1912: MORE ON THE SEARCH FOR CAMP OLDEN

I have been searching for definitive information on the actual boundary of Hamilton's Camp Olden for many years,. Bit by bit pieces of the puzzle come together only to complicate the mystery. From Henry Lawton's suggestion that a monument be placed at the Johnston-Hamilton-Liberty intersection, to the establishment of Colonial Gardens, the plot thickens. The above article referst to 100 acres at Liberty and New Street (today's Newkirk Avenue.) It is interesting to note that the names of the developers are memorialized today with street names of Watson , Miller, Ellwood, and I would bet the a future discovery would list Beal Street. If Colonial Gardens was 100 acres, and if the aforementioned streets were included in the 100 acres. is it possible that the Camp extended from the Pond Run area over to Sylvan Avenue" South Olden Avenue? My search has been a fascinating project for a very elusive subject, and I certainly intend to persevere.

1900: THE NEW BUILDING AT ELLIS ISLAND

My father, and countless other mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and friends went through this building as they embarked on a new life in the land of the free and the home of the brave. My father, his brother and their two sisters passed through after debarking from the "Baltic" where they crossed in steerage. Steerage? That's the bottom of the ship, where many who couldn't afford first class passage were placed.

1900: A TRENTON THANKSGIVING 109 YEARS AGO

Thanks to Hamilton Library Director George Conwell and his dedication to local history, I have a "tabloid" scanner with has a scanning bed large enough to scan a full Trentonian page, but just a tiny bit short of a large format Trenton Times page. I felt that the above page from the DAILY TRUE AMERICAN of November 30th 1900 gives a pretty good idea of the holiday as it was celebrated

the previous day.
THIS PAGE IS BEING PUBLISHED WITH THE ASSUMPTION THAT MOST VISITORS HAVE UPGRADED THEIR MONITOR TO AN LCD WHICH WILL RENDER THE ENLARGED COPY CLEAR, EVEN THOUGH VERY SMALL. IF YOU HAVE ONE OF THE OLDER "TUBE TYPE" MONITORS, YOU MAY HAVE DIFFICULTY READING THE SMALL TEXT. MAKE SURE YOU CLICK ON THE IMAGE ONCE, THEN AGAIN.

2009: I WILL BE SINGING THE SONGS OF THE SEASON

I am and will remain an advocate of an "old fashioned" Currier and Ives-type Christmas. I will be one of the performers at Roma Bank's "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" series at the new Roma Bank building on Route 33 in Robbinsville. I'm sure you will come away with an enhanced spirit of Christmas. I will be repeating this post on a regular basis prior to the event.

I hope to see many of my visitors at the program.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THIS WILL BE RE-POSTED ON A REGULAR BASIS UP TO THE TIME OF THE EVENT.

VIRUS WARNING FROM BERNIE LENHARDT

There will always be people in this world who swim around the very bottom of the mucky cesspool degenerate trouble making. This very important warning comes from my friend Bernie Lenhardt who took the time to verify that this email is indeed a legitimate threat. Thanks Bernie. Snopes confirms that it is real. See: http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/ups.asp New Virus with the holidays coming it could be a problem. The newest virus circulating is the UPS/FedEx/DHL Delivery Failure. You receive an email from UPS/Fed Ex Service along with a packet number. It will say that they were unable to deliver a package sent to you on such-and-such a date. It then asks you to print out the invoice copy attached. DON'T TRY TO PRINT THIS. IT LAUNCHES THE VIRUS! Pass this warning on to all your PC operators at work and home. This virus has caused Millions of dollars in damage in the past few days.

1925: THREE HAMILTON COMMITTEEMEN FACE GRAND JURY

Wow! What fascinating, interesting, and heretofore unknown snips of history I find as I page through the millions of pages in my newspaper collection! Who would have thought that 3 Hamilton Committeemen would be charged with neglecting a site in Broad Street Park where there was apparently a dumping area. Read on.

1925: COHEN AND DRIVER: SCHOOL MARBLE CHAMPS

From the "Wilbur" folder this article on Cook School, and in keeping with my custom of posting familiar local family names, herewith the surnames Driver and Cohen. Somewhere down the road, a genealogist will be searching for one of the names and voila! There's my grandmother or depending on how far into the future this web blog survives, my great grandmother.

1925:HAMILTON TOWNSHIP: "THE BLACK SPOT OF MERCER COUNTY?"

From the "CRIME-MORALS-SOCIAL VALUES" folder in the Hamilton Library digital folder comes this intriguing tale of Prosecutor vs. Committeeman replete with houses of disrepute, illegal beer, stills, gambling, and all the makings of a local scandal. Politics: Don't 'ya love it?

1884: DEMOLITION OF THE ABRAHAM HUNT HOUSE

I will never understand the town fathers of yesteryear, as they systematically destroyed so many incredibly historic buildings in the city of Trenton. Like Philadelphia's "Old Town," Trenton could have also been a city with buildings which were preserved and maintained as an extensive historic district. Can you imagine any contemporary historian who would approve of demolishing a Revolutionary War landmark like the Hunt House? Or the old Academy? Or Mahlon Stacy's Mill? I cringe at the thought. Gone forever, replaced by a huge Masonic building, then a bank.

1912: PENNINGTON ROAD DEVELOPS

From the EWING TOWNSHIP digital folder, this article on the evolution of the Pennington Road from Trenton to the Pennington area. It is interesting to note the names of the real estate developments: Woodside Park, Parkside Terrace, Green Curve, and Brookfield.

1898: TRENTON SCHOOLS IN THE 1860'S

I have a strange almost consuming fascination with the one room school house of the 19th century. So few photos remain, and so few physical examples of those old school houses give a very lucid glimpse at the life of the students and teachers in those small buildings with a wood or coal burning stove. Many years of reading about these early schools reveal some events that are difficult to imagine as we compare today's modern buildings with the austere one room facility. There are stories of teachers who had to get to school early to chop wood or shovel coal for the stove, Janitors who shirked their duty of preparing the school for a new day, and other very interesting lore.

While the article above deals with the Trenton schools, I added the insert of Hamilton Township's Edgebrook School, also an austere little edifice. It was located on the north west corner of today's Klockner Road and Route 130.

1901: THE NEW TRENTON HIGH SCHOOL

(When you click on the image to enlarge it, click again and it will reach a legible level.)

After the closed the original old Trenton High School on Trenton's Mercer Street, but before the constructed that beautiful contemporary Trenton Central High School, there was the incredibly beautiful Trenton High School which once was located on Hamilton and Chestnut Avenues. Ain't she a beaut/?

1898: COOK SCHOOL

(When you click on the image to enlarge it, click again and it will reach a legible level.)

How I love these very old photos of landmark structures! The above is from an original antique edition of the Trenton Times from November 1898. The detail is very acceptable, considering the fact that most offset photos from the early 20th century were sadly lacking in detail. The last time I looked, venerable Cook School was still over in the Wilbur section of Trenton near Walnut Avenue.

A NOTE FROM TOM

Emails such as those below are what makes all the work on building a digital local history repository here in the Local History Collection of the Hamilton Township Public Library so encouraging. It is, and has been my goal to bring together history and nostalgia relating to Hamilton and Trenton and other Mercer County areas, to young and old alike. Below are only a few of the hundreds of emails and guest book messages I have received since the establishment of this blog in mid-November, 2005. Many visitors have spread the word among family and friends all over the globe. There are many emails from retirees down in Florida who get those nearly spiritual, bittersweet nostalgia feelings as they re-visit their youth with the photos and articles of very familiar persons, places and things from the past. Sincere thanks to those visitors, now numbering 185,000+ and counting; I hope you all return often.

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Tom, I now live in an adult community at the shore and 8 out of 10 here are on line frequently. Anyone with an interest in Trenton/Hamilton is now reading (this blog) since I spread the word. My former classmates in the Trenton area are always talking about your items. When I am at my house in Fla I go on line and bring up articles for relatives and friends down there to check on. So, you see, you are well read and a source of information (for) the Golden Set in lots of places. Keep up the good work.

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I enjoyed reading about Trenton-past. Am now living in Florida, but have many fond memories of growing up in Ewing and Hamilton. Graduated Hamilton High class of '57. Would like to hear from any of my classmates.

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Love this site and your Times column--thank you for today's tribute to Hamilton Township teachers-I love every day of my 32 years at Reynolds and "East"

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Tom Glover, you are amazing! I've been engrossed by local history for years and have been looking for little scraps and nuggets in local libraries, always amazed to find something new. I'd always been focusing on historical figures who passed through and did this or that and moved on - that's where I got my 'thrill' from, so to speak. But when I found your site, I was first of all floored by the sheer amount of great material - almost an overload for me compared to what I could access normally. And second of all, I've now been really turned on to the day-to-day minutiae of our area from days past; that has become fascinating to me. So, just wanted to say: Thanks very much for this!

