| HISTORY |
| Schuylkill Haven is a small borough in the state of Pennsylvania, located about one hundred miles northwest of Philadelphia and fifty miles east of Harrisburg. It is located in the southern portion of Schuylkill County about four miles south of the county seat of Pottsville. One of the earliest settlements within the borders of the county, it is generally accepted that the first settler was John Fincher, a Quaker from Chester County. A warrant for 225 acres of land was granted to him on March 5,1750. The land facing on the Schuylkill River,taking in the curve of the river, is today the west ward and part of the south ward of town. It is this year that the borough celebrates as the official founding. |
| LAST UPDATED: JULY 1 |
| OTHER HISTORICAL INFORMATION |
| In addition to historical information about the formation and early years of Schuylkill Haven, other unique and interesting news stories and facts will be offered here. |
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| MAJOR FIRES IN THE BOROUGH |


| Articles describing various major fires in Schuylkill Haven are offered here. |
| Pottsville Republican of May 24, 1920 FACTORY FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN At noon on Tuesday, fire broke out at the Schuylkill Haven Casket Factory in Schuylkill Haven in the engine room and caused damage to the amount of $1000, entirely covered by insurance. The fire was discovered by the firemen who had not yet gone to their dinner, and they at once closed the heavy doors leading to the main plant and confined the fire to the boiler house and engine room. The plant is situated along the Reading Railroad and it was difficult to get a good supply of water quickly, when the fire companies responded. It is supposed that sparks from the fire box ignited a large pile of shavings, which were to be used for fuel, and at once the engine room was in a blaze. The main building is of brick and there was little danger of this part catching on fire, but there was a large supply of lumber which was in danger. The three Schuylkill Haven fire companies responded at once to the alarm, the Humane and American companies of Pottsville and the two Cressona companies were called and they succeeded in confining the blaze to the boiler and engine room. The fire will not cause a suspension for although the plant was using steam for power, they are equipped with electricity and can carry on their work without any difficulty. When the Pottsville fire apparatus reached Mount Carbon bridge two autos were found to be figuring in a head on collision, one of the cars being owned by L. Weiner. The firemen assisted in separating the cars before they could get over the bridge. Outside of a general smashup of the headlights, there was not much damage done. |
| Pottsville Republican of June 30, 1919 COSTLY FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN Fire broke out in the skating rink on lower Main Street, Schuylkill Haven, shortly after nine o'clock Monday morning and destroyed the Rink, the Mayberry blacksmith shop next door, badly damaged the Bittler garage, and slightly damaged three houses and the Reider Shoe Factory. The alarm of the fire was sounded about eight minutes after the fire started, but the milk train was on the railroad crossing and this delayed the firemen for a time so that the fire gained headway. The skating rink has for sometime past been used as a storage house and contained about eight autos, some household goods and a quantity of lumber. This was completely destroyed as was also the Mayberry blacksmith shop. Three houses, owned and occupied by Paul Naffin, owner of the skating rink, William Quinter and John Hirst were damaged by fire and water. In the Hirst home a woman with her one day old baby were carried from the house to escape the fire. The Meck and Reber factory was damaged but not to any great extent. The fire is supposed to have started from a small vulcanizing plant beneath the skating rink. The three fire companies of Schuylkill Haven responded and had several streams of water playing on the fire. A Cressona chemical also came to their assistance. The water supply was poor and caused a considerable amount of trouble. The Pottsville companies were appealed to and Chief Stevenson ordered the Good Intent to go at once to the scene of the fire. The Good Intent arrived about the same time as the Schuylkill Haven companies, about nine minutes being required to make the run. It was not more then an hour before the entire disaster and the buildings were in ruins. It is estimated that the loss will reach $30,000. Naffin, who is the heaviest loser, says that his loss is only partly covered by insurance. The contents of the rink alone were worth thousands of dollars. The place contained a $3000 organ, a full set of plumbing implements, which had been stored there and a large machine used for making cement bricks. They were totally destroyed. The vulcanizing plant, owned by Anthony Savoir, where the fire started, was also ruined and the loss is large. At noon the smoke had almost entirely disappeared and the Liberty Fire Company was the only one remaining to see that the fire did not break out in any place again. Schuylkill Haven people are aroused over the matter of the train remaining on the crossing, resulting in a loss of valuable time to the firemen. It is said that the Schuylkill Haven people will take the matter before the officials. **NOTE: Naffin was the father of Harry Naffin, former owner of Messner and Hess and frequent provider of information to this site. The rink was located where Boyer's Market now stands. |
| Pottsville Republican of August 22, 1917 LIGHTNING CAUSED TWO FIRES AT SCH HAVEN WITH LOSS OF $50,000 Lightning on Tuesday evening caused two fires at Schuylkill Haven, the first one being discovered in the planing mill of Meck and Keever, located on Railroad Street below Main and the second one at the underwear mill of Baker Brothers located to the rear of Saint John Street south of Market Street. The total damage will reach $50,000 according to a conservative estimate. The loss to the Meck-Keever planing mill reach almost $6000 and the total loss to Baker Bros. will be something over $40,000 partly covered by insurance. Only the splendid work of the firemen prevented the flames from the Baker structure from reaching other buildings and residences close by. There was considerable damage done by the flames shooting out of the Baker building but no other buildings or residences were destroyed. When the terrible crash of thunder came following two sharp flashes of lightning on Tuesday evening, there was a cry of fire from Saint John Street and an alarm was sent in. There had been flames discovered at the boiler house of the planing mill. The firemen responded and succeeded in checking this fire before it reached the buildings where the lumber was stored. The fire however did considerable damage to the boiler and machines. The efforts of everyone were turned to the planing mill and no one knew anything of the fire at Baker's. People residing in Smoketown soon ran to the planing mill fire and made it known that there was a fire at Baker Bros. Mill. The firemen then put a force of men on guard at the planing