Introduction
Camden, New Jersey
Front Street runs north and south, west of Second Street and parallel to the Delaware River, from Erie Street in North Camden as far south as Atlantic Avenue. It originally ran virtually uninterrupted, but in the very early 1970s a number of redevelopment projects took place.
Phil Cohen
900 Block of North Front Street
900 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1890s–2019.
952 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1894–1906 | Albert Ebener & Family (hotel & saloon) |
| 1894–1906 | Albert & Annie Ebener |
| 1894–1906 | Dorothy "Dora" Ebener |
| 1894–1906 | Edward Ebener |
| 1894–1906 | Horace Albert Ebener |
| 1906–1909 | Christian Gienger & Family (saloon) |
| 1906–1909 | Christian & Gertrude Geinger |
| 1906–1909 | Gertrude Gienger |
| 1906–1909 | Elwood Gienger |
| 1909–1947 | Eugene Widmann Sr. & Family (saloon) |
| 1909–1947 | Eugene & Jennie Widmann |
| 1909–1947 | Eugene Widmann Jr. |
| 1909–1947 | Walter Widmann |
| 1909–1947 | Camden Post-Telegram |
| 1949 | George Engel ('Engel's' / 'The Blood Pit') |
| 1949 | George Engel |
| 1950s | Erie Cafe |
| 1950s | Frontier Playhouse |
| 2003 | Gone |
950 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
944 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ | Source ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 | Penn Jersey Welding Co., Inc. (Joseph J. Fitzpatrick) | 1955 New Jersey Bell Telephone (Yellow Pages Ads); 1955 New Jersey Bell Telephone |
929 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1898, 1917–1918 | William Weber & Family |
| — | William & Louise Weber |
| — | Mary L. Weber |
| — | Edna Weber |
| — | Richard Weber |
| 1907 | John Humes |
927 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1900–1912, 1916 | William Weber & Family |
| — | William & Louise Weber |
| — | Mary L. Weber |
| — | Edna Weber |
| — | Richard Weber |
| 2019 | Gone |
925 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 2019 | Gone |
924 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 2019 | Gone |
923 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1913 | William Weber & Family |
| 1913 | William & Louise Weber |
| 1913 | Mary L. Weber |
| 1913 | Edna Weber |
| 1913 | Richard Weber |
922 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1920–1938 | William Weber & Family (Louise, Mary L., Edna, Richard; died January 11, 1931) |
| 1920–1938 | William & Louise Weber |
| 1920–1938 | Mary L. Weber |
| 1920–1938 | Edna Weber |
| 1920–1938 | Richard Weber |
| 1948 | John Bryson & Family |
| 1948 | John & Colette Bryson |
| 1967–1980 | Thomas J. Winston Jr. & Family |
| 1967–1980 | Thomas J. & Dorothy Johnson Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Walter Winston |
| 1967–1980 | James Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Thomas J. Winston III |
| 1967–1980 | Kevin Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Gregory Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Alvin Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Mark Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Patricia WInston |
| 1967–1980 | Dorothy Winston |
| 1967–1980 | Gloria Winston |
| 2019 | Gone |
921 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
920 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
919 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 1914 | William Weber & Family |
918 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
917 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | Vacant |
| 2017 | Gone |
916 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 1931 | William J. 'Shooey' Bonner & Family |
| 1931 | William J. & Mary L. Weber Bonner |
| 1931 | William J. Bonner Jr. |
| 1931 | James Bonner |
| 1931 | Catherine Bonner |
| 1931 | Elsie Bonner |
| 1968 | James McDevitt & Family |
| 1968 | James & Edith McDevitt |
914 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
915 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891–1915 | St. James Chapel (Arthur Truscott, William Severns) |
| 1917–1961 | Gospel Hall |
| 1963 | Mt. Zion Pentecostal Church |
| 1968–1970 | Atkins Temple Church of Love |
| 1972–1999 | Morning Star Pentecostal Church of the Apostolic Faith |
| 1999–2019 | La Hermosa Iglesia Pentecostal |
911 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 2019 | Gone |
909 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1909–1965 | Michael J. Hallahan Jr. & Family |
| 1909–1965 | Michael J. & Sarah T. Hallahan |
| 1909–1965 | Mary Hallahan (daughter) |
| 1909–1965 | William F. Farrell (nephew) |
| 1940s–1947 | Thomas W. Bowers & Family (Sarah Pellegrino Bowers) |
| 2019 | Gone |
| — | Peter Pellegrino & Family (Mary Hallahan, Sarah J. Pellegrino, Michael J. Hallahan) |
907 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1924–1931 | William J. 'Shooey' Bonner & Family |
| 1924–1931 | William J. & Mary L. Weber Bonner |
| 1924–1931 | William J. Bonner Jr. |
| 1924–1931 | James Bonner |
| 1924–1931 | Catherine Bonner |
| 1924–1931 | Elsie Bonner |
| 2019 | Gone |
905 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 1963 | Vacant, badly damaged by fire |
| 2019 | Gone |
903 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1884 | Charles Stellman |
| 1947 | No information available |
| 2019 | Gone |
901 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
952 North Front Street — Albert Ebener & Family, 1894–1906. Philadelphia Inquirer, February 20, 1906.
EBENER.—On Feb 18, 1906, ALBERT, husband of Anna T Ebener (nee Much), aged 71 years. Relatives and friends, Mozart Lodge, No 121, F and A M, Cyrene Commandery, No 7, K T; Siloam Chapter, No 19, R A M; Camden Turn Verein and Philadelphia Schuetzen Verein are invited to attend funeral on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock, from his residence, S E cor Front and Erie sts Camden, N J. Remains may be viewed on Thursday evening. Interment at Harleigh.
952 North Front Street — Christian Gienger & Family, 1906–1909. Philadelphia Inquirer, September 2, 1909.
The body of Christian Gienger, the Camden saloonkeeper, who was drowned on Tuesday night off Chester when his naphtha launch was run down by a boat on the Clyde Line, has not yet been recovered. Gienger was in business at Front and Erie streets and is survived by a wife and two children. He was 71 years of age.
SEVERAL SEEKING LICENSE TRANSFERS
Requests for the transfers of the following saloon licenses have been filed in the office of License Clerk John R. McCabe.
William A. Moore, 550 Federal street, to William Moebius, formerly of the City Hotel and Williamstown.
Gertrude Gienger, 952 North Front street, to Eugene Widmann.
As administrator of the estate of Alvena Brass Julius R. Schaaf applies for the transfer of the license of the deceased at 901 North Third street, to her son, Harry Rodenbach.
Andrew Travisco, of 302 Spruce street, to Antonio Abatt.
952 North Front Street — Engel’s bar, circa 1949. The bar was known as “Engel’s” and sometimes called “The Blood Pit.” All unknown except for James “Gabby” Knox, at far right.
944 North Front Street — Penn Jersey Welding Co., Inc. (Joseph J. Fitzpatrick), 1955. New Jersey Bell Telephone Yellow Pages, 1955.
PENN JERSEY WELDING CO. INC.
JOS. J. FITZPATRICK, PRES.
Certified Welders
Complete Machine Shop Service
SET UP FOR IMMEDIATE SERVICE ON BENT TUBE BOILERS
BOILER REPAIRS • HIGH PRESSURE BOILERS
WE SERVICE MARINE & INDUSTRIAL POWER PLANTS
RETUBING • PATCHWORK • RIVETING
944 N. Front St. Camden
WOodlawn - 3-7410
NITE CALLS: LIncoln 7-4011 - EMerson 5-5582 - WOodlawn 4-1063
(PHILA) NEbraska 4-0066
944 North Front Street — Penn Jersey Welding Co., additional 1955 ad
PENN JERSEY WELDING CO INC
JOSEPH J. FITZPATRICK Pres.
CERTIFIED WELDERS
COMPLETE MACHINE SHOP SERVICE
SERVICING MARINE & INDUSTRIAL POWER PLANTS
PORTABLE & SHOP EQUIPMENT
Nite Calls: LIncoln 7-4011
WOodlawn 4-1063 EMerson 5-5582
944 North Front Camden . . WOodlawn 3-7410
944 North Front Street — Penn Jersey Welding Co., Inc. matchbook, circa 1955.
Close Cover Before Striking
944 N. FRONT ST., CAMDEN, N. J.
PENN JERSEY WELDING CO., Inc.
CERTIFIED WELDERS - MARINE AND A.S.M.E. CODE
PHONES
CAMDEN 4-7410-11-12
Night Phones
SUPT. INDUSTRIAL - CAMDEN 4-5010
" MARINE - MOORESTOWN 9-0234-J-3
SHOP FOREMAN - EMERSON 5-1354-J
PHILA. REPRESENTATIVE - NEBRASKA 4-0066
Joseph J. Fitzpatrick, PRES. {HADDON HEIGHTS 2-4011
Universal Match Corp., Philadelphia
922 North Front Street — William Weber & Family (1920–1938). Camden Courier-Post, June 9, 1938.
MRS. LOUISA WEBER — Funeral services for Mrs. Louisa Weber, widow of William Weber, a resident of North Camden more than 30 years, will be held tomorrow. Requiem high mass will be sung at 9 a. m. in the Church of the Holy Name and burial will be private. Members of the family and friends will meet at the home, 922 North Front street, at 8 a. m. Mrs. Weber was a pioneer member of the Holy Name Church. She is survived by a son and daughter.
922 North Front Street — John Bryson & Family, 1948. Camden Courier-Post, September 2, 1948.
JOHN A. BRYSON
Services for John A. Bryson, of 922 North Front street, will be held tomorrow at 2 p. m. in Murray's funeral home, 408 Cooper street, where friends may call tonight. Burial will be in Arlington cemetery. He died Tuesday in Cooper hospital. Born in Philadelphia, he passed most of his life in Camden. He was a member of Camden lodge 111, LOOM. Surviving are his widow, Colette E.; a son, John J., Sharon Hill, and two grandchildren.
922 North Front Street — Thomas J. Winston Jr. & Family, 1967–1980. Camden Courier-Post, October 5, 1970.
WINSTON JR.
On Oct. 1, 1970. Thomas J., husband of Dorothy (nee Johnson) of 922 N. Front St., Camden, N.J. Age 51. Survived by seven sons Walter, James, Thomas III, Kevin, Gregory, Mark and Alvin, three daughters Patricia, Dorothy and Gloria, four sisters Mrs. Mary Mealy, Mrs. Julia Willis and Mrs. Adell Crawford all of Virginia, and Mrs. Carrie Jackson of New York City, 10 grandchildren. Relatives and friends of the family and the members of the Jehova Witness are invited to attend the funeral services on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 8 p.m. at the Mayo Funeral Home, 812 Kaighn Ave., Camden, where friends may call after 6 p.m. Interment Sunset Memorial Park, Pennsauken.
907 North Front Street — William J. “Shooey” Bonner & Family, 1924–1931.
915 North Front Street — La Hermosa Iglesia Pentecostal, 1999–2019.
909 North Front Street — Michael J. Hallahan Jr. & Family, 1909–1965.
909 North Front Street — Private William F. Farrell, World War I (nephew of Michael J. Hallahan Jr.).
909 North Front Street — Thomas W. Bowers & Family, 1940s–1947.
APPLICATION FOR HEADSTONE OR MARKER ORIGINAL
(PLEASE MAKE OUT AND RETURN IN DUPLICATE)
CHECK TYPE REQUIRED (See instructions attached)
UPRIGHT MARBLE HEADSTONE
[X] UPRIGHT GRANITE HEADSTONE
FLAT MARBLE MARKER
FLAT GRANITE MARKER
Enlistment dates: 1-21-44
Discharge dates: 8-20-46
Pension number: C# 6 117 565
Serial number: 906 43 33
Name: Thomas Wesley Bowers Rank: F/2C Company: — U.S. Regiment, State Organization, or Vessel: USNR
Date of Birth: 10 13 1920 Date of Death: 3 22 1947
Name of Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery Located in or near: Camden, N.J. If World War Veteran, Division: dna State: N.J.
EMBLEM: Catholic Christian
To be shipped to: Calvary Cemetery (Name of consignee), at Camden, N.J. (Give NAME OF TOWN, county, and State)
Whose post-office address is: Haddon Ave., Camden, N.J.
This application is for a headstone or marker for the UNMARKED grave of a veteran. The Government STONE will be furnished and shipped freight prepaid at Government expense to you direct, where "Delivery Service" by the railroad is in effect; otherwise to the nearest railroad station or steamboat landing above indicated. I hereby agree to accept promptly the headstone or marker at destination, remove it, and properly place it at decedent's grave at my expense.
Mrs Sarah Bowers (Applicant's Signature) Date 3-24-47
909 N. Front St. (Street Address) Camden N.J. (City, State)
DO NOT WRITE HERE: For verification JUL 25 1947 GREEN MOUNTAIN, VT. OCT 15 1947 B/L 3218691 Shipped 11/5/47
WAR DEPARTMENT O.Q.M.G. Form No. 623 Approved Aug. 12, 1913 Revised Sept. 2, 1944
903 North Front Street — Charles Stellman, 1884. Philadelphia Inquirer, October 6, 1884.
A slight fire occurred at a late hour Saturday night at No. 903 North Front street. The place is occupied by Charles Stellman as a shoe shop. The fire had made considerable headway before it was discovered, but was extinguished without calling out the department.
929 North Front Street — John Humes, 1907. Note: the Philadelphia Inquirer article of November 17, 1907 gives no address for Humes; it is placed here on the strength of the name and occupation (driver) matching the directory listing at 929 North Front Street.
John Humes Hurt in Runaway
Philadelphia Inquirer —
In a runaway that aroused the business section of the city, John Humes, a driver for J. R. Carson, a grocer, of Third and Birch streets, was thrown beneath the wagon, resulting in his shoulder being broken. The horse ran into a tree at Third and Market streets and was so badly injured that it was subsequently killed.
Drink-Sellers Arraigned
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Efforts to Stop Violations of the Sunday Law in Camden.
The Camden police are keeping up their efforts to suppress Sunday liquor selling. The following saloon keepers appeared before Mayor Westcott, of Camden, yesterday, and pleaded not guilty: F. A. Shuster, of Front street and Kaighn avenue; Tim. Clayton, of Third and Mechanic streets; James Croker, of Fourth and Jasper streets; F. Joseph Rouk, of Eighth street and Ferry avenue; John Murschell, of Broadway and Jefferson street, and Gottlieb Jung, of Ferry avenue and Jackson street.
Warrants have also been issued for Adam T. Davis, Jr., of Second street and Kaighn avenue, and Mary [?]ang, of Fillmore and Jackson streets, on similar charges. Davis is seriously ill and was unable to be present yesterday.
Chief of Police Dodd is the complainant in all the cases. The saloon keepers will be given a hearing next Friday.
Along Memory Lane
Camden Courier-Post —
By Ben Courter
Camden cops who once wheeled dead drunks, sometimes howling drunks, a mile or so through the streets to City Hall are becoming few and far between. There are few who remain, either active or retired, who fought roughneck gangs single handed, who never deigned to send in a riot call. Encounters with a terror like old Mike Kelly, who could wallop half a dozen ordinary men when filled with “red eye” are but legends of the department.
All this and much more is recalled in the death of William Harvey in his 83rd year, a typical “English heart o’ oak” in the good old days when a man was simply compelled to show his mettle to remain alive and kicking and a policeman down at old Kaighn Point. Certainly in the late ‘80s and for a quarter a century later Kaighn Point would have been altogether lost without this doughty arm of the law. He was part and parcel of it as were the veteran shad fishermen, the oystermen from off the pungies, the hard boys from the fishing and ice boats who could whip their weight in wildcats and yell for more, such as “Big Bill” Zaiser, “Tar Heel” Henry, the Bearn boys and others, most of whom have gone the way of all flesh.
Harvey, who lived for many years at 1010 South Second street, was in the heydey [sic] of his strength when he was appointed a policeman by Mayor Pratt on August 26, 1886. He was out a few months in the hectic days of ‘93–’94 when the Democratic police commission was in power, but with the ousting of that outfit Harvey returned on March 31, 1894, and remained until retirement on March 1, 1912.
It was during that early period that he used to scare us kids when he chased us home after dark. The youngsters of that generation were wont to yell “Billy Grab All,” and then beat it in more or less terror. It was not until later they learned his value in preserving order in a mighty scrappy area.
There was an organization known as the Avenue Club with headquarters below Front street which played high jinks on Sundays in particular, regarded as an abomination by the church goers. Harvey was detailed to break it up. Well we recall one Sunday afternoon in the then provincial town when Harvey made a raid, a single handed raid. We forget the exact number, but as we recall it 21 of the “avenooers” were marched two by two with the valiant “Bill” at the head all the way to City Hall, a good mile and a half away. And the one-man raid was effective.
It was in the fierce election fight incident to the old race track days in ‘94 as a small kid we see in memory’s eye “Old Bill” Harvey badly beaten in front of a polling place on Mt. Vernon street. Democratic enemies blackjacked him, kicked and cuffed him, used him for a football. Even then he refused to take the count, but a Democratic cop “necked him” and took him to the hall. We were frightened stiff when we saw his battered, blood-stained face. No mercy in those hard days, for Harvey was jailed and excoriated as a “rioter”!
But he had his comeback not long after and the rough boys were nearly shoved off the face of the map when the “organization” returned in force with J. Leighton Wescott as mayor. When the patrol wagons did away with pushcarts, when the call system was inaugurated, when the force was increased, conditions eased up. In his later years Harvey delighted in “flivvering” about, spent many a happy hour with the old timers in fire or patrol houses, frequently recalled the glorious days when it was just as easy to find a real scrap as it was to eat a hearty meal.
In his early days Harvey had followed the sea and it seemed to me he never lost the roll of the deck. Certainly he never lost that indomitable spirit born of the freedom of the wave, never called quits in a tight corner, never raised the white flag. “Old Bill” sure was the epitome of all that meant a real cop when it was a survival of the fittest.
Stool Pigeons Ordered Brought Into Court
Camden Courier-Post —
Three women defendants in illicit liquor cases were given a four-day respite when arraigned in police court yesterday.
Judge Garfield Pancoast ruled that police raided the three places at which the women were arrested must produce in court the stool pigeons who made the “buys,” and continued the cases until Tuesday, August 14.
The defendants were Mrs. Lillie Ball, 1040 Segal street; Mrs. Louise Weber, 922 North Front street, and Mrs. Sarah Dowling, 7 Wood street. All were arrested after raids yesterday afternoon by Police Lieutenant Herbert Anderson, and all pleaded not guilty in court.
Funeral Is Held for Bonner At Home as Cops Stand Guard
Camden Courier-Post —
Slain Racketeer Buried in New Camden Cemetery After Brief Service—No Mass Said at Church
William “Shooey” Bonner, murdered North Camden racketeer, was buried today after simple funeral rites were held at his home, 916 North Front street.
While about 400 morbidly curious persons crowded in front of the small dwelling, Carroll P. Stanton, funeral director, read services over the bier at 11 a. m. Bonner’s widow and five children, and about 50 friends and relatives of the family, attended the services. Interment was in New Camden Cemetery.
An hour before the services, a Courier-Post reporter and a photographer were informed that Bonner’s friends did not want any photos taken of the funeral. They issued a warning that if pictures were taken, they would break the camera and beat the two newspapermen. The police were asked to prevent the taking of a picture.
Although four detectives and five patrolmen had been stationed at and near the house this morning, Sergeant Walter Rowand, of the First Police District, asked headquarters for more men. Five motorcycle cops under Sergeant James Wilson arrived in response to the call. A Pennsylvania car repeatedly circled the block in which the Bonner home is situated, and once parked directly in front of the newspapermen’s car. However, the pictures were taken without event.
Cops Escort Cortege
Two motorcycle policemen led the funeral cortege to the cemetery at 11.15 a. m. Another motorcycle cop and a bandit-chaser brought up the van. Mrs. Bonner was pale but composed as the cortege left the house, but she broke down and cried at the grave.
Rev. Father Thomas J. Whelan, rector of the Holy Name Roman Catholic Church, Fifth and Vine streets, today emphatically stated that no mass was said for Bonner in his church. Father Whelan said no arrangements ever had been made for any mass. In today’s Morning Post it was stated that mass was to be said in Holy Name church, while the burial was taking place. This was printed on information given a Post reporter by a woman at the door of the Bonner home last night. The Courier hereby makes the correction in fairness to Father Whelan and the Holy Name church.
2000 Visit Home
More than 2000 persons visited the Bonner home last night to pay last respects to the slain racketeer and to offer their condolences to his family. At midnight the last of the crowd departed.
Two patrolmen, however, remained on guard at the front of the house, in the faint hope that some person wanted by police in connection with “Shooey’s” death might seek to enter.
But known figures of the underworld were scarce at the Bonner home last night. Aside from a few neighbors and relatives the greater portion of the crowd had never seen in life the man that was Bonner.
Thoroughness Shown
Mute evidence of the thoroughness of the killers who murdered “Shooey” near his home, late Sunday, could be seen as the body lay in its flower-banked casket. Bonner’s closest personal friends expressed the thought that “they would never have known it was ‘Shooey’ lying there” if they hadn’t known what had happened.
Efforts of undertakers to cover the scars of more than 20 machine-gun slugs were successful, but in “making over” the face they left not the slightest resemblance of Bonner’s real countenance.
Those who called to pay respects—or to satisfy curiosity—were greeted at the foot of the bier by James “Jimmy” Rodgers, former pugilist, and William Pernier, both of whom are under bail as material witnesses in the slaying. The two kept the long line constantly moving. They were among the pallbearers today.
‘Sin Sermon’ Opposite
As a strange coincidence of the sombre scene at the Bonner home, special services were held in Gospel Hall, directly across the street, where Herbert Genz, a missionary worker, had as his text the sixth chapter, twenty-third verse, the book of Romans: “The Wages of Sin is Death.”