1887 - 1888: QUINTIN'S RIDING ACADEMY

The 3 graphics above (Large photo and 2 articles) are an excellent example that proves that my program, "Computers and Local History: Perfect Together" is such a verity. Over the years I have scanned, transcribed, and otherwise preserved and saved information on various subjects and filed them in the appropriate folder in the Hamilton Township Public Library's Local History Collection. It took 6 years for the above 3 graphics to meet and come together in a very interesting story of the Quintin Riding Academy.
It was the era of the equestrian arts. Horse and buggies, plow horses, harness racing, and just plain horse racing. Along with Henry N. Smith and Bud Doble, David Quintin was a very prominent stable owner back in the 1880's. Above is the story of Quintin's Riding Academy in downtown Trenton. Villa Park folks will recognize the Quintin name, not only for the street which bears his name, but for the race track he once maintained in the pre-Villa Park years.

2009: THE OUTRAGE OF GRAFITTI

I took these photos this afternoon while I was walking my dog in Kuser Park. More and more, the area is being poluted with this outrage perpetrated by the dregs of our society. Imagine if this were your property! This vandalism was done on the outskirts of the Kuser Farm property. The lower right photo shows that the animals have "tagged" the historic Kuser Farm windmill which is fast falling into disrepair. Those on the cinder block wall are tagged on the back of the building on the DeSantis property on Loomis Avenue. The door and the tags on the white wall are on the Rusling Paving property. The Kuser gazebo was beautifully restored by the folks at buildings and grounds. As soon as the finishing touch was put on the structure, a black marker desecrated the clean, white railing. (Not shown in the photo). How sad that certain individuals have no respect for the property of others, and get off so lightly when they are apprehended. One only wonders how long it will be before the Kuser mansion becomes a victim. Were I a judge, these criminals would spend a few months cleaning up the many litter-strewn streets and roads, and if juveniles, their parents would be responsible for restoring the damaged property to its original condition.

1966: ACME HAMILTON MFG. STOCK CERTIFICATE

Here's a stock certificate from the former Acme Rubber Company which once reposed between East State Street and Walnut Avenue in Hamilton. When Acme-Hamilton closed down, it left us Bromley residents with an eyesore of overgrown weeds and who knows what else. It's almost as though the people responsible for keeping the vacant property assume it is just a block or so away from the city of Trenton where unkempt properties are too numerous to maintain. An exception is the Switlik plant, a stark example of beautifully maintained property when compared to the slum-like vacant lot left by the Acme plant. I thought there was a township ordinance that required citizens and other land owners to maintain their property, but apparenlty I am in error. It remains a mystery that the land owner has been allowed to let the property become so overgrown and unsightly, and a greater mystery that the town fathers have not acted to see that the land owner maintains the area just as it is required of local property owners.

1954: THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF HAMILTON SQUARE

Hearkening back to the years when banks were owned and operated by local community citizens, I prsent herewith the statement the from First National Bank of Hamilton Square. I have no idea of the lineage of that classic locally owned and operated bank, but it was probably taken over by one of those huge conglomerates which in many cases sacrificed that special hometown personal touch. Today, Roma Bank has managed to maintain that old fashioned rarity, "owned and operated by local citizens."

1917: WESTINGHOUSE COMES TO TRENTON

There are few who don't know at least one person who worked at that huge factory on Pennington Road. Back in the early 1950's, I made numerous deliveries to the maintenance department. It was a thriving and very busy plant during the war. Like other industrial giants, off shore lighting came into the country at prices that were impossible for American manufacturers to compete with, and Westinghouse was no more.

1941 HAMILTON'S "COTTAGE COUNTER"

Just up the street from 2090 Greenwood Avenue and the Hamilton Municipal building we found this ad for the "Cottage Counter." I immediately tried to place the actual location of that little Cape Cod restaurant, but not having been a traveler to that area at the age of 8 years old, I can't imagine where the building would have been located. Was it on the triangular point where Greenwood Avenue intersects with Nottingham Way? Was it located where the pizza place is today?

1938: MONTGOMERY WARD COMES TO TRENTON

This store was gone by the time I came of age and ventured into "Downtown Trenton." However, I would bet that a number of my senior citizen visitors recall that store. I do remember seeing bicycles sold by Ward's, but I can't remember the brand name, (nor can I recall the Sears-Roebuck bicycle names. Anybody wanna volunteer that info?

1933: GIMBELS: A TRENTON CLASSIC

Downtown Trenton: How I miss it! This ad was published 2 weeks to the day before my September 29th birthday. As can be seen by the NRA (National Recovery Act) logo in the upper left, we were in the heart of what became known as "The Great Depression." Gimbels will always hold a special place in my memory. It was here that I worked part time in the "Mens' Wear" department back in the early 1950's. Gimbels, along with Swern's, Goldberg's, Yard's, Nevius Voorhees, Hurley Tobin, Dunham's, and too many other first class stores fled the city as the first half of the 20th century came to an end. Instead of crowded buses and difficult automobile parking, the merchants decided to flee to the suburban malls, and the wonderful years many of us spent visiting downtown Trenton are only pleasant memories.

1910: HERE COMES CASTANEA DAIRY!

The above graphic tells of plans which were ultimately completed for a building to be constructed on North Broad Street in the Battle Monument area of Trenton. Castanea is a well known name in the area, especially to those of us in the senior citizen community. The little graphic I inserted at the top left shows a rubber tired horse drawn delivery wagon the company used in the 1930's. Like many Trenton area residents of my generation, the Castanea Dairy was a familiar visitor to us every morning. I can still remember getting those 2 bottles of milk on a very cold winter day; so cold that the cardboard caps popped off and the wonderful cream rested on top in all its frozen glory.

1869: Here Comes Thanksgiving Day!

"Come ye thankful people, come,
Raise the song of harvest home,
All is safely gathered in,
'ere the winter storms begin..."

We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing,
He chastens and hastens His will to make known..."

Ahh yes, I remember it well: Thanksgivings where the holiday was celebrated in the way Abraham Lincoln meant it to be: Giving thanks to God for the bounty he has bestowed upon us as a nation of freedom and plenty. How reverent we were as we sang those beautiful hymns of thanks back during my years at Kuser and Hamilton High school.

2009: MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS IN ROEBLING

Press release

For Immediate Release

Subject: Holiday Events on Main Street Roebling & the Roebling Museum

November 12, 2009

Contact: Patricia Millen or Robin Lovenduski: 609-499-7200

Old Fashioned Holiday Celebration in Historic Roebling

Festive trees, music, refreshments, carriage rides & historic homes start the season

On Saturday, December 5, 2009, the Roebling Museum, in conjunction with the Roebling Historical Society, will host a Holiday Tree Lighting and Celebration at the Museum building on 2^nd Ave., from 5:00 pm until 9:30 pm. This event will include tree lighting, carriage rides, children’s crafts, light refreshments and a visit from Santa! Holiday themed trees decorated by local businesses, organizations and individuals will adorn the Museum galleries for public viewing.

The traditional tree lighting will take place at 6:00 pm at the Main Street Circle and will include holiday music. Visitors can take the short walk back to the museum for carriage rides, refreshments, crafts for kids and to view the holiday trees in the museum’s galleries. A visit from Santa is also slated for the evening.

Carriage rides in an old fashioned surrey will run from 6:30 pm until 9:30 pm boarding at the front of the museum and will travel through the historic village of Roebling, one of the most intact company towns in America dating from 1905. The cost of the carriage rides is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 12 and under, $15.00 on the day of event. Reservations are strongly recommended. Please call 499-7200.

Decorated trees may also be viewed at the museum on Sunday, December 6 from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm.

The Roebling Museum is dedicated to telling the story of John A. Roebling’s Sons Company located in Roebling and Trenton, the village of Roebling and the innovations and technological achievements of the family that changed the industrialized world.

The museum is located on 100 Second Avenue in Roebling. Parking is available at the back of the museum just off Hornberger Avenue. Visitors may take the Light Rail; the museum is a short walk from the Roebling stop. For more information call the museum offices at 609-499-7200—and visit the WEB site @ www.roeblingmuseum.org.

I received the above press release from the folks at the Roebing (NJ) Historical Society advising us of a very interesting Christmas celebration in the historic town of Roebling, New Jersey. Details above. Support these Christmas events as much as you can. There are elements out there who are determined to take CHRIST out of CHRISTmas.

2009: A NOTE FROM TOM

A COUPLE OF VISITORS HAVE TOLD ME THEY DOWNLOAD THE PHOTOS AND ARTICLES ON THIS SITE AND MOUNT THE PRINTED COPIES IN SCRAPBOOKS. ON THE OTHER HAND, THERE HAVE BEEN A NUMBER OF VISITORS WHO SUGGESTED THAT IT WOULD BE LESS LABOR INTENSIVE IF I JUST SCANNED THE MATERIAL IN AND LEAVE IT IN A DARKER GRAY SHADE.

I HAVE OPTED TO ENHANCE THE IMAGES. I WOULD MUCH RATHER SEE A FULL WHITE BACKGROUND ON THE ENHANCED PAGES THAN POSTING MATERIAL AS IT COMES FROM THE SCANNER. I'M SURE THE SCRAPBOOK FOLKS OUT THERE WHO ARE PRINTING MY MATERIAL WILL AGREE.

1938: THE N.J. INSPECTION STATION TRENTON

This and the following post represents varying types of memories for those of us who remember the N.J. Inspection Station on Prospect Street off Pennington Road. In future years, I became one of the 50% who failed inspection, and I did it numerous times. So did my buddies as we tried to hold our cars together.

