1848: THE ALLINSON FARM, YARDVILLE

Today it is the beautiful development called "LOCUST HILL" on the Yardville-Hamilton Square Road. Back in the early years of Hamilton's rural history it was the site of the Allinson farm, a huge piece of land that some say had a part as a terminal for the Underground Railroad. The late Bob Simpkins, whose farm was across the highway, told of an experience he had as a boy when Mr. Allinson took him to the upper floor and told him that the room was where the Allinson family sheltered southern African Americans as they moved north to various areas.

1851: DEDICATION OF THE YARDVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Early records tell us that the original worship services were held in a one room building, at the "north of five points;" which is a bit confusing. Perhaps an old time resident of Sand Hills can enlighten me and tell me if my interpretation places it at the intersection of South Broad Street, Yardville-Hamilton Square Road, the road to Groveville, and the Allentown Road and Route 156. Be that as it may, the above article from 1851 tells of the dedication of the new church at Yardville. I have added a photo of the old church as it appeared in 1912. It was burned to the ground in 1932. I am unable to determine whether this was the building which was dedicated in 1851. Perhaps here too a local resident can help us add to the history of this Hamilton Township legendary church. How I miss my dear friend, the late Bob Simpkins who could have filled me in on those un-answered questions!
Thanks to Claire Dwier Zarr, a reliable and knowledgeable Groveville-Yardville historian, my request for info on the "five points" in Yardville has been solved. Claire's email is below.THANKS CLAIRE, YOU'RE THE BEST!

Hope this finds you well and keeping busy indoors until the snow melts. I wanted to clarify for you that there are definitely two 'five-point' intersections in Hamilton that are busy intersections. The most well-known is, of course, Five-Points in Mercerville. However, those who grew up in the Yardville-Groveville area have also always referred to the area indicated on your post as the Yardville Five-Points. It is where South Broad, Church St., Yardville-Ham. Sq. Rd. and Yardville-Allentown Rd. all intersect. So, another little mystery is solved.

1917: A REVEALING LOOK BACK AT THE TRENTON OF OLD

One of my favorite folders in the Hamilton Library Local History Collection is entitled, "TRENTON RETROSPECTIVES." It is a folder filled with many digital files written by John Cleary, Harry Podmore, Alfred Lawshe, and other notables from Trenton and the surrounding area who had similar interests to those which I share these 50 to 100 years later. Trenton is a grand old town as is my Hamilton hometown. Indeed, Mercer County and its many boroughs and townships is a wonderful place to live. All have a magnificent historical heritage. From Mill Hill to Lamberton to Milham to Wilbur, fascinating tales are being brought back from their dusty graves and posted here for future generations. Along with the incredible "TRENTONIANA" collection at the Trenton Free Public Library, history is being preserved. In the case of Hamilton Township, which was very lax in building a history. Lax that is until former Mayor Jack Raffetty came on the scene and authorized me to build a Hamilton Township Local History project. For me this a lifelong project. When I am no longer able to continue on this fascinating path, another person will pick up the torch and keep it lit. As of this post, there are over 4,000 "pages" and many more to come. Additionally, there are literally millions of pages in my collection of local Trenton newspapers dating back to 1868; enough to keep the next 3 or more generations busy!

1913: ORIGIN OF LOCAL STREET NAMES

From the "STREETS, ROADS, HIGHWAY" folder in the Hamilton Local History Collection, this
interesting look at the origin of local area streets. Note that Hamilton Township and other outlying "suburban" areas are not mentioned. Back when this article was published, Bromley, Cedar Lawn, Oldenhurst, Homedell, and other developments were beginning to change the face of Hamilton and Hamilton street names were in the distant future.

Thanks to Ralph Lucarella for the following comment regarding street names:

Tom: Referring to street names, in the Mercerville area, dating from the 1940s, my friend Bill Pintinelli developed most of the area and chose the names. He named one after himself, Pintinelli Drive. a lot of the others after members of his family. I lived on Nancy Dr. for awhile and then there's Alton Rd and many others. Bill, Joe Kisak and Art Billingham were the group that were mostly involved in that developement. Regards.

Tom,
I grew up on Donald Drive in Hamilton Twp. According to my parents, it was originally Cypress Street and was changed to Donald Drive after Donald Caldwell who I believe died in WWII. Caldwell was already taken, so it was decided to call it Donald Drive. I have no knowledge as to the connection to that area of the township.
Susan Layton Wood

MANY THANKS FOR THAT INFORMATION, SUSAN. IT'S LITTLE "ASIDES" LIKE THESE THAT ADD AN ADDITIONAL PIECE TO THE HISTORY OF OUR NEIGHBORHOODS. I HAD NEVER HEARD THE STORY OF DONALD CALDWELL.