A large electrified sign bearing that scripture was displayed on the front of the hall.
Acting Sergeant of Detectives John Opfer and Sergeant Albert York were in charge of the police details at the home last night.
At Final Rites for Slain Racketeer
Camden Courier-Post —
—Courier-Post Photo
Part of the 400 persons who crowded into the house and lined the sidewalks and street near it are shown in the above photo, taken this morning after funeral services were held for William “Shooey” Bonner, who was killed by gangsters’ bullets Sunday night. Services were held in Bonner’s home, 916 North Front street. Photo shows casket being placed in hearse which bore the remains to New Camden Cemetery.
Arsonists Burn Church, 2 Houses In North Camden
Camden Courier-Post —
Arsonists Burn Church, 2 Houses In North Camden
Police and fire officials today are sifting through the remains of a church and two unoccupied houses which burned last night in North Camden. The fires are attributed to arsonists.
Badly damaged by fire are the Mount Zion Pentecostal Church, 915 N. Front st., and vacant houses at 1133 Lawrence st. and 905 N. Front st., according to Fire District Chief Saponare.
Fire Insp. John Gaffney, who is conducting the investigation, said the fires were “definitely set” and that all three followed the same pattern.
“We’ve got one slim lead and are definitely certain that they are the work of arsonists,” Gaffney said.
Saponare asked city detectives and Gaffney to investigate the blaze that destroyed the interior, parts of the exterior and contents of the church.
Prior to the 11:30 p. m. church fire, others were reported in the vacant houses at 5:45 and at 10:20 p. m.
Saponare said firemen found trash burning on the second floor at the Lawrence st. fire and at the 905 N. Front st. fire, the rear shed was nearly completely destroyed. Investigation showed that the church fire started in the rest room and it is believed that it had been burning for some time before being discovered.
915 North Front Street — Mt. Zion Pentecostal Church, 1963. Camden Courier-Post, August 17, 1963.
Badly damaged by fire are the Mount Zion Pentecostal Church, 915 N. Front st., and 905 N. Front st. The fire which started about 3 a.m. was caused by arsonists, Fire Marshal Kenneth Gormley said. Anthony C. Saponare — John Gaffney Sr. — Lawrence Street
Laying a Corner-Stone
Camden Daily Courier —
Work to be Commenced on St. James’ P. E. Chapel Next Friday.
The corner-stone of the new building for St. James’ Chapel, at the corner of Front and North streets, will be laid by Rev. Dr. Tidball, rector of St. Paul’s Church, on Friday afternoon, at 4.30 o’clock, with appropriate services. The building will be of brick, Gothic style, with high pitch slate roof, the interior showing an open roof. The plans furnished by Arthur Truscott, the architect, provide for a neat chapel, with chancel, robing-room and vestibule, windows of cathedral glass. The auditorium, with the addition of two Sunday school rooms in the rear which may be thrown into the chapel, will give a seating capacity for 150 persons, and is capable of further extension so as to hold 300 more. The neighborhood is rapidly improving with many new buildings, and has no other church in close proximity. It is expected the building will be completed and ready for occupancy by Christmas. William Beverns is the builder.
915 North Front Street — St. James Chapel, 1891–1915. Camden Daily Courier, October 21, 1891.
The corner-stone of the new building for St. James’ Chapel, at the corner of Front and North streets, will be laid by Rev. Dr. Tidball, Saturday evening at 5:30. All are invited to attend. Arthur Truscott — William Severns.
Intersection of North Front Street & York Street
Looking northwest to the intersection of North Front Street and York Street, circa 1930s.
800 Block of North Front Street
800 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1910s–1947.
822 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1910s–1930s | No information available |
| 1940 | John P. Gryckiewicz |
808 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1917 | Clayton Thomas Lofland & Family (Clara C. Hinderer Lofland, Elva, Miriam Ruth; William Elmer Lofland) |
| 1917 | Clayton T. & Clara C. Hinderer Lofland |
| 1917 | Elva Lofland |
| 1917 | Miriam Ruth Lofland |
804 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
808 North Front Street — Clayton Thomas Lofland & Family, 1917. Philadelphia Inquirer, December 10, 1917.
LOFLAND — Suddenly, Dec. 8, ELMER W. LOFLAND, son of late John C. and Elmira Lofland (nee McLear), aged 52. Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral, Wed., 2 P.M., from residence of his brother, Clayton Lofland, 808 N. Front st., Camden, N.J. Int. Arlington Cem. Friends may call Tues. eve.
Mrs. Kobus Names 3 Cops, 4 Firemen
Camden Courier-Post —
Son of Former Fire Captain Among Men Appointed to Police Force
Appointment for three policemen and four firemen, all of whom will report for duty today, was announced yesterday by Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety.
The new policemen will be assigned to duty in company with older officers to gain experience. The new firefighters will be trained at the police fire school.
Edward D. Tatem, of 565 Mt. Vernon street, one of the new patrolmen, is a son of former Fire Captain William Tatem. Tatem is a graduate of Camden High School. Roland E. Comerford, of 2931 Cramer street, who also was appointed to the police force, is a son of Fireman William Comerford, chauffeur for Battalion Fire Chief Charles Erickson. Young Comerford is a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School.
The third new policeman is Joseph Hooven, of 918 North Nineteenth street. He is a Camden High graduate and also studied two years at Villanova College.
Those appointed firemen are Phillip H. Farrow, of 529 Newton avenue; John Gryckiewicz, of 810 North Front street, Thomas Winstanley, of 329 Bailey street, and Anthony Bretschneider, of 1621 Louis street.
Farrow and Gryckiewicz graduated from Woodrow Wilson and Gryckiewicz served a four year enlistment in the Navy. Bretschneider graduated from a Philadelphia high school and attended evening classes at Woodrow Wilson.
All appointments were made from a State Civil Service Commission list of eligibles. Commissioner Kobus has adopted a policy of appointing high school graduates to both the police and fire departments.
700 Block of North Front Street
700 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1947.
732 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | Vacant |
600 Block of North Front Street
600 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1897–1971.
643 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1897–1899 | John S. Smith & Family (saloon) |
| 1897–1899 | John S. & Rebecca Price Smith |
| 1897–1899 | Fitzhugh Lee Smith |
| 1905–1944 | Dowling's (saloon; Joseph P. & Mary J. Dowling) |
| 1949–1971 | Dowling's (saloon; Joseph P. Wilson & G.W. Michel) |
| 1905–1944 | Dowling's Joseph P. Dowling & Family |
641 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
636 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1904 | Anthony Angelo & Family (Anthony & Edith Angelo; Joseph T. Angelo) |
| 1940–1972 | Ralph Farace & Family (Giovanina Farace, Ralph, Rose, David, Michael) |
633 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1931 | Mrs. Rose Cinerelli, Teresa Cinerelli, Mary Cinerelli |
631 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1931 | Mrs. Anna Franceschino |
630 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1899 | L. Carter |
623 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | Clarence Yapp & Family (Clarence & Mary Yapp) |
619 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
618 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
615 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1909 | Peter Wolverton |
613 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1917 | Phillipo Del Guerra (Margaret Del Guerra, Lino Battaloni, Philip Schmitz) |
| 1917 | Phillipo Del Guerra |
609 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1912 | Gerge Bretinstein |
603 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1917 | Joseph McClosky |
| 1951 | Mrs. Alice Martz (Raymond J. Kuntz, Robert Blake) |
| 1951 | Mrs. Alice Martz |
601 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1896 | Eliza Jones (saloon) |
| 1904 | Thomas Tracy (saloon) |
| 1904 | Thomas Tracy |
| 1918–1926 | Charles E. Snyder (saloon) |
| 1918-26 | Charles E. Snyder |
| 1927–1947 | Clara C. Snyder (saloon) |
| 1927–1947 | Clara C. Snyder |
| 1954–1955 | Cooper Tavern (Raymond & Mary Welsh) |
| 1954–1955 | Cooper Tavern |
| 1955–1956 | Cooper Tavern (Pat Caridi, Walter Canzanese, Donald Palese) |
| 1955–1956 | Cooper Tavern |
| 1959 | Sally's Cafe |
| 1964–1966 | Sam's Cafe |
| 1967 | Casa Santiago (Francisco Santiago) |
643 North Front Street — John S. Smith & Family, 1897–1899. Saloon. 1897 directory advertisement.
John S. Smith,
SALOON,
S. W. Corner Front and Vine Streets,
CAMDEN, N. J.
643 North Front Street — Dowling’s, 1905–1971. Camden Courier-Post, June 5, 1963.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION
Take notice that Dowling's Inc., has applied to The Municipal Board of Alcoholic Beverage Control of the City of Camden for a Plenary Retail Consumption license for premises situated at 643 N. Front St., Camden, N.J.
Joseph P. Wilson, 6152 Rogers Ave., Pennsauken, N.J., President and Director. 10 shares.
H. Dolores Wilson, 6152 Rogers Ave., Pennsauken, N.J., Secretary, Assistant Treasurer and Director. 45 shares.
G. W. Michel, 314 Market St., Camden, N.J., Treasurer, Assistant Secretary and Director. 45 shares.
The above named are also the only stockholders of the corporation. Objections, if any, should be made immediately in writing to John T. Odorisio, Clerk of the City of Camden, New Jersey.
(Signed) DOWLING'S, INC., 643 N. Front St., Camden, N.J.
636 North Front Street — Ralph Farace & Family, 1940–1972. Camden Courier-Post, April 19, 1972.
On April 18, 1972, Ralph, son of the late Ralph and Giovanina (nee Alberina) Farace, of 636 North Front St., Camden. Age 65 years. Also survived by two brothers, David of the Isle of Capri, Italy, Michael of Maple Shade, N.J., one sister, Mrs. Rose Lombardi of Cherry Hill, N.J., nine nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral on Friday morning at 8:30 o’clock, at the Joseph A. and Frank V. Falco Funeral Home, 6600 North Browning Road, Pennsauken, N.J. Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated in Holy Name Church, Camden, at 10 a.m. Interment Calvary Cemetery, Cherry Hill. Friends may call Thursday evening, after 7 o’clock.
630 North Front Street — L. Carter, 1899. Camden Daily Courier, June 23, 1899.
Chimney Sparks Start a Fire
Sparks from the chimney of a neighboring factory set fire to and burned off the shingle roof of the residence of L. Carter, 630 North Front street, at seven o'clock last evening.
623 North Front Street — Clarence Yapp & Family, 1947. Camden Courier-Post, June 9, 1947.
CLARENCE YAPP
Clarence Yapp, 66, of 623 North Front street, died suddenly early Sunday at his home. His wife, Mary, said he awoke at 3.30 a. m. and complained of shortness of breath and severe abdominal pains. She went out to call a doctor and neighbors. When she returned, she found him dead. Coroner Leonard said cause of death was heart trouble.
609 North Front Street — George Bretinstein, 1912. Camden Daily Courier, March 8, 1912.
SUFFERING FROM SPRAIN.
George Bretinstein, of Front and Elm streets, is a patient sufferer with a badly sprained leg. The injured member gives the young man much pain and he is Yorced [sic] to get about with a hobble.
601 North Front Street — Cooper Tavern, 1955–1956. Camden Courier-Post, November 25, 1955.
601 North Front Street — A saloon from as early as 1896. 1896: Eliza Jones. 1904: Thomas Tracy. 1918–1926: Charles E. Snyder. 1927–1947: Clara C. Snyder. 1954–1955: Cooper Tavern (Raymond & Mary Welsh). 1955–1956: Cooper Tavern (Patrick Caridi, Walter Canzanese, Donald Palese). 1959: Sally’s Cafe. 1964–1966: Sam’s Cafe. 1967: Casa Santiago (Francisco Santiago). Raymond F. Welsh — Mary V. Welsh. Princess Avenue — Market Street.
Finds Daughter at Ardmore
Philadelphia Inquirer —
After a several months’ search for his daughter, Margaret, 17 years old, Phillipo Delguerra, of 124 Market street, Camden, located the girl and Lino Bataloni, of 613 North Front street, at Ardmore. Both were placed under arrest, and waiving their extradition rights, were taken before Justice Schmitz, who committed them to jail in default of bail on a misdemeanor charge.
Their Life’s Work Ended
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Death Claims Two Well-known Camden Octogenarians
Death yesterday took two well-known Camden octogenarians, Peter Wolverton, aged 80 years, and John W. Cotner, aged 81 years. Mr. Wolverton, who was the father of President of City Council Wolverton and the grandfather of Assistant Prosecutor Wolverton, lived at 615 North Front street. Most of his life was spent in Camden and for over two score years he was in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, but for several years had been on the pension list. His funeral will take place on Monday.
Mr. Cotner, who was captured and confined in Libby Prison during the Civil War, was a native of Cedarville, Cumberland county; lived in Camden over half a century and died at the home of his son-in-law, Calvin E. Snipe, a newspaper man, 82[?] Vine street. He was a member of the Fourth New Jersey Regiment, and with his father built many grist mills throughout South Jersey. He will be buried Monday morning.
Camden at a Glance
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Special to The Inquirer.
Knocked down by a motorcyclist, five-year-old John H Mercer, of 1143 Atlantic avenue, received a probable fracture of the skull and severe lacerations. He was taken to the Homeopathic Hospital. The motorcyclist’s identity is not known by the police.
Miss Ellen Thompson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Thompson, of 828 Federal street, and Joseph McCloskey, of Front and Elm streets, were married at the Church of the Immaculate Conception by Rev. George Welsh.
With a capital of $15,000 the Sturdevant Corporation, whose object is to do a general insurance business, was incorporated yesterday. The incorporators are Frank Sturdevant, Mattie Sturdevant and Malcolm B. Webster.
While sitting on the porch of her home, Mrs. Jane H Dukes, of 3803 Westfield avenue, was fatally stricken with heart disease. Coroner Bushey gave a certificate of death.
603 North Front Street — Mrs. Alice Martz, 1951
Camden Courier-Post —
Man Hangs Self In North Camden — Mrs. Alice Martz, 603 North Front street, made a shocking discovery when she went to call her roomer, Raymond J. Kuntz, 22, to go to work yesterday morning. She found Kuntz hanging from a rope tied to the head of his bed. Death was instantaneous, the coroner said. The body was removed to the city morgue. Robert Blake, of 615 North Front street, identified Kuntz, who had worked for several years at the RCA plant.
Man Hangs Self In North Camden
Camden Courier-Post —
Raymond J. Kuntz, 35, a worker for the Standard Tank and Seat Co., Front street near Pearl, was found hanging by a clothesline from a beam in the cellar of his home Tuesday by his sister and mother. Coroner Robert Blake listed his death as suicide.
Kuntz, who lived at 78 Vine street, was found by Mrs. Alice Martz, 603 North Front street, and his mother, Mrs. Mary Baldwin 235 Christian street, Philadelphia, after they failed to hear from him for several days.
Detective Harry Kyler said Kuntz left a note to his estranged wife, Florence, saying “you broke my heart when you left.” Mrs. Kuntz and the couple’s two daughters, Florence and Nancy, left last June, police said.
A younger brother, William P., 25, of 215 Bailey street, was drowned in the Delaware River last June. In his note Raymond asked to be buried next to his brother in Harleigh cemetery.
Other survivors are three sisters, Mrs. Charlotte Derocher and Mrs. Ethel Clark, both of Camden, and Mrs. Laura Mucci, of Landisville.
Services will be held Thursday at 2 p. m. in the Blake funeral home, Haddon avenue and Division street. Burial will be in Harleigh cemetery.
Family of 3 Evicted
Camden Courier-Post —
Widowed Mother and Daughters Get Shelter After Furniture is Put in Street
A widow and her two daughters were evicted from their home in North Camden yesterday when the landlord resorted to legal methods to obtain possession of the house for which no rent could be paid by the occupants.
The woman is Mrs. Rosie Cinerelli and the girls are Teresa, 17, and Mary, 14. They were ordered out of the house at 633 North Front street and their furniture placed on the sidewalk. A neighbor, Mrs. Anna Franceschino, mother of four children, permitted storage of some of the furniture in her home at 631 North Front. Mrs. Cinerelli and her daughters were admitted to temporary quarters in the neighbor’s home until Mrs. Mary Walsh Kobus, chairman of the Courier-Post Relief Fund, provided a new home last night.
The widow and one daughter have been ill two months while the other daughter has been unable to obtain employment. Efforts are being made by Mrs. Kobus to find work for the girls.
633 North Front Street — Mrs. Rose Cinerelli, 1931. Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1931.
Family of 3 Evicted — Mrs. Rose Cinerelli and her daughters, Teresa and Mary, were evicted from 633 North Front street yesterday. The family is being cared for by the city’s welfare department. Mary Kobus.
J. T. Johnson Funeral to Be Held Tomorrow
Camden Courier-Post —
500 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1870s–1940.
544 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1947 | No information available |
542 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1932 | John Rossi |
532 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1869–1872 | Frederick Himmelein Sr. & Family |
| 1869–1872 | Frederick & Helena Himmelein |
| 1869–1872 | John Himmelein |
| 1869–1872 | Lizzie Himmelein |
| 1869–1872 | Frederick Himmelein Jr. |
530 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | John T. Johnson & Family |
| 1929 | John T. & Mildred Johnson |
| 1956 | Daniel Cook |
528 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1895–1897 | James Egbert & Family |
| 1895–1897 | James & Lizzie Scroggy Egbert |
| 1895–1897 | Rhoda Egbert |
| 1895–1897 | Mrs. Sarah Scroggy |
| 1935 | John H. Jones (Mary W. Kobus, George E. Brunner) |
526 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1907–1931 | Samuel E. Johnson & Family (policeman; Frederica Johnson) |
| 1940 | No information available |
525 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1938 | Nora Williamson |
524 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1896 | George Block (saloon) |
521 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | Samuel Gahan |
519 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1900s–1911 | Franz 'Frank' Breininger & Family (Sophie Goehringer Breininger, Anna, Mary, Harry, George Goehringer; Frances Breininger) |
517 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | John W. Bockius (saloon) |
514 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1892 | Mrs. Augusta Kohlinberg (Patrick McNally, Jesse Pratt) |
| 1892 | Mrs. Augusta Kohlinberg |
| 1899–1900 | Charles Bush & Family (Annie Bush) |
508 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1897 | John Galvin |
506 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1917–1918 | Frank H. Bott & Family (Camden Fire Department) |
503 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
501 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1870s–1880s | No information available |
530 North Front Street — John T. Johnson & Family, 1929. Camden Courier-Post, December 2, 1929.
J. T. JOHNSON FUNERAL TO BE HELD TOMORROW
John T. Johnson, active in sporting circles here, and who was fatally injured in an automobile accident in Miami, Fla., last Thursday night, will be buried tomorrow. Services will taken place at 11 a.m. at the Schroeder Chapel, 538 Broadway, and burial will be in New Camden Cemetery.
Johnson, who was 24, and lived at 530 North Front street, left here last week on a yacht bound for Miami, on which he had secured employment. Upon his arrival there he immediately looked up a brother, Morris E. Johnson, also employed on a yacht in Florida waters. He was riding in an automobile back to his own yacht, when the machine collided with a trolley, the Camden man dying the next morning.
Johnson is survived by his widow, Mildred, a baby; his mother, Mrs. Thomas O. Cook, another brother, A. Edward Johnson; three sisters, Mrs. Alexander Bell, Mrs. John Jones and Grace M. Johnson; two half-sisters and two half-brothers.
He was a former member of the Grace Lutheran Church basketball team and also played with the Adelphia baseball team here, as well as with a football team. He was a member of Battery D, 112th Field Artillery.
Hospital Cases
COOPER
Clement DiGaetano, 39, of 216 Mt. Vernon st., cut left side of head.
Anna Kropski, 68, 1737 S. 6th st., cut head.
Rita Procacci, 40, of 1125 S. 3rd st., burns of right hand.
George Finney, 41, of 214 Taylor ave., cut right side of chest.
Willie Chestnut, 19, of 1210 S. 8th st., cut scalp.
Betty Cohen, 15, of 428 State st., injured right hand.
David Taylor, 47, of 743 Walnut st., injured left foot.
WEST JERSEY
Marie Stone, 15, of 316 Kaighns ave., swallowed a coin.
Charlott Schmitz, 16, of 520 Vine st., possible fractured shoulder.
Suzanne Schulman, 5, of Maple ave., Haddon Heights, cut forehead.
Daniel Cook, 27, of 530 Front st., bruise of hand.
528 North Front Street — John H. Jones, 1935. Camden Courier-Post, August 31, 1935.
First Ward Promised New Deal — Speaking at a first ward rally at 528 North Front street last night, John H. Jones promised residents of the first ward a “new deal.” Mary W. Kobus — George E. Brunner.
526 North Front Street — Samuel E. Johnson & Family, 1907–1931. Camden Daily Courier, April 17, 1911.
Samuel Johnson, of Front and Birch streets, driver of the down-town ambulance, fell at home last evening and suffered a bad sprain of the left ankle that incapacitated him from work.
Samuel E. Johnson portrait
524 North Front Street — George Block (saloon), 1896. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 5, 1896.
Two Nearly Suffocate.
Shortly after 2 o'clock yesterday morning George Block, a saloon keeper of Front and Birch streets, Camden, was awakened by smoke filling his bed room. He aroused his housekeeper, Miss Baker, who was asleep in an adjoining room, and then called for help. George Butler heard his cries and turned in an alarm of fire. The department quickly responded and rescued Block and his housekeeper by means of a ladder. They were nearly suffocated by the smoke. The flames were confined to the cellar.
521 North Front Street — Samuel Gahan, 1906. Camden Post-Telegram, July 12, 1906.
DEATH CALLED SAMUEL GAHAN
War Veteran Expires Suddenly While Talking to Members of His Family.