1938: GETTING THAT INSPECTION STICKER

The only guy in our gang that didn't grmace in fear when inspection time came around was Dick "Mousey" Wilson who drove his dad's beautiful red 1946 Dodge convertible. The rest of us were holding our jalopies together with spit and baling wire. I remember my 1938 Ford business coupe had a bad muffler. Who had $12.00 for a new one? Solution? push a handful or more of steel wool into that gaping hole, flatten a tin can and strap it around the hole. When we went on that wheel alignment checker, we held our breath, because many of our relics were way out of line. How many of the visitors to this site remember that N.J. Inspection station on Prospect street near Pennington? I sure do. I dreaded the passing of 12 months when once again I and my buddys would have to go to another "physical" for our cars.

1903: BLOWING SMOKE RINGS IN 1903

I have been known to pick up a five pack of "Black and Mild" cigarillos once in a while and enjoy the "nasty habit" of imbibing in the forbidden world of tobacco,. I don't inhale, I don't smoke where other non-smokers congregate, and I certainly don't smoke to excess. But I find a calming, soothing and comfortable sense of well being as I take a dragfrom that now forbidden fruit we know of as tobacco.

1886: OBSCENE LITERATURE PROLIFERATES

I am currently going through the "CRIME-MORALS-SOCIAL VALUES" folder in the Hamilton Library Digital folder which I have been compiling over the last 10 or 15 years. The next few posts will reveal the fact that we will always have crime, immorality, and anti social values in certain segments of our society. What an comparison it would be to compare the "impure press" of 1885 to the printed pages we see today!

1935: PURSE SNATCHERS AT LARGE

Didn't someone say, "No matter how things change, they always to stay the same?" If they didn't I will claim the honor. There will always be those slugs in our society who prey on defenseless citizens; the older the better. Here's another article from the "CRIME-POVERTY-SOCIAL VALUES" folder in the Hamilton Library Digital collection.

1911: GANG ON SHOOTING RAMPAGE IN CHAMBERSBURG

Exactly 98 years ago (yesterday) a gang of thugs who apparently over imbibed in the devil's brew, thought it would be fun to create a scene out of the old west as they randomly emptied their guns in the streets of Chambersburg. Sound familiar?

1927: EVEN THEN THERE WAS A CULTURE WAR

Few will disagree that America has been engaged in a "culture war." Rev. Decker made the observation way back in 1927 as seen in the article above.

1885: THE POST RIDER OF YESTERYEAR

Few subject appeal to me more than retrospectives on old faded and forgotten articles on the persons, places and things that were a part of th evolution of our area. This article tells of the post rider of long ago. His job was to get the mail through to the towns and villages throughout his assigned route. "Neither rain, nor snow, nor black of night..."

1951: HELLO, RAY; IT'S ME, TOMMY GLOVER

Hi Ray, your old friend and Hartley Avenue neighbor Tommy Glover here. I just wanted you to know that you are not forgotten....well, not forgotten that is by your relatives, friends and neighbors. Sorry about that photo of you. It's the only one I have but it still lets me recognize the face of the guy I grew up with. Something has always puzzled me, Ray. You were the very first Mercer County, Hamilton Township casualty of that war that President Truman called a "Police Action. I think some are referring to it as the "Forgotten War." I think I will go with that last term, Ray. For some strange reason, your historic sacrifice has gone virtually un-recognized by your old hometown and the county we all lived in. I just wanted you to know that I, and many others who knew and loved you will never forget that you gave your life for your country.

Semper Fi, Marine!

"Tommy" Glover

2009: A NEIGHBORHOOD HERO WHOM TIME FORGOT

On this hallowed Veterans' Day, I have re-posted an article which I wrote many years ago relating to a young man from a dear family who lived just up the Hartley Avenue hill from the Glovers. Ray Sypniewski (Sip-nyeski) was a childhood friend who was the FIRST Mercer County casualty of the Korean war. Why we hear so little about this hero is far beyond my understanding. If ever an American patriot and war hero deserves a monument in Veterans' Park, it is young Ray Sypniewski.

1942:KUSER HONOR ROLL

I have stopped posting on the Kuser School blog, opting to post future Kuser School material on this website. Likewise with my Hamilton High blog. I have found that the bulk of my visitors are on this website, and there are substantially less on Hamilton and Kuser Schools. Both of the aforementioned blogs will remain for those who are interested in surfing the pages.

1937: OUR "ENLIGHTENED" SOCIETY

Hello, Marlene, my name is Tom, and am speaking to you from the future. It's 2009 going on 2010 here on earth and wow, have we made "progress!" Do you remember the photo above? It was put in the newspapers around the world back in 1937. Most of the the public was horrified that you would actually allow a camera man to photograph you in such a very personal and private situation. Well, things have sure changed down here since you left us. Today, our movies, magazines, and television have opened up the wide wide world of voyeurism. I served 3 years in the U.S. Army and never saw and heard the things we are seeing and reading in our 21st century. In our "enlightened society," even though we did away with the death penalty, that guy Will Hays would be an exception to the rule and hung at dawn if he ever tried to censor women running around without clothes on, or bedroom activities that would "make a sailor blush," as we used to say many years ago. The majority of mature adults frown on all that lascivious public behavior, but hey, here in 21st century America, minority rules. My grandchildren?...shucks, they're seeing, hearing and learning things that I didn't know until I reached the age of 18. We sure have come a long way!

1916: NEW HOME FOR THE YMHA OF TRENTON

I have been working in the ever-growing "JEWISH" folder in the Hamilton Library Local History Collection files. The above engraving and article tell of the acquisition of the building on Trenton's South Stockton Street.

THE FOLLOWING RECEIVED FROM RALPH LUCARELLA, A LOYAL VISITOR TO MY BLOG:RALPH WROTE:

Hi Tom: I fondly recall the many times we played basketball on the Y.M.H.A. court. in the 30s. I had many friends in school and those I played other sports with who were members. Sharky Rosenthal, the Olinsky brothers, Irv Kern and many others who invited us to play there. I remember the low ceiling in the gym which did'nt allow you to arch your shots at the basket. Thanks for the memory. Regards, Ralph

1938: Maccabee Club Basketball Champions

These handsome young men achieved championship status in the Young Men's Hebrew Association basketball league.

1938: CHRISTMAS PROGRAM AT ST. MARY'S GREEK CATHOLIC SCHOOL

There are a number of very familiar names in the graphic above. The offfset photos

from this era lend themselves quite well to digitization as can be seen in the photo above, utilizing the "descreen" feature.

1938: WESLEY METHODIST CHURCH - CENTRE STREET, TRENTON

I have always been a devotee of small, cozy, intimate church buildings. This historic Church on Centre Street next to the Old Mott School is an absolutely fascinating building. I posted the above photo in August, 2009. Since then, IU have received additional information on the church which is still listed as an active United Methodist church in the same location. I hve deleted the original post and have appended the additional historic information as in the above graphic wherein I added the mini history of Henry Ludecke, Jr.

1946: GEORGE ANTHEIL: TRENTON PRODIGY

I seem to recall reading where George Antheil was a genius in the music world, but as his career evolved he became an eccentric. Perhaps someone who is familiar with Mr. Antheil's career can correct me or add to this blog
.

MANY THANKS TO DON NUGENT, HHS '60 FOR THIS INTERESTING ADDITION TO THE ANTHEIL STORY. DON WROTE:

Tom,

I ran across this guys name while just surfing the net.He had to be one of the more interesting people of the 20th century judgingfrom the VERY lengthy article concerning him on Wikipedia.com. I cannot even begin to tell you all the stuff this guy was involved in. I urge you to read about him. But one thing I will tell you, he grew up in the very area of South Trenton you so often express interest about (as I also did until age 12).He must have lived very near the State prison as he mentioned it in an autobiography.He is buried in Riverview Cemetery along with many illustrious Trentonians of years gone by.

By the way, his younger brother was probably one of the first American

victims of the Soviet evil empire. As a U.S. diplomatic courier, with secret documents (it isconjectured) his plane mysteriously exploded over the Baltic Sea. The Estonians say that they found out the Soviet plans for aggression against the Baltic countriesin 1940. And that documents proving this Soviet intent were given the American Embassyin Estonia and that these were what George's brother (Andrew?) was bringing to anotherAmerican Embassy when his plane blew up. Ultimately the Soviets did take over these little countries as they fought Hitler, but held them under their boot until the Cold War was ended,

49 years later as you know.

George wrote many symphonies, operas, etc. and played to standing room only audiencesin Europe. At one point the French press called him "the greatest living American composer",but it doesn't stop there. He became a self taught expert on female endocrinology, Wrote a syndicated "advice to the lovelorn" column. And most incredible of all, along with actress Hedy Lamarr invented a "frequency changing" electronic guidance system for submarine torpedoes.

They gave this invention to the Navy free of charge and never made a dime on the patent.

This invention later became the underlying work for the method used in today's cell phone and satellite communications. But reading through the references on his life you get the idea that George really was quite a character.

P.S.

Running a search for him at time.com also reveals a great deal about him.

Don Nugent

HHS class of 1960

1946: SANDLOT FOOTBALL AT VILLA PARK

It is assumed that the photographer didn't have his pen or pencil handy when he took this photo, identifying only one of the boys in the photo.

