city. Address Robert Whitley, care Keystone Leather Company.
The score: KEYSTONE A.A. totals 2 R, 7 H, 9 E; EAST SIDE F.C. totals 1 R, 3 H, 1 E; East Side F.C. 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 — 1; Keystone A.A. 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 x — 2
Whitley Divorce Notice
Camden Post-Telegram —
IN CHANCERY OF NEW JERSEY. To Anna Whitley: By virtue of an order of the Court of Chancery of New Jersey, made on the day of the date hereof, in a certain cause wherein Robert Whitley is petitioner, and you, Anna Whitley, are defendant, you are required to appear and plead, answer or demur to the petitioner’s petition on or before the twenty-eighth day of November, next, or in default thereof, such decree will be taken against you as the Chancellor shall think equitable and just. The object of said suit is to obtain a decree of divorce, dissolving the marriage between you and the said petitioner. JOHN H. SWITZER, Solicitor of Petitioner, No. 312 Market Street, Camden, N. J. Dated September 27th, A. D. 1910.
Fireman Is Promoted
Camden Daily Courier —
FIREMAN IS PROMOTED
The retiring of one of the city firemen has made way for the promotion of Robert Whitley, the popular driver at the Front and Linden streets house. Bob has been made a stoker, the promotion greatly pleasing Bob and all the boys at the house. He will be assigned by the Chief in a few days.
Dan Smith Takes Sam Lodge's Place
Camden Post-Telegram —
DAN SMITH TAKES SAM LODGE’S PLACE
After a service of twenty-seven years, Fireman Samuel Lodge, of No. 3 Engine Company, was retired last night by City Council on recommendation of the Fire Committee. The veteran fighter of the flames will go out of service on August 1.
Lodge has had many experiences in fighting the flames in the years he has been in harness, and ever since its organization he has been a member of the Centreville company. “Sam” has always been generally well liked, so that his passing into retirement has the well wishes of his host of friends, who hope he will have many years of pleasure and enjoyment. His letter of resignation also contained thanks to the Fire Committee and officials of the department for their kindnesses of the past.
Daniel Smith was appointed regular engineer to take Lodge’s place. This is a popular appointment for “Dan” is very favorably known among the younger element. He has been connected at No. 3 for nearly a decade.
Robert Whitley was made a regular stoker at No. 3, while Joseph Nevins was appointed an engineer to go from house to house to fill in on the “days off” of other engineers.
John H. Carroll was given the contract to furnish horses to the Department at $315 each.
Changes Among Firemen
Camden Daily Courier —
CHANGES AMONG FIREMEN.
Firemen at No. 3 Engine House were tendered a supper last night by Firemen George Wade, Jr., and Elmer Burkett, who have been assigned to duties at No. 7 and No. 1 houses. Frank Gondolf, who was recently appointed, took up his duties this morning, and Robert Whitley is stoker at the Broadway House.
Engine Company 3 at the Kaighn Avenue Ferry Fire — January 3, 1915
Engine Company 3 — Left to Right: Engineer Daniel Smith, Stoker Robert Whitley
Engine Company 3 — Far Right: Stoker Robert Whitley
Cases Treated at Cooper Hospital
Camden Post-Telegram —
CASES TREATED AT COOPER HOSPITAL
Cases treated at Cooper Hospital since late Saturday follow: […] Robert Whitley, aged 39 years, of 225 Stevens street; injury of right hand. […]
Third Ward Club Holds Fine Ball
Camden Post-Telegram —
Third Ward Club Holds Fine Ball
Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Way Lead the Grand March of Republican Club
Latest Dances on Program
Despite the stormy weather Turner Hall was crowded last night, when the Third Ward Republican Club held its first annual dress ball. The affair was a complete success and the grand march was one of the prettiest ever held in the Verein auditorium.
It was after 10 o’clock when the grand march took place. It was led by Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Way. The second couple were Councilman and Mrs. A. Benjamin Sparks. Following them were Councilman and Mrs. William H. Hall and Freeholder and Mrs. John T. Rodan. The marchers formed the figure “three” and the letter “W.” The march concluded with the couples sixteen to each file.
The hall was handsomely decorated in the national and municipal colors. There were thirty-one numbers to the program. Rushton’s orchestra furnished an excellent program. Among the numbers were the fox trot, one-step, caprice, two-step, hesitation, waltz, lancers and redowa.