WILL BE BURIED FROM POST HALL
Samuel Gahan, of 521 North Front street, a civil war veteran, was stricken with heart failure at his home Tuesday night and died before medical attendance could be secured.
Mr. Gahan had been complaining of late of his heart, but it was not thought to be serious. While talking with members of the family he suddenly clasped his hand over his heart and before the frightened members of the family could reach him he fell dead on the floor. Coroner Fithian gave a certificate in accordance with the facts.
The funeral will take place Sunday afternoon. In accordance with his request, he will be buried with military honors under the direction of Post No. 37, G.A.R., of which he was an active member. Interment will be made in Harleigh Cemetery.
A short time ago Mr. Gahan disappeared from his home and the police were notified that his friends feared he was the victim of foul play. Two days later he came home, saying he had been on a visit to friends.
My Great-grandmother Sophia Pfeiffer Goehringer Breininger was a busy woman, she had 13 children, six of whom were alive in 1910. They all lived in Camden, NJ. From the early 1900s into the 1910s they lived at 519 North Front Street, where my Grandmother Frances Breininger Wilson was born at home. By 1912 they moved to 120 Elm Street. After Sophia died son George lived there. Son Frederick Goehringer lived at 126 North 26th Street. Frederick was coal dealer and husker, he or Harry had a horse for husking, and rented or had barn on corner of Front Street. Anna Goehringer Travis Mannes and Al her husband Al lived at 109 North 26th Street.
—Jean Kuhn, April 21, 2012
517 North Front Street — John W. Bockius, saloon, 1906.
Culmbacher and Tannhaeuser Beer a Specialty.
John W. Bockius,
SALOON,
517 N. FRONT STREET,
CAMDEN, N. J.
514 North Front Street — Mrs. Augusta Kohlinberg, 1892. Philadelphia Inquirer, January 9, 1892.
* Patrick McNally confessed to Mayor Pratt yesterday that he had robbed Mrs. Augusta Kohlinberg’s house, 514 North Front street. He was committed for trial.
514 North Front Street — Charles Bush & Family, 1899–1900. Philadelphia Inquirer, February 20, 1900.
BUSH —On February 20, 1900 Charles Bush, husband of Annie T. Bush, nee Hawthorne, aged 65 years 11 months 19 days. The relatives and friends of the family, also the Admiral Du Pont Post 24, G. A. R., the survivors of Company A, 213th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and the G. K. Warren Circle, Ladies of the G. A. R., are respectfully invited to attend the funeral on Sunday at 1 o’clock, from his late residence, 514 North Front street, Camden, N. J. Interment private.
508 North Front Street — John Galvin, 1897. Philadelphia Inquirer, September 30, 1897.
* John Galvin, charged with prying open a shutter of the house at 508 North Front street early yesterday morning. [sic] was committed in default of $300 bail.
506 North Front Street — Frank H. Bott & Family, 1917–1918. Camden Post-Telegram, April 19, 1917. Note: the article address (3rd Street) is in error.
Struck by a fire apparatus at the fire which gutted the Kohlenberg stables, on the river front, Tuesday night, Fireman Frank Bott, of 506 North Third street, is confined to his home suffering with a badly lacerated leg. He was removed to Cooper Hospital shortly after his injury but an X-ray photo failed to show any broken bones.
506 North Front Street — Frank H. Bott & Family, 1917–1918. World War I Draft Registration Card, 1917.
Form 1
REGISTRATION CARD No. 4
1 Name in full: Frank H Bott Age, in yrs. 27
2 Home address: 506 North Front st
3 Date of birth: Feby 8 1890
4 Are you (1) a natural-born citizen, (2) a naturalized citizen, (3) an alien, (4) or have you declared your intention (specify which)? Yes natural born
5 Where were you born? Camden N J U S
6 If not a citizen, of what country are you a citizen or subject?
7 What is your present trade, occupation, or office? Fireman 27
8 By whom employed? Camden City Where employed? Camden
9 Have you a father, mother, wife, child under 12, or a sister or brother under 12, solely dependent on you for support (specify which)? Wife and Child
10 Married or single (which)? Married Race (specify which)? Ka[?]ke[?]
11 What military service have you had? Rank: None
12 Do you claim exemption from draft (specify grounds)? None
I affirm that I have verified above answers and that they are true.
Frank H Bott
(signature or mark)
REGISTRAR'S REPORT
205 29-3-7-A
1 Tall, medium, or short (specify which)? Tall Slender, medium, or stout (which)? Stout
2 Color of eyes? Gray Color of hair? Light Bald? None
3 Has person lost arm, leg, hand, foot, or both eyes, or is he otherwise disabled (specify)? None
Henry Meyer
(signature of registrar)
Precinct 4 City or County Camden State New Jersey
June 5th
1st Ward
Illegal Operation Charged to Doctor
Camden Courier-Post —
Dr. Phillips, Collingswood; Girl and 2 Men Placed Under Arrest
Dr. Claude B. Phillips, prominent Collingswood physician, was arrested Saturday on charges of performing an illegal operation.
Nora Williamson, 18, of Camden, named by police as victim of the operation, and two Collingswood men were held on statutory charges in connection with the case.
Dr. Phillips was held in $1000 bail for action by the grand jury by Police Recorder R. Cooper Brown.
The Williamson girl, whose address was given by police as 625 North Front Street, was held in $500 bail. Frank C. Lingo, of 15 East Collings avenue, and Francis Croman, of 42 Lincoln avenue, were also held in $500 bail. Croman, police said, is the father of five children.
When arraigned before Recorder Brown, Dr. Phillips entered a plea of not guilty and indignantly denied the charge against him. According to police, he declared that he had never seen the Williamson girl prior to the hearing.
The girl was unable to get $500 bail and taken back to the Collingswood police station and then to the county jail.
The operation, according to the formal complaint, was performed by Dr. Phillips at a place in Gloucester.
According to a statement given police by the girl, the two men took her to Dr. Phillips. The physician, she charged gave her medicine and later performed the operation.
The girl was turned over to Collingswood police a week ago after she was found in an apartment at the North Front street address by Patrolman John V. Wilkie, Camden “Notebook Cop,” when he was making a routine check of rooming houses.
Wilkie reported he questioned the girl and learned that she had been employed as a nursemaid in Collingswood, where she met Lingo. She said she had several “dates” with Lingo. After she gave up her job at Collingswood, she said, she moved to Haddonfield. Lingo telephoned her there last October 1, she told police, and invited her to a party at a taxicab office.
Had Several Beers
The girl said she drank several glasses of beer at the party and charges she was enticed by both Lingo and Croman to a garage. Lingo and Croman were arrested Friday night. Dr. Phillips was taken into custody at his home, 891 Haddon avenue, Collingswood, Saturday and held at police headquarters one hour before the hearing, which took place at Recorder Brown’s office, 607 Haddon avenue.
625 North Front Street — Nora Williamson, 1938. Camden Courier-Post, February 21, 1938.
Illegal Operation Charged to Doctor — A Camden physician was charged with performing an illegal operation on Nora Williamson, of 625 North Front street. The case was investigated by Patrolman John V. Wilkie.
Three Men Held Without Bail in Tavern Holdup
Camden Courier-Post —
Trio Nabbed at Shore Identified by Victim Of $2000 Theft Here
Three men suspected of the $2000 robbery of a Camden woman tavern owner last Friday were held without bail for further hearing by Judge Dzick today.
Dzick acted in compliance with a request by Detectives Marshall Thompson and George Ellis, who said the investigation was not complete. The three were arrested Sunday in Atlantic City.
Booked on charges of armed robbery were Stanley Slagle, 22, of 1408 Broadway; James J. Lenahan, 24, of 1734 Broadway, and Robert Sharp, 26, of 19 N. Johnson blvd., Gloucester.
Identified as Boxer
Slagle was identified as a middleweight boxer, who started to fight last fall and appeared twice at a Philadelphia club.
Arrested at 2 a. m. Sunday the men were returned to Camden, where they were identified by Miss Mary Lynch, 44, who operates Lynch’s Cafe at 3rd and Erie sts. Charles Clark, 33, of 538 N. Front st., a patron who was slugged on the head with a blackjack, was able to identify Lenahan and Sharp as participating in the daylight holdup, according to Detective Capt. Thomas Murphy.
Murphy said the men will be included in a police lineup Tuesday at 8 p. m. so that other victims of holdups in the area during the past year may view the suspects.
Atlantic City police said Patrolmen Adelmo Fidelli and Edward Shaw, acting on information from Camden detectives, nabbed Lenahan in the Nomad Club.
Fifteen minutes later, other officers took Sharp and Slagle into custody in the Jockey Club.
Shore police said they had been notified Camden authorities in a raid on an apartment in Camden had learned from a girl-friend of one of the men that she was to meet them in Atlantic City.
Some Money Recovered
Murphy said $600 of the stolen money was recovered on the men, in addition to $125 discovered in the apartment in the 1700 block on Broadway.
The detective captain said Detectives George Ellis and Marshall Thompson, who along with Detectives Harry Tracey and Sgt. William Kelly returned the suspects from the shore, had spent 43 hours without sleep on the trail of the bandits.
Murphy said the key to the capture was a license number obtained by Patrolman Oliver Morgan from an automobile seen near the scene of the holdup.
Car Was Stolen
The car, Murphy said, had been stolen from John J. Hegar, 640 Federal st., a certified public accountant, who was unaware of the theft until after the car was recovered Saturday on 7th st., between Liberty st. and Kaighn ave.
Later Saturday, Murphy related, Detective Harry Kyler and Detective Sgt. Vincent Conley obtained information linking Lenahan to the job and, still later, the apartment in Camden was raided.
Discovered in the apartment, Murphy said, were a .45-calibre automatic and the cash, found hidden under a chair cushion.
Murphy said Lenahan and Sharp, under questioning Sunday night in Camden, admitted their part in the holdup. Slagle, however, denied knowledge of the crime, Murphy added.
Discarded Weapons
Reconstructing the holdup and the trail of the gunmen, Murphy named Sharp as driver of the getaway car and said the men drove around the city and then later threw a shotgun and blackjack from the car.
The men went to Philadelphia, Murphy continued, where they purchased new clothes and wrist watches and other accessories and agreed to meet in Atlantic City.
Murphy said all have police records, Lenahan having been paroled in July from state prison after serving a term for grand larceny in Atlantic City. Sharp was released from state prison last year after serving a term for larceny of an automobile in Camden County and Slagle was released from the prison where he was sent for robbery, Murphy said.
400 Block of North Front Street
400 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1884–1968.
426 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1884 | Almer Barr (John W. Wescott, Richard F. Smith, John J. Walsh) |
423 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
419 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1898 | Frank Breininger |
414 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
412 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1893–1894 | Joseph Logue |
| 1967 | Isaac Berrios & Family |
408 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1888 | Mrs. Sarah Scroggy |
406 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
404 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
402 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
400 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
CAMDEN
Louis to Mr. and Mrs. Louis Aldi of 1024 Lois Avenue.
Isaac to Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Berrios of 412 Front Street.
Carlos to Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Caraballo of 409 2nd Street.
Michael Thomas to Mr. and Mrs. David Clark of 2105 Berwick Street.
Virginia Doreen to Mr. and Mrs. William Cooper of 318 Federal Street.
Elsie Denise to Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Davis of 629 N. 8th Street.
Deborah Dee to Mr. and Mrs. David Lavender of 128 Boyd Street.
Clarice Lynn to Mr. and Mrs. John Little of 141 N. 34th Street.
412 North Front Street — Joseph Logue, 1893–1894.
Camden Political Banner Raisings and Parades
Philadelphia Inquirer —
A Republican banner raising took place in front of Constable Almor Barr’s cigar store, Front and Birch streets, on Saturday evening. At the same time the Central Democratic Club raised a banner on Federal street, above Front. After these proceedings both parties had parades, which were of the go-as you-please order. Some of the Republicans paraded the streets in the upper end of the city, accompanied by a club from Philadelphia. The South End Club and Pioneer Corps were satisfied in parading through the lower section. The Democrats followed out the plan adopted by their opponents. The Central Club, with a band, and members of the Stockton Cleveland and Hendricks Club paraded North Camden, and the Seventh Ward Club paraded the southern section of the city. At the Republican meeting Candidate for Congress George Hires, of Salem, and others addressed the meeting. At the Democratic meeting Candidate for Congress Thomas M. Ferrell of Glassboro; John W. Westcott, candidate for Senator from Camden county; Richard F. Smith, Sheriffalty candidate; Senator Kennedy, of Philadelphia; John J. Walsh, of Camden, and others addressed the assemblage.
Minor Rogers Missing
Philadelphia Inquirer —
300 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1890–1941.
335 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1890 | Minor Rogers & Family |
| 1895–1896 | Garrett C. Cowls |
331 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1890 | Thomas McIntire |
325 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1915 | William Boots |
317 & 319 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1915 | No information available |
315 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1911–1920 | Mrs. Mary Knobbe (furnished rooms at 311 and 315 North Front Street) |
| 1941 | Florence Fidler |
311 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1910 | Mrs. Mary Knobbe (furnished rooms at 311 and 315 North Front Street) |
308 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | No information available |
335 North Front Street — Minor Rogers & Family, 1890. Philadelphia Inquirer, December 7, 1890.
Minor Rogers, of No. 335 North Front street, is missing and his wife believes he has eloped with an actress named Morgan. Rogers was employed as shipping clerk at Wanamaker's and in March last became acquainted with Mrs. Morgan. On Thursday evening last he brought the woman to his home and as a result there was a lively time. Mrs. Rogers will bring suit for divorce.
335 North Front Street — Garrett C. Cowls, 1895–1896. Camden Daily Telegram, October 14, 1895.
WANTED
DIRT WANTED—At Camden Base Ball Grounds. Apply 335 N. Front street.
331 North Front Street — Thomas McIntire, 1890. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 31, 1890.
DROWNED WHILE BATHING.
The heroic efforts of a dog trying to save his master was a sight witnessed by a crowd of people at the foot of Penn street yesterday afternoon. Thomas McIntire, a 14-year-old lad, with some companions, went in bathing and the lad got over his depth. Being unable to swim he was drowned. His companions made every effort to save him, as did his large Newfoundland dog, which was in the water at the time. When the lad sank out of sight the dog commenced a pitiful howl. McIntire lived at 331 North Front street.
325 North Front Street — William Boots, 1915. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 12, 1915.
William Boots, aged 55, of 325 North Front street, arose to close in the shutters of his room early yesterday, lost his balance and fell to a shed, rolling off to the pavement below. He broke both arms and the left leg and was hurt internally. His condition is said to be serious.
317 & 319 North Front Street. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 16, 1915.
STORM CAUSES DAMAGE AFTER HEAT KILLS MAN
Numerous Prostrations Precede Conditions Which Wreck Camden Properties—Man Injured
In a brief but terrific wind and rain storm in Camden yesterday afternoon one man was injured, roofs were blown off and many trees uprooted in all sections of the city. Previous to the storm the heat caused one death and numerous prostrations.
Wilbur A Drown, aged 55 years, of 834 Haddon avenue, died shortly after being taken to his home from the plant of C. B. Coles Company, where he had been employed as foreman for a quarter of a century. He is survived by a widow and one daughter, Miss Elsie Drown, a teacher in the Bergen School. Mr. Drown was a member of numerous social organizations.
While standing with a team near a building in course of construction at the head of Line street, Benjamin F. Powell, aged 33 years, of 1073 Morton street, was caught beneath a falling roof. One leg was badly crushed, but he refused to go to a hospital.
At 317 and 319 North Front street the roofs were blown off and in that section several trees were uprooted. In all parts of Camden the fall of rain was so great that the streets were flooded, although the storm was hardly more than a quarter of an hour in duration.
315 North Front Street — Mrs. Mary Knobbe, furnished rooms, 1911–1920. Philadelphia Inquirer, April 10, 1912.
Aged Woman Dead From Fall
As a result of a fall received last Thanksgiving Day, Mrs. Anna Mellon, 77 years old, died yesterday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mary Kenoby, 315 North Front street, Camden.
Smoke Overcomes Two Firemen
Philadelphia Inquirer —
In a $4000 fire at the plant of the West Jersey Carriage Works, 15 to 21 Market street, Camden, early yesterday morning, two firemen were overcome by smoke. They were James McDae [sic], of 415 North Front street, an [sic] William Simpson, of 604 North Sixth street, they being taken to the Cooper an [sic] Homeopathic Hospitals, respectively. The blaze was a stubborn one for awhile and at one time threatened to communicate with the plant of the Victor Talking Machine Company.
Hospital Cases
Camden Courier-Post —
WEST JERSEY
Anna Amber, 52, of 960 Ferry avenue, splinter in finger.
Ernestine Herman, 9, of 710 Van Hook street, dog bite of foot.
Alvesta Taylor, 40, Mt. Holly, cut of hand.
Alfred Corbett, 18, King avenue, Pennsauken, crushed finger.
George Stowe, 71, Chestnut avenue, Woodlynne, fractured thumb.
Robert Button, 17, of 1500 Louis street, cut wrist.
Ellsworth Fussel, 28, of 1055 South Second street, deep cut of arm.
Rose Marie Biederman, 9, Green avenue, Mt. Ephraim, infection of head.
COOPER
Stella Smith, 14, of 1448 Haddon avenue, cut of finger.
Robert Carrier, 16, of 833 Lawrence street, sprained arm.
Joseph Castillano, 36, of 1253 South Merrimac road, sprained hand.
Audrey Edwards, 12, of 916 South Ninth street, sprained wrist.
Josephine Rossi, 37, of 102 Pearl street, contusion of chest.
Michael De Delecce, 47, of 12 Hudson street, contusion of ribs.
Melvin Reed, 10, of 436 West street, contusion of scalp.
Florence Fidler, 7, of 315 North Front street, foot injury.
John Iacovino, 14, of 417 Royden street, dog bite of ankle.
Tax Lien Bureau Planned for City
Camden Courier-Post —
Rulers Approve Resolution Setting Up New Department Under Brunner
A city bureau of tax liens will be created through an ordinance passed yesterday on first reading by the City Commission.
Approval was given a resolution placing the proposed bureau under the direction of Mayor George E. Brunner, director of the department of revenue and finance.
Personnel of the bureau will include a chief counsel and three assistants. The chief counsel will receive $4500 annually, and the assistants, $2250, minus five percent.
The bureau will have charge of foreclosures, purchases, sales and assignments of realty and direct appointment of receivers to collect rents on city-owned property.
In the absence of an ordinance the work has been carried on by Isadore H. Hermann, head of the bureau, and Robert Burk Johnson, Benjamin J. Dzick and Joseph Lipkin.
An ordinance passed on first reading fixes the salary of deputy clerk of the city district court at $1600 annually. The Commission approved the ordinance and received and filed a letter from Joseph Varbalow, judge of the court, advising he had appointed Frank J. Suttill, of the Seventh ward.
William H. Bovell, of 516 Clinton street, and Albert Thompson, of 421 North Front street, were elected constables by nomination of Commissioner Mary W. Kobus. Bonds of three constables were approved.
The Commission approved on first reading an ordinance amending an existence [sic] ordinance regulating dealers in junk transferring jurisdiction from the department of park and public property to the department of public works.
A section fixing penalties for violations was amended to provide fines totaling not more than $200, a county jail sentence not to exceed 90 days, or both.
Intersection of North Front Street & Penn Street
Looking south on Front Street from Penn Street, circa 1925.
200 Block of North Front Street
200 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1890–1929.
229 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1910 | No information available |
227 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1890 | Mrs. Catherine Shannon & Family (widow of Thomas Shannon; James F. Shannon, saloon at 5-7 Market Street; John E. Shannon, Annie V. Shannon, Mary E. Shannon) |
| 1890 | James F. Shannon |
219 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1912 | Charles Bowers |
201 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | No information available |
Talked About in Camden
Wednesday night’s meeting of City Council was one of the most important held for years. Not only was a contract for a new water supply from artesian wells awarded, but an ordinance was adopted to purchase ground for a public park. The ground comprises the block bounded by Cooper, Penn, Front and Second streets. The purchase is to be made at once, and before next summer the park will probably be ready for use. The property is part of the Cooper estate, and will be sold to the city for $75,000. In addition to the ground there is a large three-story brick house, which will probably be utilized as a public library. There was some dissatisfaction over the proposed purchase, as it was stipulated that the ground should never be used for any other purpose than a public park. This stipulation, however, has been withdrawn by the owners.
200 Block of North Front Street — Cooper Mansion, 1898. Philadelphia Inquirer, December 1, 1898.
The Cooper Mansion was purchased by the City of Camden in December of 1898, and became the city’s first public park. The three-story building on the property became the first home of Camden Free Public Library. In the 1910s the old mansion was razed to make room for the Johnson Library and Johnson Park.
Camden Firemen Burned
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Not Much of a Fire But Hospital Got Busy
Three Camden firemen were severely burned yesterday when a five-gallon gasoline tank exploded while they were fighting the flames in the rear of 219 North Front street, occupied by Charles Bowers and family. The injured included Daniel Yeach, of 643 York street; David Bakely, of 645 Clinton street, and Charles Worthington, the latter captain of Engine Company No. 6, of which company the others were members. The men were taken to the Cooper Hospital.
The fire burned the rear part of the house, causing a loss of several hundred dollars.
Funeral of James McDade
Philadelphia Inquirer —
With seventy-five of his fellow firemen acting as escort the funeral of James McDade, veteran engineer of No. 6 Engine Company, who died suddenly Tuesday night, took place yesterday from his home at Front and Linden streets. As the cortege passed the engine house where McDade had been stationed for ten years the members on duty stood at attention with hats doffed. There were floral tokens from all parts of the city, for McDade was one of the most popular members of the department. The services were in charge of Rev. James Lord, pastor of the Tabernacle M. E. Church. The pall-bearers were Lieutenant Clarence Madden, David Bakely, Abraham Kerns, William Thompson, Elmer Burkett, of McDade’s company, and Samuel Hardin, of No. 4 Engine Company. Interment was made at Fernwood Cemetery, Philadelphia.
