William H. Shearman
William H. Shearman
WILLIAM H. SHEARMAN was one of the original members of the Camden Fire Department, entering service on December 7, 1869 as the Assistant Marshall, a post similar in nature to that of Deputy Chief.
William Shearman was born in Pennsylvania around 1830. The 1850 census shows that he was living in Philadelphia with his wife Amanda at the home of a carpenter, Abraham Lower. It appears that Abram Lower was William Shearman’s father-in-law. Lower’s son Abram Lower Jr. was also living there at the time.
In April of 1861, war broke out between the northern and southern states. William H. Shearman answered his nation’s call to arms. He enlisted as a Private in Company H, Pennsylvania 19th Infantry Regiment on 18 May 1861.
The Nineteenth regiment originated in the National Guards, of Philadelphia, a uniformed regiment of the State militia. It was originally a single company, organized on the 11th of December, 1840, under Captain Thomas Tustin, succeeded in 1844 by Captain Stephen B. Kingston, and the latter in 1847 by Captain Peter Lyle. It was recruited for the Mexican war; but more troops volunteering than were needed, its services were not accepted. The company held a volunteer encampment of eight days’ duration in July, 1856, near the city of Lancaster, and again the year following at Bethlehem. NON SIBI, SED PATRLE, was adopted as its motto.
In 1858, it had so increased in numbers—having one hundred and twenty members as to be unwieldy on parade with other companies of only the minimum strength. It was accordingly divided and a battalion of four companies formed from it. Still maintaining a steady growth, on the 11th of December, 1860, a full regimental organization, with eight companies, was effected. Experiencing much inconvenience for the want of suitable Headquarters, the National Guards’ Hall was erected on Race street, Philadelphia, at an expense of one hundred and ten thousand dollars.
The Guards were in line at Harrisburg on the 22d of February, 1861, on the occasion of the reception of Abraham Lincoln, President elect, on his way to the National Capital. Upon the outbreak of the rebellion, the regiment was held in readiness, and on the 16th of April, 1861, its services were tendered to the Governor. On being accepted, recruiting immediately commenced, and on the 27th of April, with full ranks, it was mustered into the service of the United States, as the Nineteenth Pennsylvania volunteers, and the same field officers, who had commanded the Guards, were commissioned: Peter Lyle, Colonel D. W. C. Baxter, Lieutenant Colonel; J. W. Fritz, Major; H. A. B. Brown became Adjutant. Upon opening the books for recruits, men flocked to its standard, largely in excess of the number which the government would accept, and consequently many were rejected. So great was the desire to belong to this organization, that it was regarded as a personal favor to be accepted.
On the 10th of May, the regiment was ordered to Baltimore. Landing at Locust Point, it marched to the neighborhood of Fort McHenry, and encamped just outside the Fort, in Camp Pennsylvania. The thorough drill to which the National Guards from their first organization had been subjected, and the large experience of its officers, rendered the discipline of the recruited regiment easy, and it was soon brought to a high state of proficiency. There were few better drilled organizations, at this time, in the service.
The command of the Department of Annapolis, with Headquarters at Baltimore, had been given to General Cadwalader; but upon being assigned to the command of a division in General Patterson’s army, he was succeeded by General Banks. The latter soon discovered that unlawful combinations of men existed for the purpose of thwarting the operations of the government in its attempts to subdue armed rebellion, and that Marshal Kane, chief of police, was not only aware of their existence, but in contravention of his duty, and in violation of law, was both witness and protector to the transactions and parties engaged therein. It was rumored that these hostile organizations were soon to assume the offensive, and seize the Custom-House, Post-office, Telegraph, and a large amount of Coin in transit. Acting under instructions from his government, he determined to arrest the Marshal. This delicate and possibly difficult duty was assigned to the NINETEENTH regiment. Leaving two companies in camp, Colonel Lyle made the following disposition of the remainder of his force: selecting from each company five of the most judicious men and skillful marksmen, he placed them upon the sidewalks, with orders to keep abreast of their respective companies which were formed in platoons of ten in the street.
A little after midnight, the command moved quietly into the city, and in order to prevent any disturbance, and to cut off the possibility of an alarm being given, the troops were ordered to seize all persons found on the line of march, whether policeman or civilians, place them in the center of the column and compel them to march noiselessly along. Arriving at the residence of the Marshal, he was found and taken in custody, having had no suspicion of a purpose to capture him. He was taken to the Fort and placed in safe keeping, and the captives found upon the streets were dismissed. For several days succeeding this event, a portion of the regiment was on duty in the city, and upon its return, the regular routine of drill and camp life was resumed.
While stationed at Camp Pennsylvania the command received many favors from friends in Philadelphia, among others, a printing press and materials. In the ranks were not only printers and literary men, but skilled designers and engravers, and the publication of a camp newspaper, the NATIONAL GUARD, was commenced. It had an elaborately designed and neatly engraved head, with the words “NATIONAL GUARD” in scroll, with groups of flags displayed at either end, the regimental coat of arms with the motto NON SIBI, SED PATRLE entwined, the whole having been executed in camp. The first number was marked Volume II, Number 1, the first volume having been issued in the encampment at Lancaster in 1858. One number was profusely illustrated, delineating many ludicrous scenes in camp life, in which a pair of dilapidated army shoes and breeches came in for a share of ridicule.