mill with a stream in case of another outbreak and went to the Baker fire. When they got there the entire lower portion of the building was afire and the flames shot through to the upper story as the firemen prepared their streams for the building. Seeing it was a bad situation they sent for the Pottsville department and the Good Will and the Humane sent their trucks and the Humane a steamer. For almost two hours the firemen battled with the fire here and finally succeeded in getting the building to fall in on one side so they could confine it. The diligent work of the firemen and the fact that there was no wind saved the other buildings and the residences in that vicinity. The Zimmerman home about sixty feet from the Baker mill, was afire several times but each time the firemen succeeded in extinguishing it before any serious damage resulted. The Zimmerman home was vacant, the tenants moving out last week, but Mrs. Zimmerman had some furniture stored in the house. The fire appeared to start near the motor room, lightning apparently having entered through the opening just above the motor box. Within ten minutes of having being struck, half of the Baker mill was afire and the flames were shooting out windows upstairs and down. The mill which is owned by Baker Bros. and Company was successfully managed by Herbert Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel Baker, who live close by and George Long, a brother in law of Baker. Both Baker and Long were at a camp at a place near Pinedale, having closed down the mill on Monday and giving the employees a two weeks vacation. A few months ago Baker spent several thousand dollars in adding a new section to the mill, owing to the increase in the business and he also remodeled the building. The plant was said to be one of the most modern and sanitary mills in the state and the firm took pride in keeping the machinery modern and all equipment of the very latest type. The loss to the building is about $8500, loss on raw material including yarn and knitted goods ready for cutting about $9000, loss on machinery, equipment, etc. about $18,500 and loss on finished products about $8,000, the losses being only partially covered by insurance. When the fire broke out some of Baker's and Long's friends went to their camp and when they arrived in Schuylkill Haven, the mill was a mass of flames. Mrs. Emanuel baker, mother of Herbert Baker, looked out her window at the destructive flames and watched the building burn to the ground. She broke down several times and friends went in to comfort her. The Baker mill closed down Monday and on Tuesday the score or more of employees reported to Miss Lucinda Clouser, forelady of the mill, and received their pay in order that they might go on their vacations. Baker inspected the mill on Tuesday morning and expected to have his cutters soon start work to prepare for work for the young ladies within another ten days. The mill was struck by lightning on two other occasions but each time the blaze was only slight. If it had been discovered it could have easily been extinguished this time as there were a dozen fire extinguishers about the mill at various points. The electric lights in various parts of the town were out following the fire and there were a number of minor accidents. No one was seriously hurt however, although a couple of the firemen suffered slight burns from the falling building. The firm will start to rebuild in a short time. The Meck and Keever firm are making preparations for immediate repairs and they will have their plant back in shape within a short time. |
| Pottsville Republican of September 22, 1904 FIRE DESTROYS OLD BUILDING Fire at about 2:30 o'clock this morning destroyed the old Peter Maguire homestead in Irish Flat at Schuylkill Haven. The property had long ago passed into the hands of the P & R Company and of late was occupied by Italians. Only a few days ago the last tenant moved out and another Italian family from Pottsville was to have moved in this week. Opinion is divided as to whether the fire was caused by a locomotive spark or an incendiary. The fact that the entire house appeared to burst in flame from cellar to garret instantaneously seems to favor the latter theory. The house was a mere shell and was not worth more then a couple of hundred dollars. There was no wind, and the fire did no damage to adjoining properties, but burned itself out where it started. The Schuylkill and Rainbow Hose Companies promptly responded to the alarm. Being greatly hampered by a very meager water supply, they paid no attention to the doomed building, but devoted all their energies to saving surrounding property, being very ably assisted in their work by a bucket brigade. |
| Pottsville Republican of May 5, 1908 THREE MAY DIE AS RESULT OF SCHUYLKILL HAVEN FIRE The accidental overturning of a lighted lamp in the home of John Boyer on High Street, Schuylkill Haven, at 3 o'clock this morning resulted in a fire that completely destroyed that house and the adjoining residence of Charles Shappell, together with the partial destruction of the dwelling occupied by Frank Swartz. The scene of the fire was upon the steep part of High Street on the west side, just above Union Street. The Boyer and Shappell families occupied a double block which was owned by W. Irvin Henry of Tamaqua, and below this house was the single cottage occupied by Mr. Swartz. Above the Shappell house is D. M. Wagner's stable, which was only saved by the most strenuous efforts of the firemen. The street is only twenty feet wide and the fronts of houses on the opposite side occupied by Postmaster Huy and Oscar Barr were badly scorched and charred. The heat was so intense that it was almost impossible for the firemen to work in the narrow street and the flying sparks kept residents in the neighborhood busy with buckets of water protecting their own homes. The instant the lamp was upset the fire swept with whirlwind rapidity through the Boyer house and communicated with the Shappell house and by the time the firemen arrived both houses were aflame from cellar to garret. In Mr. Boyer's household besides himself were his wife, Mrs. Wagner, her son Frantz and her daughter, Mrs. Oswald, together with the latter's son Floyd. Mr. Shappell's household consisted of himself and his wife, their children, Earl, Beulah and Charles and Robert and Anna Brown, children of Mrs. Shappell by her first husband. In his efforts to save his family, Mr. Boyer was terribly burned about the head and shoulders. It is also feared that he inhaled the flame and his death is feared. He was removed to the home of his brother-in-law, Milton Shappell on Margaretta Street where he lies swathed in bandages and suffering excruciating pain. His wife escaped in safety but lost all of their clothing and practically all of their household goods, while Mr. Boyer also lost $400 in cash which had been paid him the day before as part of his share of the Boyer estate and which was in the pocket of his coat. Mrs. Wagner was terribly burned about the face and arms and is also believed to have inhaled the flame. She was removed to the home of her son, Isaac Wagner, further up High Street and suffers untold agony. The balance of her family escaped in safety