1905: GROPP'S LAKE GENEALOGY

Albion Mills, Laurie's Mill, Kirby's Mill, Hutchinson Pond, Lord, where does it end? Joseph West wrote this column for the the local newspaper way back in 1905. West was the most knowledgeable Hamilton Historian who was an expert on the History of Hamilton. Today, I am considered the Hamilton Historian, but believe me dear reader, to paraphrase the Holy Bible, I am not fit to tie the shoes of the likes of Joseph West. However, thanks to the abilities of the personal computer, I am succeeding in bringing forth very important and heretofore unknown history that has lain way back in the dusty cobwebs on the shelves of local history. The above article gives a very incisive genealogical history of the area we all know of today as Gropp's Lake; giving still another peek at the magnificent historical heritage of Sandtown.

1848: THE PORK TRADE AT SAND HILLS

YOne of the rewards of seeking out little known historical facts about my native Hamilton Township is finding little known historical facts about my native Hamilton Township! These delightful and insightful retrospectives have been hidden in deep obscurity for more than a century. Such is the case in the above two articles telling of the early days of Sand Hills, known today as Yardville. The depot at Sand Hills played a very important part of commerce back in the early to mid 1800's as the shipping point north and south via the Camden and Amboy Railroad.

My apologies for the black and white graphics which
and are a bit more difficult to read.

2010: THE SNOW STORM TO END ALL SNOW STORMS

I had to push hard on my storm door to open it and get this photo of the historic blizzard we had here in Hamilton and along the Atlantic coast. This was taken before the final count of 18 inches was recorded in my front yard. Look closely and you can see the heavy snow flakes. The back to back snow storms we had over the past week provided an incredibly difficult challenge to Mayor Bencivengo, Rich Balgowan and the Hamilton Township Public Works employees who worked round the clock opening our streets, roads and public places. As a bonified tax paying Hamilton, I offer my personal congratulations on a job well done!

OH, BY THE WAY, FELLOW SUFFERERS OF "Cabin Fever:"
*ONLY A FEW DAYS UNTIL THE CATCHERS AND PITCHERS REPORT FOR SPRING TRAINING!
*ONLY A COUPLE WEEKS BEFORE WE SEE THE ROBINS RETURN FROM THEIR SOUTHERN HABITAT.
*I CHECKED THE FORSYTHIA BUSHES AT KUSER FARM PARK. THEY ARE MATURING NICELY. AND WILL BE BLOOMING BEFORE YOU KNOW IT.
*DAFFODIL AND CROCUS BULBS ARE PUSHING THROUGH THE SURFACE OF MOTHER EARTH.
SPRING IS COMING; HANG IN THERE!

2010: HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE THIS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?

Some segments of our society have little or no respect for other peoples' property. Motoring around Hamilton and other towns in the area, one will see examples of the above "art work" on utility boxes, houses, barns,in fact any wall that gives a canvas to the anti-social criminals who take pride in defacing other peoples' property. It seems to have become an epidemic.

THIS FROM JOE B.:

Some of this "art Works" is great. I remember when I was in High School (Middle forties) we had problems with the kids on State and Broad doing damage to the store windows. The merchants got together and had the kids paint their window with murals and they were awarded prizes. Maybe if the Township made some area available to the kids to paint their art works it might go away. Everyone likes to be rewared for their good works. Just a thought.

Hi Joe:

We also did the downtown stores during Halloween in my Hamilton High years. However, it was all done as a contest, not at the expense of defenseless citizens. Providing a place for these artists to perform their art would be highly impractical, unless their parents would be willing to let them decorate the walls of their own homes.I would still have them clean off their unauthorized vandalism with a tooth brush.

1913: REAL ESTATE AUCTION AT VILLA PARK

Once upon a time, Villa Park one of Trenton's most popular communities, was out in the suburbs. Quintin's race track was the main attraction in that neighborhood during the early 20th century. Then along came the Colonial Land Co., developers who changed the face of the area along the Trenton-Hamilton border. The above graphic is an example of Colonial Land's aggressive real estate advertising. Colonial also developed the land on which Camp Olden was situated, and called it "Colonial Park;" the area where I grew up.