General Banks was succeeded in the command of the Department by General Dix. As the expiration of the term of service of the three months, troops drew near, he was in danger of being left without a command. He accordingly made an earnest appeal to the several regiments to stay with him until their places could be filled by other troops. When he came to the camp of the Guards, they were massed in his front, and he urged his suit in a few well timed and eloquent remarks. It was a time to try the feelings of the officers. Anxious as they were, that their men should remain, they were still uncertain of the temper which would prevail. At the signal for a decision, there was not a dissenting voice, a result which excited the pride and satisfaction of every member of the regiment and elicited the compliments of the General. They were, however, detained only four days beyond their term of enlistment, and were mustered out at Philadelphia, on the 29th of August, 1861.
William H. Shearman soon went back to war. He was commissioned as a First Lieutenant in Company E, Pennsylvania 88th Infantry Regiment on October 22, 1861.
The Eighty-eighth Infantry Regiment, three companies of which were recruited in Berks county and the remainder in Philadelphia, was known as the Cameron Light Guards and was mustered into the U. S. service at Philadelphia in September, 1861 for a three years’ term. It was ordered to Washington on October 1, and assigned to guard duty at Alexandria, where it received its arms and equipment. On February 18, 1862, five companies were detailed for garrison duty in forts on the Potomac, and on April 17, the regiment, reunited, moved to Cloud’s mills, to guard the line of the Orange & Alexandria railroad from Bull Run to Fairfax Court House. May 7, the command was ordered to report to Gen. McDowell and assigned to Gen. Ricketts’ division.
Lieutenant Shearman resigned his commission on June 18, 1862, before his unit went into action. He returned to his wife and family. William Shearman and his brother-in-law Abraham Lower apparently moved to Camden in the 1860s, and became volunteer firemen. William Shearman’s daughter, Dollie Amanda Shearman, married William S. Davis in late 1869 or early 1870.
Despite opposition, on September 2, 1869 City Council enacted a municipal ordinance creating a paid fire department. It provided for the annual appointment of five Fire Commissioners, one Chief Marshal (Chief of Department) and two Assistant Marshals. The City was also divided into two fire districts. The boundary line ran east and west, starting at Bridge Avenue and following the tracks of the Camden and Amboy Railroad to the city limits. District 1 was south of this line and District 2 was north. The commissioners also appointed the firemen who were scheduled to work six 24 hour tours per week. William Abels, from the Weccacoe Hose Company No. 2 was appointed Chief Marshal with William W. Mines, from the Independence Fire Company No. 3 as Assistant Marshal for the 1st District, and William H. Shearman as the Assistant Marshal for the 2nd District. Abels had served with the volunteer fire departments of Philadelphia, Mobile, Alabama and Camden for sixteen years prior to his appointment as Chief of the paid force.
As stated above William Shearman was a charter member of the Camden Fire Department, entering service as Assistant Marshall on December 7, 1869. His brother-in-law, Abraham Lower, also was an original member, as an extra man with the Hook & Ladder Company, known today as Ladder Company 1. His son-in-law, William S. Davis, was appointed to the Fire Department in December of 1870.
William H. Shearman lived at 406 Pine Street when he joined the Fire Department. He was a stone cutter by trade. By the time the 1870 Census was compiled, William Shearman was living in Camden’s Middle Ward with his wife Amanda and daughters Caroline and Mary. Camden Fire Department records give his address in 1871 as 112 North 6th Street.
The 1878 City Directory has a listing for the Camden City Marble Works, Kripps & Shearman, proprietors, located at Arch and Federal Streets. Webster Kripps of 533 Arch Street was William Shearman’s partner in this business. The Directory shows “William Sherman, marble cutter,” at 2 Haddon Avenue.
The 1880 census lists William Shearman as “William H. Sherman” at 3 Haddon Avenue with a wife named Almira and no children. He may well have lost all of them to illness. William and Almira Sherman had wed in 1877. William H. Shearman was still working as a stone cutter. The Shearmans moved down the street to 33 Haddon Avenue prior to the compilation of the 1882–1883 City Directory.
The 1882–1883 and 1883–1884 City Directories show William Shearman had taken a post as Health Inspector for the City of Camden, and was also Commissioner of Highways. These positions had ended by the latter half of 1885, with a change in the political winds in Camden. William Shearman went into business as a contractor, and remained in that line of business the rest of his days.
The Shearmans were still at 33 Haddon Avenue by the time the 1900 Census was compiled. The census states that William H. Shearman was then in business as a paving contractor.
To his last day a resident of 33 Haddon Avenue, William H. Shearman passed away on April 28, 1904 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetery. He had long been a member of the Thomas M.K. Lee Post No. 5, Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) and he received Grand Army honors at his burial.
William H. Shearman’s widow Almira applied for and received a Civil War veteran’s widow’s pension in May of that year.
Krips & Shearman’s Marble Works
Camden Democrat —
KRIPS & SHEARMAN’S,
MARBLE WORKS.
MONUMENT AND HEAD STONES, MANTELS, SHELVES, AND BRACKETS.
Contract for all kind of Marble for Building purposes, on the most reasonable terms.
MONUMENT AND HEAD STONES,
Cleansed and re-lettered in Cemetery, and Lots enclosed.
YARDS AND WORKS,
Federal street near the Court House, Camden, N.J.
feb10 tf
Camden and Vicinity
Philadelphia Inquirer —
HOUSE OF CORRECTION.