The grand conductor was J. Edward Way and Councilman Sparks was assistant grand conductor. The members of the various committees to whose efforts the success of the ball was due were as follows:
Floor—Wm. H. Hall, Harry Hertline, Walter J. Stanton, John T. Rodan, Jesse Hillman, Lemuel J. Toy.
Door—Jesse Smith, chairman; Robert Whitley, Morris Steelman, Wm. Elberson, Samuel S. Bacon; officers, Albert Keaser, Harry Miller, Frank Smith.
Reception—John S. Roberts, chairman; William M. Fithian, W. J. A. Stanton, Julius R. Schaaf, George Cox, Edward Delacroix, Robert J. Garrison, Horace Hewlings, Frank Knitter, Sr., George Murray, Harry Selby, Harry C. Sharp, Robert Schroeder, James Vickers, Edwin D. Steen, William Horay, Clarence H. Thorn, Joseph H. Thorn, Joseph Croasdale, Wright Cox, Frank S. Fithian, George F. Hammond, Howard T. Harris, Frank Knitter, Jr., Albert J. Meyer, Harry Stowe, William Selby, Harry Vliet, H. P. Toy; printing and press committee, Wesley J. Stanton, Jesse Hillman.
Refreshments—Walter Madden, chairman; Moore B. Garrison, C. L. Wendell, William H. Dill, Charles Errickson, George Bowman, Edwin Fields, William Hartman, Ephraim Husted, Frank S. Ireton, Thomas Madden, Harry Pearce, Charles Smith, John Reid B. Borowakey, Charles Weaver, James Monohan, C. S. Woodward, George Madura, C. Allen Lloyd, Edward Livermore, William G. Finley, Henry Gercke, Benjamin C. Horan, Augustus Jans, Clarence Madden, James J. McDermott, George Schu, John McCarry, Edward Carey, James Millman, Thomas Dickinson, M. J. Riley, James Tivers.
The officers of the club are are [sic] as follows: President, A. B. Sparks; vice president, Wm. M. Fithian; second vice president, Elwin D. Steen; recording secretary, W. J. A. Stanton; financial secretary, John T. Rodan; treasurer, John S. Roberts; trustees, Julius R. Schaaf, Morris Steelman, Clarence R. Thorn.
Whitley Loses Overcoat
Camden Post-Telegram —
Foreman Robert Whitley, of No. 3 Engine Company, to-day lost his overcoat from the auto-tractor.
Whitley Confined to Home
Camden Post-Telegram —
Stoker Robert Whitley, of No. 3 Engine Company, Broadway and Ferry avenue, is confined to his home on Benson street, suffering with stomach trouble. The genial fire laddie’s condition is regarded as serious.
Firemen of Long Service Receive Good Promotion
Camden Daily Courier —
FIREMEN OF LONG SERVICE RECEIVE GOOD PROMOTION
Chief Stockton Became a Member of Department 31 Years Ago
CHIEF CARTER ENTERED FORCE AS DRIVER IN 1900
After a continuous service of merit for thirty-one years as a fireman, Fire Chief John A. Stockton last night tendered his resignation to take effect on October 1, and Deputy Chief Peter B. Carter was chosen last night by City Council as his successor. The resignation of the veteran fire fighter caused a general move up in the Fire Department.
Captain William Patterson, of Engine Company No. 4, was elected deputy fire chief. Captain Thomas Nichols, of Engine Company No. 3, was chosen battalion chief, a newly created position, bringing the battalion chiefs up to the number of three.
Through the promotions of the two captains Lieutenant Charles Cook and Lieutenant John H. Lennox were advanced to the rank of captain. Lieutenant Cook will likely be in charge of Engine Company No. 4, and Captain Lennox in command of Engine Company (Continued on Second Page.)
(Continued From First Page.)
No. 1 on the promotion of Chief Stockton in 1911 and he was promoted deputy chief July 1 last year when Deputy Chief Stockton succeeded late Chief Worthington. In the new chief the department has a capable leader.
Captain Patterson is a fireman of twenty years standing. During all that time he has been connected with Engine Company No. 4 at Fourth and Vine streets. He entered the service as a hoseman and ten years ago he was advanced to the rank of captain on the death of Captain Samuel Peoples.