FROM RALPH LUCARELLA:
Hi Tom: I sure agree with that ad. My father bought a new all brick semi-detached house with a driveway on Bert Avenue in 1924 for $4,000. That's just about the time that Villa Park was fully developed. The only fault I recall about the area at that time were the streets were all paved with gravel except Revere Avenue. That street was paved with asphalt and that's where we kids gathered to roller skate and hang out. My father eventfully lost the house through foreclosure during the great depression and in 1937 moved to Franklin St. That was back to the Burg but close enough to Villa Park to remain in close contact with our friends.

Best regards.

1970: JIM BOUTON A HIT WITH LOCALS

I found the above article fascinating with the reference to our own Mike Angarone. As stated previously in many of my posts, I was absent from Hamilton for many years while commuting to New Brunswick and Monmouth Junction. This article tells how former New York Yankee pitcher Jim Bouton was impressed by the baseball talents of Mike Angarone and his potential for bigger things in professional baseball, Mike is a former Hamilton Councilman and currently the Director of Economic Development and Technology in Hamilton. He was a highly respected member of "The Rafferty Team." According to those who know, Mike had real potential to become a professional baseball player while he was a college student at Georgia Southern.

1970: FORMER YANKEE BOUTON PITCHES FOR TRENTON'S PAT PAVERS

Not only did I waste 40-plus years working at a dead end job, I lost much of the local news during those 40-plus years as I commuted daily to New Brunswick and Monmouth Junction. I really lost contact with much of what was going on locally. The above article took me completely by surprise. As a Yankee fan for over 50 years, I had many Yankee players on the top of my "favorites" list. Bouton was not one of them. I especially thought his book "Ball Four" was as we used to say, "bush league." However, that was and is my opinion, and mine alone. I would bet that there were many Yankee fans who were also Bouton Fans.

1951: "LUCKY LUCY;" Helldriver Extraordinaire

She was a lovely and very daring "Hell Driver" whose auto daredevil exploits put Joie Chitwood to shame. "Luck Lucy" DiNatale and her lady Hell Drivers were real crowd pleasers back in the day. Don Slabicki, Ernie Plaag and I spent many teen age hours over at "Rocky's" on Edwin and South Olden Avenue during the years when Rocky DiNatale and his fellow racing aces worked on their stock cars. '37 and '38 Fords seemed to be the stock car of choice back then.

1970: PAT PAVERS AND THEIR BOWLING TEAMS

Thanks to Mrs. Jackie Tuozzolo for a sizable collection of bowling photos which were taken during the 1970's when "Pat Pavers" was actively involved on the local bowling scene. Mrs. Tuozzolo is moving from the area, and thankfully, had the foresight to preserve a collection of Pat Paver memorabilia which will be added to the "BUSINESSES-FACTORIES HAMILTON", and "SPORTS, Misc." folder in the local history collection.
===========================

THIS FROM RALPH LUCARELLA:

Hi Tom; I'd like to add some nice comments about "Pat Pavers". Pete Tuozzolo was a big help to us when we built the Hamilton Bowling Lanes on Route 33 in 1955. He not only help us with our parking lot problems but in many ways with our bowling leagues. He was a true friend of all the bowling lane proprietors and we miss him and his bowling buddies. Best regards.

1910: BOY SCOUT MOVEMENT COMES TO AMERICA

THE BOY SCOUTS CELEBRATE A CENTENNIAL:
FEBRUARY 1910 - FEBRUARY 2010

Those of you who have followed my columns over the years, and other locally oriented exploits, will recall those times when I mentioned Ernest Thompson Seton as one of my very favorite boyhood authors. How I loved to read of his stories of animals as they lived in their natural habitats! The most memorable of the books I read by this outstanding author is "Wild Animals I Have Known." Seton has that special knack in his story telling that places you right in the den of "Lobo" the wolf. The article is from a loose, un-identified source clipping in my collection. It tells of Sir. Baden Powell's founding of the organization over in Great Britain in 1908. (I inserted the 1986 Boy Scout Handbooks.) The organization was so successful, it ultimately branched out to other countries, including the U.S.A. and Trenton.

1910: Scouting Comes to the Trenton Area

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA CENTENNIAL: FEBRUARY 1910 - FEBRUARY 2010

Abject apologies for this very poor copy of the above article detailing the Boy Scouts of America as they began to form here in our local area. The boy scouts have been an inspiration to many in our community for the good works that they do.