but lost their all. The Shappell household escaped, most of them in scanty attire, but lost most of their household goods and as a result of the shock, Mr. Shappell, who is subject to heart trouble, is very low with poor chances of his recovery. He is being tenderly cared for at the home of Harry Guertler on High Street. Frank Swartz and his wife moved out of their house as soon as the alarm was given and saved most of their effects which were stored in the residences of neighbors. With the three houses ablaze and the sparks flying at one time it was feared that this entire section of town, which is very closely built up, would catch fire and Pottsville was telephoned to for aid, but the three local fire companies by most valiant work succeeded in getting the fire under control in time to stop the Pottsville firemen just as they were about to leave that town. The Boyer and Shappell block owned by Mr. Henne, valued at about $2500, is fully insured. The Swartz residence owned by Mr. Fahl is valued at $2000, is fully insured. No insurance was carried by the tenants on their household goods. Kind neighbors took in the homeless families and provided food and clothing while Manager Underwood, of Doutrich's and Company, sent clothing to the needy ones. Various other donations have been made and others will not be amiss. |
| Pottsville Republican of March 22, 1906 SCHUYLKILL HAVEN HAD A BIG FIRE LAST NIGHT The largest and most costly fire in the history of Schuylkill Haven occurred last night when the knitting and storage departments of H. Berger and Sons big underwear mill on Spring Garden Street was destroyed. The flames were first discovered in the boiler house, the roof of which was ablaze. An alarm was sounded and the Friendship Hook and Ladder Company and the Rainbow Hose Company immediately responded while the Schuylkill Hose Company came within a brief space of time. The Hookies turned their chemical stream on the blaze and put out the fire on the boiler house roof, but the flames had communicated to the main part of the mill and followed the stairways up the three floors to the roof. By the time the water streams were turned on the entire interior of the big three story building was a seething cauldron of flames. The firemen had an ample water supply, the heavy construction and isolation of the burning structure kept the flames confined and prevented their spread and although sparks rained like hail from the mill windows on to nearby buildings, none were ignited owing to the fact that their roofs were covered with a foot of snow and the watchful firemen turned a stream on whenever a burning brand landed on a dangerous spot. Fearing a spread of the flames, at the very outset of the fire, Pottsville was asked for aid and at midnight the Humane steamer and hose truck arrived. By that time the local fire companies had the fire under control, but the visiting company rendered signal assistance of drowning out what still remained of the fire in the mill. The Humane Company remained on duty several hours and the local companies continued to play on the ruins until six o'clock this morning when all the companies except the Rainbow were dismissed, the latter remaining on duty all day to guard against any outbreak of flame. The burned building was one of a group of three buildings, which comprised H. Berger and Sons mill. This structure was erected in 1886 by James Seyfert as a grist mill and was run as such until about 1887. It passed into the hands of the late George McWilliams and was purchased from him by Mr. Berger in 1891. They first conducted a hosiery mill but in 1893 changed to the manufacture of underwear, which they have continued to the present day. About two years ago a bleachery was added to the establishment, being located to the rear of the burned building and in a separate brick structure. Last summer a large brick building was put up to the rear of the bleachery and the finishing and packing departments and the office were removed thereto. Neither of these two buildings were touched by the flames. The three buildings cover an extent of several acres and form the most complete underwear mill in this section of the state. The payroll numbered 125 hands and the mill's output is close onto 3,000 dozen garments per week. The burned building is forty by fifty feet in size with a boiler and engine room annex of forty by twenty feet. The main building consists of a basement below, the street level and three stories above, while the boiler room is one story and the engine room two, the floor above the engine being used as a shipping room. The nest of three big tubular boilers was not damaged by the fire and it is believed the engine has suffered no damage. The basement of the mill was used for the storage of pipes, fittings, extra parts of the machinery, etc. and much of this is rusted and ruined by water. On the ground floor were cases of goods ready for shipment and a lot of yarn, some of this being completely destroyed by the flames and what escaped the fire is so water soaked and blackened by smoke as to be useless. On the second floor are 36 knitting machines of the latest pattern and ten sleeving machines, representing a cost of at least $12,000 which are completely ruined by fire and water. In addition there were yarns and goods in process of manufacture that were eaten by the hungry flames, blackened by smoke and ruined by water. The third floor contained cases of goods in storage and a lot of machinery that was not being used in the manufacture of this season's goods and had been stored there, all of which was completely destroyed by the flames. The stout walls of the building, the heavy timber flooring and the steel sheathed roof, while furnishing food for the flame for more then three hours, still stand, the second floor in particular supporting the many tons of ruined machinery. Mr. H. Berger and Son estimate the loss on the building at about $50,000. The destroyed machinery cost them about $15,000 and there were goods in process of manufacture and on storage to the value of about $15,000, making a total loss of $35,000. This is heavily but not fully insured. The origin of the fire is a mystery and although it was supposed to have started in the boiler house, an examination of the latter today showed it to be in the same condition as when left last night. |