Intersection of North Front Street & Cooper Street
Northwest corner of Front and Cooper Streets — Victor Talking Machine Company, April 24, 1904.
Corner of Front and Cooper Streets, Christmas 1938.
How the Y. M. C. A. Benefits Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Great Interest Taken in Association Work and Results Are Most Satisfactory.
A “Gym” Worth Praising
The New House of Muscle Is One of the Finest in the Eastern Section of the Country—Its Features, Methods and Instructor.
The inestimable benefit of a Young Men’s Christian Association branch to a large city has never been more forcibly demonstrated than in Camden, where for the past eighteen years an association has flourished, accomplishing good work with the most satisfactory results.
From the time of organization the work has been constantly enlarging, until now the association is one of the most healthy, in a financial way, in this section. Its splendid facilities for every branch of association work, the gymnasium, college, literary and religious departments make it exceedingly popular and its work is supported by a large number of Camden’s best known citizens.
The enthusiasm in matters relating to the association is at times remarkable and the churches assist greatly in the work, by pulpit utterances and help by the members of the congregations. The Y. M. C. A. and the churches work harmoniously together, and by co-operation mutual benefit is the result.
The present organization was formed at a private house, corner Front and Cooper streets, October 1[?], 187[?], it being the outgrowth of a union young people’s prayer meeting. Meetings were held for a short time in the rear room of what was then the Trinity Baptist Church, now known as the Hatch Post Building. Later quarters were secured at [?]18 Federal street, where they were located for more than a year. Then a move was made to Lincoln Hall, Third and Market, the second and third stories of that building being secured, where for ten years they remained. Then the Third and Federal streets building was used and from there the association moved to its present quarters.
Since the association moved from its old quarters at Third and Federal streets, the membership has been almost doubly increased, principally by the construction of one of the finest gymnasiums in this section of the country, being more complete than the central association of this city and possessing a fine swimming tank, which the mother branch here has not.
The “Gym’s” Great Attraction
There can be no doubt but that the athletic work in the Y. M. C. A. is its greatest attraction. It draws young men to the building, gets them interested in the work and lays the foundation for the accomplishment of the association’s purpose, leading them in the right path.
The Camden Association has had long and varied experience with gymnastics, and the addition of this great feature has more than proven its value to the work. The first “gym” in Camden was in the old building at the southeast corner of Third and Market streets. The space was very small, the athletic work suffering severely in the cramped quarters. However, the work was carried on there with great success for nearly four years, when the building at the southwest corner of Third and Federal streets was erected and the two upper floors engaged.
This change proved to be successful. A large gymnasium floor space was now at hand, with shower baths, dressing rooms and other features necessary for the carrying on of gymnastic work. The great drawback, however, was the ceiling, which was not more than fifteen feet in height. This prevented any development of flying and traveling ring work, while horizontal bar work was also handicapped to a certain extent. However, for nearly six years the work progressed there in the most satisfactory manner, the classes being large and interest at times very great.
The Present Quarters.
The building now in use at Broadway and Federal streets is the most complete the Camden Association ever had, and while the reading rooms, parlors and game rooms were not constructed especially for the work, yet they are almost exactly the desired arrangement. Just above the house was a space of ground nearly one hundred feet wide and very deep. On this space the “gym” was erected, and a beauty it is. It runs east and west, the front facing Federal street, and getting a good Southern sun exposure.
The gymnasium has a thoroughly modern equipment and, as said above, it has no superior in this section of the country. It is 43x7[?] feet, with a peaked roof thirty-two feet high. The running track overhead is a good feature in the “gym,” and it is, of course, very largely patronized.
Then the pool has been the means of drawing many men into the Association work. It is 21x39 feet, with a depth of water from four feet four inches to six feet. The sides and bottom are lined with white enameled bricks, and has a capacity of 33,000 gallons of water.
Physical Instructor Villee.
The gymnastic work is under the direction of A. G. Villee, who during his two years’ connection with the Camden Association has advanced and created great interest in the work. Mr. Villee is a follower of the Chicago Training School system, having received his gymnastic education there, and naturally believes in its teachings. He is 25 years old, a native of Lancaster, Pa., and has been in gymnastic work for the past five years. After his course at the training school he was appointed assistant at Milwaukee, going from there to Newcastle, Pa., then to Allentown, and then to Norfolk, Va., where he was stationed when he received his appointment as physical instructor at Camden.
Through Mr. Villee athletics have taken a healthy, vigorous turn, and there is a live, wide-awake interest in everything gymnastic in the Camden Association. The classes average eighteen a week, while the usual attendance by the senior members is thirty and the junior members thirty-five. The business men’s class at 5.15 has a usual attendance of fifteen.
With this year came a new feature in the association’s gymnastic work, that of indoor competitive athletic sports. The third of the series took place last evening. These meetings are trials or preliminaries to the final, which is slated for April. The men who have qualified in these trials will be handicapped according to their abilities for the finals, and the first three competitors will receive gold, silver and bronze medals respectively.
The class drill system introduced by Instructor Villee is an excellent one, and a person having a knowledge of gymnastic work will readily appreciate its good points. First there comes the health drill, which includes the free hand, arm, leg and body movement. Then the educative, which means work on the various apparatus, while the third, or recreative, covers games of various sorts on the floor of the gymnasium, exclusive of basket ball. This system is always maintained.
A leaders’ class is also a new feature adopted by Mr. Villee. The men who are included in this class are the best athletes in the association, who lead the different classes and assist the physical instructor. They meet once a week, practicing advanced work and becoming better acquainted with Mr. Villee’s system of physical education.
The junior membership is very large and among the boys, all of whom are under 16 years of age, there are some clever athletes. Mr. Villee also has junior leaders, the boys doing the best work being honored with the positions. This junior department also has a class of twelve club swingers, in which Mr. Villee takes great pride. He has them under his particular care, and without doubt they are a clever lot of boys.
There are many other interesting features in the gymnastic work, and the two fine bowling alleys and shuffleboards should not be forgotten in this brief review.
A feature in the winter’s work has been the series of “Health and First Aid to the Injured” talks. These began in November and will continue until April, the course being closed by Dr. E. M. Howard. The Saturday outings in summer will be continued the coming season. These delightful affairs are under Mr. Villee’s direction. A crowd of probably twenty leaves the association about 10 o’clock of a Saturday morning, riding as far as they can in the trolleys, then walking to some pretty spot, where all sorts of sports and games are indulged in.
The Association Officers.
The officers of the association are composed of Camden’s best-known men, and there is not a better known and more highly respected citizen than Walter M. Patton, who is now president. For years he has been an enthusiastic worker and supporter of the association. The secretaryship is in the hands of Harry Curtis, who has now been with the Camden Association about two years. Mr. Curtis is very popular with the members and has done much toward placing the branch where it is to-day.
The vice-president and treasurer is William J. Coxey, who has been long identified with the work. C. L. Craig is recording secretary. The Board of Directors is composed of Schuyler C. Woodhull, Joseph E. Roberts, William C. Lore, W. A. Davis, M. D., W. Bechtel, Gelbert Landis, Judge Frank Burdsall, Frank Sitley, Samuel D. Goff and Dr. E. M. Howard. The trustees are Abraham Anderson, Wilbur F. Rose, Harry Humphreys, Luther H. Kellum, W. J. Coxey, Carlton M. Williams, Joseph B. Van Sciver, Joseph E. Robert and Thomas E. Gifford. Frank Pierson is assistant secretary.
Camden Y. M. C. A. Gymnasium.
Fire at Norththrop Manufacturing Company
Philadelphia Inquirer —
100 Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1891–1907.
117–119–121 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1890 | Northrop Manufacturing Company |
| 1900–1906 | New Jersey Asbestos Company |
111–113–115 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | Vacant |
| 1893–1906 | Gausler & Starr Co. (Augustus C. Gausler, W.C. Starr, F.L. Starr; Horse Blanket manufacturers) |
109 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | No information available |
108–116 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | J.Z. Collings (carriage factory) |
114 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1907 | Camden Metal Works (Horace L. Brewer) |
108 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| — | Eldridge R. Johnson |
107 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | No information available |
106½ North Front Street (also 101–103–105 Market Street)
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | West Jersey Press Building (plumber) |
| 1891–1896 | Lim Sing (laundry) |
105 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | No information available |
103 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1891 | No information available |
100 Block of North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1900s–1990s | Campbell Soup |
117–119–121 North Front Street — Northrop Manufacturing Company, 1890. Philadelphia Inquirer, December 28, 1890.
The fire department was called out yesterday by a slight fire at the Norththrop Manufacturing Company, Front and Cooper streets. The damage was slight.
117–121 North Front Street — New Jersey Asbestos Company, 1900–1906.
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS "ASBESTOS" CAMDEN
LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE No 429 CAMDEN
"GLADIATOR" TRADE MARK
MAIN OFFICE AND FACTORY, CAMDEN, N.J.
BRANCHES {NEW YORK, 45 Dey Street
PHILADELPHIA, 838 Drexel Bldg.
THE NEW JERSEY ASBESTOS COMPANY
MANUFACTURERS OF ALL KINDS OF Asbestos Goods.
117 FRONT ST.
Camden, N.J. Oct. 10th, 1900.
Messrs. Albrights, Son & Co.,
Allentown, Penna.
Gentlemen:-
Enclosed please find your order for Vulcabeston Rings. We do not make these rings we are sorry to say, therefore we can not fill the order.
Thanking you for remembering us, We remain,
Yours very truly,
[signature illegible]
THE NEW JERSEY ASBESTOS CO.
108 North Front Street — Eldridge R. Johnson.
106½ North Front Street — Lim Sing (laundry), 1891–1896. Philadelphia Inquirer, February 27, 1895.
Lim Sing, the Chinaman sentenced to a year's imprisonment for attempting to assault Mrs. Anna Wright, in his laundry, was released on $1000 bail yesterday, pending determination of his application for a new trial.
Intersection of North Front Street & Market Street
Looking south from Market Street, this 1992 photo shows Camden Fire Department Ladder Company 1 combating a fire on the 4th floor of the then vacant Campbell Soup plant.
Unit Block of North Front Street
Unit Block of North Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1880s–1929.
39–41 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1888–1923 | Joshua B. Frankin (Livery and Boarding Stables) |
| 1890–1892 | John F. Brant (Livery and Boarding Stables) |
| 1906 | Camden City Directory |
29–33 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ | Source ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1887–1897 | Thomas McKenna & Family (saloon; Catherine 'Katie' McKenna, Thomas, James) | |
| 1913 | Camden Iron & Metal Company (Abraham Wax, Morris Wax) | 1913 City Directory Ad |
22 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1788 | Mickle Hall (built in 1788) |
11 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | No information available |
10 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1915 | John Wigner |
9 North Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | No information available |
39–41 North Front Street — John F. Brant, Livery and Boarding Stables, 1890–1892.
39–41 North Front Street — Joshua B. Franklin, Livery and Boarding Stables, 1895–1923. Camden Daily Telegram, October 14, 1895.
For Weddings or the Theatre
Get your carriage of J. B. Franklin, Nos. 39 and 41 N. Front st. Telephone 266.
39–41 North Front Street — Joshua B. Franklin, Livery and Boarding Stables, 1888–1923. 1906 Camden City Directory advertisement.
33 North Front Street — Thomas McKenna (saloon), 1887–1897. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 27, 1887.
Thomas McKenna, a saloon-keeper on Front street, below Market, Camden, was convicted before Mayor Pratt yesterday on the charge of selling liquor without a license. He paid the fine and costs, amounting to $37.50, and was released. The case of Christian Eckert, who keeps a saloon at Twelfth and Federal streets, was next taken up. The evidence was insufficient to convict, and the defendant was discharged.
33 North Front Street — Thomas McKenna (saloon), 1887–1894. Philadelphia Inquirer, November 23, 1894.
Juror and Witness
John Neice Acted in a Dual Capacity in the Camden Court.
Washingtaon Ketline was convicted in the Camden Criminal Court yesterday of selling policy slips in a room over Thomas McKenna’s saloon, at 33 North Front street. John Neice, one of the jurors, was a witness for the prosecution. He was also on the jury that tried McKenna on a similar charge the day before and was a witness for the State in that case.
Thomas McKenna, Peter J. Murphy, Frank Weideman and Walter Hubbs, saloon-keepers, pleaded non vult contendre to charges of selling liquor contrary to law.
29–33 North Front Street — Camden Iron & Metal Company (Abraham Wax — Morris Wax), 1913. 1913 City Directory advertisement.
ABRAHAM WAX PHONES MORRIS WAX
KEYSTONE, CAMDEN 2-17
BELL, CAMDEN 24-66 W
CAMDEN IRON & METAL CO.
Scrap Iron and Metals
Second-Hand Pipe and Machinery Plants Dismantled
29-33 N. FRONT ST., CAMDEN, N. J.
22 North Front Street — Mickle Hall, built in 1788.
Livery Stables
Camden Daily Telegram —
FRANCIS McGOVERN, BOARDING AND Livery Stable, No. 319 Lawrence street, Camden. Carriages and coupes to hire for funerals, weddings, etc. Careful drivers furnished. Telephone 110.
PALACE BOARDING STABLES, Broadway and Washington street. A strictly first-class stable with every convenience. JOHN Y. RADCLIFF, Prop. Telephone 304.
J. H. WHITE, 211, 213, 215, Arch street. Livery, Boarding and Sale Stables. Particular attention given to boarding. Horses constantly on hand and for sale.
JOSEPH FRANKLIN, Livery and Exchange Stables, 56, 58, 60 N. Second street. Telephone 45.
JNO. BRANT, LIVERY & BOARDING Stable, 39 and 41 N. Front St. All styles of carriages for weddings, funerals, park driving will be furnished at lowest prices, day or night.
800 Block of South Front Street
800 Block of South Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1929.
810 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | Potter Express Company |
Camden News Condensed — Mrs. Anetta Timerline murdered
Philadelphia Inquirer —
1000 Block of South Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1895–1947.
1058 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Dominick Grada |
| 1947 | No information available |
1060 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | William Smith |
| 1947 | No listing in directory |
| 1947 | No listing |
1062 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Joseph Miller |
| 1947 | No listing in directory |
| 1947 | No listing |
1064 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Roma Shaw, Robert Pollard |
| 1926 | Roma Shaw |
| 1926 | Robert Pollard |
| 1947 | No listing in directory |
| 1947 | No listing |
1066 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | No listing in directory |
| 1926 | No Listing |
1068 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1895 | Mrs. Anetta Timerline |
| 1926 | Samuel Brown |
1068 South Front Street — Mrs. Anetta Timerline, 1895. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 20, 1895.
CAMDEN NEWS CONDENSED. — Mrs. Anetta Timerline, of 1068 South Front street, who was murdered by William A. Thein, was buried in Mount Moriah Cemetery yesterday.
Intersection of South Front Street & Chestnut Street
1100 Block of South Front Street, 1906.
Evil Doers Quake
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Mayor Hatch, of Camden, Starts in to Wipe Out Speak-Easies
FIRST RAID A SUCCESS
Fines Imposed by Recorder Nowrey for Operating Gambling Machines. Sunday Sellers Hope to Escape
Mayor Cooper B. Hatch is making life miserable for evil doers in Camden. After waging relentless warfare on Sunday liquor sellers and seizing all the gambling machines in saloons and cigar stores, he is now clearing out speak-easies. The first raid was made yesterday afternoon, when Captain Stanley, Sergeant Hyde, Detective Painter and Policeman Shaw swooped down on Mrs. Mary Mahan’s house, at 1062 South Front street. They found nearly enough liquor there to stock a saloon. There were two cases of bottled beer, five gallons of whisky, a large quantity of California wines, and other “wet” goods. This was all confiscated and was sent to the City Hall, together with Mrs. Mahan and a young girl.
For some time past Mayor Hatch’s private detectives have been gathering evidence against speak-easies and disorderly houses in different parts of the city, and several more arrests will be made.
The saloonkeepers arrested about ten days ago for operating slot machines in their places were arraigned yesterday before Recorder Nowrey. Maurice Hertz, of Locust street and Kaighn avenue, was the first to be tried. He was represented by former Judge Howard Carrow. The complaints against Hertz charged him with operating nickel-in-the-slot gambling machines on July 2 and 9.
Harry Williams, one of Secretary Gibboney’s detectives, who was employed in the recent Sunday liquor crusade, testified that he played “The Owl” in Hertz’s saloon on July 9. He lost five cents on the red but hit the black and quit even. On cross-examination Williams refused to tell by whom he was employed, and Recorder Nowrey would not compel him to answer. Detective Fields swore that he was with Williams in Hertz’s place, and also played the slot machine. Police Captain Stanley said he found four of the slot machines in Hertz’s place when he made the raid.
At this point Judge Carrow moved to dismiss the complaint, as it was dated in the year “189.” Decision was reserved, and the other complaint was taken up. Judge Carrow wanted this set aside on the ground that it did not specify the premises where the law was alleged to have been violated. Recorder Nowrey overruled the motion.
Detective Graper said he played the slot machine at Hertz’s saloon on Sunday, July 2. On cross-examination he refused to give his address, but said he worked for Mayor Hatch. He didn’t know, he said, whether he was on the city pay roll.
David B. Kaighn and other Kaighn avenue residents testified that they never saw slot machines in operation in Hertz’s place, but had seen them standing in the office.
Hertz, in his own defense, said he was agent for the slot machines, and those found in his office were samples to be examined by prospective purchasers.
Recorder Nowrey sentenced Hertz to pay a fine of $50 and costs. Judge Carrow gave notice that he would appeal the case, but the Recorder refused to permit Hertz to depart without paying the fine.
Peter Kelly, of Eighth street and Ferry avenue, was also convicted and paid his fine.
John Keefe, of Haddon avenue and Carman street, and Marshall Hutchinson, of Ninth and Walnut streets, pleaded guilty and were fined $50 and costs each. There were about seven more cases, which Recorder Nowrey adjourned until next Wednesday.
The 130 saloonkeepers rounded up in the recent crusade against Sunday liquor selling were in high glee yesterday over the discovery of a law that they hoped would save them from punishment for their alleged misdoings. This law was passed in 1874, and makes it unlawful to prosecute any person by indictment for violations of the liquor laws in municipalities where city ordinances provide punishment for such offenses. As the Supreme Court has set aside the Camden excise ordinance, the saloonkeepers hoped to escape further prosecution.
City Counsel Bleakly, after looking up the matter yesterday, said: “A house in which the unlawful sale of liquors is habitually made is an indictable nuisance, although there is a city ordinance prescribing penalty for such sales. Such traffic is not only a breach of the city law, but is also forbidden by the State law.” This decision was made by Judge Van Syckel in 1880, in the Court of Errors and Appeals, and was reaffirmed in 1888. It is now a State law.
The Excise Commission, at its regular meeting next Wednesday evening, will probably adopt a substitute ordinance against Sunday liquor selling to conform to the city charter, under the Supreme Court’s decision setting aside the old ordinance.
Mrs. Mary Kroecker obituary
Camden Courier-Post —
1100 Block of South Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1884–1964.
1120 South Front Street (aka 1118 Front Street)
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1900–1903 | Michael Delaney & Family |
| 1926 | Mrs. Ada Clark, Harry Angstadt |
| 1926 | Mrs. Ada Clark |
| 1926 | Harry Angstadt |
| 1960 | Frederick Kroecker & Family (Mary Smalls Kroecker) |
1120½ South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
1122 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1897–1959 | Kroecker's Cafe (saloon; George P. Kroecker & Family) |
1122-1/2 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | William Toland |
1122½ South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1906 | No information available |
| 1926 | William Toland |
1130 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Mrs. Linda W. Knight |
| 1947 | No information available |
1132 & 1134 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | William A. Ross |
| 1951–1964 | Mamie Buggs (Betty Sanders, Charles Wing, James Johnson) |
1132 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | William A. Ross |
1134 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1915 | American Art Glass Company |
| 1960 | James Miles (Edward Michalak, A. Yale Lochter) |
| 1960 | James MIles |
1135 South Front Street (also 1131–1135 South Front Street)
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1884 | Wilson Coal & Ice Company (Henry B. Wilson Sr., George E. Wilson Sr.) |
| 1906 | Justice Coal Company |
| 1906 | Howard T. Justice |
1138 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Patrick J. Smith (horse shoer) |
1140 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Mrs. Ida Pickering |
| 1947 | No information available |
1157 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Kalman Steel Company |
| 1926 | Delaware River Discharging (stevedores) |
| 1926 | Delaware River DIscharging |
1159 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Mrs. Fannie Branhirst |
| 1929 | No information available |
1161 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1884 | Mrs. Ella Anderson |
| 1926 | Bernard Schuman |
| 1929 | No information available |
1164 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1929 | No information available |
1120 South Front Street — Frederick Kroecker & Family, 1960. Camden Courier-Post, March 7, 1960.
MRS. MARY KROECKER — Mrs. Mary Kroecker, of 1120 S. Front st., died Saturday in West Jersey Hospital. Surviving are her husband, Fred; a daughter, Mrs. Doris Rychlicki, of Thorofare; two brothers, William Smalls, of Camden, and Henry Smalls, of Runnemede; a sister, Mrs. Lena Parks, of Camden, and a grandson. Services and burial will be private.
1132 South Front Street — Damaged by fire, March 24, 1951. Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1951.
Camden Fire Alarms — The following is a list of fire alarms in Camden from midnight Friday to midnight Saturday. 2.57 a.m., Baird boulevard and Marlton avenue, grass fire. 12.39 and 12.45 p.m., two alarms, 1132 South Front street, part interior, exterior and contents.
The following is a list from midnight Saturday to midnight Sunday. 6.54 p.m., Tenth and Cooper streets, automobile.