Fifteen years of service are accredited to Captain Thomas Nichols, of Engine Company No. 1. He entered the service as a hoseman in 1900 at the Centerville fire house. When Captain William Deno was transferred to Engine Company No. 7, at the opening of that new house five years ago, Nichols was advanced to the rank of captain. He receives the rank of Battalion chief under the new order of things and will likely have charge of the Centerville companies.
Lieutenant Charles Cook entered the department in 1905 as a driver and was driver for Chief Samuel S. Elfreth and Chief Worthington. He was made lieutenant of Engine Company No. 1 a year ago and will likely be in charge of Engine Company No. 4 as captain.
Lieutenant Lennox has been in the service for ten years, entering as a hoseman with Engine Company No. 2 at headquarters. He was promoted lieutenant of Engine Company No. 3 five years ago and will likely be in charge as captain at the same engine house. “Chappie,” as the firemen all call him, is one of the most popular men in the department.
No. 3. Firemen Walter Mertz and William Cassen were promoted lieutenants and two new firemen appointed were John S. Hunt, of the Sixth ward, and George L. Cattell, of 427 Line street, Fourth ward. Hunt was a chauffeur for the Child’s Grocery Company and will make a competent driver. Robert Whitley was made an engineer.
Chief Stockton entered the service as a fire captain thirty-one years ago and he remained at Engine Company No. 1 until four years ago, when he was made deputy chief. On the death of Fire Chief Charles Worthington a year ago he was made chief of the department. During that time he has rendered capable and efficient service and had the good will of the entire fire fighting force.
Chief Carter became a member of the department March 1, 1900, as a driver of Chemical Company No. 1, Sixth street and Kaighn avenue. He was made captain of Truck Company No. 1 at Fire Headquarters, Fifth and Arch streets, in 1907. He was transferred to the captaincy of Engine Company No. 1 on the promotion of Chief Stockton in 1911 and he was promoted deputy chief July 1 last year when Deputy Chief Stockton succeeded late Chief Worthington. In the new chief the department has a capable leader.
Named: John Stockton, Peter B. Carter, William Patterson, and Thomas J. Nicholas.
Carter Chief as Stockton Retires
Camden Post-Telegram —
CARTER CHIEF AS STOCKTON RETIRES
Head of the Department Resigns After Continuous Service of 31 Years.
WILLIAM PATTERSON IS ELECTED DEPUTY
In recognition of the long and valiant service to the city as a fighter of flames, Fire Chief John Stockton was yesterday given September on full pay as a vacation prior to his retirement on a pension on October 1. He retires after nearly thirty-one years of continuous service in the department. He succeeded the late Chief Charles Worthington, who was killed at the fire on George street. Chief Stockton rose from the ranks and has always been very popular with the men.
Deputy Chief Peter B. Carter, of the Fifth ward, was selected to fill the vacancy. He has been a member of the department for about fifteen years and is an experienced fire fighter with up-to-date ideas that will [article continues]
Fire Chief Retired
Philadelphia Inquirer —
FIRE CHIEF RETIRED
Head of Department Placed on Pension, Deputy Elected
After thirty-one years of continuous service as a member of Camden’s Fire Department, during which he rose from the bottom to the top, Fire Chief John Stockton was yesterday retired at his request by City Council. Deputy Chief Peter B. Carter was elected to fill the vacancy, while William Patterson, who has been captain of No. 4 Engine Company, is made deputy chief. Captain Thomas Nichols, of No. 3 Engine Company, is made a battalion chief. Other appointments made were: Captains, William Cook and John Lennox, lieutenants, Walter Mertz and William Casson, engineer, Robert Whitley, machinist, T. G. Middleton, firemen, John Hunt and George Cattell.
Council also appointed Walter W. Johnson chief clerk of the Highway Department to succeed the late B. H. Shivers. Others appointed included Walter W. Lee, assistant, Clarence Baker, second assistant, and Walter Wolverton, third assistant. Albert Denise was made an engineer in the Water Department to succeed the late William Barr.
Whitley Returns to Duty
Camden Post-Telegram —
Seriously ill for several weeks, Engineer Robert Whitley, of No. 3 Engine Company, Broadway and Ferry avenue, returned to duty this morning. Bob’s many friends gave him the welcome hand.