| Pottsville Republican of September 12, 1906 LIGHTNING SETS FIRE TO A SCHUYLKILL HAVEN FACTORY The underwear mill of the Eureka Knitting Mill Company at Schuylkill Haven was struck by lightning during a severe thunderstorm at 10 o'clock last night and was set on fire and totally destroyed. The mill was located in Dutch Flat, was of frame, 60 by 80 feet and two and a half stories high. It contained twelve knitting machines, four sleevers and twenty finishing machines, besides engine and boiler, fleecing machines, etc, and was a most up to date plant. The bolt struck the northeast corner where the fleecing room is located and by the time the firemen were able to reach the scene the entire building was a mass of flames. The fire burned fiercely for two hours before it was gotten under control and all the while menaced the big paper box factory of Saul and Zang which adjoined the Eureka Mill on the south. The absence of wind and the strenuous efforts of the firemen saved the paper box factory as it was ablaze a number of times. The Eureka Knitting Mill Company is composed of P. O. Detweiler, President, C. F. Schumacher, Charles Keller and R. J. Hoffman, Secretary and Manager. Their loss is about $20,000 on building and machinery and $5000 on stock, with about $12,000 worth of insurance. Saul and Zang building and stock were damaged to the extent of about $200 by fire and water. A SECOND STORM AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN TODAY Another terrific thunderstorm passed over Schuylkill Haven at noon today, the electrical disturbance being considerably more severe then last night. A large ball of fire struck the Bast Knitting mills. The bolt entered the plant, threw one of the girl employees from her chair and stunned several others. The plant caught fire but the building was saved by means of extinguishers. The factory has shut down temporarily. A large ball of fire struck the sidewalk nearly creating consternation in a large portion of the town. The residence of F. B. Aldrich, Superintendent of Schuylkill Haven Gas and water Company ad the Pottsville Gas Company was struck by lightning and damaged considerably. |
| Pottsville Republican of May 3, 1900 BIG FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN A fire broke out at Schuylkill Haven about 1:45 o’clock this afternoon, which for a time threatened to destroy a large section of town. The fire originated in the stable of Levi Kershner opposite the P & R freight station. The Pottsville fire department was asked for assistance, but at 2:45 o’clock the conflagration was extinguished. About 1:45 o’clock, Albert Doudle, freight agent at the P & R station, discovered smoke and flames issuing from the stable of Levi Kershner. He sent in the alarm, and the Schuylkill Hose Company and the Rainbow Hose Company responded and soon had four streams on the burning building. Fanned by a brisk wind, the flames soon spread to the two story brick stable of Harry Dohner and despite the work of the firemen Levi Hummel’s two and a half story brick warehouse and stable was soon afire. A frame stable owned by Frank Kershner caught afire and burned fiercely, as did also the stable of Oscar Sterner. The citizens now became alarmed and word was sent to Pottsville for assistance, but the firemen soon had the blaze under control. At 2:30 o’clock the brick walls of Hummel’s warehouse fell in and the other buildings were a mass of burning embers. The loss will amount to about $4000, of which only a small part is covered by insurance. The warehouse of Levi Hummel contained furniture and a wagon. His loss will amount to $1500, only a small portion being covered by insurance. Levi Kershner’s loss will amount to about $1200. In the stable was a calf which was burned to death. A wagon, sleigh and butchering implements were also destroyed. Kershner’s stable also contained about 100 chickens and pigeons which perished in the fire. His loss is covered by only $500 insurance. Harry Dohner’s two story brick stable was a total loss. His insurance had run out and as he intended to convert the building into a factory, failed to have it renewed. Frank Kershner’s loss will amount to $500 on which there is no insurance. The fire, it is supposed was caused by children who had built a fire near Kershner’s stable. All the buildings were two story frame ones excepting Dohner’s and Hummel’s which were brick. At a few minutes before 2:00 o’clock this afternoon there came a call by phone at the police headquarters to which Officer Graeff responded. The officer learned it was a call from Schuylkill Haven for help from our fire department to aid in subduing a fire which had gotten the upper hand of the fire department in that town. The officer lost no time in securing the consent of N. C. Morrison and G. A. Doerflinger, members of the Council Committee on Fire Apparatus, to send the engine and carriage of the Good Intent. No sooner had members of the company driven to the Reading depot to load up the fire apparatus than word came that their services were not needed because the firemen and citizens of that town were on a fair way to conquer the flames. In less then fifteen minutes after the message was received consent was obtained from the committee and the fire machines were waiting at the station to be loaded. |
| Pottsville Republican of November 4, 1921 EXPLOSION AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN MILL Shortly after noon on Friday, an explosion occurred at the J. F. Bast Knitting Mill at Schuylkill Haven which resulted in $15000 damage and in the injuries of two girls, employees of the mill. The mill is one of the largest in this section of the county and in addition to the manufacture of women’s underwear, do their own bleaching and dyeing. The bleachery is located in a three story frame building in which large kiers or vats containing the acid used in bleaching are located. It is believed that the safety valve in one of the kiers, which was filled with goods, in some way became blocked, and the gas which was generated caused the explosion. The entire building and four kiers are totally destroyed. The bleachery is not connected with the main building of the mill, so this was in no way damaged by the explosion. Two girls, Miss Lillian Frier and Miss Tillie Genslinger, of Schuylkill Haven, were eating their lunch in the room directly above where the explosion occurred and both girls are badly injured from flying pieces of wood, etc., and are suffering from shock. It was a most fortunate thing that the accident happened during lunch time, as almost the entire force leaves the building during the lunch hour, and had it happened later, would probably resulted in the injury of many employees. As it was, only the two girls, who remained in the building were injured. The entire side of the building was blown out and the interior is a wreck. |
| TWO BOYS COASTED TO THEIR DEATH |
| TRAGEDIES strike Schuylkill HAVEN |
| Pottsville Republican of February 7, 1900 SCHUYLKILL HAVEN MAN AN INVENTOR A party of prominent Philadelphia capitalists and experts who are interested in a new gasoline engine being built at Schuylkill Haven, arrived here on the eleven o'clock P and R express this morning. They were met at the station by P. D. Helms, of Pottsville, one of the promoters, and J. B. Losch, of Schuylkill Haven, the inventor of the new engine. The party was escorted to W. K. Boltz's knitting mill where a fifteen horse power engine of the new patent was placed yesterday. The engine was closely inspected by the men who appeared to be well pleased with its appearance and workings. After spending an hour at the factory discussing the merits of the engine the party had dinner after which they went to Mr. Losch's shop at Schuylkill Haven where another engine was examined. Mr. Losch worked on his first engine for five years before it was finally completed. This engine was constructed at his home between Auburn and Pine Grove. The engine is claimed to be superior to any gasoline engine in the country. The chief advantage over other engines is that it makes an impulse to every revolution while other engines make but one impulse to every two revolutions. The inventor claims a savings of about fifty percent friction and fifty percent in starting. The engine can be run with the cheapest of oil while all other engines require gasoline. There is no escape of gas whatever as it travels from the tank to the engine by gravity. In other engines a pump is used and considerable gas escapes. A four horse power engine is in use at Dougherty's Box Factory, Schuylkill Haven. A patent has been applied for and a company will shortly be organized to construct and place the engines on the market. |
