Hudson County NJ Archives History.....Weehawken History, 1932 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/njfiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Louis Paul Hennefeld hennefeld@comcast.net NOTE: This is a very rare book of which currently there is only one copy known... it being a rather battered photocopy of the original, now lost. The original was profusely illustrated by my grandfather, Grant Wright, showing local Weehawken scenes; however, the images on the photocopy are too poor to be able to reproduce well, unfortunately. But here is all the written text. The original was still extant in the late 1970's, as I was able to vierw it at the Weehawken Library. However, when I asked to see it again last year, it was missing, and no one at the Library even had a record of it. Cover Image: http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken01.jpg PREFACE TO THE READER: At the outset let me state that it was not in the roll of a “Historian” that the following pages were written, but more in the spirit of a hobby. After coming in contact and reading several “Histories of Hudson County” I thought it would be a good idea to sit down and write a little History of Weehawken not knowing, like a great many more citizens, that their really was so much “History” attached to out township. As it is I believe I have only succeeded in scratching the surface. I had started to write the following pages in 1927, and I have spared neither time nor effort in making the story both interesting and truthful, the illustrations herein contained were drawn from photo’s of these old scenes and places from my collection of “Pictures of Weehawken” by Grant Wright, an eminent artist and illustrator, a personal friend of mine. My authority for their contents is “Winfield’s History of Hudson County, DuBois’s History of the Hackensack Pl. Rd., Old Records in the Township Hall that I had the opportunity to look at from time to time, and from information I received from “Old Timers” within our midst, and from memory as I know Weehawken during my life time here. I take this method of sincerely thanking all those that have so kindly furnished me with the information I requested of them, and trusting that the reader may find the following pages interesting and that they bring back fond memories to such “Old Timers” as may read them. I can truthfully state that this “History” is the first book of its kind ever written about out Township. Weehawken N.J. Oct. 16th. 1932 Edward J. Kirk Lieut. of Police. WEEHAWKEN Weehawken, In the mountain scenery set, All we adore of nature in her wind And Frolic hour of infancy is met; And never has a summers morning smiled Upon a lovelier scene than the full eye Of the enthusiast revels on, when high Amid thy forest solitude’s he climbs O’er crags that proudly tower above the deep, And knows that sense of danger which sublimes The breathless moment, when his daring step Is on the verge of the cliff, and he can hear The low dash of the waves with startled ear, In such an hour he turns, and on his view Ocean and earth and heaven burst before him, Clouds slumbering at his feet, and the clear blue Of summers sky, in beauty bending o’er him, The city bright below; and far away, Sparkling in golden light, his own romantic bay, Tall spire, and glittering roof, and battlement, And banners floating in the sunny air; And while sails o’er the calm blue waters bent, Green isle and circling shore, are blended there, In wild reality, when life is old, And many a scene forgot, the heart will hold Its memory of this; nor lives there one Whose infant breath was drawn, or boyhood days Of happiness were passed beneath that sun, That in his manhood prime can calmly gaze Upon that bay or on that mountain strand Nor feel the prouder of his native land. Fitz-Green Halleck 1830 Let Willie tell, in glittering prose, Of Paris and its tempting shows; Let Irving, while his fancy glows, Praise Spain, -renowned-romantic. Let Cooper write, until it falls, Of Venice and her Marble walls, Her dungeons, bridges and canals Enough to make one frantic. Let Voyagers, macadamize, With books, the Alps that climb the skies, And near forget, in any wise Geneva’s lake and city, And poor old Rome – the proud, the great, Fallen – Fallen from her high estate, No cockney sees but he must prate About her what a pity. Of travelers there is no lack, God knows-each one of them a hack Who ride to write – and then go back, And publish a long story, Chiefly about themselves; but each Or in dispraise or praise, with breath. Of truth on either side, will preach About some places glory. For me who never saw the sun His course o’er other regions run. Than those whose franchise well was won By blood of Patriots martyrs – Fair Fertile France may smile in vain Nor will I seek Thy ruins, Spain, Albion, thy freedom I distain, With all thy monarchs charters. Better I love the rivers side, Where Hudson’s sounding waters glide And with their full majestic tide, To the great sea keep flowing; WEEHAWK, I love thy frowning height Since first I saw with found delight, The wave beneath thee rushing bright And the new Rome still growing. Written by a Wit, in the New York Mirror, July 7th 1832 1. Inhabitants, incorporated. And be it enacted, That the inhabitants of the said Township of Weehawken are hereby constituted a body politic and corporate in law by the name of “The inhabitants of the Township of Weehawken”, in the county of Hudson, and the state of New Jersey, and are vested with and entitled to all the rights, powers, privileges, authorized advantages, and subject to the same government and liabilities as are prescribed in the act entitled “An act incorporating the inhabitants of townships, designating their powers and regulating their meetings”, approved April Fourteenth, Eighteen Hundred and Forty Six, except that they shall elect but one Freeholder, and shall be entitled to a full proportionate estate, share and interest in any public funds and property with other townships in the county of Hudson, in proportion to the taxable property, and as taxed by the assessors within their respective limits at the last assessment, and subject to like obligations and responsibilities with other Townships in the said county in the same manner as if herein particularly enumerated and set forth. 2. Annual town meeting. And be it enacted, That the inhabitants of the said township of Weehawken, shall hold their first meeting at the house of Joshua Benson, on the second Wednesday of April, Eighteen Hundred and Fifty Nine, and afterwards at such places in the said township of Weehawken as shall be determined by the electors of said township in manner prescribed by law. 3. Settlement of paupers. And be it enacted, That all paupers who have gained a settlement within the territorial limits included in the said township of Weehawken, shall after passage of this act, be chargeable to the township of Weehawken. 4. Justice of the Peace – etc. to hold office until expiration of term. And be it enacted, That justices of the peace commissioners for taking the acknowledgement and proof of deeds, and other officers residing within the limits of the township of Weehawken, shall hold their offices until the same shall expire of their own limitations. 5. Lands set off to be proportionate share of Dept. of Hoboken. And be it enacted, That such portion of lands and property in the first section of this act described and therein included, as are separated and set off from the city of Hoboken, shall be subject to a proportionate share of and debt., or obligation incurred by the city of Hoboken; and also such portion of lands and property in the first section of this act described and included therein, as are set off from the township of North Bergen, in the county of Hudson, shall be subject to a proportionate share of any debt., or obligation incurred by the inhabitants of North Bergen, in the county of Hudson, and the inhabitants of the township of Weehawken, in the county of Hudson, shall be made liable to the debts and obligations aforesaid, to be enforced at law or in equity upon lands and property aforesaid, in the proportions and in the principles aforesaid. 7. Part of former act repealed. And be it enacted, That all acts and parts of acts inconsistent with the creation of the said township of Weehawken and the boundary and jurisdiction there of as in this act contained, are to that extent modified and repealed. 8. Assembly District. And be it enacted, That the said township of Weehawken shall be included in the third assembly district of the county of Hudson. 9. And be it enacted, That this act shall take effect immediately. APPROVED MARCH 15th. 1859. Image: http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken02.jpg THE FIRST CITIZEN OF WEEHAWKEN According to ancient records of past Historians, the first citizen of Weehawken was a bad actor, Drunkard, Freebooter, Slanderer and a great many other things that go to make a citizen bad, but , not so with a very prominent Historian of the present day, Mr. W.H. Richardson, Director of the Pavonia Tercentenary; who after an exhaustive search of all the records on the subject had the following to say on “Weehawken’s First Citizen” in the Hudson Dispatch on April 30th 1930. “For Safety’s sake”, perhaps I had better explain in this first paragraph that the story is not written about any one of multitudinous claimants who might contend for that honor in Weehawken today, but about a man who has been dead for nearly 250 years. Practically all our local annalists in dealing with this gentleman have followed the lead of an “authority” who has already decided for all of us that he was a “bad man, a noted free booter, a drunkard, a slanderer”. That is what they say of him who seems to have been the first and for some time apparently the only citizen of Weehawken, Maryn Adriaensen. Now that is not a very nice biographical record to have, nor, does it set up an attractive figure around which to weave the enthusiasm of the pageantry makers and the idealisms of the youngsters of Weehawken on adulating their first citizen. When Winfield, in his Land Titles, page 36, repeated that fabrication about Maryn Adriaensen he might just as easily told us- for the truth was just as accessible to him then as it is now- that the man who made the accusation was himself the most notorious welcher, pirate, debaucher, and liar in all the infamous years of the Dutch authority of this side of the Hudson, Director Kieft, being named by names in the Dutch Colonial records of New Amsterdam, and being those things, are vastly different. Holds Charges Unfounded. Among the legended references on the famous Manatus Map of 1639, which has so happily preserved the beginnings of Pavonia for us, is one “No. 2”, showing the “plantation of Maerynes”. That was the cartographers shorthand for Maryn Adriaensen, who was in what is now Weehawken for many years before he got that May 11th 1647, patent for the 50 morgens, (about 100 acres) “extending from the kill of Hobocken and the north to the mouth of the next kill” and so on. Maryn Adrieansen was born in Holland in 1600, and he came from Veere, first to Renselaer Wyck, in 1631, and a few years later he must have been in the place that has not made him famous enough. The only black mark against him as a slanderer, that I can find, is on the New Amsterdam court records, of June 6th 1640, when he was so accused, but he begged pardon of the director and he was “forgiven for the sake of his wife and children”. (continued) “But as De Vries, Dominie Bogardus, Carnelis Molyn, were among those who said worse things in public about Kieft than our original “Weehawkenarian” could ever dream of, we submit that the charge of “slanderer” is not sustained. He should be publicly acclaimed now for having been among those who said them first. KIEFT’S SCAPEGOAT How Maryn Adriaensen was ever inveigled or cajoled or impressed into the command of the company of “planters” that slaughtered a party of friendly Indians near Corlaers Hook on Manhattan, the same night Sergeant Rodolff and his tigers butchered 80 or 100 helpless Indian men, women, children and babies in the stockade near Jan Eversten Bout’s (now in the Lafayette section of Jersey City) may some day be known. That was February 25-26-1643, Kieft blatted openly, and impiously that he was going “to put a bit in the mouth of the heathen”. The few people in New Amsterdam who dared, told him what the consequences would be. When the reaction in the bloodiest kind of resentment by the Indians came, Kieft tried to find a scapegoat and he named Maryn Adriaensen as the one responsible for the massacre at Corlaers Hook. Maryn went for Kieft then with a pistol and cutlass, to get satisfaction for “those devilish lies you have been telling about me”. It is more generally understood now that if Maryn had concentrated on one weapon he would have got his man, and the whole course of History would have been changed. Maryn the first rebel against New Amsterdam authoriteering, and the advocate of a separate Colonial government in Pavonia, would have prevailed. The court proceedings of March 28th, 1643, tell of two attempts made by Adriaensen. A curious aftermath of the affair comes out in the same records on December 17th , 1646. Henry Kip’s wife was haled into Court because she had declared that the “director and council were false judges and the fiscal a forsworn fiscal”, for their action against Adriaensen. It was necessary that Henry explain that his wife’s mind had been unbalanced since the time of the unsuccessful killing. EXONERATED IN HOLLAND The upshot of the poorly handled sword-and-gun play was that Maryn Adriaensen was sent to Holland in irons for trial, and he came back fully exonerated. So it would seem that this charge of “a bad man”, is not sustained either. This “drunkard” business is another one I have tried to pin down. Maryn, I regret to say, did get into the criminal records of the Kieft Kourt on May 5th , 1640. He and Hendrick Pietersen apparently owned a plot of land on Manhattan, jointly. Claes Cornelisen and Martin Harbersen were dickering to buy it from them. (continued) There can be no question although that testimony is not set down in the record that Claes and Martin were trying to wiggle out of a bad bargain or contract, so they brought suit to have the verbal contract annulled on the ground that Maryn and Hendrick were both drunk when it was made. What happened to Claes and Martin the deponent “Saith not”. Maryn Adriaensen died before March 3rd, 1654. I feel very sure in asserting on behalf of this long maligned citizen of Weehawken, since his widow married Geerlief Michelsen then she must have been as fine a wife as Maryn was a man and husband, to have attracted a new one when she had faced the privations of an awfully deadly pioneer life, had borne and brought up her children here-and was ready to kindle a new hearth-fire with a second husband. THE ACT THAT CREATED THE TOWNSHIP OF WEEHAWKEN LAWS OF 1859 - PAGE S68 Chapter CXXX An act to create a new Township in the county of Hudson, to be called the “Township of Weehawken”. 