The necessity for a House of Correction for Camden county has for many years past been so great that the grand jury for the October term of the courts, through their foreman, John S. Read, deemed it advisable to make the subjoined special presentment:—
Whereas, It has been made manifest to the grand inquest of Camden county that there is a defect in our present system of imprisoning persons convicted of petty offenses by causing their maintenance to fall upon the tax-payers without any adequate good being gained in the reformation of such persons; therefore, it is the recommendation of this grand inquest, in view of such reformation, and to lessen the present extraordinary expenses of the county, that a House of Correction be established, into which all persons convicted of such petty offenses shall be detained, under proper heads or departments, and compelled to labor during their term of imprisonment, the proceeds of such labor to be paid into the treasury of the county. We believe that, under proper management, such an institution would be conducive to the future benefit of such persons, as well as to the entire community.
THE COURTS.
In the Camden Quarter Sessions yesterday quite an important civil case came up, which will probably occupy two or three days. It is an action brought by the city of Camden against the bondmen of C. Sloan, who, some five years ago, was collector of taxes for North Ward. The defendants in this suit, Henry Fredericks, Caleb Roberts, and others, became sureties on Mr. Sloan’s bond, and, while the said Sloan was collector, there occurred a deficit in his accounts, making him debtor to the city in a sum reaching nearly $1000. The city holds that these gentlemen are bound to pay the deficit; but the defendants aver that at the time the defalcation was discovered they took the necessary steps to relieve them from any responsibility in the matter. The case elicits considerable interest, and is thought to be a test for others that may be commenced.
TOKEN OF ESTEEM.
Yesterday afternoon Robert S. Bender, the retiring chief marshal of the Camden Paid Fire Department, and William Shearman, assistant marshal, were made the recipients of handsome presents from E. J. Dodamead, J. Kellum, H. Grosscup, William Davis, A. Doughty and George Horner, the regular members. Mr. Bender received a large and elaborately arranged cake, and Mr. Shearman a fine frame, containing photographs of the above gentlemen, as expressions of esteem the men held for them while under their direction.
ROBBERY ON A VESSEL.
Some time during Monday night two colored men on board a vessel lying at Starr’s wharf, near Kaighn’s Point, were robbed, while asleep, of all their clothing, their watches and other articles. Two other men employed on the vessel, and who are now missing, are suspected.
RESIGNED.
Yesterday all the regular members of Engine No. 2, belonging to the Paid Fire Department, of Camden, resigned. Their places will be supplied by appointments from the Board of Fire Commissioners.
SLUNG SHOTS.
The police officers have been instructed to arrest all boys found shooting stones in the streets of Camden with slung shots, in consequence of the numerous windows broken by them. Several persons have also been quite severely hurt by them.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
WORKINGMEN’S MEETING.—Last evening a meeting of the workingmen of Camden city and county was held in the court house for the purpose of organizing a party irrespective of any other political organization. Mr. John Berry called the meeting to order and made an appropriate address. The court house was filled to its capacity with men who seemed determined to break loose from all other political affiliations. Mr. Martin Carney was elected president, and Abel J. Lewis secretary. Mr. Carney not being present, William H. Shearman was declared elected in his place. He desired the audience present to decide at this meeting themselves divorced from either of the other parties and strike out for themselves by nominating candidates of their own. Edward N. Dougherty was then chosen treasurer. The appointment of committees of arrangements was referred to the different wards and townships.
The following resolutions were read:
Whereas, The aim and object of this movement of the workingmen of the city and county of Camden is to form an independent party; and,
Whereas, The workingmen have been misrepresented in various ways by pronounced politicians; and
Whereas, The Republican and Democratic parties having failed in the past to secure this result, they have lost the confidence of the working people; and
Whereas, The prosperity of the working people includes all the people; therefore,
Resolved, That we form ourselves into a Workingmen’s Association of the city and county of Camden. That all officers be requested to withdraw their connection from any other political party before assuming official position in this association. That we hereby declare ourselves independent of all other political parties, and that we will not accept or entertain propositions from any political party looking towards a compromise with or indorsement of their candidates.
These resolutions were voted down, so that a committee of one from each ward and township could be appointed to draft a series and report them at the next meeting. Mr. George Wynkoop, of Gloucester, was then introduced and addressed the meeting at some length on the various questions which enter into the labor movement.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
DISORDERLY CONDUCT.—Mayor Ayers yesterday committed Richard and Ann Kelley, in default of payment of fines and costs, for drunken and disorderly conduct.
GROSS OUTRAGE.—Mattie Jacobs, a young lady residing at Kinkora, was assaulted by three ruffians on Sunday evening near her home, and brutally outraged, when her assailants fled. She was sometime afterward found in an insensible condition and taken to her residence, where she is still lying very low.
CHILD FOUND IN THE RIVER.—Last evening Coroner Roberts held an inquest on the body of a small male child which was found in the dock at one of the wharves of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, foot of Bridge avenue, wrapped in a sack of black chintz. The verdict of the jury was that the body had been thrown there by parties unknown.
EXAMINING COMMITTEE.—The State Committee appointed by Governor Bedle, under an act of the Legislature passed last winter, providing for the examination and registering of all persons employed in drug stores on and after January next, met at the West Jersey Hotel, in Camden, yesterday for the purpose of examining said clerks. There are thirty-five drug stores in Camden, each of which was represented. Yesterday’s proceedings were merely preliminary, the committee simply organizing and receiving the names of candidates for examination. To-day the commission will close their labors and adjourn. The committee is to meet in different cities each year, and continue in session two days.