No. 3 Fire Company Guests at Banquet
Camden Post-Telegram —
NO. 3 FIRE COMPANY GUESTS AT BANQUET
Superintendent William Miles, of MacAndrews & Forbes Company, the Host.
GIVEN IN APPRECIATION OF MEN’S EFFICIENCY
The members of No. 3 Engine Company were tendered a supper last night, prepared at their headquarters at Broadway and Emerald street, through the courtesy of Superintendent William L. Miles, of the MacAndrews & Forbes Manufacturing Company. The members of the company have long been favorites of Superintendent Miles, and at the time of the last fire at that place he told them he was going to show his appreciation of their work, by giving them a banquet. The date was set for last night and was one of the most enjoyable events of its kind ever given in South Camden. The table was set in the rathskellar of the fire house, and was decorated with flags and every man was also presented with a miniature flag.
The toastmaster of the evening was City Assessor F. Walter Toms, and the following were guests: Councilmen William Mills and William J. Kelly, County Freeholder Howard Marshall, County Committeeman Thomas Leeson, Dr. George Williams, Member of Board of Education Charles H. Mills, Battalion Chief Thomas Nicholas, Captain Frank Chambers, Lieutenant William J. Rose, Engineer Daniel Smith and Robert Whitley, William Miller, Russell Benson, Arthur Wingate, Roy De Haven, Jules Hubert, John Garrity, John Hunt and Harry Stone.
The menu, prepared by Chef Arthur Wingate, was:
Oyster Cocktail
Salted Peanuts — Cream Mints
Olives — Celery — Pickled Onions
Roast Turkey, a la Miles
Cranberry Sauce — Peas — Corn
Roast Sweet Potatoes
Mashed White Potatoes — Tomatoes
Bread and Butter
Coffee — Cigars.
After the banquet Toastmaster Toms made a very neat little speech and called on Superintendent Miles, who responded in a very energetic talk on streets and other municipal matters, especially the Fire Department, saying he had been in many cities, but he had never met the equal of the men composing Camden’s Department, either for personnel or efficiency.
Each of the other guests read interesting addresses, as well as members of the company, all being profuse in their thanks to Superintendent Miles for his splendid remembrance.
All complimented Chef Arthur Wingate for the manner in which he had prepared the feast and Lieutenant Rose for the decorations.
World War I Draft Card
Robert Whitley — World War I Draft Card
Gives Medal to Veteran Fireman
Camden Post-Telegram —
GIVES MEDAL TO VETERAN FIREMAN
One of the happiest men in Camden is Engineer John A. Dold, who to-day retired on a pension after twenty-five years of faithful service in the Camden Fire Department.
To-day the “boys” at No. 7 Engine Company, where Dold was stationed as engineer for several years, presented him with a handsome gold medal as a mark of their esteem and respect.
The medal is suitably inscribed with Mr. Dold’s name and his history in the department. On the reverse side is an engraved fire engine in action. The medal is a very fine example of the engraver’s art. He was also presented with a silk American flag.
Fireman William Peters presented the flag and medal. The affair was a great surprise to Dold. He spoke with feeling when he thanked the firemen.
As “Gus” took his departure from the fire house the alarm box sounded a farewell. He placed the flag on his shoulder and with the medal pinned on his chest he marched proudly out Kaighn avenue as the boys gave him a rousing send-off.
William Buzine succeeds Dold as engineer at No. 7 Engine Company. Robert Whitley succeeds Buzine at No. 5 Engine Company and Arthur Wingate will be travelling engineer.
Engineer Dodd Retires
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Engineer Dodd Retires
Formally retiring yesterday after twenty-five years of service in the Camden Fire Department, John A. Dodd, engineer of Engine Company No. 7, was presented with a gold medal by his comrades in the company. On one side of the medal is an inscription briefly setting forth his record and on the other side is a reproduction of a fire engine in action. William Buzine takes his place as engineer of No. 7. Robert Whitley goes to No. 5, in Buzine’s place, and Arthur Wingate takes the assignment of travelling engineer.
Camden Fireman Dies
Philadelphia Public Ledger —
Camden Fireman Dies
Robert Whitley, of 643 Clinton street, Camden, a firemen [sic] of No. 5 Engine House, died suddenly last night at his home. Coroner Bentley ascribed his death to stomach trouble.