1. Boundaries of Township. Be it enacted by the Senate and General Assembly, the State of New Jersey, That all that part of the City of Hoboken, and the Township of North Bergen, the County of Hudson, included within the following boundaries, that to say, commencing on the westerly side of the road leading from the Ferry to Hoboken, formerly known as the Weehawken Turnpike, at a place which divides the lands, formerly of Mitchel Saunier and John Van Horne, as the said lands are laid down on a map of L.F. Douglass, being date eighteen hundred and forty one, and from said place of beginning running in a south easterly direction, down the bank of Hudson River, following the same dividing line, and a continuation of if protracted to the middle of Hudson River; from thence returning from place of beginning; and from said of beginning running southerly, and along the westerly side of said road, to the northerly side of Bergen Turnpike road, opposite ten lands of John Ehlers, and where said road intersects; thence northwesterly, and along the northerly side of said turnpike road, until you reach a point opposite to the intersection of Palisade Ave with the Bergen Turnpike road afore thence crossing the said Bergen Turnpike, and following along the easterly line of said avenue in a southwesterly direction, to the land of Charles Loss, deceased, where the same intersects the said easterly side of Palisade Ave; from thence along the westerly and northerly boundary of said property, as said land are actually bounded, to which boundary line of said Loss property intersects the said Bergen Turnpike road, and across said road, and I continuation of said JUST mentioned line to a point one hundred feet easterly from the easterly line of said road; thence southerly and parallel with thee said turnpike, and one hundred feet distance therefrom, to a point nine hundred and fifty feet northerly from the northerly line of Eight St. Hoboken, as said street is laid down on Loss Map, of Hoboken, fill in Bergen County Clerks Office; thence easterly and parallel with Eight St. to a point where Tenth Street intersects with the western line oh Hudson Street, as the same is shown on a map of a part of Hoboken, filed in the clerks office of the county of Hudson, December Thirty First, Eighteen Hundred and Fifty Eight; from thence southerly along the easterly line of Hudson Street as the same is shown map last aforesaid; to the northeast corner of Hudson and Seventh then easterly along the northerly line of Seventh Street to the / easterly corner of River and Seventh Street; thence southerly along the easterly side of River Street to the northerly side of Sixth Street, and then east along the north line of Sixth Street to the river; and thence in a continuation of said last mentioned line, is protracted to the center of the river, thence up the river, and along the middle thereof to a point which will reach the line first protracted as aforesaid, to the middle of Hudson river, shall be and // same is hereby made a new Township, to be called by the name of the TOWNSHIP OF WEEHAWKEN. FIRST OWNERS OF WEEHAWKEN It was on Oct. 2nd 1609, Hendrick Hudson, while exploring that mighty river which bears his name, in the good ship “Half Moon” anchored in Weehawken Cove, just north of Castle Point to escape the fury of the Indians who had attacked him from the upper end of Manhattan Isle. The first reference in the annuals of New Netherland to the place now caller “Hoboken” is found in the journal of Robert Juet, the mate of Hudson’s ship the “Half Moon” under date of Oct. 2nd 1609. More than twenty years later, the Director and Council of New Netherlands in behalf of Michael Pauw, Lord of Achienhoven, purchased from the natives (Indians) the land spoken by Juet. The deed conveying this property bears date of July 12th 1630, and conveys all of what is now Hudson County, except that part which lies west of the Hackensack River. Pauw got into disfavor with the New Netherland government for reasons unknown, and they, in 1634, took his land away from him. The first white inhabitant of the northern end of the county was Hendrick, son of Cornelious Van Vorst, who came to America, between 1634 and 1636, and was the first American of the Van Vorsts of Bergen and Hudson County. He lived in a little hut in Hoboken and became owner of all the property previously owned by Michael Pauw, after living here several years he returned to Holland where he died. On February 15th 1640, Aret T. Van Putten secured the place, and without delay, he began to improve his home and lands, fencing in his fields, and maintaining a general farm. He erected a Brew house and thus became the first Brewer in the State and Hoboken the place where beer was first brewed. On the breaking out of the “Indian War” in 1643, Van Putten was away from home on a trading expedition and was killed near “Sandy Hook”. His farm and buildings were destroyed and burnt, and such was the fury of the Indians that the place was abandoned by every white settler. The Indians must, at this time, have gotten complete control of this part of the country, and latter on conveying it back to the whites, for on January 30th 1658, the Indians sold to the Noble Lord Director General Pieter Stuyvesant and Council of New Netherlands a tract of land lying on the west side of the North River. “Beginning from the Great Clip (Dutch for stone referring to the Palisade above Wiehacken, and from there right through the land above the Island Sikakes (meaning Secaucus) and therefrom thence to the Kill Von Coll, and so along the Constable Hoeck again to the aforesaid clip above Wiehacken. Perhaps the price paid for this vast piece of land now worth many millions of dollars, would interest you, this tract was purchased for 80 fathoms of Wampum (Beads made of shells used by the Indians as money and for ornamental belts) 20 fathoms of cloth, 12 brass kettles, 6 guns, I double brass kettle, and a half barrel of strong beer, valued in all at $675.00. Before this tract of land was settled there was a settlement at Bergen, which was the oldest town in this state, it was settled by the early Dutch colonists, and the first house was located where Bergen Square, Jersey City, is now. Originally all of Hudson County and the southern end of Bergen County was included in this Township of Bergen, and although there were in latter years settlements in different parts of County, they were all governed by Bergen Township. On Oct. 14th 1656, Nicholas Verlieth, married Anna, sister of Governor Stuyvesant, who was also the widow of Samuel Bayard, and on Feb. 5th 1663, he received from Governor Stuyvesant a grant of 138 morgens of land, which is now Hoboken and North Hudson. Verlieth, died while in possession of this land in 1675, and from his heirs, Samuel Bayard, his step-son derived title. William Bayard, one of the latter’s descendants, was the owner and in possession of this land when the Revolutionary War broke out. After the City of New York had fallen into the hands of the enemy and the patriot army had been driven back toward Delaware, Mr. Bayard, who at first had been active in the cause of the colonists withdrew his assistance, and on May 1st 1777, joined the army of the King, for this act his property was confiscated to the State, and advertised for sale by the Commissioner of forfeited Estates. A great portion of this property was bought by Col John Stevens of Hoboken, who on August 25th 1784, bought that tract of land north of what is now Stevens St. (West Hoboken) including Weehawken Heights, (2nd ward) this property later being owned by the Hoboken Land Improvement Company, controlled by the descendants of Mr. Stevens, As stated before all this territory was part of the Township of Bergen, but this old town was to become a thing of the past, because one by one boroughs began to secede from her, until February 22nd 1840, the whole southern part of Bergen County, was formed in the County of Hudson, and instead of Bergen Township being the only municipality the new county was divided into the following townships; Bergen (which comprised all of North Hudson and what is now Bergen in Jersey City) Harrison, Jersey City and Van Vorst. On February 10th 1843, old Bergen Township was again divided in half when all that part lying north of what is now the Pennsylvania Railroad cut and Snake Hill, was set off from it and named North Bergen. This latter township, the same as old Bergen, has from time to time been despoiled of its territory for cities and towns. The breaking up of the Township of North Bergen began when Hoboken seceded by becoming the Township of Hoboken on March 1st 1849, and being incorporated as a City in 1855. Then came Hudson City which was set off from North Bergen on March 4th 1852, and then Weehawken parted company from North Bergen and Hoboken on March 15th 1859. The town of Guttenberg also being incorporated in 1859. Then came the Town of West Hoboken incorporated February 28th 1861. (continued) WEEHAWKENS EARLY HISTORY Then the Township of Union (now West New York) whish adopted a government of their own on February 26th 1861, then the Town of Union (Union Hill) divorced itself from the Township of Union (West New York) on March 24th 1864. On June 1st 1925, the Town of West Hoboken and Union Hill by vote of the people consolidated and became Union City. It is interesting to note that as early as 1869, a grand scheme originated in the fertile brains of some of the wise men of Jersey City, whereby a bill was prepared and passed in the Legislature, which provided for the holding of an election in this county, at which the voters were to determine whether or not the county would be consolidated into one large city, under the corporate name of Jersey City. The election took place on Oct. 5th 1869, and all North Hudson voted against consolidation, Weehawken casting 44 votes against and none for. Since that time consolidation of Hudson County into one large city has been brought before the people by the press and other agencies, and Weehawken has consistently voted against it, at the present time there is strong agitation being made for this consolidation of the county of Hudson into a greater city, with the press and the civic organizations of the county strongly in favor of it, it becomes a question as to how much longer Weehawken can hold out. According to G,M. Hopkins Atlas of Hudson County, published in 1873, “Weehawken” comprised all that tract of land on the east side of the Hackensack Pl. Rd. and Bullsferry Road from a point at about the North side of Sixth St. and River Walk (Hoboken) north to about where Grain Elevators are in West Shore Railroad Yards, including Weehawken Heights. The Shades section west of the Hackensack Pl. Rd. in the first ward being in West Hoboken. Strictly speaking “Weehawken” is an Indian name and derives its name from AWIEHAKEN, which means, at the end of (Palisades) N.J. HIS. SOCIETY. And at the time of its incorporation had a population of 280 people. The first inhabitants of our township were undoubtedly descendants of the early Dutch settlers of the aforesaid County of Bergen, it is not known exactly at what time the first house was erected in our township, but it is assumed it was in the early part of the last century. And when our township began to take on the aspect of a “Village” it was mostly inhabited by the Irish and Germans, and today some of our oldest inhabitants are the descendants of these two noble races of people. Weehawken since its incorporation as a township has been divorced of some of its territory to Hoboken, while it has added to its territory other parts by annexation from West Hoboken by acts of legislature, until now the dividing line bet. Weehawken and Hoboken extends from the south west cor of 18th and W.19th Sts, and takes a south easterly course (following the course of an old Creek) to Hudson River bet. 17th and 16th St/taking in part of Tietgen & Lang Dry Dock. But the 17th St. Railroad crossing in commonly known as the dividing line. As may be supposed, our township, in the early days was composed of farms and large estates with abundant woodlands which were thickly populated with Pine, Spruce, Hemlock, Maple and Fir Trees, and through which ran bubbling brooks from which its inhabitants caught game fish in abundance. Some of the descendants of the original owners of these lands are still amongst us, notably the Frosts, Bonns, McRoskeries and others. Stevens Castle and the far famed Elysian Fields were also part of our township at the time of our incorporation. The most notable of the farmers of that day was John Frost who settled in Weehawken in 1858, and conducted a large farm on that tract of land south of Baldwin Ave., now occupied and owned by the Erie Railroad as a freight yard. Mr. Frost lived in a large house in the centre of his farm, the same being moved to the north east cor. of Blvd. East and Baldwin Ave, when the property was taken over by the Erie Railroad Company. This house stood at this location for a number of years and in the early part of 1900s, was moved back to the cor. of W.18th & W 19th Sts. by its present owner where it is still occupied as a dwelling house. Mr. Frost was one of our most prominent public spirited citizens in his day, having served in different capacities in the official family of our township, being its first constable, the second man to hold the office of Mayor, and member of Township Committee for 15 years, and a member of the Board of Chosen Freeholders for 10 years. His son Norris Frost who served in the School Board in 1890 and was one of the prime movers in the building of school #1 and also who was elected Mayor in 1908, is still alive and live at #362 Park Ave. A man named Hyer was another prominent farmer and had a large farm where the North Hudson Hospital now stands, and lived in a large house at about where Park Ave and Fulton St. is now. Where the present West Shore Railroad Yards are now were large farms owned by Nurges and Troyers, and along the side of the Palisades from the Pershing Road Bridge north were large Quince Farms. KING ESTATE James Gore King had succeeded Capt. James Deas, as owner of all that tract of land now known as Highwood Park, in about 1833. Mr. King was of Revolutionary stock being a descendant of Rufus King, one of the framers of the constitution, and a great statesman, who served on the staff of General Glover during the Revolutionary War. He was one of the first Senators of New York State and a close friend of Alexander Hamilton. James Gore King was born in New York in 1791, and was an eminent banker in his day, being a member of that famous firm of Ward-Sands-King & Co. and eventually the firm became James Gore King & Sons. He was known as the “Prince of Wall St.” He was the father of a large family, namely, Caroline, Harriet, James Gore Jr., Archibald, Gracie, Mary, Frederick Gore, Edward & Fanny, they lived in the “King Mansion” located at what is now #21 Hamilton Ave., directly above the dueling grounds. Image: http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken03.jpg Original King Mansion, home of James Gore King. Where Chas. Dickens and other notables of 18th century were entertained. Stood at about where #21 Hamilton Ave, is now, overlooking the Majestic Hudson River and Manhattan Isle. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken04.jpg JAMES GORE KING There were many fashionable gatherings at the home of James Gore King in those early days, notable amongst them when Lord Ashburton, the distinguished diplomat dined there in 1842. CHAS. DICKENS at WEEHAWKEN. Under date of June 8th 1842, the following entry in the diary of Phillip Hone, who occupied the Mayor’s chair in New York City in 1825. tells of Dickens visit at Weehawken. Yesterday was quite a day of jubilee, I found an invitation from James Gore King to attend a parting breakfast to Mr. & Mrs. Chas. Dickens. Margaret and I went over at 10 O’clock, where we found the Boss and Bosses, Mr. & Mrs. Colden, Miss Ward, Mr. & Mrs. Archibald Gracie, Miss Wilke and the Doctor, and the charming family of our host and hostess. We had breakfast worthy of our entertainers and the entertained, and such strawberries and cream. The house and gardens and the view and libraries and the conservatory were all more beautiful than I have ever seen them. It was during his residence here that James Gore King became the President of the Erie Railroad Co. in 1835, his wife took a very active part in the social happenings of her day and many were the dinners and dances given at “Highwood”. Mr. King died in Weehawken in 1853. This mansion was destroyed by fire, and his son Archibald Gracie King built another beautiful Mansion out on “Kings Bluff” in 1880, after spending a few years there the family migrated to New York, and this beautiful home went to rack and ruin, finally being destroyed by fire, today all that remains of the King Family in Weehawken, is the foundation of this old home and a stone reservoir. There were two entrances to this large estate of James Gore King, one being located and known as the lower gate on Bullsferry Road (Park Ave. just south of Baldwin Ave., where lived the gate keeper Wm. Mitchell in a small frame house. (This house was moved in latter years and is now known as 295 Park Ave.) Driving thru this gate you went up a long winding driveway (Now Blvd. East) shaded by large trees, crossing rustic bridges, under which flowed sparkling brooks. The other gate was located at about where Park Ave. & Liberty Place is now and led down what is now Highwood Ave. to the mansion. According to Old timers the beauty of these roads and their surroundings cannot be described. Included in the King Estate was the famous “Dueling Grounds” which was located down near the river beneath what in now Bellevue Ave. It was here that Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr fought their duel on the morning of July 11th 1804, with guns, and is described as being a grassy shelf about six feet wide and eleven paces long just above the rivers edge, which was shaded by a large Cedar tree, which was still standing there until about 1870. We find in Winfield’s History of Hudson County (1874) the following description of the dueling grounds. “Perhaps the most interesting spot in the County of Hudson around which in spite of its horrors, fancy loves to linger, is the Duel Ground (1799-1835) at Weehawken. Before the hand of enterprise had touched it, the whole region was charming beyond description. Just south of the bloody ground was a wild ravine which leaped and laughed; -AWIEHAKEN CREEK-. Immediately above was Kings Point boldly looking down upon the Hudson. From this height still opens as fair as varied, as beautiful a scene as mortal could wish to behold. A few months after this famous duel, the St. Andrews Society, of the State of New York, of which Hamilton was President, erected on this spot a monument to his memory, this monument was intentionally destroyed in 1821, as a protest against such bloody conflicts amongst men. The original tablet on this monument was saved by Capt. Deas, then owner of the property who in turn gave it to James Gore King, when he became the owner. In 1894 a new monument was erected on top of the hill nearer the Blvd East. A bust of Hamilton placed upon a large brown stone boulder on which there is a tablet inscribed as follows; Upon this stone rested the head of the Patriot and Soldier, Alexander Hamilton, after the duel with Aaron Burr, fought July 11th 1804. A writer in the Columbian on July 13th 1815, who signed himself “Hoboken” wrote of the existence of the Hamilton Monument, and said. “It is a subject of complaint to the citizens in the vicinity, and a standing absurdity and outrage on the morals, manners and feelings of society. By the pernicious effect of a conspicuous example, the young and chivalrous are invited to combat and feel a degree of vain glory in measuring ground on the spot where that great man fell from all his glory and usefulness and furnished a bloody beacon to posterity which should be at least shrouded from the light of day. Nowadays the boats arrive from your island in broad daylight the combatants take their stand on each side of the ominous monument, and before the inhabitants can reach the spot the mischief is done, and the survivors hurried off too soon to be arrested by a gathering neighborhood. Such is the sensation, I understand, excited by the use of this Aceldama, that it is not to be expected the pillar will long retain its station, it being considered as a baleful nuisance, not a vestige of which should be suffered to remain on earth. But for the eminent cause of its origin I should be almost as willing to have a gallows near my house. In 1932 the commission of Historic sights in New Jersey has placed a marker in the Hamilton Plaza a short distance from the monument informing the public of its location etc. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken05.jpg DEAS POINT 1857 Extended out into the Hudson River, just below Bellevue Ave, When Mr. King loaned me the picture of his grandfathers Mansion to draw he had several drawings of the estate of which this is one, in a bad state of deterioration, they were dark and discolored and needed mounting, he was in a quandary what to do with them, I suggested he put them in the care of the Historical Society of the City of New York which he did and where they are now. The drawings were in crayon by Thomas Ayers, done in 1857, careful and painstaking in detail and showed the interesting points of the King Estate at that time. Grant Wright, Artist. HAMILTON and BURR DUEL. Weehawken’s greatest fame no doubt lies in her dueling ground, and the fact that upon her soil Aaron Burr shed the blood of Alexander Hamilton. This beautiful but fatal spot in the early part of the 19th century, strangers coming to New York were sure to visit. This spot was only accessible from the waterside, and then could only be reached by an almost inaccessible flight of steps. The property in those days when dueling was in vogue, was owned by Captain Deas, who occupied a mansion on the hill directly over the bloody ground. He was very much opposed to these affairs of honor and it is said that whenever he learned that a duel was about to be fought he would hurry to the ground and rush in between combatants. On several occasions he is credited with having succeeded in settling the difficulty without a shot being fired. Of the many duels that were fought on this picturesque spot the most famous was that of Hamilton and Burr. In 1800 Aaron Burr and Thomas Jefferson each received Seventy Votes for President of the United States. The election was thrown into the House of Representatives and Jefferson was elected President and Burr Vice Pres. There was much criticism on the methods employed by Burr in securing his office and he became unpopular with his own party. Burr like many a politician since, became clamorous for a vindication and in order to secure it ran for Governor of New York. Morgan Lewis, Father-in-Law of Alexander Hamilton ran against him and defeated him. Hamilton had much to do with Burrs failure to secure vindication and incurred Burr’s enmity. Burr found a pretext for quarreling with Hamilton in a statement of a New York physician, Dr. Chas. D. Cooper, who had said, “I would detail a still more despicable opinion which General Hamilton has expressed of Mr. Burr”. As soon as Burr heard this he wrote a letter to Hamilton in which he demanded “A prompt and unqualified acknowledgement or denial of the use of any expression which would warrant the assertion of Doctor Cooper”. To this Hamilton replied next day, that he could not be held responsible for Dr. Coopers inferences. This was replied to by Burr with a long letter in which he said that political opposition could never absolve gentlemen from a rigid adherence to the laws of honor and rules of decorum, and that Hamilton’s letter had furnished him with new reasons for requiring a definite reply. Hamilton told Wm. P. Van Hess, Burrs friend who delivered the letter, that he considered it rude and offensive and unless it was recalled the only answer which it would be possible for him to make was that Mr. Burr should take steps as he might think proper. Hamilton wrote two conciliatory letters to Burr, but the latter had made up his mind to fight, and as he was a dead shot, no doubt to kill his hated rival, he finally challenged Hamilton and was accepted. July 11th 1804, was fixed for the date of the meeting. Hamilton made his will and wrote several reasons why he should not fight a duel. At heart he was opposed to the code of honor. On the morning of the Eleventh Burrs friends set out from his home #30-Partition Row (Now Fulton St. N.Y.C.) and was rowed over to Weehawken. It was half past six o’clock when they arrived on the ground and soon afterward Hamilton, his second, Judge Pendleton, and Doctor Hosback who was to act as surgeon arrived. DUELS AT WEEHAWKEN Aaron Burr and John B. Church………………………………….....Sept. 2nd 1799. Geo. I. Eacker and Price……………………………………………......Nov. 22nd 1801. Geo. I. Eacker and Phillip Hamilton………………………………Nov. 23rd 1801. John Langstaff and Oliver Waldron………………………………..Dec. 25th 1801. Agustus Smith and Archibald M. Cook…………………………….Dec. 25th 1801. De Witt Clinton and John Swartout………………………………..July 30th 1802. Richard Ricker and Robert Swartout……………………………….Nov. 21st 1803. Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton………………………………..July 11th 1804. Isaac Gouverneur and William H. Maxwell……………………July 8th 1815. Benjamin Price and Major Green…………………………………....May 12th 1816. Commodore Perry and Captain Heath………………………………..Oct. 19th 1818. William G. Graham and Mr. Barton…………………………………..Nov. 28th 1827. Henry Aitken and Thomas Sherman…………………………………...Oct. 19th 1835. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken06.jpg The seconds and principals exchanged the usual salutations, and then the seconds proceeded with the preparations for the duel. Hamilton’s second won the choice of positions and the decision as to who should give the word fire. The pistols were loaded and given to the principals. Hamilton declined to have the hair trigger of his weapon set. The rules of the meeting were that the second who was to give the word to fire was to ask the parties if they were ready; being answered in the affirmative he was to say-Present; after that the parties were to present and fire when they pleased. If one fired before the other, the opposite second was to say “one, two, three, fire”, and his principal was to fire or lose his shot. Judge Pendleton asked if the combatants were ready. Both replying that they were, he gave the word Present and both fired in succession. Hamilton fell and his pistol went off involuntary. Burr was untouched and almost immediately he entered his boat and was rowed away to New York, for breakfast. Hamilton became unconscious and was carried to his boat in a dying condition. He revived while being rowed across the river, but he died at about two o’clock of the next afternoon. That Burr intended to kill Hamilton is borne out by his own statement. In speaking of the dual afterwards he said that he was sure of being able to kill Hamilton. On another occasion he said that if it had not been for a smoke or mist or something like that he would have shot him through the heart. The Grand Jury of Bergen County (of which we were a part at that time) indicted Burr for murder and he went away until public excitement died down. Three years later in 1807, the Supreme Court quashed the indictment. Thus ended one of the saddest tragedies in American history, and young America lost one of its biggest aids in its time of greatest need. Hamilton having been an aide to General Washington during the Revolution and after the establishment of the United States Government he became the first Secretary of the Treasury. It in interesting to note that according to a story told me by a member of the family of one of the care takers of Gracie King Estate in the early 90s, that Mr. King caused the Brown Stone Boulder on which rests the bust of Alexander Hamilton to be drawn up from under the hill to its present location, this work being done by two of his employees Mr. Dan Wallace and a Mr. Halie, who used a stone sled for the job. DUER ESTATE. Denning Duer, was an eminent banker in his day, and connected with the firm of James Gore King & Sons, he being a Son-in-Law of James Gore King. Lived in a large mansion called “Hauxhurst” which was located about where Sterling Ave. & Dening Place is now. This mansion was built for him by his Father in Law in 1848, the architect being Renwick who built the old Reservoir in New York City. In a letter describing the house I received from Caroline Duer, 7-21-31 she states;-That the house was built for summer use only, but when the family moved there to live all year around, we had to put in stoves and keep every fire place going. This house like the other King Mansions was a thing of beauty, it was three stories in height with a wide porch surrounding it, it stood about in the center of the Duer estate which comprised all that tract of land now known as “Hauxhurst Park” from its high perch an unobstructed view of the Hudson River could be had as well as that of Manhattan Isle and the lower bay. Its gardens and orchids were spots of beauty, with their winding driveways, and gravel paths, rustic benches etc. The young lads of the beginning of this century, I amongst them, used to come from neighboring towns and take a chance at stealing some cherries and other fruits which were in abundance on this estate only to be chased away by the caretaker who had two great big dogs to help him keep us on the move. The entrance to this estate and gate house was located about where # 458-Park Ave. is now, also he had his own fire apparatus (hose cart) housed in a little frame building on what is now Jefferson St., and is still remembered by some of the old timers as “Duers Hose Co”. It is interesting to note that in the Seventeenth Century part of this estate was used as a private burying ground, for up until about 20 years ago there stood at the cor. of Jefferson St. and Sterling Pl. a small grave, surrounded by a picket fence, and lying between two large cedar trees upon which was a slab inscribed as follows:- Robert Nile, age 1 ½ yrs, 1776. Mr. Duer took a keen interest in the affairs of our Township at the time of its incorporation and through its infancy, being the first representative from Weehawken on the board of Chosen Freeholders, having served in that body from 1859 to 1865. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken07.jpg COSSITT ESTATE F. H. Cossitt, another prominent banker had a large estate surrounded by beautiful gardens and lived in a large mansion over looking the Hudson River and Manhattan Isle which to be sure did not have much of a sky line in those days. This house stood at about where Boulevard East and Fourth St. is now. SCHMIDT ESTATE H.G. Schmidt (Champagne Schmidt) a prominent wine merchant in the early days had another large estate on the northern end of our township, and lived in a large blue stone mansion over looking the Hudson which was located at what is now Boulevard East and 6th. St. This building is still standing and is owned and occupied by the Weehawken Lodge of Elks. Many were the social functions and dinners given in this old mansion in its day, and celebrities from near and far were entertained here. Mr. Schmidt having his own private hunting grounds within his estate and free access to the Hudson River where good fishing was always enjoyed. The entrance to this large estate was thru a large gate which stood along with the gate house wherein the gate keeper lived at what is now Park Ave & 6th St. This gate and house still stood here as late as 1915. RIDGLEY ESTATE Mr. Ridgley was a Tobacco Merchant and had a large estate and lived in a large house located about where Ridgley Place and Maple St. He was one of the prominent citizens of our township in its early days and served in many official capacities. Other estates in what is the second ward were the Taggs who lived [in] a large house at the extreme end of Oak St. part of this house after many alterations is still standing and occupied as a dwelling house. Then there were the Gregory, W.W. Shippen and Berry Estates. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken08.jpg BROWN MANSION, NOW CLIFTON CHAPEL Louisa Place and First Street. BROWN ESTATE. Above the “King Estate” came the estate of “James Brown” one of the pioneers of this part of the county and one of Weehawken’s early settlers, who lived in a large blue stone mansion which he named “Clifton” at what is now Louisa Place and First St. and which is now known as “Clifton Chapel” the parsonage of this chapel being the original Brown Mansion. Mr. Brown was a member of a prominent banking family of New York City, and a member of the Presbyterian Church of that city, and was known for the great work he had done in religious circles. His estate covered all that tract of land from about Fulton St. to Fourth St. from the river extending over into what is now Union City, the entrance to his estate was thru Fulton St. from what is now Park Ave. It is thru his most commendable zeal and liberality that the Grove Church in North Bergen was organized in 1843, he having purchased and donated the land for this church and with the aid of some friends erected the church and other buildings connected with it. In 1904 Mr. & Mrs. John Crosby Brown, descendants of James Brown, gave a deed for the old Brown Mansion and eight lots to the Grove Church. In 1908 a Sunday School was started in the parlors of this old mansion and workers of Grove Church living in the neighborhood took charge of this school. This school had grown steadily, until the enlargement of the work at Clifton Chapel called for a resident Pastor, and in 1913, the Rev. W. Dumont Conklin was ordained in the church and put in charge of this field. (Continued) A latter gift of five more lots put into possession of Grove Church for future extension the finest church site on the west bank of the Hudson, overlooking New York City, at 50th St. Note. These lots were loaned to our township in 1932, and a kiddies playground started in them for the kiddies of this part of our township. In April 1915, plans were in operation for the erection of a Chapel at Clifton (this section of our township being known as Clifton Park). A generous offer of Mrs. John Crosby Brown of $10,000, or half the cost of the Chapel, was accepted by the consistory and congregation, and contributions from societies and individuals soon yielded the other $10,000, and the beautiful Gothic chapel soon was dedicated on January 9th 1916 with a notable service. The complete renovation of the Brown Mansion as a Church House at a cost of $7,000 was an added gift of Mrs. Brown. Among the generous gifts of former members of Grove Church were those of Mrs. A. D. Juilliard of New York and Mr. Thomas Underwood of Brooklyn. The beautiful organ in the chapel was a gift of the Carnegie Foundation. BONN ESTATE John Hilaric Bonn, one of the pioneers of North Hudson, who settled in Weehawken, in 1857, had a large estate in the heights section (2nd Ward) and lived in a large house at what is now known as #530-Gregory Ave. There is a story told that one time Daniel Webster owned this property. Mr. Bonn was the founder of the present railways system in North Hudson and Hoboken, being the builder of the elevated trolley structure in Hoboken in 1884, this road being originally a cable road the first of its kind operated in the United States. Mr. Bonn was also the originator and builder in 1887, of the great Weehawken Elevators, and Elevated Road, these Elevators being located at the West Shore Ferry Term where the trolley term is now, and where the largest lift elevators in the world at that time, having a lifting capacity of about 200 people. On Oct. 23rd 1891, Mr. Bonn in company with some friends made the first trip in these elevators, and on April 26th 1892, these elevators and the elevated road was formally opened to the public. It is interesting to note that this elevated road, rose to the height of nearly 200 feet, and this great steel structure run from the West Shore Term on up to the edge of the Palisades and out thru a cut between Liberty Place and Clifton Terrace and then ran out on the level in a north westerly course to the Guttenberg Race Track. The trains used for the carrying passengers on this road were drawn by small dummy engines, and the first stop was made at: Eldorado Station which was at what is now the cor. of Liberty Place and Park Ave. (continued) With the failure of “Eldorado Park” and the advent of the Trolley Car on Park Ave., this enterprise failed, and in 1893, the dismantling of this structure began. Today at Liberty Place and Blvd. East, can still be seen part of this open cut, for the Boulevard is built over it and the concrete work at this point holding up the road has an arch in it showing the beginning of the cut. Mr. Bonn was elected to the office of Superintendent of Public Schools of the old Township of North Bergen (of which we were a part) on both tickets in 1857, and served for one year. He was the founder and a prominent member of the first Board of Regents of the Hudson County Hospital. In 1868, he was appointed one of a commission of seven by the Hon. Joseph D. Bedel to lay out and improve the public streets on the heights of Hudson County, which included all of North Hudson, and from his untiring efforts on this commission, the inception and construction of the magnificent Hudson County Boulevard issued. In 1872, Mr. Bonn served as chairman of the Board of Commissioners which supervised the improvement of Bullsferry Road (Park Ave.) from 19th St. north. He also served in other official capacities in our Township for a number of years. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken09.jpg Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken10.jpg “Bitters Studio” gone but not forgotten, stood out on the edge of the Palisades, on the Blvd. East opp. Hudson Place, like a lone sentinel, the studio was a miniature Castle, of Rheinish Type built after one on the banks of the River Rhine, from its small balconies a clear view of the Hudson River and Bay, and Manhattan Isle, as far as the eye could see could be had. Surrounding the studio facing the Blvd. East was a high artistic wall of “Terra Cotta” thru which was a fancy drive-way surrounding a beautiful flower bed. This building was part of the old “Eldorado Park” and was bought and renovated by the late Karl Bitter World renowned Sculptor, who was born in Vienna in 1867, and came to America in 1889, settling in Weehawken in the early 90s. In 1915 Mr. Bitter met an untimely death having been killed by an automobile in front of the Metropolitan Opera House New York City. Among his works were the Statue of General Franz Siegel on Riverside Drive, New York, Trinity Church Doors in New York City, figures in façade of Metropolitan Museum. Gov. Clinton and John Jay, Chamber of Commerce Building , statue of Dr. William Pepper, in Philadelphia, and a battle group on the Dewy Arch, N.Y.C. He has made many decorations for the Administration Building at the Worlds Fair in Chicago, was appointed director of Sculptor at the Buffalo Exposition, and in latter years also at the St. Louis Exposition. He was world famous for his Architectural Decorations which had found its way into the Mansions of the Who’s Who of his day. After Bitters demise the property and studio came into the hands of another World Renowned Artist, Henry Reutherdahl, the famous Marine Painter whose works adorn many of the State Capitol Buildings in our Country, and who held the rank of Lieut. Commander U.S.N. during the World War, and who painted a great many official posters during those trying times. Mr. Reutherdahl died in 1926, and his family offered for sale this beautiful plot of ground, it finally being bought by the Township of Weehawken for the site of a Park. Adjoining this plot was the old Meister Homestead and this was also bought by the Township, in 1927. In 1928 a sum of money was appropriated for the purpose of making a Park out of this site, same to be known as “Hamilton Plaza” work was begun the building razed, ground leveled, concrete arches built etc. until finally completed, turning this property in one of the finest plaza or parks in the country. ELDORADO AMUSEMENT PARK Eldorado Amusement Park the first and largest or its kind in the country was opened in 1891 and occupied a large tract of ground in the Highwood Park section extending from Liberty Place to Duer Place, from the edge of Palisades to Bullsferry Road (Park Ave) comprising about 25 acres in all. The greatest shows of the day were put on here, featuring such great shows as “Klaffes” burning of Rome, King Solomon, Egypt through Centuries and a great many others, in the great amphitheatre, which was located about where Hamilton School stands now, there were over a thousand people employed in producing these shows. Then there was the Castle which stood where the Hamilton Plaza is now, and the beautiful and costly fountain the only one of its kind stood about where #10-Eldorado Place is now, then there was the massive “Eldorado Casino” which stood at about what is now Blvd. East and Eldorado Place. The Mall and Band Stand wherein the Eldorado Band of fifty pieces under the direction of that celebrated band leader Nathan Franko gave concerts day and night. This Park was one of the wonders of its time, but was about 30 years ahead of time, and met with failure, closing down in 1893, and the property was cut up into building lots and plots and sold in 1894 and 1895, and some of the finest residences in the Metropolitan District are now built on the sight of this old amusement park. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken11.jpg “ELDORADO PARK” Copy of ELDORADO SOUVENIR 1892. ELDORADO On The Palisades Weehawken, N.J The most beautiful Amusement Resort in the World. Fredrick Walker, General Manager. ELDORADO CIRCUS every afternoon. “EGYPT THROUGH CENTURIES” every evening. The Palisades Amusement and Exhibition Co. Herman Walker, President. W.C. Doubleday, Secretary. Hillric H. Bonn, Vice. President. Henry J. Gordon, Treasurer. Directors. Herman Walker Frederick Walker Warne Smith. Hillric J. Bonn Henry J. Gordon Louis Emmerich Isaac Mansfield. **************************** ELDORADO. Is built on a precipice overlooking the mighty Hudson, in a spot of unrivalled picturesque grandness. The Palisades at this point rising perpendicularly to a height of 200 feet from the shore line a towering mass of rock bare of vegetation save where a few clinging shrubs find a resting place and thrive upon the meager verdure that a rift in the stone affords. A few years back this precipice marked the river boundary of Weehawken. This eminence was called “Lovers Leap” by the Indians of the Weehawken tribe, and was the subject of many legends. Near here was the scene of several revolutionary battles and Lafayette’s headquarters are still in a good state of preservation close by. And later it was made famous by the unfortunate duel of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. The dueling grounds and the stone on which Hamilton rested after he received his death wound has been moved up the hill so that the visitor can see it. There are the initials A.H. and A.B. cut it is said the week after Hamilton died by ????????????????????????????????? Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken12.jpg H.G.Schmidts Mansion, Blvd East & 6th St. as it looks today. ELDORADO. Souvenir The view from Lovers Leap northward for a mile or two covers one of the most beautiful prospects that are presented along the vast shore of the Hudson. There is the noble Hudson, the great bay and the ocean stretching to the horizon. At your feet lies the metropolis of the new world, stretching out on one side to the Battery and on the other to the Harlem and beyond. ELDORADO has been laid out with a single eye to beauty. There are green swards on every side and all shaded by great trees. Then there are handsome paved walks, rare plants and pretty flowers. There are shady nooks and quiet walks. The main building close to the eastern embankment is a handsome structure of Moorish design. Near the precipice on the south end is a castle built after one on the banks of the Rhine. Then there is the mammoth fountain, the pavilion, the observatory and many more points of interest. The pavilion, the observatory and many more points of interest. The vast amphitheatre is the largest in the world, with a seating capacity of 12,000 people. (continued) There is everything here to satisfy all. The Café and Restaurant is managed by Kramer & Company and service here will bear favorable comparison with any place in New York, while the prices are very reasonable. The ELDORADO BAND of fifty pieces under the direction of Nathan Franko give concerts day and night. In the afternoon there is a circus in the big amphitheatre for the children and in the evening will be given “Egypt Through Centuries” a gorgeous affair written by Augusto Francioli, who will direct its production. It is promised that in the splendor of its appointments, the magnificence of the costume, the wonderful ballets and artist beauty of the scenes, it will stand forth as the greatest of spectacles. That the visitor may reach “Eldorado” very easily, they have erected close to the ferry what will prove a great attraction in the way of three gigantic elevators. They have a total carrying capacity of five hundred, and though they run so smoothly, that their progress is barely noticeable, they go to the top, one hundred and sixty-five feet, in sixteen seconds. The construction of the elevators and road cost $850. With all this expense the management have decided on very moderate schedule of prices. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken13.jpg Home of Geo. Roman #1-Hackensack Ave. This building was used as the first Police Station & Prison in 1870. FIRST WARD. The lower section of our Township or the first ward which was divided by the Hackensack Plank Road into two municipalities, all on the east side of the said Plank Road being in Weehawken and all on the west side (the shades) being in West Hoboken until 1879, when this part of our township was annexed to Weehawken by act of Legislature, was known as the “Village” and what a bustling little village it was, at the time of our incorporation and for a great many years after, it was all there was to Weehawken, the rest of our township as has been shown was made up of large estates. It was here that the laboring classes made their homes, it was the terminal of our first railroads, the location of our first industries. Willow Ave. was a busy business thoroughfare dotted with its Drug Store, Tailor Shops, Barber Shops, Butcher, Baker & Grocery shops, Post Office, Stationary and Clothing Stores, Black Smith and Horse Shoeing shops, factories and last but not least the good old Lager Beer Saloons of which there were many in this section. There were a great many famous hostelries of that day within our midst, notably amongst them, “Romans Cottage” which was located at #11-Hackensack Ave., near 18th St., after leaving the Hoboken Ferry in the stage coaches this was the first place of interest to be found, and the coaches using the Hackensack Pl. Rd., made it a point to stop here, where their fares unloaded to quench their thirst, and enjoy what ever entertainment their host had to offer, there being no Volstead Act in those days the patrons of “Romans Cottage” could enjoy themselves to their hearts content. This place was owned by Geo. Roman who settled in Weehawken ar the close of the Civil War in which he served with distinction retiring with the rank of Captain. Mr. Roman made his home in a house at #1-Hackensack Ave., in a building that was first used as a Prison and Police Station by the Township of Weehawken, and at which time it was located on what is now Eleventh St. Hoboken back in 1870. Mr. Roman having bought the building told me he moved it to above location in about 1875, where it still stands and is occupied as a dwelling by his Grand Son. Mr. Romans business enterprises were various during his many years here, he was in the Barrel Business, Asphalt and Cement sidewalk business, and Trucking Business of which he was one of the largest. He acquired considerable property in this section and accumulated a lot of money, being known as the Millionaire of the Shades, he died in 1929 at the age of 95 yrs. A little further up was the “Mountain House” just north of 19th St. on the Hackensack Pl. Rd. another famous spot in its day. Turning east on 19th St. which was then only a lane, to what is now N.W. cor of 19th St. & Park Ave, you came to the famous spot of those days owned and run by August Dustman. This was one of the famous hotels and beer gardens of its day and as famous for its entertainments and eats as the “Abbey Inn” is today. It being the headquarters of the crews of the old sailing vessels that put into Weehawken, for their cargo of oil from the docks of the Vernango Oil Companys, which if not the first was one of the first industries in our Township, they having large Oil tanks, warehouses and docks strewn all over what is now the Erie Railroad Yards. In 1874, this great plant, was destroyed by fire, one of the tanks having been struck by lightning, making it the greatest fire of its time in these times, Weehawken having no fire dept. at the time was forced to call on surrounding municipalities for aid, some of them crossing the river from New York City, to try and stop the spread of this terrible fire, they finally succeeded after three days, the fire having spent its fury. A little further north at the Point, Jct. of Park and Willow Ave, was “Mechlers Point Hotel” a classy spot, with its wide enclosed veranda facing Park Ave, where the swells of the day prominading up from Hoboken and other places would stop to enjoy some of Mechlers good Beer. Up along Bullsferry Road (Park Ave) at foot of Shippen St. steps was Geo Neinabers place, or as he called it “Farmers Rest” the farmers coming in from Bergen County in those days would come down Bullsferry Road with their loads of produce for the New York markets, and would stop to water their horses and have a drink or smoke as they desired at Neinabers. Then was the place of Clause Basse, at 19th St and Willow Ave. Clause settled in Weehawken in about 1873, and his place was one of the best known in Hudson County, being the headquarters of several German societies in the County, as well as the headquarters of the Weehawken Business Men’s Assn. Mr. Basse played a prominent part in the early history of our Township having being elected a member of the Township Committee in 1887, serving four years, also filling the office of Township Treasurer. In 1890 Mr. Basse organized in Weehawken the Germania Verein #1 and under his presidency that body prospered and grew rapidly being one of the strongest social organizations in the County; and which included in its membership every prominent German, and German-American in Weehawken. Another prominent place was the saloon of John Schmitt, back on Chestnut St, in the (Shades) it was here that all the Athletes of the day made their headquarters, and upon whose walls could be found the pictures of all the great men in sportdom in that day neatly arranged as thought you were in some art gallery. It was here that the famous Plymouth A.C. was organized, more of which I will tell later. Geo. Pardee had his café(when they were cafes not speakeasys) on 19th St. down about where the poultry yard is now, and depended a lot on the men from the docks for his trade. Mr. Pardee entered the political arena when the order of the day was “Fight to a finish” and served several terms in the Township Committee. VERNANGO OIL WORKS AT FOOT OF 19TH ST AND OIL DOCK ROW 1874 ERIE R.R. YARDS Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken14.jpg Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken15.jpg Key to opposite page. #3……….Presbyterian Church, in those days it faced Park Ave, latter years being turned around and faced Willow Ave. 4………...Frosts Farm. 5…………Cottage Row. 6…………Pauls Row, still standing. 7…………Mike Pauls Grocery store. 8…………Pardees Saloon. 2…………Police Station 9 & 10 …..Oil Dock Row 11,12 & 13……Verango Oil Works 14………..Fishermans Huts “Kings Record House” where all the records, papers etc. of King estate were kept. This was located down in what is ?????????????????? Another old spot in those good old days, was the cor. of 19th St. and Willow Ave. 1933 Willow Ave, where Michael Hannan, held forth, it being the headquarters of the laboring classes off the docks and railroads, as well as the meeting place of the prominent politicians of that day, of which Mr. Hannan was one of the leaders, he taking a keen interest in Township and County affairs being closely associated with both Simon Kelly and Bob Davis the Democratic Chieftains. Mr. Hannan served in the Township Committee for several terms, and was one of the prime movers in the purchase of Weehawken’s First Fire Apparatus (Baldwin Hose Cart) as well as being one of the organizers and builders of St. Lawrences R.C. Church and School, and a prime mover also in the building of Public School #1. Mr. Hannan had three sons, John M. who has served as Assessor of our Township for a number of years, Supreme Court Clerk, Under Sheriff, and Sheriff of Hudson County, and County Tax Commissioner, Thomas who was a member of the Police Dept. and died while in service, and James who is at present a member of the police dept. Another of the real old families that helped to make history in this part of our township was the Haydock family, Mr. and Mrs. Haydock have settled in Weehawken at the close of the civil war, and was as the vogue of that day along with his other enterprises, entered politics, and became one of the leading political figures of his day. Mrs. Haydock is still amongst the living and within our midst and its many an interesting story she can tell of our township in its early days and the beauty of “Kings Woods” and Elysian Fields. As we go a little further north we come to Baldwin Ave. and Blvd. East and we see the Old School House, this building was used as our first Public School, and in its day had served many purposes, it being the meeting place of a handful of devout citizens who held their religious services there prior to 1870, and was the forerunner for the establishment of the first church in our Township. This building is still standing and occupied as a dwelling house. Turning east on Baldwin Ave, which in those days had many fine homes on it, among them the Frosts, Cunninghams and others, we come to the spot of one of Weehawkens early industries, “Stobos Steam Laundry” which was located about where the Pennsylvania R.R. Tunnel shaft is now, it was a large brick building and had an outlet to the river where they had a small private dock, it afforded employment to many of the young matrons of that day, who came from miles around on foot, there being no transit facilities of the present day that they could command to get them there and put in long days of toil over steam tubs of clothes. Alexander Stobo its owner was a member of the Township Committee of this Township at the time of our incorporation in 1839. It is interesting to note that this past summer his daughter Mrs. Russell Vare (Mary Stobo) now living at 840 Park Ave, N.Y.C. now a very old lady, came back to the scenes of her childhood, and stopped at headquarters, and told me many interesting happenings and the beauty of this section in those early days. Also along Baldwin Ave. in latter years were the Live Stock Yards of the National Stock Yard Co. where cattle was brought in by the train load from the west for the New York Markets, this cattle was unloaded and placed in long sheds until time for shipment to New York, then it was driven down Baldwin Ave, and across a bridge that went over the railroad tracks and on to the cattle boats which were moored at the dock at foot of Baldwin Ave. From the ft. of Baldwin Ave. and running north to Shady side and beyond was the old Hoboken and Fort Lee Turnpike, over which cattle drovers had to drive the cattle on the hoof from Jersey City up to Shady side to be slaughtered. There was an Old Toll Gate located on this road just south of the Pershing Road Bridge. The Hudson River being noted for its “Shad” in the early days there could be seen the huts of the fisherman strewn along our shore from Elysian Fields north to Shady Side. Just north of Baldwin Ave on the river front was located the Delaware and Hudson Coal Docks, owned by the D & H Railroad Co. who located in Weehawken in 1859, and began the building of their coal trestle in 1862, which afforded employment to hundreds of men in transferring the coal from small canal boats which came down the Hudson River from the upper New York, to larger vessels for re-shipment down to Boston and other points, there being very little overland shipments made in those days. This company stopped operations from this point in about 1902, the railroads by this time having spread their net work of rails through out the country it was cheaper to ship direct by rail from the mines thereby saving much time and labor in handling of this coal. The trestle and docks finally going into decay were torn down. The first Railroad to run into Weehawken was constructed by the Hoboken Land and Improvement Company, by an agreement dated Dec. 11th 1868, the Erie Railway Company, predecessor of the present Erie Railroad Company began operations running one track up to the Oil Docks, and later on extending its line to the D & H Coal Docks. This company from time to time acquired all the property south of Baldwin Ave to the boundary line of Hoboken, from Park Ave to the Hudson River, making it one of the largest freight terminals in the east. They erected two coal docks and from time to time as conditions demanded built large freight piers the first of which was built in about 1880, for the loading and unloading of freight from ocean liners, until today they have seven large piers. In 1921 most of these were destroyed by fire, but