THE NEW FERRY BOAT.—The new boat, “Columbia,” built at Wilmington for the West Jersey Ferry Company, was brought to Camden last evening. Its dimensions are as follows: Keel, 140 feet; beam, 30 feet; hold, 11½ feet; deck length, 152 feet; deck breadth, 54. The wheels are 17½ feet diameter, with a face surface of 7½ feet. The engine has a 30 inch cylinder, with 10 feet stroke; tubular boiler, 24 feet in length and 10 feet in diameter; there are 200 three inch tubes. The steamer is designed to be fire-proof, and it is thought will excel any ferry boat on the river. It is finished in a substantial manner, with all modern accommodations, and will be placed in service immediately.
SUPPOSED TO BE A RUNAWAY.—Chief of Police Daubmann, of Camden, yesterday received a letter from Messrs. Peirce & Bushnell, New Bedford, Mass., stating that a lad, thirteen years of age, giving his name as Charles Smith, was in their keeping. The boy said that his father’s name was Frank Smith, formerly an insurance agent in Camden, but that he died some three years ago on Haddon avenue, and his mother died on the 2[illegible]th of last July. The gentleman having the boy in charge believes he is a runaway. Diligent search failed to find an insurance agent of that name. In 1874 Frank Smith, a shoemaker, resided at No. 1121 Broadway, where he still resides. In 1876 Frank Smith, a laborer, resided at No. 915 Reese street, but no insurance agent of that name appears in the directories of those years. The presumption is that the boy does not belong in Camden, New Jersey.
WORKINGMEN’S MEETING.—Last evening the workingmen in Camden held an adjourned meeting in the county court house for the purpose of perfecting their organization. William H. Shearman, president, called the meeting to order. Mr. Wynkoop, of Gloucester city, was elected secretary.
The committee of five appointed for the purpose of preparing a platform reported a series of resolutions in favor of organizing a new party, as follows:
First. That we unite, without respect to former party or politics, to create a party known as the Protective Labor party.
Second. That none but workingmen pledged to the principles of the Protective Labor party be nominated for any office of honor, trust or profit.
Third. That we recognize in labor every creed, race and color, and invite them to join hands with us in placing honest men in all offices, both State and municipal.
Fourth. That we demand the repeal of all laws restricting the liberties of the people, and demand the greatest liberty compatible with good government.
Fifth. That we oppose monopoly in all its forms, and demand a law prohibiting the combination of capital for the purpose of monopolizing any business that individual capital is invested in.
Sixth. That we believe capital and labor to be co-equal, the one being the servant of the other; we therefore invite individual capital to establish places of industry, and pledge them all lawful rights and privileges and protection consistent with the interests of the people.
Seventh. We believe that great reductions could be made in the expenses of all offices, both State and municipal, and therefore recommend the reduction of all official salaries in proportion to that of manual labor.
Eighth. We recommend liberal appropriations for school purposes and State colleges for the education of all branches of art, science and literature.
Ninth. We demand a law against employing children under fourteen years of age in any places of industry.
Tenth. We demand equalization of taxes by taxing every individual and corporations pro rata, regulated by his or their income; also taxing real estate and all other taxable property, excepting only public property.
Eleventh. We believe in the right of all representation according to population, but oppose the division of any county, township or ward for political purposes.
Twelfth. We demand the payment of wages in lawful money, and any person paying, or attempting to pay, wages with any paper or metal other than that provided by law should be deemed guilty of misdemeanor, and punished by fine or imprisonment.
The above resolutions were unanimously adopted. Another resolution was also adopted providing for electing delegates to a county convention to nominate candidates for Assembly, to be voted for this fall, and at any future election. After transacting other routine business the meeting adjourned.
The Armstrong Murder
Philadelphia Inquirer —
THE CITY AND SUBURBS.
THE ARMSTRONG MURDER.
THE CASE BEFORE THE CAMDEN GRAND JURY—A TRUE BILL AGAINST HUNTER AND GRAHAME—EMMA BETHEL INDICTED FOR POISONING THE BISHOPS.
The May term of the Camden County Courts commenced yesterday morning at ten o’clock, with Judges Woodhull, Pancoast, Horner and Woolston on the bench. The following gentlemen were selected as the grand jury: John S. Read, Charles G. Zimmerman, William H. Powell, William H. Cole, John R. Johnston, Stephen Titus, Matthew Miller, William Shearman, B. Frank Sutton, James Tatem, Christopher J. Mines, Charles Sharp, William Sharp, Elwood Kemble, Charles Robinson, Joseph B. Tatem, John Gill, Jr., Amos Ebert, Lemuel Horner, William M. Godfrey, Thos. C. Knight and Samuel T. Murphy.
Judge Woodhull charged the jurymen at considerable length, touching on various points of interest to the citizens of the county, into which the jury were required to make proper inquiry. He traced the history of grand juries from a long period back as an indispensable accessory to the courts, but their action in modern times had become modified to a more humane appreciation of the rights and privileges of the accused. Formerly, bills were found on “probable cause,” but now the law and justice demand that before an indictment may be found the jurymen must perfectly satisfy themselves of the guilt of the party or parties complained of. The judge cautioned them against receiving anything as evidence that was not legal, and such as could be received by the court trying and adjudicating the case. They could hear but one side of the accusation, as all rebutting evidence was reserved for the trial before a traverse jury.