| Pottsville Republican of July 22, 1915 $5000 TOWN HALL FOR SCHUYLKILL HAVEN It has now been definitely decided that Schuylkill Haven is to have a town hall to cost $5000. A special committee appointed by council held a meeting on Wednesday evening at which they discussed the ways and means. The committee which is composed of Robert Hoffman, George Berkheiser, Arthur Yost and Oscar Bast made reports regarding their visits to other places, giving as examples the town of Kutztown, with 3800 people, Tamaqua and Coaldale in this county, all three having nice town halls for about this figure. The council owns a plot of ground on the west side of Dock Street between Main Street and Paxson Avenue, and the town hall will be erected on this spot. At the present time Schuylkill Haven council meets in a room which is fifteen feet in length and fourteen feet in width, and it is too small to accommodate any taxpayers who might wish to be present at council proceedings. Besides this there is no downtown office for the light company, the borough jail is too small and in such a location as to be useless, and there are a number of other reasons why a town hall has been boosted for Schuylkill Haven. It is the intention of the borough to erect the building within the next few months and in all probability an architect will be employed at the next meeting to draw up a set of plans. Bids will be asked for and the contract awarded as soon as possible. The building is to be a two story brick one, according to present plans, and it will require only a short time to erect this. It will include offices for the borough officials, board of health officials, office for light, meeting room for council, an auditorium for small public meetings and also a borough jail. The authorities contend that it will cost less to conduct a town hall then paying rent for various buildings at the present. |
| Pottsville Republican of October 17, 1921 WORLD WAR ONE VET RETURNS HOME First Lieutenant Ivan Lautenbacher, whose body was brought home from France arriving at Schuylkill Haven last Wednesday was laid to his final rest in Union Cemetery, Sunday afternoon. The funeral was one of the largest which has ever taken place in that town. Many hundreds of people stood along the line to the Union Cemetery with bared heads as the cortege with the remains resting on an Army caissons drawn by four black horses passed slowly by. The body in its metallic casket lay in state all Sunday morning and until the time of the funeral under guard of honor and hundreds of people went in to view the casket, which was draped with the flag. At the head was a life size portrait of Lieutenant Lautenbacher and there were some beautiful flowers. At two o'clock with a short service concluded, the drums beat the roll and the body was brought out and the cortege started on its way to Grace United Evangelical Church. About 160 members of the Robert Baker Post American Legion in uniform were in line and they were commanded by Lieutenant Edward Mengle to whom Major Gangloff turned over the command after he had assembled them. Music was furnished by the Schuylkill Hose Company drum and bugle corps. All the military with the relatives and about three hundred civilians were able to enter but hundreds were disappointed at not being able to enter and instead journeyed to the cemetery to witness the military burial. Reverend F. S. Fasnacht, the pastor, officiated and Dr. Schlegle, Reading, presiding elder of the district, and who was a boyhood pastor of deceased at Williamstown, preached an eloquent funeral sermon. His text was 2 Timothy 2-4. His theme was the life of a Christian soldier and how his days should be spent. Mr. Brown, a friend of the family, read a touching poem. There was no singing or music. Because of the work on Centre Avenue, the cortege had to go by way of Jerusalem Cemetery which is on top of the hill and then journey back to the extreme lower end of Union Cemetery. The body was buried with full military honors. Lautenbacher was injured while acting captain of Company C, 316 Infantry, 79th Division near Mount Faucon. He was struck in the right shoulder, the bullet passing through his body and emerging on his left side. He was taken to the hospital in the rear and died five days later on October 2. He had been ill with the flu and had been tagged for the hospital but refused to go back as long as his company was on the firing line and would probably have recovered had it not been for his weakened condition. He was born at Williamstown and was a graduate of the high school there. At the time he enlisted for service at the Mexican border he was a student in the American School of Dramatic Art. He had remarkable success in home talent plays as he had much natural ability. Prior to his service on the border he had served several enlistments in the National Guard being a member of Company, made into an engineer company and was a member when they became Company C, 103rd Engineers. Later at a training camp he earned his commission and was assigned to the 316th Infantry, 79th Division and was sent to France in July 1918. Besides his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ivan L. Lautenbacher, two sisters, Ruth and Katherine, survive. |
| A crime stirs the residents of Schuylkill Haven... |
| SAVED FROM LYNCHING |
| A Fiend With Evil in His Inhuman Heart |
| From the front page of the Pottsville Republican of June 21, 1895 |
| ATTEMPT TO INJURE A LITTLE GIRL |
| A Timely Discovery - The People of Schuylkill Haven Out in Righteous Indignation - A Father's Strong Arm and a Mother's Entreaties |
| Late last evening a medium sized, well dressed stranger tried to entice Mamie, the nine year old daughter of Jere Lautenbacher into the yard of the old Evangelical church on Saint Peter Street. Luckily the fellow's actions were noted and frustrated. The news flew like wildfire and hundreds of angry people congregated. The stranger was kicked and cuffed and cries of "kill him", "lynch him", etc. were frequent. No doubt this tragic result would have been accomplished were it not for the good sense and coolness of Mr. Lautenbacher and the entreaties of his wife. Mr. Lautenbacher is a very powerful man and determined that no further harm should be done the stranger. His chivalric stand soon brought the crowd to bay and as a compromise a committee escorted the villain to the borough limits. He had been noticed about the P & R station during the day, jumping on and off trains and ogling young girls and women. The supposition is that he comes from Hamburg. The child escaped injury beyond a slight scare and the aggrieved father is being congratulated on all sides. He is a manufacturer of ladies apparel and now that the flood of passion is over everybody is thankful for the firm and humane stand taken by himself and his good wife. |