since then have been rebuilt. In the early 1900s they erected at the foot of 19th St, a large Poultry Yard and platform, for the handling of live poultry from the west. This poultry is crated here and trucked to the New York Markets, these yards have been extended and now run from 19th St. all the way up to Baldwin Ave, making it the largest Live Poultry Term. in the east where hundred of cars of poultry are unloaded daily, affording employment to hundreds of our young men in this section. Weehawken’s first house of worship was the old Presbyterian Church which stood at about what in now 1930-Willow Ave. This church was organized by a handful of devout citizens in Oct. 1868, and by the hard work of its faithful members services were begun in it in Aug. 1870, in May of 1871 it was dedicated, and the first Pastor installed Rev. Robert Proudfit. This church was discontinued and vacated in the early 1900s, and a few years later a new church organized as the Nineteenth St. M.E. Church back at #29-W 19th St. Probably the most famous spot in our Township in its early days, was “Oil Dock Row” which consisted of two rows of one family houses located at the foot of 19th St. surrounded by the plant of the Vernango Oil Co. wherein all those who were the Who’s Who in this section lived, and who were employed by the oil company or on the railroad. As I have said before this was about all there was to Weehawken in those days, the majority of our population lived here and this was the centre of activity in our Township. Adjoining the “Row” on the south was Geo Pardees saloon, and the small shack used as a police station, on the north by Frosts Farm and the Fisherman’s shanties, on the west by the “Roger House” and Mike Pauls Grocery store, Pauls Row and Cottage Row, and on the east by the Vernango Oil Works. It is not known as far as I can find out who built these houses, but there being a scarcity of labor in those days, I presume the Hoboken Land and Improvement built them as an inducement for laborers to settle and work in Weehawken. Even today amongst the old timers “Oil Dock Row” and its inhabitants and activities are a source of great conversation. Another place of interest in the old “Shades” section was the “Weise Beer Brewery” which stood at the cor. of Grand and W. 19th St. And was owned and operated by Frederick Lang, father of the Lang Bros. who had an Ice Dock and Depot on Park Ave. opp the point. This building was destroyed by fire, and there is a story told, that after the fire, Mr. Lang went west during one of the “Gold Rushes” but not making a success of his adventure headed home again astride a mule, making his living along the route by sharpening knives, tools of all kinds reaching here after many months of hard riding and hardships. Whether or not this story is true I don’t know but that is the way it was given to me. Another famous spot of the good old days was “Callerys Hotel” on Clifton Road (Pershing Road) at the foot of what in now “Grauert Causeway” which was built by John Gallary Sr. 1886. In the spacious bar room could be met the big sports of the day on their way up and down from the old “Guttenberg Race Track”. In the sitting room or pavilion adjoining the bar room and looking out over the Majestic Hudson River, and Manhattan Isle, which was then a thing of beauty the upper end of which was then a dense woodland, with just a few steeples of churches sticking up over the tops of trees as a sky line, could be found hundreds of people who crossed over from New York and came from surrounding municipalities to take in this beautiful panorama, and enjoy a glass of good Old Lager Beer with a sandwich. (continued) PLYMOUTH ATHLETIC CLUB The first idea of an elaborate “Athletic Club” in Weehawken, originated in the minds of a few of the young men of yesterday who made their headquarters in the saloon of John Schmitt, at #50-Chestnut St. (in the Shades) section of our township. After talking the matter over they got the ball arolling and hired a small one story frame building across the street at #59-Chestnut St. and duly organized on Sept. 10th 1896, naming their club the “Plymouth Athletic Club” of Weehawken, N.J. The fame of this club soon spread throughout the county and with the ever increasing numbers in their membership, it was found necessary after a few years to tear down the old building and have a new building erected. A fine two story frame building was erected in its place, 35 ft wide, 100 feet deep, making it one of the finest clubs of its kind in the metropolitan district. The entire first floor was taken up as a gymnasium, containing all the up to date apparatus for the development of the Physical and Mental needs of the youth not only of this section but from surrounding municipalities as well. The upper floor contained the meeting room, showers & baths, rub down tables, pool and billiard tables etc. To be a member of this club you had to be of good moral character, and was only admitted by a vote of the membership. All the harmless but beneficial sports of the day were encouraged, and to be a member of this club signified that you were a boxer, wrestler, runner, jumper or a ball player. The embryo of many a Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney, in its earliest stages was cultivated here, under the watchful eye of Jos. Bessonett, its manager, and one of the original organizers, and the present owner of the property, he having succeeded John Schmidt in ownership. Assisting Mr. Bessonett in the handling and training of the various athletes, were Neil Smith (Capt. Engine #3) a prominent boxer in his ????, Jos. Pratt (Lieut. of Police) also an old time mitt artist, Mike ?????, Bob McCall, who almost occupied as great a prestige as a referee at the Plymouth Club, as does Joe Humphries at Madison Square Garden, Bob Kirchner and a host of others who were always willing [to teach] the young men of that day all they knew of the various sports. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken16.jpg ELYSIAN FIELD HOBOKEN 1862 Plymouth A.C. Such famous fighters as Joe. Geanette, Charlie Sieger (Hoboken Iron Man, Dixie Kid (who fought Sam Langford) Jack Shea (Sergt. Hob. Pol.) Phil. McGovern, Willis Fitzgerald, Mango Bros., Young John L. Sullivan, Dwyer Bros, Paddy (Capt. Fire Dept.) Roger and Jack. Johnnie Werner and a score or more of other prominent men of the roped arena done their training and put up some of their best fights here. Beside boxing the club numbered amongst its members some of the best runners of the day, notably amongst them being Chas. Hessner (Sergt. Of Police) famous as a sprinter, Tommy Kitson, long distant runner and others too numerous to mention, some of the greatest cross country races and long distant races in the country was run from this club, and it was not an unusual sight on Sunday when races were run, to see hundreds of people lined up around the club. Among other old timers were the Bergman Bros. who excelled in Boxing and Bag Punching, they were Fred, Matt and Augie. Then there was the famous Plymouth A.C. Baseball Team, that played all the best teams in these parts at the time, it was made up of the following players, Tom Ward, one of best semi. prof. pitchers in the east, Dan. Hickey, catcher, Mike Schafer 1st base, Cy. Clute SS. (Sargt. Of Police) Johnnie House, Billie Rudd, Billie Mitchel, Patie Turk, Billie Wolf, Jacob Hamm and Jimmie Fay. Peter Ballingall, was one of the finest club swingers in these parts. Frank P. Slavin a noted heavy weight of the early 1900s and who fought Joe. Choyniski and other great fighters done his training here, he presented the club with a large oil painting of himself and it adorned the wall for a good many years. Dick Burley trained for his fight with Tom. Sharkey here. As also did the Terrible Terry McGovern. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken17.jpg SHAD FISHER HUTS ELYSIAN FIELDS 1886 ( Mystery of Mary Rogers ) Among the many prominent people who became interested in this great case was Edgar Allen Poe, one of the Worlds Greatest short story writers at the time who had come on from Philadelphia to get first hand information regarding it. The mystery of the “Rogers” story appealed to Poe, he leaped to it as a painter to his brush. In the Mystery of Marie Roget he gave French names, and a French setting, to the events as described. Dassau St. where Mary lived, became the Rue Pavee, Saint Andree, the Hudson River became the Seine; and the Weehawken Woods became the Barriere du Roule. In searching around for information about “Loss Hotel” I was informed by John Bantz that his father owned the above mentioned property in the 70s, and that he John Bantz had razed the old hotel in about 1880, describing the building as being of Colonial Type, frame, about story and a half high, with a wide porch running around it, with spacious grounds covered by trees and shrubbery in front and on either side and the hill for a back ground. Later this property was bought by Jacob Rosenberg and the present eight family houses built upon it. (Story from Colliers, 3-8-30) by Winthrop D. Lane. “BOLIVAR HOUSE” stood where Park Ave. & 15th St. is now. CHAPTER 50, Laws of 1879. Copy of a certified copy of an “Act” to annex a portion of the Town of West Hoboken in the County of Hudson to the Township of Weehawken in said County. (The Shades of the First Ward.) An Act. [To] annex a portion of the Township of West Hoboken, in the County of Hudson to the Township of Weehawken, in said County. Be it enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey. That all that portion of the Township of West Hoboken, in the County of Hudson, lying within the following described boundaries, that is to say: Beginning at a point formed by the intersection of the westerly line of the Township of Weehawken, by the northerly boundary line of the City of Hoboken and running thence westerly and along said northside of the City of Hoboken to its intersection with the easterly line of Jefferson St; in said City; thence westerly and up the hillside, and along the northerly line of the Hoboken Land and Improvement Company’s property to a point in said line, distant One Hundred feet westerly from Hillside Road, thence northerly, and parallel with the said Hillside Road, at a point one hundred feet, north of Amelia Street, in the said Township of West Hoboken; thence easterly, and parallel with Amelia Street, to a [spot] distant one hundred feet west of the Hackensack Turnpike; thence etc. etc etc. Approved March 4th 1879 State of New Jersey Department of State etc. etc. etc. One of the first meeting places of the Township Committee at the time of our incorporation in 1859, it was then known as the “Colonade Hotel” and was run buy Chas. Perry, first Chairman of the Township Committee. The “Colonade Hotel” was one of the finest, fashionable, summer hotels of its time in the country, where the southern aristocrats such as the “Lees”, “Breckinridges”, and others visited every season to meet their northern friends, the “Livingstons” and other great and prominent New York families. The building was of “Colonial Design” two stories in height, 300 feet in length, facing the river, with a large piazza the full length, and 30ft wide, surrounded by beautiful gardens, shaded by spreading trees and cut up into grass plots and flower beds by gravel walks, and had accommodations for about 200 guests. It was located along the river front between 10th and 12th Sts. now (Hoboken) Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken18.jpg “Early Municipal Affairs” The first members of the Township Committee of the Township of Weehawken, were elected at a Town meeting, on April 13th 1859, which was held at the home of Chas. Perry, in Elysian Fields. John Ehlers was elected presiding officer of this meeting, and Joshua Benson, elected clerk. On a motion made at this meeting, it was resolved that the following officers be elected. “Township Committee”. John Morgan, Alexander Stobo, James Wiggins, John Ehlers and Charles Perry. Constables. William Dunn and John Frost. Judge of Elections. Denning Duer. Comm. of Appeals. Edwin A.Stevens-Frederick Cossit-Edw. King. Surveyors of Highways. John Morgan and James Wiggins. Overseers of Poor. James Wiggins and John Morgan. Supt. of Public School. Joshua Benson. Justice of the Peace. James A. Stevens. Member of board of Chosen Freeholders. Denning Duer. At a meeting of the Township Committee held at the home of Charles Perry on May 6th 1859, the following members were present, Alexander Stobo, James Wiggins and Chas. Perry. A resolution was passed appointing Charles Perry, Chairman, thus Mr. Perry became the 1st Chairman of the Township Committee of the Township of Weehawken. Another resolution was passed appointing Edwin A. Stevens, a member of the Township Committee, in place on John Morgan who refused to serve. John Ehlers election being declared illegal because of his having served as presiding officer at the election, he was appointed by resolution as a member of the Township Committee. Joshua Benson was appointed Township Clerk, thus becoming the first Township Clerk of the Township of Weehawken. At another meeting of the Township Committee on July 6th 1859, Edwin A. Stevens and Denning Duer were appointed Tax Assessors, and John Ehlers, was appointed Collector. (continued) Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken19.jpg “Sterling Avenue” Looking down on the Boulevard East (Valley Section). Before the advent of the automobile this used to be one of the finest driveways in the county, it was along here that the swells of the day used to drive in their fine carriages and sleighs and come up from Hoboken astride their prancing steeds. It was all Woods along here and known as “Kings Woods” where the kids of the early part of this century for miles around came and held their Picnics, and May Parties. And in the winter what Bob Sledding down these hills, you started at Bonn Place and Blvd. and came down at a mile a minute clip, reaching 19th St. before a stop. Those were the days, Oh Boy. Just below here, where the “Electric Ferry Entrance Road” it was known as “Cunningham’s Hill” where kids of the day use to play ball. In the old days the members of the Township Committee received the sum of $2.00 for every Township Committee meeting they attended and it will be interesting to the reader to list a few of the disbursements of those early days. 1879. For postage, expenses etc. for Township Clerk $6.25 1879. For taking census. 26.50 1879. Removing dead horse 5.00 1879. Taking prisoner to Snake Hill 3.50 1879. Taking man to hospital 2.00 1880. Lamp Lighter 50.00per month Lamp lighting got to be quite a position by this time for as shown before in 1869 this job only paid $12.00 per month. 