With respect to the murder cases on which they were to act, they were strongly enjoined that, before finding a bill of indictment, the jury must, in the first place, be fully satisfied that deceased came to his or her death by violence at the hands of the person or persons charged, and that, when so satisfied, it was their duty to return an indictment as murder, without fixing the grade. Selling liquors without license was alluded to, and the judge reminded the jury that if the evidence satisfied them that a person has sold without license they must return a true bill, not against the lowly and uninfluential only, but also those in high stations and positions commanding influence. They should observe no impartiality between the rich and the poor; violators of the law must all be punished alike.
At the close of the charge the grand jury retired to their room, and the first case sent before them was that of Benjamin Hunter, charged with the murder of John M. Armstrong. It was reported last evening that a true bill had been found against him; also against Grahame and Emma Bethel, the latter being charged with poisoning the Bishops, near Berlin. It is decided to begin Hunter’s trial on next Monday week. The balance of yesterday was passed by the court in hearing motions and transacting other preliminary business.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
DECORATION DAY.—Yesterday was a semi holiday in Camden in consequence of its being Decoration day. Nearly all public places of business were closed in the afternoon. The banks did not open their doors, and the steam boats and numerous dwellings were gaily decorated with flags. At two o’clock, according to the programme, a procession was formed at Fifth and Arch streets, which moved in the following order: Sixth Regiment Band, with Companies C and D of the regiment; members of Post No. 5; drum corps, also cadet corps of Post No. 5, in command of Captain George Hutchinson; T. M. K. Lee Post, G. A. R., under command of William H. Shearman. The chief marshals were Colonel Joseph C. Nicholls and aids, Joseph McCallister, William D. Middleton, Francis Saunders and Frederick Shill. Next came the floral car of Post No. 5, beautifully arranged and loaded with flowers. A large one, drawn by eight horses, contained the [?] of the Auxiliary Committee of Posts 5 and 37; the Juvenile Welsh Drum Corps of Post 37; the floral wagon of Post No. 37; then came wagons of the two posts containing soldiers’ orphans, wagons with cisterns of ice water for those in line, barouches containing city officials, &c., a piece of artillery and other vehicles. At 2:30 the procession started, and passed over the route already published. At the cemeteries about 175 graves were strewn with flowers and evergreens in the presence of a large concourse of people. This duty performed, the procession reformed and marched back to the Court House yard, where the closing ceremonies were had. “Cover them over with beautiful flowers” was sung by a number of excellent voices, with organ accompaniment. Rev. J. B. Graw delivered an impressive and appropriate address. Several other patriotic pieces were sung, and the services closed. An entertainment was afterward given by Post 5 in the Market House. The weather was fair, and the occasion passed without accident.
DIED FROM HIS INJURIES.—About twelve o’clock on yesterday Lewis Werts, aged twenty years, who had his leg crushed by a locomotive, at Fourth street and Bridge avenue, on Saturday afternoon week, died from the effects of his injuries, lockjaw having set in. He lost an arm six months ago by a rail road accident.
RUNAWAY HORSE.—Yesterday morning a horse became frightened on Federal, near Broadway, and dashed down the street with furious speed. A young man named Davis, at Third and Federal, sprang into the wagon, and, seizing the reins, succeeded in stopping the animal before any damage was sustained.
SERIOUS FALL.—A young lad, son of Abraham Anderson, who resides on Cooper street, near Camden while playing yesterday, accidentally fell from a fence, and broke his leg near the knee.
RAILROAD SMASH.—About four o’clock yesterday a train of cars struck a wagon at Seventh and Sycamore streets, demolishing the vehicle, but, fortunately, no one was injured.
COMMITTED.—Justice Cassady yesterday committed James McCulley, Lemuel Ridell and Charles Wilson, for being quarrelsome and disorderly.
Over the River
Philadelphia Inquirer —
On Tuesday night a child, apparently about three weeks old, was left on the doorsteps of the residence of Chief of Police Josiah Matlack, No. 935 South Fifth street, Camden. It was given in charge of Constable Streeper, who conveyed it to the almshouse.
What was thought to be a mysterious disappearance in the case of Sadie Hammell, thirteen years of age, who left the E. A. Stevens Grammar School on Tuesday morning, has since been explained. Her father, Horace Hammell, was sentenced in April last to ten years in the penitentiary. During the time he was in prison his daughter lived with her stepmother, his second wife. Two weeks ago he was pardoned, and went to live with some relatives at Mount Ephraim, not far from Camden. He wished to obtain possession of his child, so her aunt, the sister of his first wife, induced her to come with her to the house where her father is. She is there now with him.
A young lad, aged about twelve years, named Henry Bakeman, whose parents reside at No. 24 York street, Cooper’s Point, fell on the icy pavement, and was seriously injured on his head and one of his arms.
William Sheldon, brother of Mr. Sheldon, reporter of the Camden Post, died at his residence, Sixth and Vine streets, Cooper’s Point, on Tuesday night, from the effects of falling from a scaffold at Lenni, Pa., a few weeks ago. His injuries were such that he was taken to the Pennsylvania Hospital, where his leg was taken off, after which he began to fail until death ensued.
During the past week about twenty-six cases of diphtheria have been reported by Camden physicians to the city clerk, in compliance with the law; but it is believed that a large number of other cases have not been so reported. The inspector of the Board of Health, W. H. Shearman, intimates that he will institute proceedings against physicians who thus neglect making their proper returns.