2010: FEBRUARY 6 HEAVY SNOWFALL: ATLANTIC AVENUE

"Oh the weather outside is frightful,
and the fire is so delightful,
and since we've no place to go,
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...!"

One of the advantages of having a 61 year old home lies in the fact that the concrete sidewalks and entrance walks have concrete that was laid all those years ago and are impervious to rock salt. The lower right shows a portion of the sidewalk in front of my house, as the melting is in progress. Over the years, I have carried on the tradition of scattering rock salt on my walkways IN ADVANCE of the snow storm. Then, as the song says, "let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." When it comes time to clear the snow, (in my case using my electric snow thrower), the blade goes right down to the concrete and the remaining rock salt melts the small amount remaining snow. The process can be seen in the above photo as the rock salt begins the melting process. Hopefully by tomorrow morning, my concrete walks should be nearly clear and dry.

THIS FROM SJBILL:
Tom

Get your galoshes on and let's go hitching rides by grapping on the bumpers of cars as they drive by and just sliding on the snow. Since Genesee St. was never sanded, it was perfect for this activity. We could ride from Liberty St. all the way to Roebling Ave or Hudson St. Just watch out for the occasional bare spots when the cars got up to 10 - 15 mph!! ;-)

Thanks for reminding me of the time I hitched a ride on Newkirk Avenue and wiped out when I hit a strip of raw asphalt. I had a "raspberry" on my right hand for many days. "Hitchin' a ride" was a definite "no-n0" in my Mom's demerit ledger. Thanks for the comment, Bill.

1877: LAW AND ORDER IN DOWNTOWN TRENTON

Here are a few isolated downtown Trenton incidents which make the search for Trenton in ye olden years such a fascinating study. The article is 1877, the photo was from an old glass slide in my collection, and I believe it is from the 1890's.

1877 AND 1913: ST. ALPHONSUS R.C. CHURCH HOPEWELL

As the graphics database grows in the Hamilton Local History Collection, it becomes very convenient to meld two different graphics from different times into one complete mini history. Such is the case in the graphic above. The article describing the laying of the cornerstone of "The Hopewell Catholic Church" was published before graphics came on the scene. Thirty three years later, a photo of the church blends perfectly with the July, 1877 article, forming an interesting view of the earliest years of St. Alphonsus.

1970: BILL GARRY RECALLS BROADCAST RADIO

In all my years in Ham radio, I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Bill Garry. However, like Ed Raser who is profiled in the graphic following this, Bill was another Trenton radio pioneer. I leave it to any local amateur radio guys or gals to add to Bill's excellent column on the history of Trenton broadcast radio year. By the time I entered the amateur radio fraternity in the 1970's, Bill had joined the illustrious group of hams who were there during the evolving years of amateur radio. Once again, a call to any visitors to this site who can add to the heritage of Trenton radio's Bill Garry.

1970: ED RASER, LOCAL RADIO PIONEER

By the time I entered the amateur radio fraternity back in the 1970's, Ed Raser was no longer active nor did he attend our monthly Delaware Valley Radio Association (DVRA) meetings in West Trenton. However, tales of this legendary local radio man could easily fill a book. Perhaps a current member of the amateur fraternity who visits this blog can add a bit of color to the re-telling of the exemplary life if this noted Trentonian.

1970: WTTM: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

The late Bill Singer was a friend of mine who left us much too early in life. His sister Nancy introduced Judy and me to him back in the 1960's. Bill had a radio voice that was widely recognized all over the WTTM listening area. He opened up a school for disk jockeys in Trenton and maintained it right up to the time of his untimely death. You are looking at a graphic from an era that has left us. Music on the radio today has largely become a stereophonic nightmare. Cruise the AM dial from 540 to 1700 and you will become a sports expert. Go over to FM and tune 88 through 108 and you will find 90% of the spectrum occupied by music geared to the younger generation, where music takes a back seat to screaming, yelling, in audible lyrics, flashing strobe lights, thunder and lightning. Thank you Lord for MP3 music and MP3 players!

1938: THE DIONNE QUINTUPLETS

From my "NOSTALGIA" folder, this graphic from 1938 recalls just a one of the national and international photographs of the Dionne quintuplets. I was only 5 when this photo was published, but I do remember the "Dionne Quints" craze that overcame America, as their every move was recorded by their native Canadian media, America, and all over the world. There were Dionne paper dolls, Dionne dolls, Dionne magazine and newspaper advertisements all over the spectrum. The press and radio were obsessed with the family. Here's a real example of "Cheaper by the Dozen!" the entire family is shown in the photo. I have added the white outline to highlight the 5 lovely"Quints." Emilie died on August 6, 1954. Marie died on February 27, 1970, Yvonne Died on June 23, 2001.