1880. Poor Master 50.00 year 1880. Road Master 50.00 “ 1880. Tax Collector 250.00 “ 1880. School Janitor, 3 months salary 28.00 1882. Chairs for station house. 14.00 1882. Eleven (11) police whistles 11.00 1882. Rent for Town Hall. 150.00 Year 1882. Convey prisoner from West Shore Depot. 2.00 1882. Stove pipe for station house 4.25 1882. Telephone, 9 months rent 67.50 1882. Burial of child. 5.00 1884. Appropriation for fire house 900.00 1884. Building Fire House Carriage House (Baldwin Hose Co) 1200.00 1884. Plans and specifications for same. 10.00 1884. Burying dead dog .50 1884. Insect powder for station house .20 1884, Two spittoons for town hall .30 1884. Liquor Licenses 20.00 each 1884. Hack Licenses 5.00 These are only a few of the items as listed in the early days of our Township, and it is interesting to note that while the members of the governing body had amongst its membership some of the wealthiest men in the town, nevertheless they all had their hand out on pay day, and rendered their bills for all expenses incurred. Municipal Water The Township in its infancy, like all the other surrounding towns and cities depended entirely on the various wells and cisterns for its drinking water, as stated in another part of this history, there were public pumps and cisterns in various parts of our Township. In the fall of 1881, to be exact on Sept. 19th 1881, a communication was received by the Township Committee from Robert C. Jacot, requesting the consent and permission of the Township Committee to form and organize a water company in Weehawken to be known as “Weehawken Aqueduct Company” for the purpose of supplying the Township with pure and wholesome water, for the laying of water mains, supplying Fire Hydrants etc. On Sept. 24th 1881, the request was granted, and shortly thereafter the construction and operating of the water works was begun. The water was turned on for domestic and fire service shortly after, and we can imagine the great rejoicing of our citizens on this great event. The water supply was furnished from the water tower (Park Ave. near Liberty Pl) until about 1901, but with the increasing population of North Hudson and the ever increasing consumption of water, it became necessary to furnish a larger storage plant, and reservoir at Edgewater Heights was built having a capacity of 18,000,000 gallons. Since the water supply was first introduced many extensions of the system have been made until today the Hackensack Water Company which are the successors of the Weehawken Aqueduct Company, not only maintain the above mentioned reservoirs as storage plants, but have built a great filtering station and water works at New Milford, Bergen County from whence we now get our water supply. Oil, Gas and Electric Lights. Before the year of 1869, the residences and places of business as well as some of our streets were illuminated only by the use of kerosene oil lamps. For on May 3rd 1869 we find that the Township Committee procured and erected a lamp and post on what is now Tenth St. Hoboken and negotiated with the gas Co. for gas for said light, while it don’t give the name of the Gas Co. it is evident that it was the Hudson County Gas Co. From time to time this number of lights were increased and a lamp lighter employed to light, clean and keep in repair all the lights. By 1895 the kerosene oil and gas lamps began to become a thing of the past, for in that year one of the first Electric Lights (Arc Lamp) was erected on Shippen St. After the installation of these electric lights the Township Committees gradually added more until today, I do not think I exaggerate when I say there is no municipality in the country that can claim a better lighting system than ours. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken20.jpg “Hon. Simon Kelly” (1892) “Kelly’s Hotel” Boulevard East & 4th St. Later Municipal Affairs. In the days before mentioned there were very few streets in our Township, outside of the First Ward, the rest of our Township being divided into large estates. It was not until about 1870, that Palisade Ave. was improved and opened. In 1872 the improvement of Bullsferry Road (Park Ave.) from 19th St. north was begun, and as late as 1882, there were no cross streets cut through the heights section. (2nd Ward) In the Highwood and Clifton Park sections of the third ward, Fulton St. was the first street to be cut through, and the large estates here began to fade away and become a thing of the past, and it was an assured fact that “Weehawken” had felt the hand of time, and begun to roll along with the wheels of progress. In 1893 the construction of Boulevard East was begun, with the closing of Eldorado Park, this tract of land was cut up into building sites and streets cut through, and on Decoration Day, May 30th 1894 a great auction sale took place and hundreds of choice home sites offered to the highest bidder. It is interesting to note here that the promoters of this great sale had printed a large poster in which they described the location and beauty of this section of Weehawken, telling of the famous duels that were fought here, showing pictures of the King’s Mansions and the driveways into them, a picture of the elevated railroad, and describing Weehawken as being four miles from City Hall N.Y., being only 10 minutes from 42nd St. and 30 minutes from down town New York, further stating that all streets have been graded and sidewalks laid, protected against nuisances, and gas and water mains laid in all the streets, and that the sale would take place rain or shine and that lunch would be served to all attending. By1895 all the streets of our Township were cut through and all modern improvements installed, Water, Gas and Electricity, and Weehawken was known then as it is today the Garden Spot of Hudson County. Jan. 1st 1884, the first ferry boat to operate between 42nd St New York and Weehawken was put into service. May 30th 1883, the first train was run through the West Shore R.R. Tunnel by Thomas Minshull (Engineer) on a sight seeing trip upon which were some of the most prominent citizens and newspaper editors of the day. On July 9th 1883, it was officially opened by the New York-Buffalo-Western R.R. Company, predecessor of the present New York Central Lines. At this time there was no terminal in Weehawken, these trains came down from Kingston N.Y. through the tunnel and down the New Jersey Junction right of way to Jersey City. As time went on this company acquired all that tract of land along the Hudson River up as far as Shady Side and began to build their terminal in 1884, and what were once great farms made way for one of the largest passenger and freight terminals in the country. (continued) Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken21.jpg Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken22.jpg The beginning of one of the largest Shipbuilding- Repair Yards and Dry Docks Along the Atlantic Sea Coast. Titjen & Lang Dry Docks. 1887. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken23.jpg In time the West Shore Railroad Company succeeded the New York-Buffalo-Western R.R. Co. and they were succeeded by the New York Central Railroad Company as the owners of all this property, and with the spreading of the railroad system throughout our country, this spot became the New York Terminal of this road, for its passenger and freight service, they running all their crack trains of that day out of here to Albany N.Y. and points west, until the building of the Grand Central Terminal in New York City. They also built 12 large freight piers and grain elevators along the water front whereon they employ thousands of laborers and mechanics of all classes. 1887, the great Weehawken Elevators and Railroad was started (that is its construction) completed in 1891, began operations on April 26th 1892, and proving a failure, dismantling of same began in 1893. In 1892 the first Trolley Car began to operate along what is now Park Ave. (first in North Hudson) from the Hoboken Ferry as far as Eldorado Station (Park Ave. & Liberty Pl.). With the abolishing of the Eldorado and the cutting thru of 4th St. this line was extended and down to the West Shore Terminal. It is interesting to note that in the operation of the old Horse cars in 1862, up along this road, it was necessary to hitch an extra horse on at the bottom of the hill (at the Point) and go on up as far as what is now the valley path at Municipal Bldg. whereon the opposite side of [the] street was a tow shanty, here another horse was hooked on, taking in all four horses to pull the car up the hill as far as what is now 37th St. Union City, these tow horses were driven by boys many of whom are our prominent men of today. Lest I forget let me state that the first crew to operate a trolley car up Bullsferry Rd (Park Ave.) were William Wirtz and Louis Beers. To no man of that period belonged greater credit for the building up of our Township than to Simon Kelly, who reigned as the big boss of Weehawken from 1871 to 1900. Simon Kelly was born in Ireland, Aug. 22nd 1848, and was brought to this country by his parents when a child and settled in Hoboken where he received his education in the public schools of that city, settling in Weehawken when a young man, where he became interested in politics, and finally being recognized as one of the most skilled political leaders in the history of our Township. He had filled with credit every office of importance in the gift of the citizens of this Township. In 1871, 72 and 73 he served as Postmaster. In 1884 he was elected a member of Township Committee and served a number of years in that body acting as its chairman or (Mayor) until 1900. He was also a member of the Chosen Board of Freeholders, and one of the organizers and first Chief of Baldwin Hose Co .#1 in 1883. He also served as Chief of Police, and served for six years as President of Board of Education, during his term of office, the first modern Public School Building (School #1) was erected in 1890. In 1895, he built “Kellys Point Hotel” Blvd. East top of Pershing Road, and was its proprietor until the time of his death in 1900, it was one of the most notable political headquarters of the Democracy of New Jersey. (continued) Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken24.jpg ORourke Engineering Boiler and Engine House. Baldwin Avenue. The Pennsylvania Railroad Tunnel shaft on Baldwin Ave. was begun on June 11th 1903. This building housed all the machinery used in the construction of this great tunnel, furnishing the air (compressed) to the men who were drilling the great hole under the Hudson River and the Palisades as well as the electricity etc. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken25.jpg Thomas Carroll 1892 For Thirty Seven years, the late Thomas Carroll, served as Township Clerk of the Township of Weehawken, and could have gone on perpetually in that position had he not been called to the great beyond on Feb. 11th 1928. At the time of his death Tom as he was familiarly known was the dean of public officials in our Township if not in the County of Hudson. Mr. Carroll was born in Hoboken on May 1st 1867, and moved with his parents to Weehawken when a young man and settled on Amelia Street (W. 19th St.). He received his early education in St. Mary’s Parochial School, in West Hoboken, and after leaving school, entered the employ of the Standard Oil Co. later going with J.H. Kniffen of Hoboken, where he learned the plumbing trade. Mr. Carroll was a Republican in politics, but in 1891, was picked by Simon Kelly, who was the big Democratic Boss of Weehawken, to run for Township Clerk, and was reelected year after year by the citizens of this Township until the time of his death, party lines being completely forgotten when his name appeared on the ballot. As can be seen Mr. Carroll was one of the most popular as well as likeable men in our community and was never known to have offended man, woman or child or have an enemy within our midst, he was known for his charity and the many good deeds performed by him towards his fellow man will never be known. To use the slang of the day, Weehawken was in the money, for on Jan. 18th 1926, the Hamilton National Bank opened its door for business, at #518 – 520 Park Ave. giving to the citizens of this Township two of the finest banking houses in the state. 1925, Mrs. Marguerite Callery, was elected to the office of Tax Collector, the first woman to be elected to public office in this Township. Mrs. Callery had succeeded her late husband John Callery to the office after his death, he having served as Tax Collector from 1900 to 1922. 1931, Mrs. Clara Grauert, widow of the late Hon. Emile W. Grauert, was appointed to fill the chair of Mayor, succeeding her late husband, by the Township Committee on May 13th 1931, and served for the rest of his term until Jan. 1st 1932. Mrs. Grauert was the first woman to hold that office in Hudson County, and the second woman to hold such office in the State of New Jersey. Parks and Playgrounds. In 1919 a large strip of land south of the Municipal Building lying between Park Ave. and Blvd. East was bought and the Park Ave. playground created. The different administrations since that time have made many improvements to it until today there is a large ball and football field, tennis courts and kiddies playground. 1927 a park and playground was created in the 2nd ward on the brow of the hill giving an unobstructed view to the great city of New York and its surroundings as far as the eye can see. 1927, the Karl Bitter and Meister properties were bought and the buildings razed, ground leveled, and Hamilton Plaza created on the Blvd. East opp. Duer Place, making it one of the finest small parks or plazas on the west banks of the Hudson River. 1932, a little further up the Boulevard and running from near Fulton St. to 2nd St. the Grove Church, loaned to the Township about eight lots, and a kiddies playground was created here, and Weehawken can justly boast of a fine a group of Parks and Playgrounds wherein the kiddies and young folks of our Township can take part in all the healthful games and sports in the County of Hudson. In the first ward at Willow Ave. and 19th St. there is another playground. Transit Facilities. Previous to the year of 1861, there was no way of reaching the ferries or any other point, except by walking or private conveyance. In that year permission to operate the horse cars was given, then a few years later the Electric Trolley car was introduced, and incidentally Weehawken was the first spot in North Hudson for them to operate they running up what is now Park Ave. There has been many changes in the mode of operation of these cars in the last few years, we have seen them changed from two men operation, to the one man car, also we have seen the Conductorette introduced in our time. Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken26.jpg 1928 TOWNSHIP HALLS. 1887 to 1904 [In] 1914 the Jitney Bus a new mode of travel was introduced within our midst. Jitney were privately owned conveyances used for the transportation of passengers, and in the early days of their operation there was some great looking automobiles amongst these conveyances, the creation of this mode of travel was brought about by the owners of the Trolley System themselves who had raised the fare from a Nickel to Ten cents, and as a protest against this unfair raise in fare a few owners of automobiles got together and started this new system of travel, and from which was created and spread throughout the country the present Du Lux Bus Service. Weehawken has three ferries operating from New York City to her shores, also our trolley lines spreading out from them to North Hudson, Jersey City and suburban points, as well as being the passenger terminal of two railroads. “Washington Bicentennial Pageant” Saturday May 21st 1932, will never be forgotten by the citizens of this Township for on that date its citizens witnessed one of the finest, yes the finest and most colorful parade and pageant in its history, wherein scenes of Washington’s time was depicted, by 2500 school children and adults. The bicentennial celebration was a comprehensive cross- section of life in the American Colonies in the days of Boston Tea Parties and Square dances, high mounted couriers in silken breeches and powdered wigs riding as an advance guard of the original coach in which George Washington rode to his inaugural, and which was drawn by four white horses. And following this historic coach came dozens of floats, each telling its story of early life in the American Colonies, namely, Washington at Valley Forge, Washington Crossing the Delaware, Washing as the Surveyor, another depicting the story of the Cherry Tree, a Colonial Bridal Party, another and one of the most beautiful was one entitled “Weehawken Peaches” showing a large basket mounted on a large auto truck filled with Weehawken youngsters, [????] depicting Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette perched on a high throne surrounded by the ladies of their court, the “Spirit of 76” with its three wounded soldiers, “Betsy Ross” making the first flag and other colorful floats. The parade was headed by the Weehawken Police Dept. then came a platoon of the Fire Department, followed by the Weehawken Public Schools band of seventy five pieces resplendent in their red and white uniforms, these were followed by Mrs. Marguerite Callery and the Hon. John G. Meister who’s untiring effort [gave this great pageant a reality, and who received the support and help of the ladies of our Township in making it a great success. American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, Boy and Girl Scouts, the Elks and other organizations with their bands then fell in line, then a thousand more children dressed as Puritans, Colonial Dames, West Point Cadets all marched along to the applause and admiration of between twenty and twenty five thousand people who lined our streets. To sum up our Township today, we can justly say, that Weehawken is the garden spot of Hudson County, with a population of 14807 people, within which we have the finest residences in Hudson County, 13 miles of the finest streets well paved and lighted, 1 hospital, 6 churches, efficient police and fire departments, 4 parks and playgrounds, 3 railroad terminals and several industries and ship yards wherein (page 77 continued) thousands of our citizens are employed, [#?] public and one High School, one parochial school. The picture I have drawn of our Township might seem to some to be the product of an over zealous mind, but it is my honest opinion that no finer(continued on page 79) Page 78 “Our Police Department.” Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken27.jpg AUGUST KLASSEN Chief of Police. Appointed a patrolman May 17th 1904 Promoted to Sergeant May 1st 1915 Promoted to Chief May 9th 1921 Patrick McGann was the first regularly appointed Chief of Police, at the reorganization of the dept. in 1907, after the adoption of the Tenure of Office Act, taking the police dept. out of politics. McGann died while in office in 1921 PATRICK McGANN Chief of Police 1907 - 1921 A Municipality is known by the manner in which law is enforced and order maintained. This being so, the municipal officers of the Township of Weehawken feel they have no reason to bow to any municipality in the country. This is the town where police work is executed without fear or favor. From the date of our incorporation up until 1869, there were no Policemen in our Township, the Township Committee would as occasion demanded on Sundays & Holidays and on other extraordinary occasions, engage the services of the constables to preserve law and order. The constables in those early days were William Dunn and John Frost. It can readily be seen that the job of these constables were no sinecure, when we consider that between 40,000 and 50,000 people used to visit the Elysian Fields on Sundays and Holidays for their picnics and etc., it being the only pleasure resort New Yorkers had in those days, there being no Central Park, Saratoga and New Port News being unknown, and Coney Island and other resorts of today not even being thought of. There being no station house or prison in our Township, they had to convey their prisoners to the County Jail as best they could, often times walking them there. It was on May 9th 1869, that the Township Committee seeing the need of more protection, appointed as special Policemen, Joseph Mitchel and John Murray, at a salary of $16.00 per month or $4.00 per day for every day they worked which was only on Sundays or Holidays. Thus Mitchel and Murray became the first duly appointed Policemen in the Township of Weehawken. On July 11th, 1870, an Ordinance to create and provide for a Police Dept. in the Township of Weehawken, was passed by the Township Committee, and the Chairman of the Township Committee by virtue of his office became Chief of Police. In the same year (1870) an Ordinance was passed creating a Township Prison in the Township of Weehawken. This prison was located and described as follows; The building next easterly from the Hackensack Plank Road, being about 200 feet therefrom, in Elysian Fields, near the line of what would be 11th St. (Hoboken) if continued, shall be the Township Prison. Patrick Fotteral was installed as the first prison keeper and received as his compensation $50.00 per month, and 25 cts for every meal served to his charges. He had to keep the prison in a clean and orderly manner and look after the well being of its inmates. The upkeep of the prison seemed to have weighed heavily upon the resources of the Township for we find that later on the mode of compensation was changed, the prison keeper receiving the $50.00 per month only for the months of May, June, July, August, September and October, and for the remainder of the year only received free rent. A few years later this prison was moved further up town and was located on [?th] St. about where the Poultry Yard is now, and in 1876 what looked like [?????] first Police Department created, for we find that in that year the following named men were appointed to the force, namely; Patrick McGoey, Z.C. Pierce, [??ix] Quinn, Jas. Smith and Geo. W. Pardee. Oct. 13th 1889. Appointed Township Clerk. 1890. Elected Township Clerk. 1891. Elected Township Committee. 1892. Appointed Sargt. of Police Dec. 15th 1924. Retired Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken28.jpg 1892. A. Chas. Hessner, Sergt. of Police A few years later need for large quarters for a police station [?????] Township Hall was apparent, for in 1887 a three story building at 1940-Park Ave, (Old Boulevard) was leased for a term of three years and the Police Dept. and Township Offices moved there. It was about this time that Simon Kelly had reached the peak of his power and as Chairman of Township Committee became the Chief of Police, and the Dept. was comprised of the following members. [----n] Mayor, Sargt. Richard Clifford, Roundsman. Frank Richards, Lois Shaffer, William Dietz, Alvin Bessie, Edgar Price, Wilbur Hawkins and Stephen Conroy. Patrolmen. It is interesting to note at this time, there being no Tenure of Office Act to protect the members of the department, the personnel of the force was changed depending upon the political party who were in power every year. The maxim or precept being “To the victors belong the spoils” and the appointments and dismissals was regulated by political pull. Weehawken was still growing and our population increasing, and again it was found necessary to look for larger offices for the affairs of the Township. Then in 1904 the Township Hall and Police Department moved up to their new quarters at # 309-Park Ave. (Old Bullsferry Road) Police Roster 1932 Chief: August Klassen Captain: Michael Lyons, John Dillon Lieutenants: Philip McNulty, Chas. Kelling, Edw. J. Kirk, Joseph P. Pratt Lieut. Detectives: David Jordan, James Hannan Sergeants: Edw. Quigley, Silas Clute, Chas. Hessner, Chas. Anderson, John Timoney Patrolmen: William Okeefe, John Stevens, Dennis Doherty, Robert Flood, Geo. Denigar #1, Michael Connors, Edward Woods, Stanley Harris, John Freund, Herbert Geisler, Daniel Monahan, Frank Miles, Frederick Vollmer, Frank Dugan, Edward Sack, Thomas McLaughlin, John Chamberlain, Frederick Anderson, Joseph Hennessy, William Brennan, John Fischer, David Flood, Rudolph Koppe, John McMahon, Vincent Raine, Henry Kellerman, Charles Ebneter, Bartley Glennon, John Concannon, Frank Gethings, Edmond Lewis, Francis Nolan, Geo. Denigar #2, Joseph Daley, John Sneyers, George Kallert, Frederick Yunginger, Vincent Martin, Lawrence Hessner, Charles Rossel, James Weir (Keeper), John Lowry, G. Harold Keller, William Damrosch. Matron: Abbie Lake HEXAMERS RIDING ACADEMY Image http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken29.jpg The present high standards of efficiency maintained by the Police Dept. is due to the untiring efforts of Chief Klassen and his staff who has always had the wholehearted backing of the Township Officials. Chief Klassen is one of the most popular Chiefs of Police in the county of Hudson, and is held in high regard not only within the confines of our Township but throughout the county and state as well. He has been President for the past twenty years of the North Hudson Police Mutual Aid Assn. comprising all the Police Depts. of North Hudson as well as the Boulevard and the Hudson County M.C. Police. Due to his untiring efforts, the Township enjoys a high rating as a crime free community, and he is in popular favor with its citizenry because of the able manner in which he conducts the department. It has been his practice since becoming head of the department to temper Justice with mercy, and to say the least he has been very successful along these lines, and anyone who strays from the straight and narrow path is helped back if possible, he believes in talking kindly to offenders, which does more to restore confidence in one’s self than all the penal institutions in the country. (continued) The //////// offender of course dose not come in for the consideration shown first offenders. Not that Weehawken is criminally inclined, but now and then a prisoner with a record is brought in, and who must take his chances at the Bar of Justice rather than in the quiet of the Chiefs office. Every thing possible has been done to make things congenial for the members of the department which now number sixty men in its personnel, and who now enjoy greater privileges and better working conditions than at any time since its organization. Chief Klassen has found an able assistant in the person of Capt. Michael Lyons, who has charge of the Detective force, a veteran of the force, being one of its oldest members. Mike as he is familiarly known has risen from the ranks being appointed to the force in 1900, after a few years was promoted to Sergeant, this title being changed to Lieutenant, until 1924 when he was promoted to his present rank of Captain of Police. His long years of service together with more than an ordinary amount of native ability has made Capt. Lyons an exceptionally keen judge of human nature. He is one of the most adept in his field in securing a confession from a criminal under arrest, and has patched up more broken lives than is the ordinary mans privilege. Merciless towards a criminal whom he believes is past redemption, he is the first to lend a helping hand to a person who has made a mistake. This is particularly true in the handling of the wayward boy or girl, and many who have been given a second chance and make good, give thanks to his sound counsel. Capt. Lyons is not only held in high regard by the members of his own dept. and the citizenry of Weehawken, but also by the various depts. comprising the metropolitan district, especially New York City, with some of whose famous members he had the pleasure of working on some of the greatest cases of the day. Notably amongst them was the cleaning up of the “Crime that rocked the continent” when Father Hans Schmidt, murdered Anna Aumuller in New York City in Sept. 1913, and cast her dismembered body into the Hudson River, her Torso being washed up on our shore just north of Baldwin Ave. Capt. Lyons worked on this case with the Famous Inspector Joseph Faurot and his staff of the New York City Police Dept. Another famous case being the capture and conviction by Captain Lyons and Capt. Thomas Tunney and his staff of the New York City Police Dept. of Robert Fay, celebrated German Spy, on Oct. 24th 1915, at # 25 – 5th St. and Fays assistants Walter Sholtz and Paul Daesche who were captured in Jersey City. He also worked on the famous murder case of Barnett Baff, New York Commission Merchant, the capture and conviction to life imprisonment of the Reilly Bros for the murder of John Young on March 24th 1924, at 1834 Park Ave. During the world war Mike was assigned to Draft Board #4 where he done yeoman work in rounding up slackers. Another veteran is Capt. John Dillon, better known as Jack, in charge of the uniformed forces, who also entered on his career as a policeman back in 1900 when he was appointed, and making the grade through the successive ranks until 1924, when he was promoted to the rank of Captain of Police. (continued) This file is located at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/nj/hudson/history/local/weehawken.txt