Yesterday afternoon and evening the Camden District M. E. Convention was held in the Third Street M. E. Church, at which the usual business was disposed of. Rev. Dr. Graw, presiding elder of the district, presided. A missionary address was delivered by Rev. Charles H. Fowler, LL. D. To-day, at half-past nine in the morning, the convention will open with devotional exercises; at ten a paper on class and prayer meetings will be read by Rev. J. S. Gaskill; at a quarter past eleven another paper on the work of Sunday schools will be read by Rev. J. A. Dilks, A. M. In the afternoon the exercises will consist of devotion, continuation of Sunday schools, church finances and the relations of temperance to the church. In the evening Rev. J. E. Adams and others will address the convention at the Fifth Street Church, on missionary subjects.
The various churches which usually are decorated on the Christmas holidays, in Camden, are being trimmed and festooned with evergreens. Arrangements are also being made to give interesting ceremonies during the religious observances.
Camden Politics
Philadelphia Inquirer —
LATEST CHANGES ON THE POLITICAL CHECKERBOARD.
The Outlook for Tuesday Next—The Republicans Hopeful of Securing a Majority in the New Councils.
In addition to its own salaried officers—the clerk and messenger—the new City Council of Camden will have the election of a city surveyor to fill the position now occupied by John S. Shults; a city solicitor to succeed James E. Hays, Esq., the law partner of General George M. Robeson, who is the present incumbent; and a supervisor of highways in place of William H. Shearman. The prospective bestowal of this patronage lends more than usual energy to the party war at present waged in Camden, the result of which is to be determined at the polls next Tuesday, each contestant for these offices supporting his party’s candidates to the extent of his ability, in the hope of future remuneration.
An Attempted Outrage
Camden Daily Courier —
In the second precinct of the Third ward, a disgraceful scene took place which will “blast” the democratic party in that precinct for a long time. A job was put up by the great “unterrified” to steal the ballot box, and it was “winked” at by officers who ought to protect the law-abiding citizens. A “rough” was engaged, and just before the polls closed it leaked out that the box was to be stolen and thrown into the street. Richard Shannon, William Shearman, William Thomas, James M. Lane, ex-Sheriff Daubman, David Baird, Harry Miller and others prevented the outrage, and the man was thrown ignominiously into the street, and to the credit of the republican party, it must be said they positively refused to have a row or altercation with their opponents.
Chief Franks Dead
Camden Daily Telegram —
CHIEF FRANKS DEAD.
AN ILLNESS OF SEVERAL MONTHS BRINGS HIS LIFE TO AN END.
WHO WILL BE HIS SUCCESSOR?
Lieutenant Stehr Wants It—So Does Contractor Shearman and “Davy” Baird is Working for his Brother.
Rev. Waldo Messaros in Camden—Two Men Arrested For Drunkenness Give a Performance at the City Hall—One is Sent to Jail and the Other Discharged.
CHIEF OF POLICE FRANKS DEAD.
After an Illness of Several Months He Finally Succumbs.
Chief of Police Harry Houston Franks is dead. The deceased who is 50 years of age, had been ailing for several months and died about 2:30 o’clock Saturday morning, at his residence, Third and Royden streets. Mr. Franks who was an efficient officer was a candidate for the Mayoralty nomination in the Spring of 1885 and secured a number of delegates. Jesse Pratt had already been nominated by the Prohibitionists and was the young syndicate’s choice for nomination on the regular Republican ticket. In consequence of this a “deal” was made and when the Convention met Mr. Franks threw his delegates over to Pratt with the understanding that he was to be made Chief of Police in case of Pratt’s election. Unfortunately for the good government of the city, Pratt was elected and Chief of Police Franks, although not able to attend to his duties as he would have done if his health had permitted him—did all in his power to suppress violations of law which are of daily occurrence. The dead Chief is a brother of Detective Franks, of Philadelphia, and was born in the old Northern Liberties district of that city. He moved to this city in 1859 and immediately began to take a hand in politics. In 1878 he was elected Constable and has served in that capacity until his death. He was a fearless officer; paid the strictest of attention to his duties and had a host of friends. He also served as an officer for United States Commissioner and Justice of the Peace James M. Cassady and for the District and County Courts. He enlisted in the Twenty-fifth Regiment New Jersey Volunteers, in the late war. * * * * * * Subsequently he re-enlisted in the Twenty-fourth New Jersey Volunteers where he served until the close of the war. The dead Chief was a member of William B. Hatch Post, No. 37, G. A. R.; Camden Castle, No. 1, Knights of the Golden Eagle, Kearney Conclave of Heptasophs or Seven Wise Men, and was also a member of the Mysterious Brotherhood a social organization of this city.
During his illness Chief Franks often expressed the wish that a post mortem examination be made on his body after death. This was done yesterday by Dr. J. M. Ridge and County Physician Gross. The organs of the dead man were found to be in a comparatively healthy condition, although the heart was discovered to be much smaller in size than the average. The physicians examination proved beyond a doubt that death was due to cancerous ulceration of the oesophagus.
The Third Ward Republican Club, of which deceased was an active member, will meet this evening at Second and Bridge avenue for the purpose of appointing a committee to frame resolutions of condolence and to make arrangements to attend the funeral in a body. The city officials have also issued a call for a meeting with the same object in view. The funeral will take place on Thursday afternoon next at 1 o’clock.
Interment will be made in Evergreen Cemetery.
As yet he will not consider the question as to who will succeed the late Chief of Police for several days yet.