1132 & 1134 South Front Street — Mamie Buggs, 1951–1964. Camden Courier-Post, April 4, 1962.
Stove Fire Routs 4 on So. Front St.
A two-alarm fire routed four persons and badly damaged a home at 1134 South Front street today. Routed were Miss Mamie Buggs, 34, occupant of the first floor apartment; her niece, Betty Sanders, 3, who lives next door; Charles Wing, 37, who occupies a second floor room, and James Johnson, 56, who resides on the third floor. Wing told police he had filled a kerosene stove and then stepped outside. When he returned, he said, the stove exploded and the flaming kerosene set the room on fire. Fanned by a strong wind, the flames spread through the rear of the home. The adjoining dwelling was damaged by smoke and water. Firemen James Quinton, 42, of the Fourth and Pine station, suffered a puncture wound of his foot and was treated at Cooper hospital.
1132 & 1134 South Front Street — Mamie Buggs, 1951. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 25, 1951.
Fireman Injured As Flames Rout 10
A fireman was injured and 10 persons were driven out of two houses when fire broke out at 1134 S. Front st., Camden, yesterday. Hoseman James Clinton, 42, of 1915 S. 7th st., Camden, was treated at Cooper Hospital for an injured right foot. Miss Mamie Buggs, 34; her niece, Betty Sanders, three; Charles Wing, 27, and James Johnson, 56, ran from 1134 S. Front st. Six persons fled from 1132 S. Front st. Five engine companies and two truck companies fought the flames in a high wind.
1134 South Front Street — American Art Glass Company, 1915. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 17, 1915.
Twenty Glass Workers Strike
When twenty men went on strike at the plant of the American Art Glass Company, Front and Kaighn avenue, Camden, yesterday, the police were called upon to prevent threatened trouble. This was due to the fact that the strikers were said to have taken exception to strike breakers. Most of them remained away from the place, however, and it was not necessary to make any arrests. The men say they are dissatisfied with prices set on new contracts. Their wages range from $16 to $25 a week.
1134 South Front Street — American Art Glass Company, 1915. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 18, 1915.
CAMDEN AT A GLANCE — There was a settlement between the strikers and their employers of the American Art Glass Company yesterday, resulting in the men returning to work without further trouble.
1134 South Front Street — James Miles, 1960. Camden Courier-Post, May 14, 1960.
Flames Wreck House On S. Front St.
Fire practically destroyed a three-story frame house at 1134 S. Front st., Friday night. District Chief Edward Michalek said the fire apparently started when an unidentified person ignited two carts loaded with paper which were standing against the house. The flames quickly spread to the dwelling. James Miles, 61, the only occupant of the premises, got out of the house safely. The owner of the house is A. Yale Lochter, of 1240 Gilham st., Philadelphia.
Fire at Henry B. Wilson’s, South Front Street
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Camden firemen also had their share of hard work. At eleven o’clock in the morning they were called to the engine house of Henry B. Wilson, kindling wood manufacturer, on Front street, above Kaighn’s avenue. The flames spread at once to the adjoining houses and sheds and to a one-story frame coal office belonging to Mr. Wilson. The firemen worked hard in the blazing sun, but for some time the terrestrial blaze defied their efforts. Half a dozen families set their goods out on the pavement. Nos. 1159 and 1161 South Front street were burned, Mrs. Anderson escaping from one house and Mrs. Williams from the other just in time to save their clothing from taking fire. The flames spread to Webb’s barber shop, to a neighboring spar yard and to the residences of Mr. W. M. Day, No. 27; Mr. Keifer, No. 29, and Mr. Vasey, No. 31 Kaighn’s avenue, and also to No. 33. The total loss is about $14,000. Mr. Wilson suffering to the extent of $2000; Mr. Raymore, $6000, Hatch & Brothers, $1000, and John Dobbins & Sons and the others between $500 and $700 each.
Intersection of South Front Street & Kaighn Avenue
Southeast corner of Front Street & Kaighn Avenue — South Ferry Hotel (aka Joseph Kaighn House), 1800s–1899. 1883–1884: Theodore Krug, proprietor. 1885–1889: John Korn, proprietor. 1890–1899: William Brosch, proprietor. 1202 South 2nd Street (aka 102 Kaighn Avenue). Gone 1906.
1885 Sanborn fire insurance map showing the South Ferry Hotel at the southeast corner of Front Street and Kaighn Avenue.
Built prior to the Revolutionary War, during the British occupation of Philadelphia one of their cannon balls pierced the brick wall of the chimney, and rolled out on the hearth of the open fireplace. As a relic connecting Camden’s history with the events of the Revolution it was exhibited at the great Sanitary Fair, held in Logan Square in Philadelphia, in 1864, which realized over $1,000,000 in aid of the sick and wounded Union soldiers of the Civil War.
The South Ferry Hotel, located at the southeast corner of Kaighn Avenue and Front Street, has been known to the citizens of Camden as a hotel, and its gardens as a place of resort, for more than a century (1886). Originally it was a farmhouse built by one of the Kaighn family; the exact date when it was converted into a hotel is unknown, but the names of the landlords are familiar to the old residents, and include Adon Wills, Ebenzer Toole, Captain George Bender, Hewlings Haines, Aaron Hillman, William Bryant, John Kinsell, Daniel W. Beckley, Abraham Smith, Sothron Norcross, ex-Sheriff Leeds, Daniel Wells, William Sands, Theodore Krug, and the present proprietor, John Korn.
When first opened as a hotel it was close by the river-bank, and the ferry-boats, when started, had their slip across the street. The hotel is now nearly two squares away from the Kaighn’s Point Ferry, the intervening ground having being filled in and built up to within a short distance of the ferry slip. It, however, still retains the name of South Ferry Hotel. A century ago it was a famous place of resort in the summer days for citizens of Philadelphia.
—History of Camden County, New Jersey, George Reeser Prowell, 1886
Around 1900 the South Ferry Hotel was razed to accommodate an expansion of the railroad yard at South Front Street and Kaighn Avenue.
1200 Block of South Front Street
1200 Block of South Front Street — Occupants
City directory records, 1883–1947.
1202 South 2nd Street (aka 102 Kaighn Avenue)
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1883–1884 | South Ferry Hotel (saloon & beer garden; Theodore Krug, proprietor) |
| 1885–1889 | South Ferry Hotel (John Korn, proprietor) |
| 1890–1899 | South Ferry Hotel (William Brosch, proprietor) |
| c. 1900 | Razed (railroad yard expansion) |
1236 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | No listing in directory |
| 1926 | No Listing |
| 1947 | Gone |
1238 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | James Love |
| 1947 | No information available |
1240 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Mrs. Annie Parker |
| 1947 | No information available |
1246 South Front Street
| Year ↕ | Name ↕ |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Vacant |
| 1947 | No information available |
Pensions Awarded 6 Cops, 17 Firemen
Camden Courier-Post —
Inspector Humes Refuses to Withdraw Application in Spite of Requests
Pensions for six policemen and 17 firemen took effect with the dawn of the New Year yesterday.
Proposed Salary reductions from five to 30 percent prompted the wholesale requests for pensions which were approved Saturday at noon by the Police and Firemen’s Pension Commission, of which Mayor Roy R. Stewart is chairman.
The proceedings were delayed one hour while efforts were being made by political leaders and friends to have Inspector Charles T. Humes reconsider his application. But he refused to withdraw his application and it was approved.
Two sergeants, a city detective and four captains of the fire department were included in the list of applicants.
Sergeants Albert York and Clarence Thorn, Detective David Hunt and Fire Captains Harry Haines, John Lutts, James R. White and William H. Miller, Jr., were included among the pensioners.
Major W. Greenwood and Adrian Bateman, two patrolmen, completed the list from the police department, while the others receiving pension awards who are member [sic] of the fire department were:
Elmer Burkett, 66; Robert M. Coffman, 57; Howard E. Currie, 52; James E. Navin, 67; George W. Hollins, 64; Richard S. Marter, 60; Arthur A. Wingate, 64; Joseph T. Earnest, 63; Samuel E. Harring, 64; Andrew Miller, 73; Stewart Bakley, William K. Buzine, 63, and Daniel Grimes.
The application of Marter’s was passed, but an improviso [sic] was made by the commission which gave him the opportunity of recalling his decision but he failed to take advantage of it.
It was explained that the city commission’s resolution passed at noon, providing that members of the police and fire departments could continue in their employment under the 1933 wage scale, but that their pensions would not be affected by the cut and they could retire under the 1931 basic pay, might cause Marter to want to rescind his action.
Mayor Stewart and Commissioner Bennett, both members of the commission, said they regretted so many “young men” were asking to be pensioned at this time.
Greenwood, 54, was appointed to the police department 21 years ago and during nearly all of this time has been attached to the First district. He lives in the First ward, at 220 York street, and will receive a pension of $83.30 monthly.
Buzine is a veteran of nearly 28 years’ service. He is 63, lives at 856 Haddon avenue and will be pensioned at $90.65. He was classed as an engineer in the fire department.
The applications of Captain John Lutts, of Engine Company No. 6, Front and Linden streets, and Elmer Burkett, engineer of the No. 4 Company, were filed shortly before noon.
Captain Lutts, 62, lives at 456 Royden street, and will receive a pension of $100 monthly. He was appointed 33 years ago.
Burkett, 66, lives at 330 North Ninth street. He was appointed to the fire department in 1907 and spent a great portion of his service at the fire station at Front and Linden streets, recently being transferred to the Vine street house. He will be pensioned at $90.65 monthly.
Is Zat So!
Camden Courier-Post —
YOU can always rely on Camden to bring back the normal balance. The more I see of this city the more it is impressed on me that realism can be found anywhere in the place. Camden is a good antidote for pessimism and cynicism, if you only want to find the cure and are fortunate enough to locate it.
This thought seeped into my ken the other day after I had read one of those kind of magazine articles, that always give me a pain in the neck. It was one of those “expert” articles telling youth how to find its proper sphere in the business world.
The dame who was dishing out the piffle-paffle on that score had the decency to admit that one of her students wanted to “know how he would get a job” rather than listen to all the ballyhoo about how to fill in your own conspicuous niche.
Accompanying the article was the usual honey from personnel managers about openings that their corporation possessed for the paragons who could answer all the requirements. The fact that these personnel managers declared there was always room for such material made me laugh. For, argued the Mackay, if all these positions are crying and begging for men, how come there are 10 million unemployed in this country, according to unemployment census.
Of course the whole business was a lot of guff and meant nothing in the face of the facts. Certainly these positions couldn’t go begging without being filled from the raw material that might be found in the army of 10 million idle workers. That type of hooey is even too tough for an incurable optimist like myself to swallow.
Laughabilities Rise at Detective “Mag”
My laughter increased as I read one of those “true detective” publications. What made me laugh was that every article, factually correct, ended with the admonition that crime does not pay. That suited me all right, too. Until I cast a surreptitious eye over the advertisements in this magazine; only to discover that it was packed from cover to cover with all the gyp and sucker advertisements that one can shake up.
The fact that this magazine was pushing out its message that crime does not pay and then purveying to the lads that trim the suckers whenever the trimming was good was too much for my blood. I began to want to exercise profanity, which is something that intimate friends know is a thing that Mackay rarely uses.
So we went for the domestic hearth in both sorrow and anger, only to bump into Mark Marritz. Mark will never be president of the United States but if Haddon Township remains a G.O.P. citadel it is a fair assumption that Mark will always be solicitor for the township unless he rebels and becomes a Democrat.
Now Mark Marritz is an excellent antidote for skepticism, pessimism and cynicism regarding America and her institutions. Mark was born in Kiev, Russia where he remained until he was 10 years old, when the family migrated to Wilmington.
“You can’t tell me anything about Russia today,” Marritz ventured to the writer. “Because I know how it was before the World War. I was born in Kiev and we were compelled to keep a picture of the Czar in the house, in fact every household in Russia had to display the Czar’s picture.”
“Jewish boys in Kiev, where they had massacres and pogroms against the Jewish people, were not allowed to go to school. They were prohibited from getting an education.”
Had His Fight to Get Ahead
“The only way we Jewish boys—my father was a merchant in Kiev—could get an education was through the rabbi. He couldn’t have a regular school either, he was compelled to teach each boy as a separate pupil.
“I got a good working knowledge of mathematics from the rabbi and also some of the Russian and Jewish culture. Imagine how I felt, too, when my father came to America and we settled in Wilmington. For I had to go into the first class in the lowest grade at school, because I could not speak English.”
“I had to learn the alphabet just like youngsters who were going to a school for the first time. As soon as I mastered English, though, I went ahead more rapidly, for the rabbi’s teaching had given me education along the lines that were necessary to me.”
Marritz is a walking advertisement for the destiny and glories of the melting pot. Energetic, good-looking, personable and with a talent for conversation and a penchant for the law. Mark assuaged some of the indignation that was wrought when we read the hooey that had been printed in those magazines.
Next we get a further advance back to normalcy when we bumped into Pat Iarossi. Pat is a barber but that doesn’t deter him from basking in the sunshine at Miami and thanking his lucky stars that his family moved from San Marco in Italy to Camden years ago.
Pat is another excellent example of the melting-pot. His barber-shop is now located at 600 North Third Street, site having been Pat’s for the past 14 years. Before that he had a shop on Front Street, where he barbered the native sons and daughters for 20 years.
Make no mistake, Pat has carried the tradition of the America that benefited him so much into his own activities. The years of service of his four employees amount to 52.
The oldest employee has been stropping the razors there for 18 years while the baby of the outfit, who is not so old either, has been employed by Pat for 10 years. Two others enjoy terms of 14 and 12 years.
Pat’s greatest memories cluster about Ann Pennington, Camden’s gift to the Follies and the stage, and the Dooleys, a theatrical family which also is a proud Camden possession.
“I used to cut Ann Pennington’s hair when she was a child,” Pat recalled. “And the Dooleys always made my shop their headquarters. Billy Dooley worked for me. The kids, six of them, trained in a patch we called the ‘cow lot.’ Rae and May were the two girls, while Johnny was the big shot of the boys.”
“They used to turn cartwheels right out in the lot there and come into my shop to do a little vocal rehearsing. Ann Pennington was always dancing, you couldn’t keep her feet still. I remember one day Ann, Johnny Dooley and a girl named Moore went over to Lubin’s in Philadelphia, trying to break into the movies.
“Lubin wouldn’t handle them and they all came crying into my shop.” Whereupon Pat produced a post card dated in 1911 showing Johnny Dooley starring in the old Bijou Theatre in Philadelphia.
So Pat has no envy of the thespians or of anybody else. Why should he—Miami is some place to spend the Winter.
4 Cops, 4 Firemen, Widow of One Win City Pensions
Camden Courier-Post —
Johnson, Garrity, Crawford, Stahl Retire Aug. 31
Four police officers and four firemen applied for pensions under the mandatory 65-year-old retirement law today.
The applications, all approved by the police-firemen pension board, are in line with Commissioner Aaron’s order in December, 1948, advising chiefs of the respective services that state law requires retirement of all personnel who have reached 65.
Police officers to be pensioned are Detective Capt. Samuel E. Johnson, 71, Capt. John T. Garrity, 65, Detective Frank Crawford, 69, and Patrolman Harry Stahl, 68.
Fire department members include Deputy Chief Clarence Madden, 67, and Firemen John Prucella, 75; Spencer Smith Sr., 68, and Frank L’Esperance, 66.
The eight men will retire Aug. 31, with each receiving one-half of the average annual salary of the last three years.
Also approved today was an application for a widow’s pension by Mrs. Carrie Bean, 1103 North Twenty-sixth street. Her husband, Patrolman Howard Bean, died June 8, eight days after being pensioned. She will receive $1000 annually.
Captain Johnson, of 211 Elm street, is considered the dean of the police department, having served 40 years.
Johnson, who will receive $2019 annually, was appointed in April, 1910, and was made a detective 10 years later. He was elevated to sergeant in November, 1928, and to lieutenant in 1930. One year after he was cited in 1942 by former Public Safety Director Mary Kobus, Johnson was raised to captain. He served as acting police chief from December, 1947, to December, 1949.
Captain Garrity will receive $1601 annually. He served as commander in each of the three city districts. Garrity was appointed in January, 1920; made sergeant July, 1930; lieutenant in 1940, and captain on June 30, 1944. He lives at 2515 Morgan boulevard.
Following a “pep” meeting with city detectives Thursday, Aaron announced he had transferred Captain Garrity to his office for “special assignments.” Sgt. William Schultz was named acting captain to head the third police district to replace Garrity.
Crawford, of 578 Chestnut street, will draw $1501. He was named to the force in 1912 and resigned eight years later. In 1931 he was reinstated and received a promotion to detective status in 1942. He was cited by former Chief John Golden.
Stahl Appointed in 1917
Stahl lives at 1513 Baird avenue. After his appointment in 1917, he saw service in most departments of the bureau. He will receive an annual pension of $1401.
Chief Madden, 2760 Mickle street, is serving as fire commander for the second fire district at Twenty-seventh and Federal streets. He was appointed July 1, 1910 and assigned to Engine Co. 5, Fifth and Arch streets.
In 1922 he was raised to lieutenant, and six years later became senior captain. Madden was named battalion chief Nov. 21, 1944 and deputy chief on Dec. 16, 1949.
Madden will receive about $2000, with the others drawing approximately $1358 annually.
Prucella, 919 Penn street, was sworn in on Nov. 1, 1911 and joined Engine Co. 5. Since 1933 he has been serving at No. 6 Engine Co., Front and Linden streets.
Smith was appointed May 1, 1914 and assigned to No. 1 Engine Co., Fourth and Pine streets. He has been attached to No. 10 Engine Co., Ninth street and Morgan boulevard, since 1920.
Frank L’Esperance, 604 Clinton street, is also a member of No. 10 Engine Co., where he has been attached since 1938. He was appointed June 6, 1918 and served with No. 5 and No. 3 engine companies.
Police Seeking Hidden Motive in Bar Slaying
Camden Courier-Post —
Doubt ‘Brawl’ Explanation in Fatal Bellmawr Shooting of Andrew Scarduzio
COUNTY DETECTIVE CHIEF ORDERS MORE QUIZZING
Police sought a “hidden motive” for the slaying early Sunday of Andrew Scarduzio, Eighth ward political worker, in a Bellmawr taproom.
Little credence was given to the story that the shooting occurred during a brawl which followed the barring of three men from the taproom at 5.30 a. m.
County Detective Chief Lawrence T. Doran today ordered the questioning of two women, one a resident of Camden, who were at the establishment when the shooting occurred.
Fresh Quiz Ordered
Doran also ordered further questioning of Dale Rose, proprietor of the saloon where the shooting occurred, on the Black Horse pike, at Bellmawr.
A third man was taken to City Hall early today for questioning by police, but whether he was held was not disclosed.
He is Joseph Romanowski, 28, of Mt. Vernon street, near Orchard street. According to Doran the latest man questioned denied he was present at the time of the shooting of Scarduzio, but was there two hours before when there was an argument over who was to pay for the drinks.
Romanowski was taken into custody in a tavern near his home by Detective Sergeant Thomas Murphy.
“I was at the Bellmawr saloon at 3 a. m., when the bartender closed the place for the night,” Romanowski told Doran, the detective chief said. “But I did not return at 5 a. m., when the murder was committed.”
Two Others Held
Police said the only criminal record against Romanowski was an arrest 10 years ago for carrying concealed deadly weapons. Disposition of the case is not on record.
The second man questioned and held in connection with the investigation is Joseph Lenkowski, 29. According to Dominic “Mickey” Hanley, bartender, who had an argument with five men over payment of drinks at 3 a. m., Lenkowski was one of them. Lenkowski is being held as a material witness.
Stephan Jaskiewicz, 22, a criminal registrant who came here from Pittsburgh in 1937, was held for investigation Sunday night.
Two other men are being sought. They are believed to have been members of the trio which forced its way into the Black Horse pike tavern, engaged in a free-for-all battle, fired seven shots from three guns and ran out.
Scarduzio, Eighth ward political worker, was shot in the groin and the ankle and died several hours later in West Jersey Hospital. The dead man was a brother of Nicholas Scarduzio, recently employed by City Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety, to check parking law violations. Nicholas was a witness to the shooting.
Lenkowski, who was arrested yesterday, first broke into police records in May, 1931, when he was convicted of being one of four bandits who broke into the old Bridge Cafe at Front and Pearl streets. One of the bandits was killed by Policeman Everett Joslin. A jury convicted Lenkowski and on its mercy recommendation he was sent to Rahway.
Still Seeking Motive
When arrested by Chief Doran and City Detective Harry Kyler, Lenkowski gave his address as 535 South Eighth street. He was booked after being taken to Bellmawr for identification.
Hanley told the police that when the men refused to pay for what had been served to them, he said: “Okay. It’s my mistake and we’ll call it a little Christmas party on the house.”
A. B. C. Enters Case
No guns were flashed on the first visit and no reports of threats by the departing quintette have been made public.
Three agents for the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission entered the case yesterday to determine why Rose’s place was open at 5.30 Sunday morning. The agents are William Brooks, Bayard Sullivan and Roscoe Lockwood. They went to Bellmawr and took statements from Rose and others who were in the tavern at the time of the shooting.
The A. B. C. entered the case after the borough council at a special meeting Sunday afternoon suspended Rose’s license pending investigation by the council, mayor and county officials.
Fourteen Caught in Saloon Round-Up
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Latest Haul Made by the Law and Order League in Camden
There was another round-up of Camden county liquor dealers yesterday. Complaints were made against fourteen persons by George B. M. Adams, an agent of the Law and Order League.