1945: George Bound A MEMEBER OF THE GREATEST GENERATION and a Hartley Avenue Neighbor

From the "NEIGHBORHOODS" and "WWII" folders in the local history collection, I am posting a photo I received from Ron Bound recalling the post WWII era. As a young boy, I remember that the Bound family lived at 117 or 119 Hartley Avenue. Here we see George, Sr. taking a Joe DiMaggio swing at a softball at a John A. Roebling Company picnic. Ron Bound wrote:

That, (photo above) I think, was taken after Dad got back from Iwo Jima. He worked for a period for John A Roebling's. Guessing it was a Roebling's picnic. But no idea where. Amazing all these years later, and the guy on the left, squatting, I know that face, but all else is lost about him. Must have been a friend of Dad's.

When I think of Dad in the Corps, a couple things come to mind. George Jr was 7 - I was 6, so he didn't have to go. Heard two things: All the other men were gone, so he enlisted in the Corps. Patriotic thing to do. Got the Bronze Star. Other possibility...he and Mom had a helluva a fight and he enlisted to get away. I still chuckle over that one. In either case, they went thru hell, wherever the troops went in WWII.

But then George Jr joined the USMC Reserves, while at HHS (56). Did his monthly drills and looked sharp in the uniform he had. Then he did a week or so in NC, and came home and told Dad, "I Know it's the right thing to do, but it ain't gonna happen!!!" George joined the Army a week after graduation. He came back in 59, and I went in 59. I did 30 years in the AF, our younger brother, Jim, HHS 65, did 23 in the Navy. We had all the services covered.

Ron

1964 AREA MAP SHOWING HISTORIC HAMILTON PLACES

This is a segmented scan of a large wall map in my collection which locates the many historic sites in Hamilton and the southern section. Even with my tabloid scanner, it is impossible to get the entire map in one scan.

1988: JOHN WAYMAN'S CHAMBERSBURG STAGE

One of the wonderful aspects of the local historic research on which I have embarked, lies in the proliferation of subjects which come to the fore. From antique automobiles to Yardville history, from the emerging of our various neighborhoods to high school and grammar school photos and articles, there is an unending font of old, long forgotten persons, places and things which have been buried for up to 100 years in the well preserved pages of my newspaper collection. They are all being brought into the 21st century, digitized and made available to the public. The above interesting look at John Wayman's Chambersburg mass transport venture is a good example of the diversity to be found in these incredibly interesting Trenton newspapers.

1910: SOUTH TRENTON'S FORT RAWNSLEY

A note from Tom:
The original offset photo from an old 1910 Sunday Times Advertiser "LANDMARKS" feature was completely washed out and many areas illegible. I took artistic license and enhanced the balcony on the front end of the "flatiron" building's second floor which many local politician used as a stage for his plea to be elected. It was impossible to enhance the entrance way to the building, but if you look closely, you will see the figures of two men standing under the signs.

What a fascinating story! I have spent considerable time trying to bring out more of the detail in this very poor early 1910 offset photo of the old Rawnsley landmark. South Trenton is one of our historic treasures in Mercer County, and it is unfortunate that not much is written about the area. I have a special interest in that area, due mainly to the fact that I am a communicant at Trenton's historic Sacred Heart Church. I'm sure you will agree that this is fascinating history.

1945: WII TRENTON AREA GI'S MEET IN CHINA AND HAWAII

If you have been a regular visitor to this site you know of the undying love and respect I have for those members of "The Greatest Generation," most of whom are in their mid to late 80's, and passing on at an alarming rate. The above graphic is from the "World War II" folder in the Hamilton Library's digital data base.

1944 - 1945 TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

Yesterday I published duplicate posts on the above graphic. In the post. Naturally, I nuked the one that had descriptive text requesting any visitors to enlighten me on whether the "Trenton Evangelical Lutheran church was the same entity as the German Lutheran Church. Thanks to fellow genealogist/historian Alan Wildblood, I have received the following note:

Alan wrote 2 REPLIES TO THIS REQUEST FOR FURTHER INFO:

REPLY 1:

I am not an expert but have an opinion. Here in Germany the Protestant state church goes by Evangelisch. At first I wanted to translate that as Lutheran. The German Protestants, or at least some of them, nowadays like to translate that simply as "Protestant." One reason is that "Evangelical" sounds like a bunch of right-wing, redneck Bible Belt fanatics. This religious and political wing of Christianity has a bad press, certainly here in Germany. Lately I have been tending toward "Evangelical Lutheran." I think it is like the Protestant Episcopals dropping the Protestant and the Methodist Episcopals dropping the Episcopal. In old newspapers you also see "German Lutheran" and "English Lutheran." I am sure that just means the language used in the services. In other words, I would be willing to bet you a brew that Trinity Evangelical Lutheran at some point dropped the "Evangelical." If nobody gives you a more authoritative view, it wouldn't be that hard to figure it out by comparing addresses in old articles.

REPLY 2:

Here is a little more on Trinity Lutheran. An 1964 article says it was founded in 1849. The 1964 address was 189 South Broad Street.

In 1863 Trinity Evangelical Lutheran was on Broad Street with a service in German at 10:30 a.m. and in English at 3:30 p.m.

…1885 we again find Trinity Evangelical Lutheran.

…1897 through 1912 Trinity German Lutheran on South Broad near Livingston, and that included a 1906 sauerkraut supper enjoyed by 100 people.

…1922 Trinity Lutheran was cited at Broad near Livingston.

... 1924 pulpit notices only have St. Paul’s Lutheran using “Evangelical,” with Church of the Saviour at Front and Montgomery no longer using “Evangelical” as it had in 1908.

... 1963 Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church sold lots at 30 Livingston Street to J. B. Van Sciver.

From the 1929 History of Trenton published under the auspices of the Trenton Historical Association, I quote:

The first Lutheran congregation to come into existence in Trenton was that of 1849, which is to be identified with the present German Evangelical Lutheran Trinity Church on South Broad Street. … In 1849 the Rev. Charles Augustus Brandt came to Trenton and organized a German-speaking congregation, to which was given the title "St. John's Congregation of the Augsburg Confession of Trenton and South Trenton." The first services, 1849, were held in a room of the City Hall and afterwards in Scott's Hall opposite.

Polish Lutherans still cite the Augsburg Confession in official references to their denomination.

I posted material on the Lutheran Church on South Broad Street previously, along with the comments of two of my informed visitors who added the comments above, I just ran across the graphic at the top of the page showing the Lutheran Service Center during World War II. The church is currently listed as the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer.

2009: "COMPUTERS AND LOCAL HISTORY: PERFECT TOGETHER"

The above two photos, taken from opposite sides of the Hamilton Township Public Library's meeting room, show the beginning of what would ultimately be a room full of local citizens who came to my on-screen presentation, "Computers and Local History: Perfect Together!" I was chosen to be the speaker-presenter at the program which was sponsored by the Historical Society of Hamilton Township The meeting began at 7 PM. These photos were taken 20 minutes before the meeting. In the ensuing 20 minutes, the room was very close to "standing room only." The respectable 182,000 plus "hits" on this blog, along with the physical attendance at the aforementioned meeting lend credibility to my position that there is a very real interest in our local historical heritage. Thanks to all who attended. There will be more chapters to the program entitled,
"THE COMPUTER AND LOCAL HISTORY: PERFECT TOGETHER;" Stay tuned!

1989: CROCKETT SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION COMING ALONG

It's hard to belived that Crockett is 20 years old, but here is an article detailing the progress being made in the construction of that beautiful local school.

1989: Hamilton Police Go With Chevy Caprice

Wow! It's been a long time since I saw those familiar Chevy's in Hamilton's Police Department. I recall the fire engine red Chevys, and also those shown above. Today, most police departments have leaned toward the very easy to identify Ford "Crown Vic."

1989: IT SEEMS TO ME I'VER HEARD THAT SONG BEFORE

With a much anitcipated elections coming up tomorrow, I drew on the
"POLITICS - HAMILTON" folder to take a look back at the local political scene from 20 years ago.

2009: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, HAMILTON LIBRARY

Mark your calendars for 7 p.m. this Monday evening, Nov. 2, in the Hamilton Library lower meeting room. I will be presenting a program for the Hamilton Township Historical Society titled "Computers and Local History: Perfect Together." Along with some incredibly interesting photos and articles relating to our local area, I will be offering an on-screen "ASTOUND!" presentation on the New Jersey State Fair, and time permitting, White City Amusement Park. The graphics above show the title pages from the State Fair presentation and the lower graphic, the White City presentation. The program is open to the public, is free, and refreshments will be served.I hope to see many of my blog visitors there!

1951: REMEMBERING BILL BAGGOTT

It was my privilege to have been in the same graduating class as William R. Baggott III. It was also my privilege to have been part of a boys' singing group that included Bill Baggott, Lee Belardino, and Keith Kauffman. It was once again my privilege to have been a lead in the 1951 Hamilton High operetta, "Tulip Time," where Bill loaned us his incredible tenor voice. The Lord took Bill much too early in life. He was an integral part of the music program at Trenton's Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. Indeed, there is a plaque on one of the choir pews honoring an incredible musical tenor who most certainly could have gone on to be a star in the Metropolitan Opera. Perhaps the one thing I remember about Bill was his humility. People would compliment him on his splendid vocal talents, and Bill would very humbly thank them; not a hint of conceit or pomposity. Bill, even after these 50+ years, I will never forget you and the guys we sang with back in an era "when music was music."