Notice to Eagles
Camden Daily Courier —
NOTICE TO EAGLES
The members of Camden Aerie No. 65 F. O. E. will meet at their home, 415 Broadway, at 8 o’clock p. m., on Wednesday, October 13, to proceed in a body to 618 Clinton street, to view the remains of our late brother, Robert Whitley. ANTHONY J. OBEREN, V. President. Attest—John M. O’Brien, Secretary.
Whitley Obituary Notice
Camden Post-Telegram —
WHITLEY.—On Oct. 9, 1920, Robert, beloved husband of Annie M. Whitley, aged 44 years. The relatives and friends, also Bellmore Yearly Beneficial Association, Eyota Tribe, No. 105, Imp. O. R. M.; Camden Aerie No. 65, F. O. E.; Camden Fire Department, and Ninth Ward Republican Club are invited to attend the funeral services on Thursday, at 2 p. m., at his late residence, 613 Clinton st., Camden, N. J. Interment private at Evergreen Cemetery. Friends may call on Wednesday eve., 7 to 9 o’clock.
Firemen Pass Resolutions
Camden Post-Telegram —
Firemen Pass Resolutions
The local branch of the Firemen’s Mutual Beneficial Association yesterday adopted resolutions of regret on the death of Fireman Robert Whitley, who died at his home, on Clinton street, Saturday.
Whitley Funeral Notice
Camden Post-Telegram —
The funeral of Robert Whitley, for many years a member of the city Fire Department, will take place to-morrow afternoon from his late home, 613 Clinton street. An honorary escort of firemen will accompany the body to Evergreen Cemetery. Friends may call this evening at the Whitley residence to pay their last respects to “Bob’s” memory.
Notice to Eagles
Camden Post-Telegram —
NOTICE TO EAGLES
The members of Camden Aerie No. 65 F. O. E. will meet at their home, 415 Broadway, at 8 o’clock p. m., on Wednesday, October 13th, to proceed in a body to 613 Clinton street, and there to view the remains of our late Brother Robert Whitley. ANTHONY J. OBERST
Lodgemen Attend Whitley Funeral
Camden Post-Telegram —
LODGEMEN ATTEND WHITLEY FUNERAL
Eagles, Red Men and Ninth Ward Clubmen View Body and Go To Rites
The obsequies in memory of Fireman Robert Whitley at the family residence, 612 Clinton street, last evening and this afternoon were in the nature of a civic and fraternal funeral as well as private demonstration of mourning friends. Last evening the body was viewed by a concourse of friends, among them being brethren of Camden Aerie, Fraternal Order of Eagles; Eyota Tribe of Red Men, which societies performed the funeral rituals of their respective orders. Bellmore Beneficial Association and the Ninth Ward Republican Club also had representatives. Among the numerous floral offerings was a handsome Maltese cross, the tribute of the Fire Department. The Fire Department was represented at the funeral by a delegation of fifty members representing every engine company in the city, marshaled by Chief Peter Carter and Captain James White, of Engine Company No. 5, of which Robert Whitley was last associated. Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery.
Mrs. Whitley Expresses Thanks
Camden Post-Telegram —
Mrs. Whitley Expresses Thanks
Mrs. Robert Whitley, of 613 Clinton street, takes this means of expressing thanks to neighbors, firemen, lodges and other friends for their kindness in her bereavement in the death of her husband.
Whitley Memorial Notices
Camden Post-Telegram —
WHITLEY.—In loving memory of my dearest husband, Robert Whitley, who departed this life Oct. 9, 1920.
Dearest husband how I miss you.
How I miss your smiling face.
How I feel that I should see you
In that lonely, vacant place.
But I know that my dear Saviour
Who does all things for the best
Has taken you dearest husband
To His home for heavenly rest.
The blow was heard, the shock severe,
Only faith and trust in God gave me
comfort and relief,
Though He who giveth and He who
takes the only one He loveth best.
Then let me say thy will be done, God
grant eternal rest.
Loving Wife Annie Whitley. (9)
WHITLEY.—In memory of our father, Robert Whitley, who departed this life Oct. 9, 1920.
Only God knows how we loved him,
No one saw how sad our heart
Though there was no friend like father
Of our life he was a part.
We loved him, Oh, so dearly,
More than mortal tongue could tell
And the sweet blessed memories of him
In our hearts forever dwell.
Gone but not forgotten by his two daughters, Hannah and Mary. (9)