Those for whom warrants were issued are: Walter S. Hubbs and wife, charged with running a speak-easy in Pensauken township; John Keefe, of Fogarty avenue and Carman street; Thomas Farnham, Ninth and Lawrence streets; John Daly, 321 North Seventh street; William Gallagher, 106 Kaighn avenue; Charles E. Bakley, 2318 Federal street; John H. Carroll, Third and Cherry streets; John H. Jones, 517 North Front street; George W. Hoskins, 505 Main street; William Convery, Eleventh and Carpenter streets; John Opfer, Front and Pearl streets; Joan [sic] Dugan, Front and Pearl streets; Michael J. Walsh, 503 Federal street.
All entered bail before Justice Schultz for hearings to-day except Opfer, Gallagher and Walsh. The latter was locked up and the other two sent word they would appear this morning. The complaints will at once be submitted to the grand jury.
Injured as Fire Destroys Kresge Building
Camden Courier-Post —
BROADWAY STORE BUILDING WRECKED BY THREE-ALARM FIRE—Shown is the interior of the S. S. Kresge building, at 29-33 Broadway, which was destroyed by fire last night and early today. Five firemen were burned in the blaze, which threatened the central business district.
2nd Blaze Calls Out All Men
Camden’s entire fire-fighting facilities were called on during the night to battle two blazes, one a three-alarm in which five firemen were injured.
The three-alarm fire swept the S. S. Kresge building at 29-33 Broadway, threatening the central business district until brought under control.
Discovered at 10.17 p. m., the Kresge fire brought all except three of the city’s 12 companies to the scene. At 1.52 a. m. fire broke out at the Camden Foundry Co., Front and Elm streets, requiring the three remaining companies.
The North Camden blaze was confined to a small section of the building. Firemen said it was caused by an overheated stove which set moulding afire. Firemen returned from this blaze at 2.15 a. m.
With five firemen temporarily unavailable for service because of face and hand burns, Deputy Chief Erickson appealed to the city electrical bureau at 12.30 to summon all available off-duty firemen.
Firemen were forced to lie flat on the slush-covered pavements to play hoses into the Kresge building because of the dense smoke billowing from doorways and windows. After two hours, many were at the point of exhaustion.
Smoke Fills Building
The fire was believed to have started in the basement and the building was filled with smoke when firemen arrived. They were unable to enter the building.
At 2 a.m. the flames broke through the roof and were visible for 10 blocks. The first floor was sagging at the ends of the building after the fire broke through the center.
Forcing a corrugated iron receiving door in the rear, firemen of Engine Company No. 8 were forced to drop to the street as flames shot 35 feet into Hudson street.
Lines Through Terminal
Hose lines were run through the highspeed line terminal, which adjoins the fired building. A line was played into the building from the roof of the terminal.
Several times firemen were forced to crawl backward from the building as back-lashes of flames roared from the interior.
Taken to Cooper hospital with burns of the face were Firemen William Reed, Thomas Winstanley and Thomas McParland. All returned to the fire for duty.
Treated at the scene were Acting Captain Howell Needham and Fireman Theodore Guthrie. They were burned about the hands and face.
Water Bureau Helps
Shortly after arrival Acting Chief Walter Mertz announced the city water pressure was low and water barely trickled from a plug on Hudson street near the rear of the building.
Water Superintendent Edward Sheehan was notified and upon an inspection of the plug, found the control system had been broken as firemen attempted to open it. This reduced the ordinary flow by about two-thirds, Sheehan said.
Before he arrived at the fire, Sheehan ordered five extra pumps put into operation at various city pumping stations to increase pressure. When the fire broke out, the city pumps
Fire Engine Wrecked; Four Firemen Hurt
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Chemical Apparatus Overturned While Answering an Alarm in Camden
Four Camden firemen were injured yesterday by the overturning of chemical engine No. 2 while responding to an alarm of fire at Front street and Kaighn avenue. The victims are:
Foreman Charles H. Robinson, breast bone broken, severely bruised about the head, shoulders and hips.
William Rose, right wrist and elbow sprained, and cut over the eye.
Samuel Price, severely bruised about the body.
Peter Carter, driver, bruised about the head and arms.
Smoke issuing from the ruins of Wisson, Harbison & Co.’s stables, at 1135 South Front street, which were burned several days ago, caused the alarm to be turned in. Chemical Engine Company No. 2 was dashing down Kaighn avenue when the front wheels of the engine caught in a switch of the trolley car tracks at Second street. The switch twisted the engine around so that it was overturned on its side. All four firemen were thrown violently to the asphalt pavement, but fortunately escaped falling beneath the three-ton engine, or they would have been crushed to death.
Fireman Rose was hurried to Cooper Hospital, and, after having his injuries dressed, was taken home. It was not until he returned to the engine house that Foreman Robinson found he was injured internally. He also went to Cooper Hospital, but is now confined to his home. The engine was so badly damaged that it had to be sent to the repair shop. The fire did no damage.
Lively Trials of Policy Cases
Camden Daily Telegram —
Ketline Convicted Again But Gilbert Escapes.
JUDGES DID NOT SEEM TO AGREE
Members of the Court Held an Animated Whispered Discussion on the Bench and Then Re-opened the Case.
A trial of the policy cases in the Criminal Court yesterday afternoon was not without exciting incidents. When the case of Washington Ketline was called, Charles Stell, who was employed by the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union to secure evidence, testified that he bought a slip from the defendant on August 22, 1895, in a room over McKenna’s saloon on North Front street.
The witness was shown a slip, which he identified as the one he purchased from Ketline on that day. The identification was made, he said, by the words “white dog row, ten cents,” written on it. Stell said he had bought slips from Ketline several times.
On the stand Ketline said he had not engaged in policy dealing since convicted in April, 1895. He said he had been convicted twice. Once he was fined $100 and another time the case was taken to the Supreme Court, where it is now pending. Ex-Judge Wescott, counsel for Ketline, scored the prosecuting witnesses in summing up the case. “If there ever was a person plastered all over with crime and dishonor,” said ex-Judge Wescott, “it is that man. He should be tarred and feathered and sent to the North Pole or some other place capable of producing such a scamp.”
The ex-Judge accused Stell of writing the slip himself.
Ketline was promptly convicted.
The most interesting case was that next tried. Charles Gilbert, who was indicted under the new act of 1894, known as the “Storrs Law,” which makes it a felony, punishable by imprisonment of not less than one or more than five years, to have in one’s possession any of the paraphernalia of the game of lottery policy. Gilbert’s base of operation was an alleged cigar store in Locust street. Policeman Shaw was the only witness. He had forced his way into a rear room of the shop and found Gilbert hustling into the drawer of a table at which he sat a lot of the paraphernalia of the game, which was produced in evidence. The State brought no testimony to show that these articles really constituted a policy layout, and Law Judge Vroom said if that was all the evidence there was in the case it would have to be dismissed.
There was instant hubbub. Counselor Wescott smiled his broadest smile. Lay Judge Burdsall’s face looked like a thundergust as he leaned over to Law Judge Vroom. Lay Judge McDowell whispered excitedly, and all three got into an animated discussion which seemed to reach no satisfactory conclusion. Lay Judge Burdsall’s displeasure was so apparent as he drew away and elevated his head in the air that no spectator was in doubt as to the purport of the heated discussion. At length Law Judge Vroom said the State might reopen its case. Counselor Wescott demurred. Assistant Prosecutor Carson hurriedly conferred with Lay Judge Burdsall and then ran down to Policeman Shaw, who sat in the bar inclosure. Then Shaw got on the stand and said he had arrested Gilbert on a warrant, and that when he entered the place a colored man was quarrelling with Gilbert over the latter’s failure to pay a “hit.” Counselor Wescott objected and got an exception. Then Prosecutor Jenkins made a speech; Counselor Wescott made another, and Assistant Prosecutor Carson had his say. Law Judge Vroom explained the law and told a jury who asked “if a man had to be ketched” in the act of selling that under the law it was only necessary to prove that the defendant had the paraphernalia in his possession. The jury was apparently ignorant of the game and were unwilling to believe that the mass of slips, numbers, carbon sheets and other articles were policy articles, for about supper time they returned a verdict of not guilty.
Ex-Judge Wescott this morning asked for a postponement of the other policy cases until later in the term so that counsel might have time to prepare their defense. He presented a sworn affidavit made by himself stating that last night he received information which he believes to be true that the written evidence, or policy slips which the State proposes to introduce against Mrs. Harriett Smith, Mrs. Susan Kinsey, Willoughby Fields, Archie Clark, Edward Bassett and Harry Drake are forgeries. The affidavit further states that he has examined these slips and that they bear evidence of being forgeries, but that he desires to have them examined by experts.
The cases were adjourned until next Thursday. The slips will be examined in the County Clerk’s office in the presence of representatives of both the State and the defendants.
Ex-Judge Wescott was also granted a rule to show cause why a new trial should not be granted in the case of Washington Ketline.
A Blaze in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
A Supposed Incendiary Fire Causes the Destruction of Considerable Property.
A disastrous fire broke out about midnight Saturday on George street, below Front, Camden, and for a while threatened to destroy several valuable properties in that vicinity. The fire originated in a stable in the rear of the West Jersey Hotel, its origin being unknown. The horses and wagons were gotten out in safety but the buildings and their contents were entirely consumed, and from here the flames communicated to the large three story warehouse of Taylor Bros., which was also destroyed. The aggregated loss will amount to $22,300.
D H. Lardman, whose property is in the rear of Market street, sustains a loss to building of $1000; insured for $700. His loss on stock will exceed $3500, insurance not known. Taylor Bros.’ losses will exceed $8000; insured for $2000. This building was the property of the West Jersey Ferry Company, and was not insured. George Campbell, livery keeper, sustained a loss of $2000, insured in the North American Insurance Company for $1500. This building was owned by Samuel Cooper, and was valued at $2000; no insurance. Mr. Vanderslice, expressman, estimates his losses at $2500, with no insurance. The Penn Slate Mantle Works lose $500, with no insurance. The walls were standing in a dangerous condition yesterday, and Chief Daniel S. [sic] Carter ordered them taken down. In complying with the order, three firemen named Barney Harvey, Benjamin Kellum and Amos Middleton were severely injured by portions of it falling upon them. The residents on Market street complain of the inadequate supply of water for such a business thoroughfare.
Fire-Fence Probe Refused by City
Camden Courier-Post —
Officials Declare They Have No Jurisdiction in Factory Blaze Controversy
City officials declared today they would make no investigation into the erection of two large fences which firemen say hampered them in fighting the $225,000 fire at the Varoma Building, Second and Erie streets, early Thursday morning.
The fence, erected by the John R. Evans & Company, cuts off Segal street and prevented the firemen from entering an alley from Front street which would have enabled them, they said, to fight the fire from the rear.
Bernard Gallagher, fire marshal, said there was sufficient water without the firemen using the blocked fire plug on Segal street.
“It required only 150 feet more of hose to circle the yard and this was attached so quickly the Segal street plug was not necessary. We are not planning any investigation,” he said.
Vincent P. Dougherty, vice president of the Allied Metal Stamping Company, whose firm suffered a $75,000 loss, and C. E. Perrin, head of the Philadelphia Metal Stamping Company, which lost $50,000 in the blaze, yesterday asked Mayor Price to order an investigation.
George W. Johnson, building inspector, said today the city had no authority or jurisdiction in the matter.
“The fence was built on the Evans property and no authority is necessary from the city for the erection of a fence,” he said. “There is no regulation I know of requiring gates to be placed in a private fence.”
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler John H. Fort of the B. P. O Elks, has received a dispensation for the institution of Passaic Lodge, at Passaic city, on October 8.
John Galvin, charged with prying open a shutter of the house at 508 North Front street early yesterday morning, was committed in default of $300 bail.
Articles of incorporation were filed in the County Clerk’s office yesterday by the Overhead Railway and Switch Company.
Charged with maintaining a nuisance in the shape of a piggery at Oaklyn, Jacob Fossell, colored, was held in bail yesterday by Justice Schmitz.
The discount of 5 per cent. on taxes will be discontinued after to-day.
Walter Blair, Charles Blair, Charles Curliss, William Dolan and William Meser [sic], boys, were held in bail by Justice Schmitz, yesterday, charged with destroying property belonging to Joseph B. Tees, of 608 Vine street.
S. Conrad Ott, president of the Good Roads League, has been elected a State Representative to the New Jersey Division, L. A. W.
George Brown was fined $20 by Recorder Braker for having a robin in his possession. He was arrested near Pensauken by Game Warden Guthridge.
George N. Gregg, of Merchantville, has been appointed trainmaster of the West Jersey and Seashore Railroad, to succeed A. L. Sparks, resigned. Mr. Gregg has been assistant trainmaster for several years.
The funeral of John C. Garland, late cashier of the Western National Bank, of Philadelphia, took place yesterday. Services were held in St. John’s P. E. Church.
News in Camden County
Philadelphia Inquirer —
The Camden Horse Car Company has contracted with the Johnson Company, of Johnstown, Pa., for seven miles of new track.
Mrs. Rebecca Wright, mother-in-law of City Recorder Baker [sic], of Camden, died Sunday at 255 Kaighn avenue. She was 85 years old.
Ex-Editor Bartrom L. Bonsall and Charles Sprangler both wish to be director of the next Board of Freeholders of Camden county.
At a meeting of the Camden Board of Education last night the committee appointed to investigate the Lee-Seller’s contest, reported in favor of seating the latter. Treasurer Rex’s bond for $30,000 was approved.
Application was made before Vice Chancellor Bird, in Camden, yesterday, for a renewal of the injunction to restrain the Camden and Atlantic Railroad from placing electric railroad poles on Atlantic avenue, Atlantic City.
Walter Kelly was arrested by Detective Henry yesterday and committed by Magistrate Cassady on the charge of being the burglar who stole $339 and a gold watch from under the pillow of John Dugan, of Front and Pearl streets, while he slept.
Four Firemen Are Trapped in Collapse of Brick Wall
Camden Evening Courier —
Flames Sweep Warehouse in South Camden
Fire Fighters are Rescued From Beneath Heaps of Hot Bricks
Burning Tires Send Up Clouds of Dense Smoke
Bantivoglio Junk Yard Destroyed — Loss Runs Into Thousands
Four firemen were buried under a falling brick wall, two of them believed to have been seriously hurt, and thousands of dollars worth of property was destroyed in a spectacular fire at the two story brick warehouse of Bantivoglio & Son, junk dealers, 252 Division Street, at 9:00 o’clock this morning.
The injured firemen attached to Engine Company No. 7, all of whom were taken to West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital, were:
Captain Watkin, 45 years old, 927 North Front street. Four fractured ribs and a punctured lung. He may die.
Nicholas Romaine, 43 years old, hoseman, 1271 Chase Street, lacerations of scalp and possible fracture of right ankle.
Louis Quinton, 25 years old, hoseman, 626 Viola Street, probable fracture of right shoulder.
Lester Anderson, 24 years old, hoseman, 1917 Niagara Road; lacerations of scalp and forehead and fractured left wrist.
None of the four were able to walk when they were lifted from where they had been struck down by the falling bricks. They were carried to the police ambulance and hurried at once to the hospital.
Residents of the neighborhood sat that a flash and a roar, as of an explosion, was their first warning of a blaze. The burned building has a frontage of 75 feet on Division Street. In a yard behind it there was a shed piled high with baled paper and three piled of used automobile tires. These caught fire and sent up black smoke that was visible for miles.
Smoke Hampers Firemen
A huge crowd of spectators already had gathered to watch the fire in this thickly populated section when the firemen arrived. The flames were threatening surrounding buildings, and the smoke was so dense that the men had difficulty finding their way out in the vicinity of the burning structure.
Captain Watkin and the three other fire fighters started along a driveway beside the building with a length of hose which they intended to use on the blazing sheds in the rear. They were passing a window when there was a muffled roar and a blast of dense smoke blinded and confused them. By shouts to one another they heard that their number was still intact. The blast of black smoke had been caused by the collapse of a loft and the falling of several bales of paper.
100,000 Tires Burn
More than 100,000 used automobile tires were destroyed in the blaze. The flames jumped a hundred feet into the air at one stage. Commissioner Hitchner watched the firemen at work from the roof of a nearby garage.
When the blaze had been extinguished Mr. Hitchner left to visit the injured firemen in the hospital. He commended the four men on their bravery and wished them a speedy recovery. Quinton is driver for Battalion Chief Wade.
The flames threatened to spread to the large garage of Louis Vananeri, on Spruce Street, directly in the rear of the junk yard. Firemen mounted the roof of this building and drove the flames back.
Today’s blaze was the fourth that had visited the warehouse this year. The fire today is believed to have been caused by spontaneous combustion.
Carter Directs Rescue
The quarter were stooping to take up their hose line again when there was a crack like the report of a pistol, followed by a terrific roar.
Fire Chief Carter, personally directing his men, was about 50 feet away, and saw the four men buried as the bricks thudded down from the crumbling wall.
“Come on boys, there are four men under here,” the chief yelled, and soon a score of hands were tearing frantically at the heaps of hot brick.
Bus Delays Ambulance
The police ambulance in which the injured men were placed was delayed for five minutes on its way to the hospital by the refusal of a Public Service bus driver to give it the right of way. According to Policeman Howard Fisher, the busman was arrested. The police say he will be prosecuted to the full extent of the ordinance in such cases. The ambulance was forced to remain behind the bus for a block and a half, according to the reports.
The pillar of smoke sent up by the blazing warehouse, sheds and 50-foot high piles of auto tires, drew thousands of spectators from all directions. Three alarms were turned in to the fire department in rapid succession. The police were called upon at once to establish lines for keeping back the crowd.
Bales of paper stored in the main building, as well as in the shed behind, absorbed tons of water poured into the place by the firemen’s hose, and the added weight snapped off fire-weakened floor beams like burning matches. The falling timbers and masses of packed paper added to the danger and difficulty of the firemen’s task.
Only by a long and stubborn fight were the firemen able to prevent a conflagration among surrounding buildings.
The big warehouse became a red hot furnace. The heat was so intense a half-hour after the fire was discovered that telephone and electric light poles on the other side of Division Street were ignited. “Trouble crews” from the telephone and electric companies were rushed to the place to guard their wires against falling and injuring persons below.
Loss Placed at $50,000
It was roughly estimated that the damage to the junk sheds and warehouse would reach $50,000.
Mrs. Leona Brown, who had just moved today into the house at 264 Division Street, just east of the burned plant, was driven from her new home by the dense clouds of smoke from a blazing of automobile tires that towered above the west wall of her two-story dwelling.
She was unable to return for any of her belongings when the flames began to eat their way through the west wall of her house.
The fire was the second within a month in the junk yard, which is closely surrounded by frame residences, a frame negro church and other buildings on all sides.
Romaine Seriously Hurt
Hoseman Romaine was reported by surgeons at the West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital as the most seriously hurt of the firemen caught by the falling wall. He was cut above the head, badly bruised about the back, and one of his ankles is believed to have been fractured.
Captain Watkin suffered several fractured ribs.
Hoseman Anderson was cut and burned about the face and his right wrist.
Hoseman Quinton suffered burns, cuts and bruises, and it is believed that one of his shoulders was fractured.
Over in Camden
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Mayor Westcott has been indorsed for renomination by the Liberty Park Republican Club.
The body of Captain George Deitz, of [?]60 Mount Vernon street, who fell overboard from his scow and was drowned, was recovered in Cooper’s Creek yesterday.
Dennings Clark, who fractured his skull and had his eye punched out by a fall in front of a saloon at West and Clinton streets, has recovered sufficiently to leave the Cooper Hospital.
William H. Still, colored, who shot his wife four times at their home, near Snow Hill, several weeks ago, can get out of the Camden County Jail on $500 bail pending trial. Judge Vroom fixed the amount of bail yesterday, as Mrs. Still is out of danger.
Fires yesterday caused $200 damage at Albert Fleet’s residence, [?]00 North Ninth street, and a loss of $25 at the home of Samuel Harring, [?]19 North Front street, while at Mrs. Boyson’s house, Point and Elm streets, a hundred pigeons were burned to death.
Samuel Harmon, a colored sneak thief, made the mistake of attempting to strip a clothes line in Policeman Schregler’s back yard while the officer was at home eating his dinner. Harmon will regret his mistake during the thirty days he is to spend in the county jail.
Favorable reports were presented yesterday at the third annual meeting of the Woman’s Baptist Union in the North Baptist Church, and these officers were elected: President, Mrs. J. M. Hare; vice-presidents, Mrs. Joseph Cramer, Mrs. John W. Lyell; corresponding secretary, Mrs. S. M. Sampson; treasurer, Mrs. S. O. Hugg.
New Jersey
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Jottings From the State Across the Delaware.
Lizzie Furman was committed to the county jail by Mayor Bradshaw, in default of $100 bail, for trial, charged with stealing a watch, the property of Edward S. Andrews, of No. 105 South Fifth street, Camden.
James Gleason, residing at West street and Bridge avenue, a boss driller in the Pennsylvania Railroad Company’s yard, was seriously injured yesterday afternoon by being thrown from a car, caused by the snapping of a brake chain. His head was badly cut. He was taken home and medical aid summoned.
The Gloucester county Republicans have made the following nominations: State Senator—Stacy Pancoast. Assembly—Job S. Haines. For sheriff Daniel J. Packer is supposed to have received the majority.
The commissioners appointed to assess damages by City Council for the opening of Washington street, east of the West Jersey Railroad, met at the City Hall yesterday and decided to recommend the payment of $2500 to Messrs. Roberts & Cohn, through whose property the street will be cut.
Jacob Nelviss, of Paulsboro, was held in $500 bail last evening by Mayor Moss for trial at court charged with cutting William Pull.
David Payton, colored, was held in $100 bail yesterday by Justice Price charged with assaulting the six-year-old son of Caroline Francis.