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| MARTIN DREIBELBIS |
| Pottsville Republican of November 29, 1888 FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN Early this morning flames were discovered issuing from Weaver's shoe factory at Schuylkill Haven, and before they could be subdued the building and contents were almost totally destroyed. A box of shoes were found in a neighboring alley, and this couples with the fact that the front door was found open gives rise to the belief of a burglary and incendiarism. The fire was discovered at one thirty in the morning and the Rainbow Hose Company did good work, devoting their attention to the machinery, which they succeeded in saving. The building is a complete wreck. The fire started in the rear basement where the proprietor's father had a carpenter shop. John Weber, the proprietor, had the factory in operation about a year, and only last week was fortunate enough to insure the building and its contents for $2400, which will fully cover the loss. A window was also found broken open. |
| Pottsville Republican of July 5, 1917 $2000 FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN Fire of an unknown origin destroyed the home of George Ney of Berne Street, Schuylkill Haven, about two thirty o'clock Tuesday morning. The family were aroused by the smoke in the upper part of the house, where most of the fire was and they were able to save only a few things, most of the furniture and belongings of the family being destroyed by fire and water. The entire upper part of the house, which is a two and a half story building, was destroyed by fire and water ruined the lower part of the building and contents. The total loss is about $2000. The flames spread quickly and but for the flooding of the building by water, it would have been burned to the ground and sparks endangered the Bittle building and the Bast Mill. The Schuylkill Haven firemen worked diligently and are being praised for their work. |
| Pottsville Republican of October 18, 1917 $4000 FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN Two houses owned by J. Gellert of Pottsville, located on Columbia Street about a square off Canal Street, were destroyed by fire shortly after ten o'clock Thursday morning. The fire which it is thought started in the lower house occupied by William Sell and family, is of unknown origin and as it crept to the home next door occupied by Charles Roeder and family, it endangered other properties on the block. Mrs. Roeder, who had been in bed for several months past, was rescued by Harry Schumacher, a grocer, residing a few doors away. He carried her to the home of her mother in law, Mrs. George Roeder, a short distance away. Both homes are ruined, the flames creeping to all parts of the two buildings, the Sell property being a story and a half and the Roeder home a two story residence. Some of the furniture was saved by the firemen and neighbors but a great deal of furniture was destroyed by fire and water. The local damage will be over $4000, partly covered by insurance. The fire started in the Sell home and was discovered shortly after 10:30. The origin is mysterious as there was no one home at the Sell property at he time of the fire, Mrs. Sell being away on a visit. The flames suddenly burst out and in a very short time the Roeder home was a mass of flames. Only the quick and accurate work of the fire department of Schuylkill Haven saved the Renninger property on one side and the George Roeder property on the other side. |
| Pottsville Republican of September 2, 1936 SLIGHT DAMAGE SCHUYLKILL HAVEN FIRE A fire alarm at five o'clock this morning sent all local fire companies to James Mellon's Ice House on Garfield Avenue, Schuylkill Haven, where fire had broken out on the street side and caused a pile of boards and sawdust to burn. The exact cause of the blaze is unknown, but it originated in the sawdust storage place under the skating rink. It was necessary to remove several of the boards of the smaller building to extinguish the flames but there is only slight damage. The larger building which is used as a skating rink was undamaged. Robert Fry, a milk truck delivery man, discovered the flames and smoke as he passed Willow Lake early this morning and the fire companies responded so quickly that a probable great loss was prevented. |
| ELECTRICITY COMES TO SCHUYLKILL HAVEN |
| These two articles address the beginnings of electricity in Schuylkill Haven. |
| COMING OUT OF DARKNESS |
| Schuylkill Haven Declares for Electric Light |


| CRIME |


| NEWS OF THE GREAT WAR |
| OTHER NOTABLE NEWS OF TOWN |
| Pottsville Republican of July 19, 1919 AIRPLANE LANDS BEAVER VALLEY;ENGINE TROUBLE An airplane flying westward had engine trouble while passing over the Beaver Valley, below Schuylkill Haven, Saturday morning and was forced to land in a field near the farm owned by Allen Sterner of Pottsville. There were three men in the machine and they were some time in making repairs, after which they hopped off and flew low over the valley in a westerly direction. While going through the valley they were not more then a hundred feet from the ground and the residents of that section had a fine opportunity to get a good view of it in operation. The damage was not serious and the pilot was able to bring the machine down easily, making a perfect landing. The big field afforded an excellent flying field for the aviators and they did not seem to be much perturbed by the unexpected descent. This is the first of the many machines which fly over the county to land in the county and fortunately no one was injured. One of the aviators of the western mail service was killed Saturday morning when his machine met with a mishap near Bellefonte, the first stopping place of the long flight to Cleveland and Chicago. * This event took place about one year after the first sighting of an airplane over Schuylkill Haven. |
| Pottsville Republican of January 8, 1920 Two Schuylkill Haven 17 year old boys, Daniel Harvey and Joseph Kantner, were convicted of assault and battery and aggravated assault and battery before Judge Berger Wednesday morning. The jury returned a sealed verdict at 10:15 o'clock having retired at 4:30 Tuesday evening after the closing speeches had been made by A. D. Knittle for Kantner, C. W. Staudenmaier for Harvey and C. A. Whitehouse for the prosecutor and Frank Unger, father of the boy who was shot. Young Unger testified that he heard the shooting and drove on horseback and was shot in the neck by the discharge of a shotgun. He could not say which one of the boys shot him, owing to the trees and brush. When shot, he jumped from the horse and called for help but got none. The boys testified the shooting was accidental, that they were gunning for rabbits and pheasants at the time. Harvey was found not guilty of an additional charge of assault and battery with intent to kill, and both boys were found not guilty in two cases, charged with playful and wanton pointing of firearms, the costs going on the county. Attorney Knittle made a motion in arrest of judgement and for a new trial in the case of Kantner, on the ground that the evidence showed that his client was moving away from the scene at the time of the shooting, with his gun at a trail arms, the muzzle pointed backward, and that when his gun was discharged it was the result of his tripping in the wood. Harvey testified that his gun was discharged also accidentally, although the prosecution intimated that he was defending Kantner at the time that he shot or feared that Unger wanted to attack his buddy. Young Kantner had been in the United States service as a soldier, although so young. Mr. Staudenmaier made a plea for mercy for Harvey, saying that he is the support of his mother, and that no malice had been shown. Court imposed a sentence of a ten dollar fine and fifteen months. It was said that the act of probation will be appealed to later. |