A GOOGLE SEARCH WILL BRING UP MANY BLOGS
DEVOTED TO THE QUINTS..

1866: TRENTON'S WILSON WOOLEN MILL

In my estimation, Samuel K. Wilson was the wealthy "John D" of the Trenton area back in Victorian times. Coming on the scene in the mid 1800's, Wilson built up a real estate portfolio with countless parcels of land all over the city of Trenton. The site on which St. Francis Hospital, and much of the surrounding area was a part of his real estate holdings. His Wilson Woolen mill was known far and wide a source of quality textiles

2009: DENNIS WATERS, LAWRENCE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

I received the above invitation to the lecture to be given by Mr. Waters, who will be telling the story of the fabled AT&T trans-oceanic radio station which took up a large piece of real estate during the time it was in operation. I can remember motoring past that site as a young boy, and marveling at the huge antenna farm that was part of the complex.

1864: NORTH AND SOUTH: A CONTROVERSIAL RELATIONSHIP

The post Civil War northern press was filled with the many acts of terrorism being visited upon the newly freed slaves in the years following the Civil War. Undoubtedly, the Southern press had their own anti Union stories to tell. The article tells of the outrage on the part of some northerners is self explanatory. The animosity which followed the war between the states even today, has never really let up in many quarters, both north and south.

1866: THE AMERICAN SAW WORKS

The American Saw Company was a major industry in Trenton during the 1800's. You will read about the Emerson Company who were Civil War suppliers of swords and other fine steel, Cooper Hewitt, the Trenton Iron Works, and other early Trenton industries that were very important part of the Trenton industrial history.
YOU WILL NOTE THAT THIS GRAPHIC IS NOT UP TO MY NORMAL HIGH DEFINITION STANDARDS. THE SIZE OF THE GRAPHIC PRECLUDED USING A GRAY SCALE SCAN. I HAVE OPTED FOR "B&W" (black and white) which results in a scan that is readable but not nearly as crisp as gray scale.

1866: (JULY) BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES F. RUSLING

Perhaps one of the more underexposed persons in local history is James F. Rusling. Above tells of a national tour of inspection this trusted Trentonian completed back in post civil war America. General Rusling, was the founder of today's Broad Street Park. He also had vast real estate holdings in the Trenton-Hamilton area.

1866: DAILY TRUE AMERICAN PRO SOUTH, LATER ANTI SOUTH

From the "CIVIL WAR" folder in the Hamilton Local History collection, this interesting article from the State Gazette chastising the Daily True American of revisionist history; a 19th century of what we know of today as "flip-flopping!" The Gazette was a Republican paper and the True American favored the Democrats. At times the attacks on each paper could safely be called "vicious." Here the Daily State Gazette accuses the True American of being disingenuous in recounting which side of the war the editor was on. As a matter of interest, there were MANY folks north of the Mason-Dixon line who sympathized with the Confederate cause.
To add a bit of local color to this graphic, I have cut and pasted a few ads from the page on which this article was located.

1938: FRANK METZGER 2nd BIRTHDAY

From the 'NOTABLE PERSONS" folder, this boyhood photo of the late Frank Metzger. That handsome young boy you see in the photo went on to be one of the respected and prominent members of the Rafferty Administration. Frank was a Hamilton Councilman, a graduate of Hamilton High's class of 1954.

1934: TRENTON HIGH vs. IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

Joe Schnorbus was a regular attendee with me at our annual St. Anthony retreat at San Alphonso down in West Long Branch back in the 1980's. Joe and his best buddy at the time, Ned Willever, spent many after midnight hours reminiscing in the beautifuly lounge at San Alphonso. Listening to those guys talking about their early years was a real treat.
(I am assuming that the Joe in the photo is the very same
Joe I knew at those annual St. Anthony retreats)

Ralph Lucarella said...

Hi Tom: I remember all those players on both teams and recall the interest shown in those games. On Trenton High were George Case, a future star in the major leagues and Kelly Palumbo, manager of the Trenton Schroths when they won the American Legion World Series in 1948. Immaculate's team also had great players who also went far in the sporting world. Regards.

THANKS ONCE AGAIN FOR YOUR INFORMATIVE INPUT, RALPH.