Business in the Camden District Court was very brisk yesterday, the principal business being landlord and tenant cases. The following warrants of removal were ordered: Hotchkiss vs. Ellis, Dismant vs. Miller, Pancost vs. Porter, Read vs. Shankland, Numbers vs. Simmons, Numbers vs. Hill, Maires vs. Mellow. The case of Shuck vs. Scott was adjourned until September 29. In debt cases judgment for the plaintiff was awarded as follows: Thurler et al. & Co. vs. Cox, $21; Hollinshead vs. Johnson, $25; Rogers vs. Belding, $69.50. The cases of Johnson & Holt vs. Johnson and O’Neil vs. Pine & Callingham were adjourned until the 27th instant; that of Wright vs. Gilmore until September 26. A non-suit was entered in Shull, Wireback & Co. vs. Orcutt, and the case of Lochead vs. the Prudential Insurance Company of America was held under advisement.
Forest fires are still raging in Atlantic county.
Fifty hands have been temporarily laid off at Starr’s Iron Works.
George Rose and Truman B. Woods, arrested on Sunday for disturbing the peace at Front and Birch streets by holding religious meetings, were arraigned before the mayor yesterday and afterwards released.
A fire at Burlington yesterday destroyed Pfeiffer’s stocking factory. Loss, $20,000; covered by insurance.
Widow Routed by Blaze
Camden Courier-Post —
A Camden woman whose husband was killed seven weeks ago in a traffic mishap today was routed from her home when fire broke out in the upstairs bedroom for the second time within six hours.
Mrs. Edith McDevitt, 45, of 916 Front St. was aroused while sleeping on the living room couch about 8 a.m. as she heard what appeared to be stones hitting a window.
As Mrs. McDevitt investigated she discovered the noise was fire crackling in the bedroom upstairs. She then ran to the rear door where she called for neighbors’ aid. One of the neighbors notified the fire department.
Two Overcome
Responding to the alarm were Engine Companies 2 and 6 and Ladder Company 1.
According to Fire Capt. Joseph Wolfinger, flames had engulfed the bedroom and flames shot from windows as firemen arrived at the scene. The fire was quickly extinguished although two firemen — Acting Capt. John Brzozowski of Engine Company 2 and Fireman Samuel Fisher of Ladder No. 1 — were overcome by smoke. Both were treated at the scene.
According to authorities, Mrs. McDevitt reported she had taken medication before retiring about 11 o’clock last night. She apparently fell asleep before finishing a cigarette which ignited the mattress.
Doused Mattress Fire
However, she doused the mattress fire—about 2 a.m.—with a bucket of water. Believing the fire out, she went downstairs and slept on the couch.
Mrs. McDevitt told firemen she has been prescribed a depressant medication since the death of her husband, James, who was killed last April 22 when the car he was driving crashed into a viaduct overpass on Admiral Wilson Boulevard near Federal Street.
Authorities said Mrs. McDevitt’s bedroom had extensive fire damage but was contained to that area. More than $300 in coins also was recovered for the widow after she informed firemen that a pitcher broken during the fire contained many coins.
Connors Refuses to Name Assailant in Shooting at Club
Camden Courier-Post —
Fails to Identify Doris, Held on Atempted [sic] Murder Charge, After Brawl Over Girl
VICTIM LEAVES HOSPITAL
Clinging to gangland tradition, Joseph Connors, 28, Gloucester, yesterday refused to tell who attempted to murder him at 6 a. m. April 28.
Connors was discharged from West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital yesterday, a shadow of his former self. He was taken to police headquarters and later arraigned before Police Judge Pancoast, who held him without bail.
After the hearing, Connors was quizzed by Assistant Prosecutor Palese and county detectives. He was brought face to face with John Doris, who, witnesses say, wounded him in a brawl over a girl on Broadway near Kaighn avenue.
Fails to Identify Doris
“I cannot identify him as the man who shot me,” was his laconic reply to a question from Palese.
Still suffering from bullet wounds through the lungs, abdomen and hand, he sat pale and seemingly disinterested as the detectives tried to get him to talk.
Prosecutor Galdwin [sic] ordered him held in $1500 bail as a material witness. He furnished bond and was permitted to go home.
Brother of Olney Bandit
Doris, who was a brother of the late Frank Doris, one of the four Olney bank bandits who went to the electric chair for killing a Philadelphia policeman, is also unuder [sic] indictment for the murder of Joseph (Mose) Flannery, who was shot in front of a saloon near Front street and Kaighn avenue last September.
About a dozen witnesses are either in jail or out on bail. According to the investigators, several have identified Doris as the man who shot Connors in a quarrel over a girl losing $4 while attending a party. She is Mrs. Rose Gibbs, 18, of 411 Henry street. She said she went home before the shooting and found the missing money.
Precautions Taken to Prevent Outbreak by Gangdom Friends
Camden Courier-Post —
Spectators to Be Barred at Hearing Thursday; Gunman Denounced by Justice
JUDGE DENIES FREEDOM
Precautions are being taken by Prosecutor Clifford A. Baldwin to prevent any gangster demonstration Thursday when John Doris, alleged racketeer, goes on trial in Criminal Court on a charge of shooting Joseph Connors, 28, Gloucester, April 28 near Broadway and Kaighn avenue.
The prosecutor said no one will be admitted to the court room without first showing a subpena unless they are court officials, attorneys or newspapermen. He said the court room will be guarded heavily during the trial.
“We are not going to take any chances on Doris,” Baldwin said. “We do not know that Philadelphia gangsters will attempt anything here, but are going to be on guard.”
Doris recently was brought before Supreme Court Justice Lloyd by two constables but not handcuffed. Justice Lloyd branded Doris as a desperate character and ordered him taken from his presence until he could be handcuffed. At that time Doris asked for release on a writ of habeas corpus but the court refused.
The gangster also has been indicted in connection with the murder of Joseph (Mose) Flannery last Fall at Front street and Kaighn avenue. This indictment was disclosed after his arrest in the Connors’ case.
He will go on trial Thursday on a charge of atrocious assault and battery with intent to kill Connors. Connors was in West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital several weeks. When he was released he refused to identify Doris as his assailant. It is alleged the two quarreled over a woman.
Doris is a brother of Frank Doris, one of four bandits executed for the murder of a policeman in the Olney Bank robbery in Philadelphia two years ago. Doris has been living at Front and York streets since the murder of Flannery.
4 Killed in Korea Come Back Home To South Jersey
Camden Courier-Post —
The bodies of four South Jersey heroes of the Korean war, including an Audubon Medal of Honor winner, are due to arrive at San Francisco aboard the ship New Zealand, the Defense Department announced.
The bodies will be sent with an escort to the point designated by each individual next of kin.
Those from this area among the 631 war dead on the New Zealand are:
Sgt. 1/c Nelson V. Brittin, 30, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Brittin, 545 West Graisbury avenue, Audubon.
Pfc. Thomas Carter, 19, son of Mrs. Virginia Carter, 725 York road, Magnolia.
Cpl. George A. Deacon, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Archie Deacon, 9375 Burlington pike, Palmyra.
Pfc. Warren O. Hurdle, son of Mrs. Claudia Hurdle, 1130 South Front street, Camden.
Sergeant Brittin, a veteran of War II, when he fought in Europe, reenlisted in the Army in January, 1948, and was sent to Japan for occupation duty. He was first wounded in Korea in November, 1950. Returned to duty, he was killed last April. The Medal of Honor was awarded Sergeant Brittin posthumously last July 17. for clearing out a Communist machinegun nest on a hill in Korea. He had been wounded but refused medical aid and wiped out the Red gun crew with a grenade. Regrouping his men, he continued the assault on the hill and was killed by a machinegun burst.
Sergeant Brittin was a graduate of Audubon High school.
Private Carter was killed in action last April. He enlisted in the Army in July, 1950, and went overseas the following January. A former Camden resident, he attended Whittier school.
Corporal Deacon was killed last April while fighting with a Third Infantry unit. He enlisted in September, 1948, before which time he assisted his father in the plastering business.
Three Hurt During Test of Fire Hose
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Two Camden Firemen and Child in Hospital as Result of High Water Pressure
Escaping the grasp of several firemen, a hose being tested at Front and Linden streets, Camden, yesterday whirled about like a great serpent and as a result Fireman Rollo Jones, aged 36 years, of 658 State street, and David Bakley, aged 35 years, of 531 Roberts street, of No. 6 Engine Company, and Anna May Lander, aged 5 years, of 325 North Front street, were taken to Cooper Hospital. Jones had a hole knocked in his leg, Bakley nearly had an eye put out and the little girl’s legs were injured.
The hose was attached to a high-pressure main in Camden’s fire district. The force was so great that the nozzle whirled about as though a thing alive. Jones and Bakley were knocked down and then rolled over and over by the powerful stream. Swishing around, the stream struck the crowd, which scattered in every direction, all escaping except the little girl.
While the hose wiggled and bounced about several firemen endeavored to get it under control. It was only after they had been knocked about like tenpins that they succeeded in holding the nozzle and preventing further damage.
After the excitement had somewhat abated it was announced the test was a success.
Snapper Dinner Debate
Camden Daily Courier —
A lengthy argument over the question of preparing stewed snapper occupied the attention of the members of Engine Company No. 6, Front and Linden streets, today. Robert Brice and Abraham Kern insisted that the tail be cut off to bleed the snapper, while Captain Johnny Lutz was just as certain that the head be cut off. The controversy was settled by doing both, and the resultant snapper dinner was thoroughly enjoyed.
Camden News Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer —
* John Passwater was yesterday held in $300 bail by Justice Diehm on a charge of breaking in the door of Lillie Reed, 1133 South Ninth street.
* All but thirty of the election officers who served during the years of 1901 and 1902 received their money yesterday.
* Dr. Walter Williams, of Mt. Carmel, Pa., has been appointed resident physician at the Homeopathic Hospital. He is a recent graduate of the Hahnemann Medical College.
* The Third Regiment, N. G. N. J., will leave for the Sea Girt rifle range on August 5.
* Sheriff Mines, in Camden yesterday, made public the list of the men composing the panel of jurors from whom twelve will be selected to try the case of Charles J. Welsh, who is under indictment from embracery.
* The Victor Talking Machine Company has purchased a large strip of land on Cooper and Front streets, which will be used to enlarge its plant.
* Edward Simmons, aged 12 years, of 816 Silver street, and Herman Gould, aged 13 years, of 731 Mt. Vernon street, both colored, were yesterday committed to the county jail in Camden on the charge of breaking into the house of Patrick Cleary, 731 Division street.
Policeman Robert Miller Makes Arrest
Philadelphia Inquirer —
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.
Odds and Ends of News
Philadelphia Inquirer —
William Sturer, a lad living at Front and Wharton streets, this city, was picked up by Policeman Cable in Camden yesterday, while pretending to have a fit. The lad said he was to have appeared before the grand jury, of this city, and that he was advised by friends to go to Camden and feign sickness.
23 Homeless After $300,000 Fire Destroys City Block in Camden
Camden Courier-Post —
C. B. Coles Mill Damaged and 7 Houses Burn
Six Overcome by Smoke, Two Sisters Saved From Dwelling
ALL BEREFT OF HOMES TO BE CARED FOR BY CITY
Firemen Called at 4 A. M. as Flames Burst From Smouldering Ruins
Fire Climaxes Troubles of Kaighn Point Widow
Yesterday’s disastrous fire was the climax to a series of tragedies which have visited Mrs. Margaret Dolson, of 1226 Knight street, during the last five months. Her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Craig, 73, died about five months ago. A short time later, Mrs. Dolson’s husband, Robert, died, leaving her with three sons and a nephew. After that, a small fire broke out in her home and damaged some furniture.
Because of some difficulty with the insurance company over collecting money for damage, she allowed her fire insurance on her furniture to lapse and thus was fully unprotected when—
Yesterday the Kaighn’s Point fire razed the house, which she rented, and all of her personal effects were destroyed, leaving her with nothing. Through the kindness of friends, she and her brood have shelter and food today.
Camden’s most devastating conflagration in 18 years swept over an entire city block at Kaighn Point yesterday afternoon and left in its blackened wake damage unofficially estimated at $300,000.
Again at 4 a.m. today, fire broke out in the still smouldering ruins. A fire company from Sixth street and Kaighn avenue responded to the alarm and promptly extinguished the new blaze, leaving a guard there to immediately sound an alarm at any sign of another outbreak.
Yesterday’s hungry flames, fanned by a tricky, high wind, took the following toll:
Seven homes at Nos. 1218, 1226, 1228, 1230 and 1232 Knight street, and Nos. 1208 and 1210 South Front street.
Twenty-three persons, including eight children, eight women and seven men, were left homeless.
Six persons were overcome by smoke or injured by flying debris.
Three warehouses, an office building and a large shed owned by the C. B. Coles and Sons Lumber Company on the east side of Front street at Mechanic, were destroyed or damaged. The factory and warehouses on the west side of front street were untouched by the flames and were in operation today.
Eight automobile [sic] were completely destroyed and at least five others damaged.
A large garage housing a motorboat at 1215 Knight street, owned by George Tucker, was razed.
The stables of Charles Voll at 1216 Knight street were destroyed after 15 horses had been led to safety. Voll, a produce dealer at Second and Kaighn, also owned one of the houses destroyed and two automobile [sic] which were demolished.
Area Affected
The area affected by the fire was bounded by Kaighn avenue, Front, Second and Mechanic streets. However, the fire wreaked the worst damage on Front and Knights [sic] streets. Knight is a small street running south from Kaighn to Mechanic, parallel to Front and Second streets.
Not since the fire which destroyed the same lumber yard and the old Kaighn’s Point ferry on Jan. 3, 1915, has the city experienced such a destructive fire. Scarcely had smoke been sighted an an [sic] alarm sounded, then the flames were racing through the lumber yard. A shifting wind sent the fire scurrying in several directions so quickly that tenants of the houses which caught fire had very little opportunity to save any of their household effects.
A general alarm was sounded for the first time in years, bringing to the scene every available piece of fire apparatus, while Philadelphia fire boats stood by to render aid should the flames spread to the new $3,000,000 Reading Terminal less than a half block away.
Today, firemen were endeavoring to determine the origin of the fire, but the care of the homeless was the city’s major problem.
Those left without homes and even a change of clothing were sheltered by neighbors or relatives last night, but Dr. A. L. Stone, city relief administrator, was planning to give aid to them today.
One of the homeless women, Mrs. Marion Richards, of 1218 Knight street, went to Dr. Stone for aid at 10 a. m. today. As she was walking through the first floor at City Hall, she collapsed. Nurses from Dr. Stone’s offices revived her.
Ruins Searched by Homeless
Several of those whose homes were razed were searching in the ruins today for some of their valuables. They and firemen were the only ones permitted in the stricken area, which police had roped off. Additional patrolmen were on duty to prevent scavengers from robbing the debris of any valuables that may have been buried there.
Henry C. Coles, president of the lumber company, stated that his firm’s property was damaged to the extent of about $200,000. The entire lumber company property on the east side of Front street was either destroyed or made untenable by fire and water. However, he said the factory was in operation today, and as no trucks were damaged, the firm was conducting its usual business.
A horse known throughout the neighborhood as “Old Bob,” was burned to death in the lumber yard.
Of the houses burned, Voll owned the 1218 Knight street property; the Reading Railroad owned the house at 1226 Knight street, while the others were owned by John Bircher, of Bellmawr.
In addition to the places actually damaged, many other properties were in danger from ever-shifting winds and virtual clouds of sparks. Windows on other properties cracked from the heat, and streams of water were played on properties across the street from the burning area.
40 Lines of Hose
Chief John H. Lennox called every fire company and every fireman on duty. Every available policeman was called to handle the thousands of spectators.
Civilians aided the firemen. Employes of the lumber plant manned hose and the company’s turbines churned tons of water into the blaze. At one time the fire companies were pouring water from 40 lines of hose.
Water Chief James H. Long and his assistant, Harry Hertline, responded to the fire alarms and found plenty of water. The companies were pumping from 20-inch high pressure mains, with auxiliary wells on Ferry avenue and on Kaighn avenue.
Intense heat kept firemen a half a square from the blaze at times. They slowly struggled through blinding and suffocating smoke and when the blaze was under control two hours after it was discovered the firemen had managed to confine it to a city block.
Woman Discovers It
The first alarm was at 3 p. m., shortly after Mrs. Joseph Novack, whose husband is the proprietor of a cafe at 1208 South Front street, ran into the street, screaming “Fire!”
E. H. Stewart, general secretary of the Atlantic City Railroad Y. M. C. A., across the street at Front and Atlantic avenue, sent in the first alarm and later rescued two women.
Stewart said the wind was blowing from the east at the time and the Y. M. C. A., the planing mills of the Coles Company and the Camden Terminal Storage Company’s seven-story warehouse, at Front and Mechanic streets, were in danger.
But the wind suddenly shifted from east to west and a light breeze from the river carried the flames toward a row of five frame houses on Knight street, between Front and Second.
These two-story houses were enveloped in flames in a few minutes. So fast did the fire travel that little was saved. One family was absent, but the four others fled for their lives.
Clowns Save Cripple
Several members of the Camden Clown Club, a veteran New Year shooters’ organization, ran to the home of James Shay, 1228 Knight street, and one of them, Albert George, carried Shay’s invalid stepdaughter, Alice Williams, 25, from the blazing house. The girl, an infantile paralysis victim, was sitting helpless in a wheel chair when the flames ignited the home.
With her mother, Mrs. Alice Shay, and stepbrother, William Shay, 14, she watched the flames crumble the home in which they had lived 20 years.
Other members of the clown club—Stanley Berthelot, Henry Small and James Rice—carried brand new furniture of William Haines, 1232 Knight street, to safety.
Stewart carried two aged sisters, Mrs. Anna Parker and Mrs. Mary Numbers, from their blazing home at 1210 South Front street, next to the Novack cafe.
Twelve automobiles on a parking lot of Mrs. Parker and Mrs. Numbers on the south side of their home were either destroyed or damaged. Civilians were able to get six of them to safety after they had been partially damaged. The others were buried as walls collapsed.
Crumbling walls endangered 30 firemen on Front street at 5 p. m. About that time a ladder against a Coles garage slipped and Fireman William Hopkins, 39, of 730 Cedar street, attached to Engine Company No. 2, was thrown to the sidewalk. He suffered sprained ankles and was removed to Cooper Hospital.
Felix Benzyn, 33, of 926 Howe street, attached to Company No. 7, suffered burns of the face and hands and was taken to West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital.
First Aid Crews Sent
Dennis Block, 3, of 1123 South Second street, suffered burns of the right arm and left leg when he wandered too near the flames. He was taken to the West Jersey Hospital for treatment.
Cooper and West Jersey Hospitals sent ambulances with doctors and nurses who treated several firemen for cuts, burns and minor injuries. All of the city ambulances were on duty.
Camden and Philadelphia Second Alarmers served cool drinks to the firemen and police.
Several charitable organizations, including Wiley Mission, offered to house those left without homes.
Trainman Faints in Fright
Fully 20 trainmen were asleep on the second floor of the Y. M. C. A. Building when the fire broke out. Stewart awakened them. C. E. Wells, one of the trainmen, collapsed when he was suddenly awakened to see the conflagration so near. He was revived by doctors from West Jersey Hospital ambulance.
Firemen were hampered by the explosion of gasoline tanks of automobiles trapped in the parking yard of Mrs. Parker and her sister.
A horse in the lumber company’s stable just north of the Novack place perished.
The fire was at the main entrance of the $3,000,000 Reading terminal, which for a while was in danger. It was impossible to get vehicles into the ferry house. All cars coming from Philadelphia were forced to park at the entrance until the flames were under control.
The railroad kept several locomotives standing by at the terminal to remove coaches if necessary. The company lost several hundred coaches in the 1915 fire.
Bandit Gun Found
Camden Courier-Post —
Sawed-Off Weapon Discovered by Workman on Sewer at Second and Federal Streets
A double-barreled sawed-off shotgun, loaded with two shells, was found in a sewer at Second and Federal streets today.
The weapon was dug out of the thick mud in the bottom of the drain by a highway department worker who had been cleaning the sewer.
It was turned over to Detective Robert Ashenfelter, who attempted to identify it as one of several guns stolen several months ago from the William Stein hardware store, 313 Federal street.
Ashenfelter also expressed a belief the weapon may have been one used by bandits who held up the saloon of Freeholder Leonard Brehm at Front street and Kaighn avenue. He bases his opinion on the fact the thugs after the robbery had been chased north on Second street and lost near Federal.
Found Wounded on Sidewalk at Kaighn Point
Camden Evening Courier —
Seals Lips as Police Seek to Learn Identity of Assailant
EIGHT UNDER ARREST IN SUSPECT ROUNDUP
Surgeons at Hospital Find Four Jagged Bullet Holes in Body
Victim of the gang feud—he denounced on his death bed, Joseph “Mose” Flannery, 26, picturesque Eighth ward political worker, was dying today in West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital.
Mortally wounded, his body riddled with bullets, Flannery was shot some time shortly before 4 a. m. today as he stood on the sidewalk outside a saloon at Front and Kaighn avenue.
Four or five men, grouped closely about the prone body of the political worker, hailed a truck which took Flannery to the hospital at 4.15.
Eight men had been arrested by police, seven charged with being a material witness, and the other being held at police headquarters “on suspicion.”
They were James L. Hawkins, 37, declared by police to be proprietor of the saloon at 101 Kaighn avenue; Walter Novak, 22, 442 Jackson street; Russell Sage, 25, of 407 Mechanic street; Joseph Novak, 34, of 508 Jackson street; Eugene Murphy, 51, of 101 Kaighn avenue; “Cuzzy” Scarduzio, 27, who gave police no home address, and Joseph Moll, 25, of 101 Kaighn avenue, all held as material witnesses; and Patrick Driscoll, 25, of 1225 South Third street, held “on suspicion.”