1952: Jim "Skip" Porter HHS 1952

From "THE TIMES," October 31, 2009

James "Skip" Porter

James 'Skip' Porter PENNINGTON- James "Skip" Porter, 74, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home. Born in Hamilton Township in 1934, Skip lived most of his life as a Hopewell Valley resident. He enjoyed summers on Long Beach Island and winters in Hobe Sound, FL. He was a graduate of Hamilton High School West, four year class president and four year captain of the Hamilton High School football team. He spent a year as a post graduate at Hun School of Princeton then attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, MA, where he was a part of the undefeated 1954 football team. He was a U.S. Army veteran involved with the Second Guided Missile Group at Fort Bliss, TX. Skip enjoyed being a part of his community, serving as the president of the YMCA, coaching many athletic activities in the township and enjoyed serving as a deacon of the Pennington Presbyterian Church. He was instrumental in initiating the boys basketball and girls softball leagues, and enjoyed coaching in these leagues as well. Son of the late Robert S. Porter and Mae Porter, he is survived by his wife Janet; son, James Thomson, his wife Debbie and grandchildren Hunter and Jessica Porter of Port St. Lucie, FL; daughters, Jill Ellen Jones, her husband Randall and grandchildren Randall and Tyler of Titusville, and Janiene Elizabeth Baxter, her husband Gary and grandchildren Jeffrey and Paige, of Titusville; also surviving are brothers, Robert Porter of Browns Mills, William Porter of Whiting and Earl Porter of Walla Walla, WA. We are so appreciative of the many hours of care given to Skip over the past three years by Kris Niepsiej, a loyal and dedicated caregiver and friend. A special thanks to our many friends that always gave Skip a helping hand, a smile and constant support. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to The Parkinson's Alliance, P.O. Box 308, Kingston, NJ 08528-0308. A celebration of life service for James Porter will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at The Pennington Presbyterian Church, 13 S. Main St., Pennington, NJ 08534. Calling hours will be from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5 at The Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, 2560 Pennington Rd., Pennington, NJ 08534.

2009: MACK WILL BE BACK

Joe B., a regular visitor advises me that Mack is OK, he is having internet connection problems with his computer. Boy, can I sympathize with that problem. We hope to see you back soon, Mack, we miss you.

1945: TRENTON'S WOODEN WATER PIPES

Every history-minded person knows about the wooden water pipes which once served the downtown area of Trenton. A number of years ago, a lady called me and asked me if I was interested in a piece of an original wooden water pipe from Trenton. Realizing that I was not a craftsman who could turn that old relice into a coffee table, I gave her my "No thenks."

1945: HARRY PODMORE'S CHAMBERSBURG

Many years ago, an elderly gentleman down in Rancocas offered to sell me some vintage material on Trenton. He had a very large collection of trade cards, post cards, and other paper memorabilia, which was what I was searching for. I told him that I was mainly interested in old Trenton area scrapbooks. He reached into a drawer and produced two old raggedy scrapbooks and wanted to know if I was interested in purchasing them. I opened up one of them and there it was: "TRENTON IN BYGONE DAYS!" Opening the other, I found that it was also a Bygone Days collection identified as "No. 2."I trembled with excitement and asked him for the price. Knowing he had a history buff's treasure, he said he wouldn't let it go for any less than $100. That was about $90 dollars more than I had at my disposal in my very limited teen age bank account, so I had to forgo the privilege of traveling back to Hamilton with those two rare scrapbooks. Every page in those scrapbooks had taken on a "corrugated" physical shape, due to the shrinkage of the paper and the glue that held the articles. All of which brings me to the graphic above. The original was in two long vertical columns. With Photoshop software, I enhanced the image, then cut, copy, and pasted the article into four columns. The final touch was to add the source and date, producing a pristine digital version of one of Trenton's finest historians.

1921: PUBLIC SERVICE TROLLEY IN HAMILTON TOWNSHIP

Thanks to Mr. Bob Schopp for this great photo of the old Public Service trolley which cut through Hamilton Township from the Liberty Street-Sylvan Avenue area and headed north to New Brunswick and points north. Bob Writes:

Tom,

I enjoy your column and website.

I found a poor quality photo in a union booklet on the Public Service Railroad published in 1968. Photos of the Public Service Fast line in Hamilton Township are not very common. My best guess is that the photo was taken just east of Hoover Avenue in Mercerville. I base this on the earth cut to the right of the trolley. I was surprised that the high tension (voltage) towers were there while the trolleys were still running. The trolley is going toward Trenton. A scan of the photo is attached.

Bob Schopp

1945: DAVID DINKENS TRENTON HIGH CLASS OF 1945

Here's a young fellow who really went on to bigger things when he became Mayor of New York City. A progressive Democrat, Mr. Dinkens was loved and respected by many citizens of the city of New York and his native city of Trenton.

1945: THE SIMPSON BROTHERS

This one is for Bob and Ray Shinkle who were in my office just yesterday. Tommy Simpson's name was brought up and at the time I had no Simpson material in the "WWII" Local history digital folder. By sheer coincidence, I came across this WWII photo from a 1945 Trenton Times.

1945:V.E. DAY - WILD CELEBRATIONS

Here is an historic photo of Peter Frascella selling the historic Trenton Times newspaper...."Extra, Extra, read all about it, Germany Surrender.....War is Over....Extra Extra,,,!"
How I remember that day! Fire whistles were blowing, firecrackers were poppin,' and cars parading all over the place with their horns blaring. This was another of those "Do you remember where you were when.....?" questions. I was on the front porch of Don Slabicki's 914 Sylvan Avenue home. All we had to celebrate were a few rolls of horse caps from McEwan's corner store.

1946:GEORGE CASE OPENS A SPORTING GOODS STORE

What an interesting article on the famous Washington Senator baseball star. George Case, like Willie Mays and Al Downing after him, were local baseball icons back in the 1930's and 40's. Here we get a good idea of the speedy George who was not only an incredible base stealer, but nearly equaled Jesse Owens Olympic speed in Nazi Germany in the 1930's

1955: Ca, 1955 Sleepy Hollow Motel

Who could forget old Rip Van Winkle sound asleep under that tree in front of the Sleepy Hollow Motel on Route 1 north? It fell into bad times and disrepute in the 1980's, but in its heyday it was a first class motel. I also remember the orange roof of the Howard Johnson restaurant that was located further up the road on Route 1 north. "28 flavors," and at one time or another I imbibed in at least 20!

1946: CATHEDRAL BLUE AND GOLD NEWS STAFF

How could one write about the legendary "Blue and Gold" Cathedral High newspaper without embellishing the graphic with the school colors? Here are the movers and shakers who carried on the tradition of journalistic excellence during the year 1946.

1946: HAMILTON HIGH'S NEW ATHLETIC FIELD

The new field was made ready just 2 years before I began my Sophomore year at Hamilton. It was located on the former Pittman Farm.

1946: IKE BASH, JUNK DEALER AND HIS HORSE DRAWN WORK PLACE

I can't say I remember Ike Bash, but our neighborhood also had a junk man who brought his horse drawn vehicle into our neighborhood. I can still hear his familiar call as his "Raaag's, Raaags" call mingled with the clip clop of his horse. He dealt in both discarded rags and metals.

1946: TERNSTEDT DIV. OF GENERAL MOTORS EWING

"Gentlemen, start your engines!"

Ahh yes, I remember it well. Parkway Avenue in the area of the late lamented General Motors plant was no place to be whether in an auto, on a motorcycle, and especially on a bicycle. When the quitting bell rang ending another day of making hardware for GM cars, all hell broke loose as the employees raced to the gate, and continued racing eastward on Parkway Avenue. We all stayed away from GM at closing time.

1946: CRISIS ON CROSSWICKS CREEK

As a dedicated metal detector operator for many years, I often wondered what lies beneath the mucky surface of Mercer and Burlington's Crosswicks Creek. Stories from the pages of history tell of merchants whose ships plied those waters in ye olden days, bringing their goods from Philadelphia to our area and returning southward with a return cargo . A Revolutionary War skirmish took place at a drawbridge that was located along today's Route 206 It was replaced long ago by other bridges including the current bridge. There's a certain romanticism surrounding historic Crosswicks Creek.

1946: VANDALS AT THE HAMILTON SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT

Compassion for vandals as it occured before their very eyes!
"The boys threw stones at watchmen and attendants..." "He said he was not anxious to hail the youths into court...."

2009: WELL DONE, GARY LIPPINCOTT!

1946: PAT MCGARRIGLE HHS '51 IS TOM SAWYER

My classmate from Hamilton's class of '51 entered the 1946 Tom Sawyer look alike contest and won. The Trenton area was celebrating the arrival of the Hollywood movie, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and for publicity held a contest for a look alike.

2009: The Wyckoff homestead, White Horse

Thanks to Andy Kusnirik Esq. for this beautiful photo of the Wyckoff homestead at 365 White Horse-Mercerville Road. Don't miss that gorgeous front porch!

