John S. Read Public School

The John S. Read Public School stood at the northeast corner of North 5th Street and York Street in North Camden. It was designed by prominent Camden architect Stephen Decatur Button and opened on March 5, 1888. The school was named for John S. Read (1822–1882), a successful wallpaper merchant who was one of the earliest to sell wallpaper on consignment in San Francisco. Read was a leading citizen of North Camden and a generous supporter of public education in the city. The school was still in use as late as the fall of 1981 and has since been razed.

The first officers of the newly organized Parent-Teacher Association of the John S. Read School were honored at a reception held at the school. The event marked the formal organization of the association and the installation of its newly elected officers. Among those who addressed the gathering were Dr. Leon N. Neulen, superintendent of schools, and other members of the school administration. The newly elected president presided over the program of entertainment provided by the pupils of the school.

A communication signed by R. Penrose brought to the attention of the Board of Education that the John S. Read School was still using outside plumbing facilities. The letter called upon the board to remedy the situation, noting that the use of outdoor plumbing at a public school was unsuitable, particularly during the winter months. The matter was referred to the appropriate committee for investigation and action.

The Camden Fire Department conducted annual fire prevention programs at the Read School. See also: Fire Prevention 1968.