THIS FROM "OMAD:"

Thanx Ralph, you are a real source of information. It has been 54 years since I lived in Trenton and I enjoy all the items on Tom's website. Still get together about once a month with old classmates and chat with them on line. Lived all over the world and am now back in Jersey at the shore.

1938:TRENTON: ST. MARY'S GREEK CATHOLIC SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

As you can see, the graphic arts were starting to be really clear and vibrant, as this offset photo from 1938 will attest. Many familiar names appear in the listing of the students below the photo.

1931: LENOX, INC.: LAMPS FOR THE OCEAN LINERS

January 4, 1931. the heart of the Great Depression. Like all Trenton industrial plants, Lenox, Inc. was scrambling to stay afloat in a severely depressed economy. As can be seen in the article above, the shipping industry gave the company a boost as it requested Lenox lighting fixtures.

1947: Brith Sholom Lodge 40th Anniversary

I have been building a growing "JEWISH" folder in the Local History Collection. This is from 1947 when the Lodge celebrated 40 years (1900 - 1947)

1938 AND 1916: THE YOUNG MENS' HEBREW ASSOCIATION

Once again from the "JEWISH" folder in the Local History Collection, these two graphics relating to the YMHA. The building in the graphic above shows the beautiful building as it looked in 1916.

1917: TRENTON'S MAGNIFICENT MASONIC TEMPLE

Can you imagine tearing down that exquisite example of architectural excellence? I sure can't. Think how many apartments and offices could occupy that building were it still standing in this year of 2009. Personally, I prefer the beauty of that Masonic building to those present day glass encrusted buildings that proliferate throughout cities all over America. Those Masons sure did have a taste for architectural beauty! The building was located on the corner of West State and North Warren Streets. It was a gorgeous tribute to the Masons, and the city of Trenton.

2009: OBIT ELANE R. COOKE, HHS '56

This received from Jack Lacy, HHS '56:

Hi All...

Unpleasant as it is, we must inform you of the passing of another HHS56 classmate, Elane Rich Cooke. You may express your condolences to the family at: 17 E. Union St., Bordentown, NJ 08505 or by signing the guest book as noted below.

Hope you and yours are well...

Jack Lacy

Elane R. Cooke BORDENTOWN - Elane R. Cooke, age 71, of Bordentown passed away on Sunday Jan. 24, surrounded by her family at home. She was born in Trenton, living in Hamilton before coming to Bordentown 41 years ago. Elane was a graduate of Hamilton Township High School, and received her bachelor of science degree in education from Trenton State College in 1980. She was a school teacher employed by the Pemberton Township school district. Elane loved teaching, gardening, the beach at the Jersey shore, and the pursuit and acquiring of antiques. She was a member of the Bordentown Historical Society. She was a former parishioner of St. Andrew's Church and a member of the Christ Episcopal Church, Bordentown. Elane was predeceased by her first husband, Albert Steven Hulit, in 1978. She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Col. Phillip A. Cooke; two daughters, Lora Inglisa and husband, Domenic, of East Windsor and Christie Peterson and her husband, David, of Bordentown; three stepchildren, Alexander Cooke and wife, Judith, of Mt. Holly, Andrew Cooke and wife, Kelly, of Marlton and Kathryn Wilkens and husband, Peter, of Delran; two sisters, June Smith and husband, Russell, of Barnegat and Norma Wood and husband, Barry, of Yardley, PA, and 14 grandchildren. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering on Friday, Jan. 29, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Huber-Moore Funeral Home, 517 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown, (609) 298-0330. Memorial services will be held Saturday, Jan. 30, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 130 Prince St., Bordentown. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Christ Episcopal Church.

Published in The Times, Trenton, on January 26, 2010

1900: HAMILTON TERRACE MORPHS INTO FRANKLIN PARK

The graphic above shows a plat map for the Franklin Park area which was originally called Hamilton Terrace. The plat map dates to the early part of the century when a large part of the Wright Farm was sold off. The lower map is a current map from the internet,
showing the area as it is today.

1919: MERCER MANOR - HOOVER AVENUE AREA

There's an offer that's hard to refuse! $25 down and material to build a beautiful bungalow like that in the engraving. Mercer Manor is located off of Edinburg Road, just north of five points. The streets the the Manor are named for prominent politicians of the era: Hoover, Lansing, etc.).