There are already three candidates for the position in the personages of Lieut. Louis H. Stehr Contractor, William Sherman and James Baird.
The patrolmen for the next thirty days will wear their badges in mourning.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Elizabeth Rodd, aged 55 years, of 505 South Fifth street, was found dead in bed yesterday. Coroner Lippincott gave a certificate of death from heart disease.
F. Meredith, of 137 Cooper avenue, Wood Lynne, was admitted to the Cooper Hospital yesterday with a crushed foot, the result of an iron plate falling on it.
Mayor Joseph E. Nowrey, of Camden, yesterday received an answer to his letter of thanks to Mayor John Weaver for the timely assistance of the Philadelphia firemen in the recent blaze at the Victor talking machine plant. Mayor Weaver, in the communication, says Philadelphia was only too glad to assist a sister city in distress.
Scores of persons yesterday attended the funeral of the late William H. Shearman, which took place from his home, 33 Haddon avenue. The services were conducted by Rev. Dr. Clarence A. Adams, of the Trinity Baptist Church. Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery.
As far as could be learned only ten carpenters went out on strike in Camden yesterday as a result of the recent demand of the union men for an increased wage scale. Otherwise the threatened strike among all the local carpenters did not materialize.
Death Notice
Philadelphia Inquirer —
SHEARMAN.—On April 28, 1904. WILLIAM H SHEARMAN, in his 74th year. Relatives and friends of the family, also T M K Lee Post No 5, G A R, are invited to attend the funeral, on Monday, May 2, at 2 P M, from his late residence, 33 Haddon avenue, Camden, N J. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery.
Civil War Pension Record
Civil War pension record for William H. Shearman (Invalid, 1898) and widow Almira H. Shearman (1904)
Pension filed 1898 (Invalid application no. 1205990, certificate no. 972327, State: NJ) for service in Company D, 88th Pennsylvania Infantry and Company H, 19th Pennsylvania Infantry. Following William Shearman’s death in 1904, widow Almira H. Shearman filed for a widow’s pension (application no. 805784, certificate no. 546069).
Camden Justly Proud of Splendid Fire Department
Philadelphia Inquirer —
HEADQUARTERS OF CAMDEN FIRE DEPARTMENT
Change From Volunteer to Paid “Laddies” Will Be Appropriately Celebrated Next Wednesday
It is probably unknown to the average citizen that Camden had a paid Fire Department some years before Philadelphia. It is just forty years since the gallant volunteer fire-fighters went out of service. To be exact, it was September 2, 1869, that Camden City Council provided to pay its firemen, and on December 10 of the same year they went into service. This event is to be fittingly celebrated next Wednesday in a demonstration in which the business men of the city, as well as the municipal departments, will participate.
It was not until March 15, 1810, that Camden boasted of even a volunteer fire company, and it was on that date that the Perseverance Fire Company was organized. In 1834 there were two such organizations which had been increased to six by 1851. For the most part these distinct aggregations of fire-fighters did not get along very well together and controversies were frequent.
SAMUEL S. ELFRETH
Chief of the Camden Fire Department
Companies Reorganized
City Council felt itself called upon to reorganize these companies in 1866 by ordinance, and some semblance of system was inaugurated by electing James Ayers marshal, followed by Wesley P. Murray. But while the companies did gallant service, it was thought best to have a department under the control of the city and that the firemen should receive some compensation for their services.
It was in consequence of this that Council on September 2, 1869, adopted the ordinance providing for the appointment of five fire commissioners, marshal and two assistants. The commissioners included Messrs. Harbert, Kirkbride, Perks, Bingham and Daubman. William Abels was appointed the first marshal, with William W. Mines as assistant in the First district at Fourth and Pine streets, and William H. Sherman, assistant in the Second district at Fifth and Arch streets.
Bender Made Chief
Abels was succeeded in 1871 by Robert Bender, who gave place to Henry Serault. In 1876 Bender was again placed in charge but was soon displaced by Claudius W. Bradshaw, afterwards Mayor of the city. Then Samuel S. Elfreth, the present chief, was placed in charge. He remained until 1881, when Daniel Carter was made chief. Three years later Elfreth was once more in charge. In 1887 Bender was given the office which he retained until 1890, when Chief Elfreth succeeded him and has since remained in that position.
As presently constituted, the department includes Chief Elfreth, First Assistant Samuel S. Buzine, Second Assistant George P. Cox and Third Assistant Walter Browning, beside captains, lieutenants, engineers and others to the total of one hundred efficient men who have repeatedly proved their value in saving valuable proptrty [sic].
Department Well Equippd [sic]
As to the aparatus [sic], there are six fire engines, six combination hose and chemical wagons, two hose carriages, one aerial hook and ladder, one chemical engine, beside other necessary vehicles, some of which are held in reserve.
There are thirty-nine horses distributed in the nine houses. The headquarters are located at Fifth and Arch streets, which is thoroughly modern in all of its equipments.
Under Chief Elfreth, who has been in the service nearly forty years, the department has been brought to such a high standard of efficiency that the Underwriters’ Association recently paid special attention to it by decreasing insurance rates fifteen per cent. Councils’ Fire Commissioners, of which Councilman Harry R. Read is chairman, has also done much to make the department the success it is at present.
Shaw—Shearman
Camden Daily Courier —
The name of Shaw is very familiar in the Fifth Ward. Away back in the 1870s, the father of pensioned policeman “Al” Shaw, and grandfather of District Detective Lew Shaw of today, was an old time night watchman.