Andy Wrote, (and thank you) Andy:

I believe you may find my law office located 365 White Horse Avenue of interest. The house (now an office) was built in the late 1800s early 1900s by the Wycoff family. Elmer Wycoff still lives in a house next door. He was born at 365 White Horse. His brother lives in a home next to him. Andy Kusnrik

1946: CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL

These winsome ladies were broght together as a group to introduce the public to the Student Council at Trenton's Cathedral High School back in 1946. Once again, many familiar names are among those in the photo.

1946: HOLY NAME SOCIETY RALLY AT CADWALADER

LOOK AT THAT CROWD!

I was the President of the St. Anthony Holy Name Society for something like 4 terms back in the 1980's and early 90's. The attendance at the monthly meetings was pathetic. If we had 10 men in attendance it would be considered a record breaking crowd. Most of those in attendance were in their late 70's and 80's. In going through the newspapers from earlier years, I found that the annual Mercer-Burlington Federation of Holy Name Societies was hosting a group of men who were active participants. It was not unusual to find those annual rallies attended by thousands of loyal Holy Name men from parishes all over the Mercer-Burlington area. Television and other diversions, along with a growing lack of interest in fortifying their faith, led to the lack of interest in the enhancement of religious faith. I "gave up the ghost" back in the late 80's or early 90's when 2 or 3 men would show up for the meetings. In their day, the Holy Name Societies were valuable assets to the local parishes, as they hosted fund raising programs, worked at carnivals, bingo, "50-50's" and other necessary events, but most of all, their dedication to the Roman Catholic faith.

1946: OBIT CARL ADAMS, ADAMS ELECTRIC

This article is from the "CRIME-MORALS-SOCIAL VALUES" folder. Carl Adams was the man who constructed the "hot seat" (better known as the electric chair), for the Trenton State Prison. The electric chair is no longer used in New Jersey to send perpetrators of heinous crimes to death.

1946: JOHN L. KUSER'S GOLDSMITH MAID MONUMENT

John L. Kuser was the man responsible for memorializing "the Maid," as she was known in her championship years. Kuser had the monument placed in the grandstand area at the old New Jersey State Fairgrounds. Thanks to former Mayor Jack Rafferty's interest in local history, the monument to "Goldsmith Maid" (a champion trotting horse in the 1800's) was saved for posterity. Jack had the monument moved from the N.J. State Fairgrounds when the property was sold, and had it re-positioned at Kuser Park. Thanks also to Pat Rose's maintenance crew at Kuser Farm. The monument looked absolutely exquisite this season as brilliant red Impatiens flowers bloomed at the base.

1946: Hopewellk's Calvary Baptist Church

How I love the intimacy of those country churches! Hopewell's involvement in the Baptist church dates well back into the 18th century,

1929: JOHNSTON INC.: MARMON AND PIERCE ARROW

Auto buffs who are visitors to this website will appreciate this beautiful ad from 1929 for Johnston, Inc. ad for luxury autos. They will look closely ath the autos, especially looking for the familiar "bull frog" headlamps on the Pierce Arrow. I always wanted to be an antique auto collector, but learned early on that it is a very expensive hobby. I had a 1940 Buick straight 8 4 door sedan back in the 1960's, but it needed work and the $$$ necessary to restore it was far above my meager salary. I sold it to Nat Adelstein who shipped it to a collector in Sweden. However, I am still always interested in the autos of yesterday and you can look for more similar posts of little-known local auto lore in the future.

Local auto Historian Ray Paszkiewicz has added additional information on William Johnston's automobile history. This was posted in my guest book, but I find that relatively few visitors take the time to sign the guest book or read the comments, and his auto expertise is a valuable addition.

Ray writes:

Hi Tom,
You are absolutely correct. This is the same William S. Johnston, who operated the Cadillac dealership at 1655 North Olden Ave. for many years.
The building shown, stood at the corner of Artisan St.

William Johnston was born in Trenton in 1899. The family home was at 602 Greenwood Ave. Both his parents passed away when he was a teenager and when he was 18years old, he opened his first dealership at 44 North Stockton St. He sold Marmons, Chalmers,and Maxwell cars, as well as Selden Trucks at this location. In 1929, he added Pierce Arrow to the Marmon franchise at 222 North Hermitage. Pierce folded in 1937, and in 1938, Johnston became the Cadillac distributor for the Trenton area.

Johnston was called up for service in 1941 and served in WWII for the next 4 and a half years. Ending up as a Brigadier General in the Army Air Corp. He served from WWI and was a rated Command Pilot, serving many years in the Reserves.

In 1946, he purchased the former Heinemann Electric plant on Olden Ave., totally renovating the building into the Cadillac dealership.

General Johnston's brother, T. Irving Johnston, was the owner of the local Oldsmobile agency, first operating at the Hermitage address, and then building a very modern facility near the corner of Olden and Prospect St. That is another story.

I might add that General Johnston's dealership was one of the most respected in the area.
Much of this information was taken from the December 1957 issue of Trenton magazine. My own experience with this story, is that I was helping my father (if you can be of much help at the age of nine) on a Saturday afternoon. He was doing some cabinet work at a home on Edgewood Ave. Restless, I took a walk to the corner of Hermitage, and saw the Oldsmobile sign, just up the block. I walked to the building and went inside. I picked up the latest sales literature and looked over the shiny new cars. My guess is 1948, but that was a long time ago. I do remember the wooden floor and potted plants. Neat old place. My Dad wasn't too happy about my wandering away.

Ray Paszkiewicz

1946: ST. JAMES ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH TRENTON

North Trenton's St. James R.C. Church celebrated their 25th anniversary in 1946. Today the church has combined its facilities with Ewing's Church of the Incarnation. The photo of the church was lifted from the St. James/Incarnation website.

1946: RUSLING HOSE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY

Here's the Times' coverage of the anniversary celebration of Hamilton's legendary Rusling Hose Volunteer Fire Company. Rusling was a neighboring fire company for those of us in the Hartley-Sylvan-So. Olden area. But for a block or two, Rusling would have been the fire company serving our neighborhood instead of Colonial.

1946: KILROY WAS HERE

My fellow residents of "Wrinkle City" will find that little guy I placed in the top of the graphic above to be an old friend. I remember him quite well. I was a Freshman at Kuser Annex when the little guy was at the zenith of his popularity. It seemed that wherever one went that little guy with his head just visible above a wall, and his beady little eyes peering out at us and his 4 fingers holding him up, was literally all over. I remember how school Principal Emily Reynolds addressed on of our Friday assemblies and warned whoever decides to vandalize the walls of Kuser School can expected to be expelled.

2009: BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?

Mack, you are conspicuous by your absence on your "Mack's Trucks of Wisdom" blog. I know I'm not the only one who is concerned about the inactivity on your blog. We miss you, Mack! Many "Burgers" miss your blog, and many others, like yours truly, miss those beautiful photos. Brother, where art thou?

Tom

I received this from Bernie Lenhardt, an old neighbor from the Colonial Gardens area. Even though I published "What We Know" in one of my "Sentimental Journey" columns a number of years ago, "Yes, I Am A Senior Citizen" is a new one and it really hits the bulls eye.

Bernie wrote:

Senior Citizens - What We Know



Senior citizens are constantly being criticized for every conceivable deficiency of the modern world, real or imaginary. We know we take responsibility for all we have done and do not blame others. HOWEVER, upon reflection, we would like to point out that it was NOT the senior citizens who took: The melody out of music, The pride out of appearance, The courtesy out of driving, The romance out of love, The commitment out of marriage, The responsibility out of parenthood, The togetherness out of the family, The learning out of education, The service out of patriotism, The Golden Rule from rulers, The civility out of behavior, The refinement out of language, The dedication out of employment, The prudence out of spending, The ambition out of achievement. And we certainly are NOT the ones who eliminated patience and tolerance from personal relationships and interactions with others!! And, we do understand the meaning of patriotism, and remember those who have fought and died for our country. Does anyone under the age of 50 know the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner? Just look at the Seniors with tears in their eyes and pride in their hearts as they stand at attention with their hand over their hearts! YES, I'M A SENIOR CITIZEN! I'm the life of the party...... even if it lasts until 8 p.m. I'm very good at opening childproof caps.... with a hammer. I'm usually interested in going home before I get to where I am going. I'm awake many hours before my body allows me to get up. I'm smiling all the time because I can't hear a thing you're saying. I'm very good at telling stories; over and over and over and over... I'm aware that other people's grandchildren are not nearly as cute as mine. I'm so cared for -- long term care, eye care, private care, dental care. I'm not really grouchy, I just don't like traffic, waiting in long lines, crowds, lawyers, unruly kids, Toyota commercials, barking dogs, politicians and a few other things I can't seem to remember right now. I'm sure everything I can't find is in a safe secure place, somewhere. I'm wrinkled, saggy, lumpy, and that's just my left leg. I'm having trouble remembering simple words like........ I'm beginning to realizing that aging is not for wimps. I'm sure they are making adults much younger these days, and when did they let kids become policemen? I'm wondering, if you're only as old as you feel, how could I be alive at 150? And, how can my kids be older than I feel sometimes? I'm a walking storeroom of facts..... I've just lost the key to the storeroom door. Yes, I'm a SENIOR CITIZEN and I know that I am having the time of my life! Thanks, Bernie, you're my kind of guy! Tom Glover

I received the following guest book entry from Betty Smith Lewandowski from the Klockner Class of '54. I am re-posting this class photo of the class in case any visitor from that class would like to communicate with Betty. Her email address is marylew@aol.com. I hope you can find a classmate, Betty. This photo came to me via my dear friend, the late Billy Opferman, who purchased it at the Columbus Flea Market. He donated it to the Library's "KLOCKNER" folder.