| Residents of Schuylkill Haven show their support of their doughboys... |
| Pottsville Republican of May 19, 1917 SCH. HAVEN HAD GREAT PATRIOTIC OUTPOURING TO ATTEST LOYALTY TO FLAG AND COUNTRY With the tri-color of France and the British Union Jack marking a harmonious contrast to the thousands of American flags, over three thousand residents of Schuylkill Haven paraded the principal streets of that borough in a big outburst of patriotism that was enthusiastic as those for which the past month or more have awakened the entire county to the duty that it is being called upon to perform. The serious side of the demonstration was indicated by the presence of Company C Engineers, which paraded in full marching equipment, while the fact that the populace of the town would soon be called upon to give its sons, was brought home by the parading of a hundred of the new company of engineers. Eighteen bands and drum corps made the music for the pageant which took practically all the residents off the sidewalks and put them in the line of march. Secret societies, churches, railroaders, factory employees and even the tiniest school tot was in line. Probably the most impressive group in line was the school children of the public and parochial schools, which paraded with almost every member of nine hundred pupils in line. Next in point of contrast was the demonstration made by the Red Cross organization, which was newly organized a little over a week ago. The women paraded in twenty five automobiles, which flooded to the breeze hundreds of the red cross flags, the white field with the Swiss cross center. The high school made a pretty turnout, girls parading, white skirts and blue coats, red, white and blue hair bands. Practically the whole turnout of the school were attired in white with the American colors and neckties or hair bands. The Pennsylvania Railroad employees and the P and R Railroad employees, with over three hundred, paraded with the familiar blue diamond of the Reading, while the Pennsylvania were marked by a white field and a red keystone center. Many other groups, attired in patriotic colors filled the parade. Every business place in Schuylkill Haven, including the saloons, was closed. Every resident of Schuylkill Haven is in a patriotic mood and as early as one o'clock the formation of the various divisions started. Extra trolley service brought thousands of people into town and everything was closed tight from one o'clock until after the parade. It was a sight that will never be forgotten by the residents of Schuylkill Haven. |
| Pottsville Republican of August 20, 1919 SCHUYLKILL HAVEN SOLDIERS HONORED BY TOWNSMEN Saturday at Schuylkill Haven the three hundred soldiers of that town will have impressed upon them that their home folks are proud of them for the service they rendered to their nation in its time of need, as this is the day for which the preparations of the past weeks have been centering to hold a parade and a program of pleasure and enjoyment, which it is intended shall be one of the bright spots in the minds of the khaki clad boys of a year ago but most of whom are now back again in their peaceful pursuits with the war but a memory. Schuylkill Haven responded as few towns have done in sending her sons to the front. The town was represented very largely in the three Pottsville companies, particularly in Company C of the 103rd Engineers. Many of these boys won well deserved promotions to commissioned and non-commissioned officers, while on the other hand many of them gave their lives or sustained grievous wounds which they will always carry with them as long as there is life. The big parade, in the afternoon, will not be the only feature of the day by any means, although the procession is of a kind which will set a mark which will probably never be surpassed. The town will be in semi-holiday life all day Saturday, as stores will be closed, factories will suspend operations, and many of the industries in nearby towns will suffer because of the absence of Schuylkill Haven workers. The town intends to celebrate the occasion fittingly and to do this all hands intend to pitch in and do a share. In the morning a baseball game will be played on the Haven grounds between the Cressona and Mount Carmel Polish Giants. Those who follow baseball know that it would scarcely be possible to get together two teams more evenly matched to insure a good game. Following the parade, probably at three o'clock, the soldiers will give an exhibition of trench warfare and drills and also machine gun drill. At 3:45 o'clock the Tigers and the Giants will play the second ballgame of the day. While the ball game is going on, those who do not care to attend this sport will find chance for entertainment in the drills which will be conducted by the Boy Scouts on Saint John Street. This will be at four o'clock. The banquet for the soldiers will be held from six to eight o'clock and a fine menu has been prepared. Band concerts will be held from 7:15 until 8:15 o'clock at the Heim store by the Citizen's Band and at the Hotel Grand by the Bressler Band. At the public meeting to be held in the evening a musical program will be rendered. Then from 9:30 until 11:00 o'clock there will be the Block Party dance. It can be readily seen that the program is one that will give pleasure to all and will not leave an idle minute during the entire day or evening. But it is not to even end at midnight, for Sunday is to be another day of patriotic celebration. In the afternoon there will be a memorial service at Saint John Street beginning at 2:15 o'clock. All ministers of town will take part in these exercises. There will be one address. The program will open by a short sacred concert by the Citizen's Band. This will be followed by the memorial service. The band will render several selections during the service. Following the memorial service another sacred concert will be given on Dr. Rutter's lawn on Saint John Street. The Bressler Band will hold this concert and it will last from four until five o'clock. In the evening special church services will be held in all of the churches at the usual hour, to which the public is invited. |
| The boys welcomed home... |