Old “Bill” Shearman, who as a Civil War soldier marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea, died at his home in one of the houses that stand back from the streets at 35 Hadde[?] avenue, was one of the contractors who helped build City Hall and construct the Soldiers’ Monument across the way. In ‘76 he was residing at 535 Arch street, next door to his old partner, Webster Krips.
Board of Education Visiting Committees, Grand Army of the Republic, Military Companies and Camden Fire Department
Chew’s Camden City Directory — 1872
Colored, Third District—Messrs. McDowell, Moore, Fewsmith.
Liberty, Fourth District—Messrs. Kennedy, De La Cour, McDowell.
Centreville, Fifth District--Litzenburg, England, Ridge.
GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC.
GRAND ENCAMPMENT OF NEW JERSEY.
G. C., Richard H. Lee, Camden.
S. V. C., Samuel J. Hopkins, Morristown.
J. V. C., Ira W. Corey Trenton.
A. A. G., Joseph C. Lee, Camden.
A. Q. G., William M. Palmer, Camden.
A. S. G., G. W. Terriberry, M. D. Paterson,
Chaplain, R. W. Martin, Elizabeth.
Council of Administration, Jas F. Rusling, Trenton; Wm. Ward, Newark; Geo. M. Joy, Toms’ River; Chas. F. Hopkins, Boonton; R. B. Seymour, Jersey City.
Delegates to National Encampment, Wm. Ward, Newark; Jos. C. Nicholls, Camden.
Alternates, Wilson S. Smith, Elizabeth; Samuel Curtis, Manahawkin.
POST NO. 6.
P. C., John H. Austin, M. D.
S. V. C., Wm. T. Mead.
J. V. C., A. E. Lovell.
Surgeon, James A. Armstrong, M. D.
Officer of the Day, Benjamin Carlin.
Officer of the Guard, James V. Gibson.
Quartermaster, Edmund May.
Adjutant, Benjamin H. Connelly.
Chaplain, J. Louden.
Quartermaster Sargeant, Alexander Lynch.
Trustees, Thomas M. K. Lee, Jr., Joseph C Nicholls, Jos. B. Fox.
Delegates, Samuel M. Gaul, Edmund May, Wm. T. Mead.
FIELD OFFICERS, SIXTH REGIMENT NATIONAL GUARDS.
Colonel—James M. Scovel.
Lieut.-Colonel—William Hempsing.
Major—Richard H. Lee.
STAFF OFFICERS.
Acting Adjutant—Edward Furlong.
Quartermaster—William M. Palmer.
Paymaster—Richard Wilkins.
Surgeon—H. Genet Taylor.
Assistant Surgeon—J. B. Mulford.
Chaplain—Rev. W. H. Jeffreys.
MILITARY COMPANIES.
Company B, National Guards, New Jersey State Militia, meets at Armory, Front and Market; open every evening.
Company C, Sixth Regiment, New Jersey State Militia, meets at Armory, Front and Market street, on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
Company D, National Guards, New Jersey State Militia, meets at West and Clinton street.
Company E, National Guards, New Jersey State Militia, meets at Weccacoe Engine House; open every evening.
Battery B, National Guards, New Jersey State Militia, meets at Weccacoe Hose House, Benson street above Fifth.
CAMDEN FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The affairs of this Department are now controlled by a Board of Fire Commissioners, consisting of Thomas A. Wilson, President, John Read, Jehu Osler, Jonathan Kirkbride, Rudolphus Bingham.
Two second class Amoskeag Engines, two 2 wheel hose carts, one 4 wheel hose carriage and one hook and ladder truck constitutes the apparatus of the city.
No. 1 engine and hose cart is located at No. 409 Pine street, first fire district; No. 2, engine, cart and extra carriage and hook and ladder truck, located at Fifth and Plum street, in the second fire district. The apparatus and company in the first district is under the immediate charge of William J. Mines, Assistant Marshal; and those of the second district is under the immediate charge of William Shearman, Assistant Marshal, while the Chief Fire Marshal, Robert S. Bender, has a general supervisory care of the entire Department.
Members of the Department are as follows: engineer of No. 1, Reuben G. Turner; driver, George Libeck; stoker, Thomas McLaughlin. Extra men—No. 1, Benjamin Cavanaugh; No. 2, William Deiths; No. 3, George Hornuff; No. 4, Stephen Thomas; No. 5, Edward H. Mead; No. 6, Charles H. Hart; No. 7, George B. Hart; No. 8, Alexander Peacock; No. 9, Samuel S. Buzine; No. 10 William Cox.
Engineer of No. 2, William Osler; driver, Jacob W. Kellum; stoker, Henry Grosscup. Extra men—No. 11, Isaac Middleton; No. 12, Andrew Rabeau; No. 13 Edward Cline; No. 14, William Davis; No. 15, Joseph Neice; No. 16, J. Kelley Brown; No. 17, William Allcott; No. 18 Jacob App; No. 19, William H. Schwaab; No. 20, William Henry McKeen.
Tillerman of hook and ladder Company, Edward J. Dodamead; driver, ——. Extra men—No. 21 Charles M. Baldwin; No. 22, Edward Shaw; No. 23, Josiah Davis; No. 24, William C. Lee; No. 25, James M. Lane; No. 26, James Cassidy; No. 27, Edward T. James; No. 28, Thomas W. McCowan; No. 29, Charles Elfreth; No. 30, Theodore Verlander