Betty Writes:

Tom,
The Klockner school class of '54 was my class! Would love to hear from anyone else in the photo.
Betty

1946: JUDGEMENT AT NUREMBURG

From the extensive "WWII" folder, this article on the pending sentences of the Nazi war criminals. Goering would committ suicide a very short time after these trials, escaping the hangman's noose.

1946: LOGUE'S CHAMPIONSHIP 15 YEAR OLDS

From the "BASEBALL" folder in the Hamilton Library's Local History Collection, this graphic has been preserved for posterity. There are many familiar names in that photo, including Ron Schnorbus, who went on to greater things in local Trenton area baseball history.

From Ralph Lucarella:

Hi Tom: Thank you very much for the photo of the 1946 Logues. That is my younger brother Joe(Chuck)Lucarella in the first row. The Logues was the beginning of a great era for Chuck. He went on to play with Trenton High, 3 years with the Schroths and then played short stop with the University of Wake Forest in North Carolina. He was captain of Wake Forest the same year Arnold Palmer was captain of the golf team. The New York Yankees sponsored him in a league in New England composed of college players. While at home, he was involved in a serious car accident which ended his baseball days and allowed him to attend Medical school. He became a heart specialist in the Chambersburg area and tragically passed away at age of 56. He overcame many bad breaks to become a doctor. may God Bless Him and may he rest in peace.

Regards, Ralph

Thanks, Ralph; once again an interesting addition to local history.
Tom Glover

1974: PETER INVERSO: FREEHOLDER, SENATOR, BANKING EXECUTIVE

From the "NOTABLE PERSONS" folder, here's a photo and article relating to the popular Peter Inverso. Some time ago, Peter told me that he too was a fan of my favorite female vocalist, Joni James. Peter, we're proud of your distinguished career serving the community from Grand Knight to Roma Bank Executive.

1946: MERCER COUNTY GOES HI-TECH

The above monster machine which is equipped with whirring motors, blinking lights, prisms and cameras ladies and gentlemen, is the genealogical limb of the family tree of our current copy machines and scanners. Indeed, the genealogical tree for the "Photostat" can be attached to the Xerox family tree. Fascinating! In a nutshell: The document to be copied was photographed by one of the onboard cameras in this monster machine. A prism reversed the image which was printed on photographic paper which was fed from a huge roll of photo sensitive paper.,

2009: An Historic Home Site From Andy Kusnirik

I received the following guest book entry from Andy Kusnirik, Esq. regarding the Wyckoff home on White Horse Avenue. Many thanks, Andy. I am posting a bird's eye view of the 365 area but don't know which house it is perhaps you can clue us in and we will have still another little know historic site in the Hamilton Library Local History Collection. And Andy, please correct me. I have a number of Wyckoff names in my files. Should it be Wycoff?

Andy Wrote: I believe you may find my law office located 365 White Horse Avenue of interest. The house (now an office) was built in the late 1800s early 1900s by the Wycoff family. Elmer Wycoff still lives in a house next door. He was born at 365 White Horse. His brother lives in a home next to him.

Andy Kusnrik

1946: BROOKHILL DAIRY FARM HAMILTON TOWNSHIP NJ

The township has bestowed upon me the unofficial title of Hamilton Township Historian. The gentleman shown in the photo above is the late Robert "Bob" Simpkins. Bob should have been formally and officially appointed as the historian of Hamilton Township. He was one of the Charter members and organizers of the Hamilton Township Historical Society. He was also a walking-talking encyclopedia when it came to Hamilton history. As I have said so many times in so many posts on this website, I was completely out of touch with Hamilton Township during the decades of the 60's, 70's, and 80's, commuting daily to my office in New Brunswick. It was only after I retired in the late 90's when I became active in the Hamilton Historical Society that I got to know Bob . During my terms as President of the Society, Bob and I became fast friends. His advancing age precluded driving to the monthly meetings, and it was my privilege to be his chauffeur, bringing him to the monthly meetings and driving him home at their conclusion. Bob loved the idea that I was bringing local history into the 21st century and concentrating not only on the John Abbott II House, but all the countless interesting persons, places, and things relating to Hamilton that have been buried in oblivion. When I would pick him up from his Yardville home and we headed to the meetings, Bob would point out the location of the farms and farmers he remembered from his youth. The Stelle, Quigley, Bertothy, and other farms which were now carved into offices, Condos, shopping centers, etc. He told of his younger years as a student at the old Edgebrook School and the old Yardville School. He told fascinating tales of his experiences at his family's Brookhill Farms, and equally fascinating tales of his family's relationship with the neighboring Allinson family. I really miss Bob Simpkins; the fellow who should have been formally given the title of Hamilton Township Historian. His lack of a formally bestowed title reminded me of my mother's admonition that she would rather have flowers given to her while she was alive instead of laying them on her grave. Bob passed away in 2008 at the age of 102; I really miss his gentlemanly demeanor.

1946: TRENTON HIGH FOOTBALL CANDIDATES

Here's the candidates who are vying for varsity spots on the Trenton High 1946 football season. There are numerous familiar names in the listing of candidates.

1912: Trenton City Hall Ca. 1912

I am experimenting with a number of templates to enhance the historic posts. The above is one, and there will be others in future posts. That beautiful building at State and Broad Streets in downtown Trenton was once the abode of the Mayor of Trenton, a Jail, and a municipal court. Even though that beautiful clock tower is long gone, the mansard roof and architecture of the building remains. It was beautifully restored back in the 1960's or 70's.

1946:TRENTON POST 491 JUNIOR BAND

It was the first anniversary of the Junior Band of VFW Post 491. I found this to be an interesting set of photos. I didn't realize that there was a Junior Band.

2006: TAKE A WALK WITH ME IN KUSER PARK

That's me way back in 1947 standing in the grape arbor at Kuser Farm. Click on my current Trenton Times columns on the link to the right of this page, or on this link:

(http://www.nj.com/columns/times/index.ssf?tomglover)

Join me in a pleasant walk with me into Kuser's woods. Note the flourishing grape arbor which was carefully tended back then, resulting in bushels and bushels of wonderful Concord grapes. When you read my article, you will be transported back to a simpler, more innocent and gentle time. While you are there, check out the Times website. There's something for everyone, and this is going to be the future of the printed page.

1946: THE FEAST OF LIGHTS REVISED THANKS TO CARLO BENEDETTI

Thanks to my friend, Carlo Benedetti, a regular visitor to this blog for pointing out that there were previous posts relating to the demise of the Feast of Lights. I have gone back and picked up those articles and linked them here in order to tie all the events together. Many thanks, Carl. Your comment pointing to the earlier articles relating to the Fest has given us a complete chronology of the events that led up to the demise.

1946: GROVEVILLE: HOMECOMING FOR WWII VETERANS

I've said it before and it bears repeating: Groveville is Hamilton Township's answer to Mayberry RFD. It must be a wonderful feeling to be a native of that bucolic little village to the south of Hamilton Township. When I think of community "togetherness," Groveville immediately comes to mind. Their annual parades, the pride the firemen and women have in their town, and other Mayberry-type traits make this little village a stereotype for the typical midwestern small town that most of us love and admire.

1946: HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP SCHOOLS OPEN

Six new teachers embarked on careers in the Hopewell Township school system. As seen in the article, God had not yet been expelled from the public schools as Rev. Kenneth Magner opened the meeting with an invocation, (HORRORS!)

1946: MOBILE VOTER REGISTRATION IN TRENTON'S CHAMBERSBURG

The fabled Italian bistro Roman Hall was chosen as the venue for signing up voters from the Chambersburg area. Here we see two of the more prominent political volunteers at work as a number of residents look on.

1946: TRENTON WELCOME HOME TO SCHROTH'S POST 93 TEAM

Even in defeat, loyal Trenton Baseball fans gave the boys from Post 93 a rousing and very impressive welcome home. These two photos have been re-arranged and enhanced in order to give the best possible clarity to the person shown in the photo. I looked in vain for Reynold "Rennie" Funari among those Trentonians in the crowd. I'm sure he was there; he was a champion of local Trenton baseball.

1937: TURKEY DINNER FUND RAISER AT GROVEVILLE METHODIST

Borden, McElmoyl, Dwier, Lippincott....the list goes on. When and if a future history of Hamilton is published, the Groveville section will most certainly highlight the families that had a major part of the development of that quaint village to the south of Hamilton Township. The Dwier family has already made a huge mark. Thankfully, Ms. Claire Dwier and Gary Lippincott will assure that the Groveville heritage will be etched in the local history books. Veteran Groveville resident Ray Bell has constructed beautiful wooden models of the more historic Groveville buildings.

1946: SCHROTHS POST 93

Back in the 40's Post 93 was a very popular local baseball entity. They were usually at or near the top in championships. Unfortunately, the team was defeated in 1946.

1939 HEALTH CARE THE WAY IT SHOULD BE!

When I found this astounding article, I was going to save it in my "CRIME-MORALS-SOCIAL VALUES" folder, but opted instead to save it in my "NOSTALGIA folder. Check out those proposed rates!