============================

FROM MIKE "MACK" MCNICOLL:

Hi Tom:
I noticed that when I moved out here. They all appeared to be Members of President Wilson's
Cabinet or Government including Hoover who helped get Europe fed after that nasty senseless war. A family story I was always told was we were related to President Wilson.. and my Grandma had a high batting average with her stories so I have never dismissed it but have never proven it either.

===========================

FROM RALPH LUCARELLA:
Hi Tom: In 1954 I bought the lot on the corner of Edinburg Road and Hoover Ave. for $1,200. It was a very large lot and I built a house there for $17,00 in 1955, with a loan from Roma Savings. It was a beautiful home but we just could'nt get used to hot air heat. I ended up selling it and buying a home on Marshall ave. which was all brick and with radiator heat, something we always longed for. Best regards.

1923: George TenEyck's Gaiety Theater

I understand "Ten Eyck" is a Dutch word. Today's Teaneck New Jersey is a derivative of the name. Back in 1923 as seen in the article above, Ten Eyck established a theater in the Wilbur section of Trenton that in its day was a mecca for those families who couldn't afford the trip up town to the higher priced movie houses. The Gaiety was the perfect example of the small town theater wha very necessary part of the neighborhood. As one of those families who couldn't afford the trip to down town Trenton for a first run movie, I and most of my neighbors were regular visitors to both the Gaiety and the Greenwood, which was mere blocks away on Cuyler and Greenwood Avenues. Those contemporary locals may recall the Tuesday matinees during the summer at the Gaiety when a kid could pay 11 cents admission and spend a very pleasant afternoon watching the western feature with Ken Maynard, Roy Rogers, or one of our favorite "B" western stars. Then a walk up the sidewalk to Marucca's Tomato pie restaurant or perhaps a stop at Morgan's deli for a ten cent double dip ice cream cone.
Those memories DO linger!

===============================
MANY THANKS TO MR. WES STILLWAGON FOR THIS INTERESTING
INFORMATION ON THE GAIETY (OLDEN) THEATER:

As the former chief projectionist at the Olden (Gaiety) theatre I did a lot of research into the history of the property. Where the Bowling Alley was located was the Dew Drop Inn (I think it was called) that was a bordello. There was a tunnel that ran from the front property under the little alley to under the stage. I suppose this was for a getaway in case of a raid. At one time there were 80 people on the payroll for the theatre. It had a small orchestra pit and an organ that was purchased by the Eastman Theatre in Rochester New York. I believe it had the first CinemaScope screen in the area and was set up to show 3D movies. Olden Manager Jack Kosharek (Ph.D) was the best theater manager I knew. The place was always immaculate.

Wes Stillwagon

1955: WPTZ, CHANNEL 3, PHILADELPHIA

http://www.archive.org/details/Miracleo1955

What a wonderful trip video! I was 22 years old and in Uncle Sam's Army when this was made, so obviously I didn't get to see the original telecast while I was away at Fort Devens, Mass. The Trenton scenes are absolutely wonderful. Thanks to regular visitor Candy Jens for sending it for us to enjoy. Candy has been a visitor to this blog since it was first posted in November, 2005.

1921: Trenton's Taylor Hall, better known as the Taylor Opera House

The RKO Capitol ultimately was to replaced the majestic Taylor Opera House on South Broad Street; a familiar site to Victorian era Trentonians. The next graphic this gives a rare look at the history and heritage of Trenton's historic Taylor Hall as it was in 1887.

1887: TAYLOR HALL: ALSO KNOWN AS TAYLOR OPERA HOUSE

This rare bit of history, finally seeing the light of day after 122 years hidden deep within the pages of the Trenton Times, tells the story of the golden years of vaudeville in the town of Trenton. Two stores occupied both sides of the entrance. South Broad Street at the time Taylor Hall was built in 1867 was unpaved, with cobblestones along the gutters.

1941: THE NEW STACY THEATER (MAYFAIR?)

OK my dear visitors, I will need help with this confusing graphic. First off, there is a tear in the graphic. All that I could find from the date was the truncated letters, "ary. Thus the dated is obviously January of February, 1941. I must admit that I wondered why in the world the H&H Amusement Company chose the name of the Stacy Theater which was also on the opposite side of E. State Street. I can only assume that the theater shown in the graphic above became the Mayfair. I do know that the Mayfair took the place of the old Orpheum Theater.

FROM RALPH LUCARELLA:
Hi Tom: I believe the Hildinger family also owned the Strand, Greenwood and Center Theatres in addition to the Stacy and Orpheum. I remember when this happened and always thought the new name would be Mayfair and the Stacy would stay the same. Regards.