Cause of Shooting Unknown
Despite a far-reaching investigation, Flannery’s assailant or assailants, the details of the shooting, and its cause remained undetermined this noon. Every available county and city detective was engaged in the probe as Camden gangland’s victim hovered between life and death in the hospital.
Realizing doctors had given him but a few hours to live, Flannery continued to maintain his silence concerning how he was shot, and which he had adopted when he was carried into the hospital on a stretcher.
“My lips are sealed and if I don’t live to get the fellows who did this my gang will get them,” he told physicians when placed on the operating table at 4:30 a. m.
At 9 o’clock this morning, the doctors had given up hope for his recovery, but Flannery still was alive at 2.30 this afternoon.
South Camden virtually buzzed with rumors to the effect that Flannery’s fate was the result of a war in the bootleg ring; that it was the aftermath of a feud over slot machines; that it was a case of “women,” and that it could be linked up with the shooting in January of Joseph Cimini, by Joseph Devon, known as “Polack Joe.”
At Loss for Motive
Police were at a loss to name the motive. Acting Assistant Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando, in charge of the investigation, said the probe had not reached the point where anyone person could be accused of shooting Flannery, or where the gun fire could be traced to anything but a “gang feud.”
“Mose” Flannery had been shot. He probably would die. That much was known. The rumors naturally followed for Flannery was well-known, not only in the close-mouthed circle in which he moved, but throughout the city as well.
“Mose” Flannery is one of the most picturesque figures in Camden’s political “gangland.” For several years he has been a slot machine distributor in Camden and Philadelphia.
When “Polack Joe” Devon shot and killed Joseph Cimini, Philadelphia gambler in the Sixth Ward Republican Club early in the morning of January 14, last, Flannery was arrested as a material witness. It was disclosed by police that Flannery and Cimini had gone into the club together a few minutes before Devon’s gun pumped death into Cimini’s body after the Philadelphian had quarrelled with Devon.
Flannery was considered the most important of the material witnesses connected with the Cimini murder. Sage, arrested on suspicion this morning in connection with the felling of Flannery, was another “important” witness in the Sixth Ward Club shooting affair.
James Bonner, who was mysteriously shot several months ago, was questioned today by detectives but was not held. Walter Selby, a taxicab driver, also was taken before Chief of Detectives Golden and County Detective Chief Doran, but he too was released after being closeted with the officials for more than an hour.
Sage Ordered Held
After questioning Sage, Acting Assistant Prosecutor Orlando ordered that the man be held.
In the meantime, Flannery lay on a hospital cot, propped up on his side, his pain deadened by opiates. He mumbled incoherently to members of his family grouped about him. At times he lapsed into a state of unconsciousness.
The doomed political worker early today had asked for a priest. Rev. Father John J. Henry went to the hospital. “Joe,” he said, “you’re dying. You’d better give police a statement.”
Flannery was said by doctors to have replied he would tell nothing, that if he lived, “he’d settle,” and that if he died, “my gang will take care of that.”
After a session in which more than a dozen men were questioned, Captain Golden and Detective Chief Doran shortly before noon went to the scene of the shooting. They found evidence that a scuffle in the saloon at Front and Kaighn avenue had preceded the shooting.
Tables had been overturned. Glasses had been broken. Forty cents in change was found on a table beside a picture of a small baby. There was an empty glass on one table, another glass half-filled with beer on the bar.
Bullets Meant for Novak?
It was reported that police had been informed by one of those they questioned that the bullets which ripped their way through Flannery’s body had been meant for Walter Novak who they said had been standing at “Mose’s” side at the time of the shooting. The police officials refused to confirm that rumor. Novak had told them, Capt. Golden said, he was not with Flannery at the time. Later Novak admitted to being on the corner near the saloon, police said.
Police recalled that Novak was arrested several months ago in the alleged theft of a slot machine from the store of Louis Schectman, in Broadway near Line street. Novak was apprehended after a wild chase through South Camden streets.
Schectman at first told police Novak was one of two men who entered his store, and at the point of a gun, robbed him of a nickel slot machine. Testifying in a hearing in police court several days later, Schectman said he hadn’t kept a slot machine in his store, and that two men unknown to him stole a box of cigars and escaped in an automobile.
As far as could be learned by an Evening Courier representative, the case against Novak never was settled.
The bullets were fired from a “pump” gun and were of .32 calibre. According to Detective Thomas Cheeseman, they could have been fired only from a gun of the type common to gangsters who “shoot to kill.” Cheeseman said a “pump” gun was designed to hold nine shells or “wads,” as they are commonly known. The leaden bullet is surrounded by a coating of asbestos, which breaks from the lead upon the firing of the gun and allows the lead to enter its target.
Police were following every clue which developed, no matter how scanty. Detectives combed the Front street and Kaighn avenue neighborhood, it was learned, in an effort to discover the haunts of the gang known by police to center in that part of the city.
Chief of Police Lewis W. Stehr was asked if police would act against the owners of the habitats of the “Front and Kaighn avenue” gang or if a routine investigation into the shooting of Flannery would be conducted. Chief Stehr said the usual investigation was being made and would continue.
While members of the political worker’s family talked with Flannery, and while investigation of the shooting by county detectives and police was under way, doctors said the man who lives at 346 Jackson street, couldn’t “live out the day.”
Flannery had a bullet wound two inches in diameter in his back. Another bullet had pierced his abdomen, and he had been shot in both elbows, physicians said. Doctors said the bullets were two inches long and three-quarters of an inch in diameter.
It was shortly after 4 a. m. when Charles Foulk, of 219 Point street, driver of The Courier-Post delivery truck, was hailed by a group of men standing on a corner at Front street and Kaighn avenue.
“Have you got time to take a man to the hospital?” one of the group asked Foulk, according to the story he told Captain John Golden, chief of city detectives.
Flannery was lifted into the rear of the truck, two men jumped on the running board and the run for West Jersey Hospital began.
Walter Wartman, of 315 North Second street, another Courier-Post employe, who had assisted in the delivery of Morning Posts at the Reading Ferries, was with Foulk.
Foulk said one of the men jumped from the truck when it reached Mt. Ephraim and Atlantic avenues. The other went into the hospital, whispered a few words to Flannery, and then raced out the main entrance.
Mose’s Companion Escapes
Mrs. Edward McGrath, supervisor of nurses, called Policeman Frank Malec who for several days has been guarding a man known as “Two-Gun” Kelly, and Malec gave chase to the unknown companion of Flannery. Malec saw the man disappear on Mt. Ephraim avenue, but couldn’t find him in a search of the neighborhood.
In the meantime, City Detective William Boettcher, who had been working the morning shift, had notified Assistant Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando; Lawrence T. Doran, chief of Camden county detectives; Capt. Golden, and had called City Detectives George Ward, Louis Shaw, Thomas Cheesman [sic] and Howard Pike to investigate the shooting.
Boettcher said Flannery refused to “talk.” “You are a policeman and I’m no friend of the police. I’ll never tell,” Flannery told the officer, Boettcher declared.
Later Flannery told physicians, “I have learned my lesson and hope this will be an example to other young men.”
Witness in Cimini Shooting
Flannery was held as a material witness in the fatal shooting of Joseph Cimini, 31, in the Sixth Ward Republican Club, early in the morning of January 14.—Joseph Devon, known as “Polack Joe” fired the shot that killed Cimini. Devon was arrested but the case never came to trial.
Devon now is at liberty on bail and is under indictment for manslaughter in connection with Cimini’s death. Flannery also was released under bail.
While police continued their investigation, Flannery, still determined to refuse information to detectives and doctors, was surrounded by his wife, his 4-year-old son, his mother and father, and his 19-year-old brother James. Calling “Jim” to his side, Flannery, according to physicians, said, “I want you to promise me you’ll never get mixed up in these gang wars.” “Jim” promised, Detective Boettcher said.
Novak Under Suspicion
In their search for the “mysterious” companion of Flannery on the ride to the hospital, police pointed a suspicioning finger at Walter Novak who they had held “on suspicion.”
According to information given them by Foulk, the truck driver, Flannery, during the ride from Front and Kaighn avenue to the hospital, whispered, “Where are you taking me, Walt?” He was told the hospital was the truck’s destination, Foulk told police.
Detectives said Novak might have been the “Walt” to whom Flannery spoke. Novak said he was 22, was a “salesman” and lived at 442 Jackson street.
Taken by Strategy
Scarduzio’s arrest resulted from a piece of strategy on the part of Chief of County Detectives Doran. Doran with several members of his staff and city detectives were in the bar-room of the saloon at 101 Kaighn avenue when the telephone rang before noon.
Doran picked up the receiver and the party on the other end asked if Joseph Moll, son of former Policeman Frank Moll, was there.
Figuring that the persons might be some one who could help the authorities unravel the mystery, Doran answered:
“Yes, this is Joe Moll.”
“Well, I want to see you right away,” continued the other party.
“Will you come right down to 674 Fairview street. I want to see you,” finished the unidentified speaker who then hung up.
Doran with Captain of Detectives Golden hurried down to the address given and there found Scarduzio in the home of Garfield Del Duca.
Scarduzio, it is said, was more surprised to see the authorities than they were to find him as Chief Doran had been searching for “Cuzzie” for several hours.
He said he had nothing to do with the shooting of Flannery. Limping when the detectives escorted him from the house, Scarduzio was first taken to West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital to discover whether or not he was suffering from any bullet wounds in the legs.
Scarduzio Not Shot
Doctors later said Scarduzio had not been shot and the man who had been surprised at the Del Duca home was taken to police headquarters.
He “knew nothing about the shooting,” Scarduzio told Captain Golden and County Detective Chief Doran. There were stains, possibly bloodstains, on Scarduzio’s trousers, the police said. “Cuzzy,” as he is known in police circles, wore a clean white shirt, and that fact sent detectives from headquarters on another tangent in their investigation.
Scarduzio was asked where he had left a “bloody shirt” he was reported to have been wearing early today. According to police, he denied his shirt was bloody, and refused to give them any information.
City Detectives David Hunt, Samuel Johnson, and Walter Smith were dispatched on the “side” investigation.
Detective Thomas Cheesman [sic], of the city hall staff, also holds two warrants for the arrest of Scarduzio in connection with the holdup of a saloon in Gloucester several weeks ago and the theft of an automobile.
Moll was arrested while sleeping in a room over the saloon near Front and Kaighn avenue. He was arrested by Chief Doran, Captain Golden and Detective Ray Sapanore. Moll has been in police toils several times recently, the last time in connection with the mysterious shooting of Bonner near the spot where Flannery fell.
Woman Describes Auto
The movements of an automobile bearing Pennsylvania license and containing several men whom she said ran out of the saloon near Front and Kaighn avenue an hour after Flannery was shot, were described to police officials late this morning by Mrs. Mary Brown, who lives near the saloon.
She was questioned at detective headquarters after she had reported seeing the car drive onto the Spruce street pier, four men alight and board a motorboat which set off across the Delaware river in the direction of Philadelphia.
According to Mrs. Brown, the driver of the “mysterious” automobile turned the car about and raced north on Front street.
A city-wide man-hunt had been made for Joseph “Cuzzie” Scarduzio, detectives said after the “surprise arrest” on Fairview street. Police had heard rumors Scarduzio, known by them to be a “pal” of Flannery, had been standing by “Mose” when he was “given the works” by the yet unknown gunman or gunmen. They had heard, detectives announced, that Scarduzio, coatless and hatless, had been seen leaving the scene of the shooting, his clothes spattered with blood from the wounds of his friend.
Camden detectives said they doubted if Philadelphia gangsters were responsible, believing, they announced, that the shooting was local to the Camden gang center they knew existed.
City Detective Walter Smith shortly after noon brought a South Camden bartender into police headquarters for questioning.
The man said he was Frank Smith, and tended bar in a saloon in the 1800 block on Broadway, near Ferry avenue, and said he had overheard three men telephone for a taxicab to take them to Front street and Kaighn avenue. Smith placed the time after midnight, according to police, and detectives doubted if the three men were connected with the Flannery “case.” Smith was not held by police.
Scene of Shooting at 101 Kaighn Avenue
Camden Evening Courier —
Joseph “Mose” Flannery was shot while standing in front of a saloon at 101 Kaighn avenue, and after there had been a scuffle inside the barroom, police had determined today. The above photo shows the property on the northeast corner of Front street and Kaighn avenue, the arrow showing the window where the fight occurred inside the saloon. The cross marks the spot where the picturesque Eighth ward political worker was felled by bullets.
Warrant Out for Slayer of Mose Flannery
Camden Evening Courier —
City Detective Chief Declares Murderer is Known to His Men
2500 MOURN AT FUNERAL OF GANGLAND VICTIM
Arrest of ‘Trigger Man’ at Any Moment Expected by Authorities
This afternoon detectives were searching the haunts of gangdom in South Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania for the man who shot down the Eighth Ward political leader at Kaighn avenue and Front street Tuesday morning.
“We know who killed Flannery,” announced Captain John Golden, head of the Camden city detective bureau. “Detectives have warrants for his arrest on a charge of murder, and I expect his arrest at any moment.”
Golden refused to reveal the identity of the slayer, nor would he say whether the murderer was a Camden or Philadelphia man. However, he admitted that the murderer was not among those men he had questioned thus far.
2500 at Requiem Rites
Kin and friends accorded “Mose” . . . in death . . . one of the finest tributes they could give him this morning.
Heads bowed in sorrow, relatives and a few intimate friends of the murdered political worker attended services in a Broadway undertaking establishment. Crowds of curious milled about the streets, outside.
With Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church filled with 1500, and more than 1000 persons unable to enter, solemn high requiem mass was said over the body.
All that remained of “Mose” Flannery reposed on a white bier in front of the altar on which he served as a boy for three years.
In the church vestibule, and outside on the streets, detectives and patrolmen sauntered through the crowds. They were there to preserve order. They had dropped their work, temporarily, in the search for Flannery’s slayer, they said. They were there to see the murder victim respected by those who mourned his death.
The black walnut casket which contained the body and which was heaped high with flowers, was carried from the undertaking establishment of Frank J. Leonard, 1451 Broadway, at 9.15.
Buddies As Pallbearers
The pall-bearers, all “buddies” of the “Mose” they admired and respected, were Fred Corbett, Raymond Kirk, Martin Murray, Thomas Murray, Walter Quinton, and Joseph Derr.
As she walked from the undertaking establishment to the automobile which was to take her to the church, Mrs. Joseph Flannery (nee Anna M. Boggs), from whom “Mose” had separated, was prostrated with grief. It was necessary for Francis, one of “Mose’s” older brothers, to assist her across the sidewalk and into one of the family cars.
The first automobile in the funeral procession to the church at Broadway and Ferry avenue carried the floral tributes which had been sent from relatives, “pals,” and former political associates of the victim of last Tuesday’s murder.
Then followed the hearse, the casket almost covered by sprays of blooms, wreaths and other floral pieces.
The father and mother, James and Joseph Flannery were in the first “family” car with their daughter-in-law and the four-year-old, blonde-haired son of the dead man.
A younger brother, James—it was he who promised “Mose” never to enter gang feuds—sat beside his elder brother John, and his sisters Elizabeth... (Continued on Page Eight)
200 at Party Honor Air War Hero Kelly
Camden Courier-Post —
Brunner and Rhone Join in Tribute; Park May Bear His Name
Air war hero Staff Sgt. William “Bill” Kelly was honored last night by more than 200 friends and neighbors of the First ward and numerous city officials.
A party was held for “Bill” in the newly established headquarters of the First Ward Republican Club, 47 York street. Joseph Campbell, club president, was chairman of arrangements.
During the ceremonies the club went on record urging the city to purchase an unimproved area bounded by Main, York, Point and Front streets for the establishment of a soldiers’ memorial park to be known as Kelly Park.
The club pledged funds for the erection of a permanent soldiers’ honor roll and memorial would be raised by political clubs, both Democrat and Republican, of the ward. It was stated a petition urging the purchase of the ground by the city is now being circulated in the ward.
Among those who honored Kelly, holder of the Air Medal and Purple Heart, were Mayor Brunner, Commissioner Rhone, Freeholders Schneider and Quinlan, former City Prosecutor William Cahill and Charles Humes. A former city policeman, Kelly was a gunner on a Flying Fotress [sic] and participated in numerous bombing missions over Europe before being sent home after receiving his second wound.
A war bond was presented to Kelly, and his wife, Mary Theresa Kelly, received an ornamental pin. Freeholders Schneider and Quinlan presented the club with an American Flag.
Tug Blast Averted by Rookie Fireman
Camden Courier-Post —
The heroic efforts of one of Camden’s newly appointed firemen prevented the explosion of a 50-gallon drum of gasoline stored on the tug Pacific, which caught fire yesterday in the docks of the American Dredging Company.
Fire broke out in the hold of the boat from sparks of an acetylene torch used by workmen rebuilding the 65-foot boat, owned by the Graham Oil Transportation Company of Philadelphia.
John Gryckiewicz, 22, of 810 North Front street, who was appointed to the fire department on Nov. 16 and completed his training Dec. 7, jumped on the boat and pulled a flaming rope from around the gasoline-filled drum. Gryckiewicz is stationed at Engine Company No. 2, Fifth and Arch streets.
Four workmen were on the boat when the fire broke out. Fire Chief John H. Lennox estimated the damage at approximately $450.
Policy Writers Arrested.
Camden Post —
Washington Ketline, Mrs. Harriet Smith and Others Held in Bail.
Washington Ketline, alleged policy writer of North Front street, was held in $2,000 bail this morning by ‘Squire Schmitz on four different charges of policy-writing preferred by Mrs. M. J. Pullen. This is said to be the third complaint against Ketline for policy-writing.
Mrs. Harriet Smith, who was recently convicted of policy-writing and pardoned after being sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, was arrested again this afternoon on a similar charge, and the Squire held her in $1000 bail. Mrs. Smith fell in a fainting fit in the Squire’s office and was in that condition when her counsel, Harry S. Scovel, arrived.
Mrs. Smith’s daughter, Susie Smith Kinsey, was held in $500 bail by the ‘Squire on a charge of policy writing.
Quits After Nearly 3 Score Years at Trade
Philadelphia Inquirer —
Camden’s Veteran Barber, Who Trimmed President Harrison’s Beard, Retires From Shop
Camden’s veteran barber, Andreas Beck, who has been in business at 116 Federal street for fifty-nine consecutive years, retired yesterday. He is to spend the balance of his years at 412 North Sixty-first street, Philadelphia. During his career Beck has attended to the wants of many notables, including President Benjamin Harrison and Senator William J. Sewell, the latter being a regular customer.
In the fifty-nine years since he went as an apprentice with John Jacob Somers, Mr. Beck has seen Camden grow from a small community to a thriving municipality of over 100,000. At that time the ferry house was located at Front and Federal streets, several squares inland from the present location. There was also the Round House, a famous hostelry frequented by Philadelphians and Camdenites. It was the place where men of prominence gathered and where many political slates were planned.
“A good many years ago General Sewell came into my office, as was his custom,” said Mr. Beck in a reminiscent mood yesterday, “and after I had finished with him he turned to a gentleman who was with him saying, ‘Mr. President, I think a good shave would help your appearance.’ I instantly recognized the gentleman as President Harrison. The President laughed at General Sewell’s remark and dryly said that he guessed he would feel better, and I trimmed his hair and beard. President Harrison was as kind a man as I ever met.”
Throughout the day the veteran wielder of the razor and shears was kept busy bidding his old friends good-by.
David Baird
Biographical Review — 1897
DAVID BAIRD, who conducts an extensive lumber business at the corner of Pearl and Front Streets, Camden, was born April 7, 1839, in County Derry, Ireland, son of James and Ann (Robinson) Baird. James Baird, Sr., who was a native of the same place, had five children. Of these, James Baird, Jr., the father of David, carried on the business of a road contractor, and died in 1858, aged forty-five years. His wife, a daughter of David Robinson, of County Derry, had eight children, of whom six are living. She died aged forty years. Both she and her husband were members of the Presbyterian church.
David Baird, the eldest child, spent his boyhood in his native land. On coming to America, he worked for a time on a farm. Then in 1859 he entered the employ of Gillingham & Garrison, lumber dealers of Philadelphia, with whom he remained until 1872. On leaving them, he started in business for himself, and has since been very successful. He is largely engaged in buying and selling lumber, making extensive purchases in Pennsylvania and the South, also in the North and West. At the present time he is occupied in clearing a large tract of timber land in Alabama, using twenty miles of railroad to bring the lumber to the saw-mill in Mobile, and employing about two hundred and fifty men. He makes a trip to Alabama once a month. His yard in Camden, with a frontage of two hundred feet and a depth of twelve hundred feet, and designed for the storage of large timber, spars, etc., was established in 1872. Some of the timber brought from the Pacific coast in large vessels is one hundred and ten feet in length and three feet in diameter. More of it comes from Nova Scotia, pine and oak from Michigan and the States bordering on the Great Lakes and Canada, and hackmatack from Bangor, Me. Mr. Baird has conducted some of the largest lumber camps in the Western States, Western Virginia, North-west Pennsylvania, and Lewis County, New York. He has been a Director of the First National Bank since 1888, is Treasurer of the Camden Lighting and Heating Company and the Atlantic Electric Light Company, and he is a Director in the Gloucester & Woodbury Railroad Company.
On January 23, 1868, Mr. Baird married Miss Christiana Beatty, a daughter of William Beatty, of Philadelphia. They have had six children, of whom four are living, namely: Mary, the widow of William F. Peacock; Irving C.; Christiana; and David Baird, Jr. Mr. Baird’s political principles are Republican, and he is very prominent in public affairs. He is a member of the Republican State Committee, and he served as a delegate to the National Convention that nominated President Harrison. He was on the Board of Chosen Freeholders for four years. In 1887 he was elected Sheriff to serve three years, and was again elected in 1896 to serve until 1899. In 1895 he was appointed a member of the State Board of Assessors for four years.