1939 NEWS FROM JUNIOR 4, TRENTON HIGH AND CARROLL ROBBINS

Here's a portion of page 6 of the Trenton Times for February 8, 1939. The Times regularly reserved a page for the various activities of the schools in the city of Trenton. Unfortunately, Hamilton, Ewing, and other suburban schools were not included.

1939: HAMILTON HIGH OPERETTA

The operetta "Hollywood Extra" was repeated again in 1949, with Shirley Whitebread playing the part of "Debby." I looked for Ms. Beatrice Tozour in the 1939 and earlier yearbooks, but was not successful in locating her as an alumna from earlier classes, or from the class of '39.

1939: A ZANY IDEA THAT NEVER TOOK OFF

Imagine NFL teams outfitted in the grotesque padded uniform which was suggested by a few
"safety conscious people back in 1939. Further imagine the entire team wearing these padded uniforms. A pass is received on the 2nd down, and the received walks rapidly to a touchdown!

2009: "DAVE THE BRIDGE MAN"

I received this press release from the folks at the Robeling Museum down in Roebling, N.J. There are probably a number of visitors to this website who are Roebling "alumni," and would be interested in Dave Frieder's Lecture and presentation on bridges and bridge building. Of course 99.9% of my visitors know the the John A. Roebling Company were builders of many historic bridges, including the fabled Brooklyn Bridge.

2009 TRIBUTE TO A SILENT KEY, K2DQR

As an amateur radio operator for more than 25 years, I am sure I "worked" Joe Lewandowski at some time during the past. I am not a collector of QSL cards, so I really can't verify the contact. However, I did converse on many occasions with Benny Civiletti and a number of other Chambersburg Hams, and I would bet that Joe was one of them. Thanks to the Lewandowski family for the tribute to still another "silent key." R.I.P. and 73's, Joe.

1974: AWARDS TO VOLUNTEERS AT ST. FRANCIS HOSPITAL

From the "ST. FRANCIS HOSPITAL" folder in the Hamilton Library Local History Collection:
The lady to the right in the photo above was a "best friend" to my dear wife Judy for more than 45 years. Bob and Rosemarie McLaughlin and their son Brian were neighbors who lived directly across the street from my Atlantic Avenue home.

1939: The Italian Club at Trenton Central High School

How great it is to share the traditions of our native country! Here we see Ms. Florence Perilli who is the sister of Hamilton's renowned and highly respected Maury Perilli, assisting in providing her singing talents to the Trenton High School Italian Club's activities.

1939: MS.GOLDEN: GIRLS' GUILD AT PEARSONVILLE

In keeping with my tradition of maintaining a blog with the personal touch and also theposting photos of those folks with whom I am acquainted, herewith a photo of a member of the Golden family. Bill Golden, HHS '48 and Karen Golden, a regular visitor to this blog, is Mildred a family member?

1974: Colonial Ladies to Present a Fashion Show

Lovely Patti Willever and her late husband "Cliff" were among the very active members of the Colonial Volunteer Fire Co. back in the 60's and 70's. Here we see Patti with her co-workers looking over material to publicize the fashion show fund raising event.

1974: Alice Piper Kuser Morris Hall St. Lawrence Center

From the "St. Lawrence - Morris Hall" folder in the Local History Collection, this 1974 photo of Mrs. Raymond Kuser with Board of Trustees contemplate the purchase of an ambulance.

2009: HAROLD VAN DYKE IS A SILENT KEY

One of my friends on the old DVRA 2 meter radio net was the gentleman above. "Van" was a dedicated radio man and a true gentleman. How I miss those guys and gals who were so much a part of the DVRA "Commuter Net" back in the 1970's. Rest in peace harold, and best 73's.

Tom Glover
WA2RVU

1974: INEZ HOWELL GIVES MERCER THE HOWELL FARM

I became acquainted with Inez Howell way back in the 1940's when Don Slabicki and I worked for Fritz and Edna Kuser. (Inez is Edna Howe Kuser's sister). I recall the day when Don and I "rode shotgun" in the motorcade through the Pennington area during Inez's husband Charles' campaign for congress. Here she is shown handing over the papers to the Howell farm in Hopewell which has become the very popular Howell Living History Farm,

1974 CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL 20th CLASS REUNION

These lovely young ladies are about to celebrate their 20th reunion from the Cathedral Class of '54. Ms. Shaddow is the wife of George Shaddow, whom I remember from my Kuser School years.

1974: MEDIA BIAS: 35 YEARS AND COUNTING:

As the "Gray Lady" says, "All the News that Fits.." Nuff said.

1974: GRICE SCHOOL ANTI-VANDALISM POSTER CONTEST

It would be nice if more could be done to curtail the activities of those anti social drones who glory in defacing public property. The folks at Hamilton's Public Works spent many hours during the summer, restoring and beautifying the gazebo at Kuser Farm, only to have these animals come along and tag the beautifully restored white rail with a
THICK BLACK MARKER. It would be prudent to put them in jail and let their parents bail them out, then give them a small toothbrush and a container of graffiti cleaner, and let them clean up their mess.

1974: Notre Dame Trenton Presents "South Pacific"

I am going to assume that the caption above should identify Mark Ackerman as playing the part of Emile DeBeque in the South Pacific program. It sure would be unseemly to see that handsome young man as "Bloody Mary." If any alumni visitors can set me straight, it will be appreciated. In the meantime, I assume there was a typographical error on the part of a Mercer Messenger employee who was not familiar with the role made famous by Ezio Pinza.

1974 ST. JOACHIM TRENTON CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONS

Here's a nice photo of the girls who went to championship status those 35 years ago. There are many familiar names in that photo. There's pretty Doreen Foley, whom I remember from my years as a member of the St. Anthony/St. Joachim's PTA singing and dancing group, "Kay's Follies." More vintage St. Joachim posts can be found by using the "SEARCH BLOG" feature on the top right of this home page. Happy hunting!

1974: Hamilton Democrats Victory Dinner

Here they are, all gussied up at Cedar Gardens for the "Victory Dinner." There's young Gil Lugossy along with the late Monsignor Jim McManimon; both dear friends of mine,

1974: 35 Years ago at Nottingham Junior High School

These students are all tax-paying adults now. Jeff Tarr was a neighbor of the Glover on Atlantic Avenue before moving to more suburban suburbs. Thirty five years! ....seems like only yesterday! Time flies incredibly rapidly as I age.

1974 MERCERVILLE SCHOOL PTA DINNER DANCE

At just about the same time Judy and I were involved in the PTA at St. Anthony Grammar School, so too were Diana and Carl Amoroso at Mercerville. Here we see the ladies who were the "movers and shakers" of the event p0sing with "Frosty" the snow man.

1974: ST. ANTHONY PTA FASHION SHOW

Memories are made of this! These three ladies, Pat Volk, Barb Giori, and Dottie Bargholz were very much a part of my life back during the years when Judy and I were bringing up our children. I have often thought of writing a lengthy treatise on my years as a member of the PTA. Even before I became president of that organization those many years ago, I hold very pleasant memories of the many friends we made, the fun we had, and the very hard work we performed in order to help the finances of St. Anthony Grammar School.

1881: Groveville + Woodward's Mill = A flourishing Community

"The Mill" at Groveville provided employment for many residents of that great little village to the south of Hamilton. The old Anchor Thread plant of recent years was preceded by the Morris Mill and as in the article above, the Woodward Mill. There were probably others and perhaps I will find them as I continue on my search.

1880: Garfield and Arthur Republican Rally

I wonder if any Groveville-saavy scholars can tell me when the name was changed to Groveville? Here's an 1880's article wherein the current name of the town was in use.

1974: OUR LADY OF SORROWS PTA FASHION SHOW

Thirty five years have passed since these "OLS" PTA ladies organized a Nevius Voorhees fashion show as a fund raiser for the grammar school. One wonders where they and their then students are in this year of 2009. Unfortunately, the photography in this 35 year old news photo was severely lacking in clarity; hence the "gray" haze.

1940 (cA 1940) Tracy's and Hamilton and Olden

The photo at the bottom is the original black and white version. Above it is the same photo using software that allows for modifying the original to give it a more vibrant appearance. Colorizing a black and white photo is tedious and time consuming, but I consider it a work of art. I was happy to be able to bring back the familiar red Tracy sign with gold lettering. I even made sure that traffic was waiting at a red light. I had originally colored the traffic light green on the bottom. Thanks to Noel and my brother Bud, I was reminded that red lights are on the TOP. Another senior moment. Modern technology? Magnifico!

What memories this photo brings to my aging mind! This was "downtown" for those of us in the area who seldom made the trip to the real bus trip to "downtown" Trenton. If we could walk to the left of those 30's and 40's autos to the intersection of South Olden Avenue, we could make a leisurely visit to George Giberson's little hole in the wall deli. On the corner, as it is today, we would find Rittman's Bar. On the other side of South Olden Avenue, the Goeller Florist shop would hove into view as we wended our way to that charming sand colored church that served St. Anthony Parish before the huge cathedral we see today. The person who shot this photo was standing on the opposite corner and would have been right next to Mr. Schnur's "5 & 10." Ahh, the memories abound!

1974: MAURY PERILLI STEPS DOWN FROM HAMILTON POLITICS