Thanks, Ralph.

1946: THE NEW HAMILTON THEATER

It was a sad day in Hamilton when our first theater opened and ran for only a very short time. I have no idea why the beautiful theater failed. Every time I went there I found it to be a very comfortable establishment. Be that as it may, the RKO Hamilton is not more; a mere memory to those of us who remember it. Today a church occupies the site.

1937: ST. ANTHONY TRENTON - HOLY NAME SOCIETY

One of the very stark differences in society of our fathers and mothers was the incredible attention citizens gave to civic affairs. In this case, a situation with which I am very familiar. Going through the news stories of years gone by, it becomes obvious that local clubs, societies, lodges, and other neighborhood affairs were very well attended and supported. As society progressed and hundreds of distractions became a part of living, the support lessened, lessened, and then nearly vanished. The article above is an excellent example of the support the parishioners at St. Anthony Church gave to just one of the societies; in this case, the Holy Name Society. As a past President of that august group during the 1980's I can attest to the fact that by the time I came on the scene, attendance at Holy Name Society meetings had dwindled down to a pitiful few senior citizens. Like the old fashioned custom of sitting on the front porch and communicating with the neighbors, football, baseball, television and other distractions now take the place of community and neighborhood togetherness.

1937: KELLYS vs. CHECKERS AT WETZEL FIELD

Baseball was the only sport played at Wetzel Field, right? WRONG! I must admit that I never associated that legendary field hosting local soccer leagues. I am sure that those citizens who lived near to Wetzel recall other sports being played there. Was there also a football league playing there after Trenton High abandoned the field?

FROM RALPH LUCARELLA:
Hi Tom: As a kid I was also very active during the soccer season. Wetzel Field was used as a soccer field very often. I played in the playground leagues and they also had City Leagues. Shein's Express sponsored our team and we done very well. In the early 30s, Denny Kuhn and the Coopers worked for the City to organize the leagues. Soccer was very popular in Chambersburg and the Hetzel Field area. Regards.

FROM JOE Z:
Tom and Ralph, my Dad and I use to watch soccer games on Princeton Ave. back in the late 50's. They played on a lot where the old Korvettes was located. Most of the clubs that played were German organized clubs. My biggest kick was getting the ball when it went out of bounds.

Thanks guys! Should this history project of mine survive the years, information such as the above comments from two of my regular visitors goes a long way to add to the value of Wetzel Field.

1938: THE TRENTON SENATORS

In only a few weeks, we will hear that annual announcement that all of us baseball lovers long to hear: "Catchers will begin reporting to spring training this week." I can hardly wait. I was not a baseball person back when the Trenton Senators were the local Trenton team. I came on the scene in the 1940's when Bus Saidt and Bill Hildebrand manned the WBUD microphones and did the home and away play by play of the Trenton Giants Insterstate League team. I was an avid fan! I remember the station breaks: "WBUD, 1490 on your dial, Morrisville Pennsylvania. This broadcast is sponsored by Stan Coney Rebuilt Engines, Morrisville Pennsylvania." Let me see....Wilbur Jackson, Maurice "Moe" Cunningham, Don Robertson, Pete Pavlik, Paul LaPalme, Manager Tommy Heath...Wow! Pleasant memories never die!

THIS FROM RALPH LUCARELLA: (Thanks, Ralph.)

Hi Tom: 1938 was about the time I was pretty active in baseball. It was two years after I played with the Schroths and I played in just about every league in the city except the Central Jersey League. That league was semi-pro and drew crowds at Wetzel Field to watch the Trenton Cadets play. Jiggs Corrado and Lusansky played in that league before joining the Senators. Other local players who latter played pro ball were Charlie Budd, Mintsey Mansak, Mike Masterpoli and Sam Masserini and a few others. I got to the point when I was playing most of the week and on weekends. Most of my buddies were out having a ball and I was on the porch waiting to get picked up. Once I found a girlfriend, I eased up playing and went to work at the post office. I ended up playing fast pitch soft ball in the Industrial League. You mentioned Bus Saidt in your statement. I would like to add a worthy tribute to him. He was my teamate on the 1936 Schroths and one of my best friends. He went on to become an outstanding sports announcer and we met when the 1948 Schroths were in the American Legion World Series in Indianapolis. He covered the game back to Trenton and really got excited when my brother Chuck stole home.

Best regards.