| Pottsville Republican of March 14, 1888 Joseph Bolt, the well known blacksmith, of Schuylkill Haven, has for some months past been working on a new patent safety railway gate upon which he received a patent dated February 28, 1888. It is an ingenious device, preserving the utility of all former patent gates, but is pronounced by prominent railway officials far superior to anything of the kind yet presented to their notice. It can be operated by the wheels of the moving train at almost any distance; the speed in closing being regulated at will. Should a person or team be enclosed on the track the arms are so arranged that they can be pushed outward with a slight pressure, but cannot be pushed over the railroad. Mr. John F. Deibert has an interest in the new patent. Several offers of purchase have been made to them, but they will not sell, preferring to reap the rich reward which certainly awaits them. |
| Pottsville Republican of February 4, 1927 BLIND FOR YEARS, SEES To be able to see quite clearly for several days, after being totally blind for a number of years, was the experience of Frank Shollenberger of Garfield Avenue, Schuylkill Haven, and he is hoping that his sight may be permanently restored. During the World War, Mr. Shollenberger, who now conducts a little store in Schuylkill Haven, was working in a chemical plant in New Jersey, when an explosion occurred and he was deprived of the sight of both eyes. He went to Dr. Sweet, the eminent specialist, who has since died, and was told that there was no help for him but that a film or seal of some sort had formed over the eye. Dr. Sweet warned him not to allow any physician to operate and to be very careful not to touch his eyes in any way, for there was a possibility that this film might suddenly burst if let alone and he might be able to see. While working about his store last Monday, Mr. Shollenberger was astonished to find that he was able to see objects about the room. He had a severe cold in his eyes for several days and its believed that this aided in breaking the film. He was able to see very clearly for two days but then the swelling from the cold closed his eyes almost entirely and although he can still distinguish between light and darkness, he is trying not to strain his sight in any way, hoping that when the cold disappears, he will be able to see once more. His family and friends are all earnestly hoping that this may be the case. |
| Pottsville Republican of August 10, 1929 SCHUYLKILL HAVEN MILL BURNED Fire of unknown origin destroyed the Schuylkill Haven Knitting Mill, owned by Harry and Paul Reidler of Orwigsburg, opposite the Meister Auto Building and Repair Shop at Schuylkill Haven, at an early hour Saturday morning. The loss will total close to $10,000 but is fully insured. The fire was discovered shortly after 2:00 am by Harold Mecker of Pottsville and Paul Mengle of Centre Avenue, who lives near the factory. They immediately turned in the alarm which was answered by the Liberty, Rainbow and Schuylkill Hose Companies. The three companies responded at once and found volumes of smoke pouring from the building. It was believed the blaze started in the basement of the structure and had been smoldering for some time. Shortly after the arrival of the firemen, flames enveloped the center section of the factory and for a time it looked as though the building would burn to the ground. Prompt work of the firemen who were handicapped by hose lines bursting, prevented the flames from spreading to nearby dwellings. The entire stock as well as the knitting machines were destroyed. Paul Reidler, one of the members of the firm, had been in the factory at 10:00 pm and after working in the office for a few moments, made an inspection of the basement and everything was in order. At 2:30 am, the fire was pronounced under control. One of the companies remained on duty for the night to prevent any further outbreak. |
| Pottsville Republican of January 11, 1895 CHURCH VANDALISM St. Peter's Church, Schuylkill Haven, Broken Open, Robbed and Damaged The saint Peter's Evangelical Church at Schuylkill Haven was entered by burglars some time during the week, who carried away a number of articles, broke the organ and several window panes, cut the bell rope, broke doors and otherwise maliciously damaged the property. They effected an entrance by breaking open a second story window, which they must have reached by the use of a ladder. They then forced open several inside doors, all of which had been securely locked. There is abundant evidence to show that the burglars were acquainted in the church, and were not by any means strangers to the saint Peter's property. They, however, before leaving their shameful work, tacked up in the vestibule the following notice: "Please do not accuse the old Saint Peter's congregation for this, as it was done positively by outside people. Yours, UNKNOWN." The church officials offer a handsome reward for any information that will lead to the apprehension and conviction of the guilty parties. |
| Pottsville Republican of January 1, 1918 TOWN RAISES SERVICE FLAG A patriotic community watch service was held in the auditorium of the new high school building, Schuylkill Haven on Monday night, which proved to be a unifying force in that community. All the religious bodies of the town united in the service in the interest of the boys that have gone from the homes of the community. It was an inspiring sight, for as the names of the men in the service was called, representatives of their families arose and at the conclusion of the calling of the Honor Roll, the audience arose and the patriotic hymn, "America", was sung with renewed inspiration. The Service Flag, which was concealed behind the arch on the stage, was unfurled and called forth great enthusiasm. It is a regulation Service Flag, five by eight with one large star in the center of the white field, with white numerals on the blue star, indicating the 179 boys who are in the service of our country. One gold star graces the flag in honor of Robert Baker, sailor, formerly a mate on the United states ship Alabama, who died in October of blood poison. The program was carried through on schedule time. There were two guests present to lead in the interpretation of patriotism and the issues involved in the struggle in which our country has been called upon to take her part. Reverend A. O. Reiter, of Pottsville, was present as the special guest of the Ministerial Association of Schuylkill Haven, whose address was inspiring and helpful. Lieutenant Joseph A. Judge was the main speaker of the evening and proved to be a great unifying force in the meeting. His address was logical and convincing. The task before us was visualized and the audience was inspired and enthused. The auditorium was filled to capacity. Quite a large addition was made to the Red Cross enrollment. As the old year ended and the new year was ushered in the large audience arose and sang "The Star Spangled Banner" with the greatest devotion. In every way the meeting was a splendid success. |
| Pottsville Republican of October 21, 1911 CAR ROBBERS SHOOT WATCHMAN Andrew Schwilk, night watchman at the Reading station in Schuylkill Haven, was at an early hour this morning shot through the right leg by two car robbers whom he surprised at work attempting to enter a car loaded with merchandise consigned to Schuylkill Haven, Cressona and merchants throughout the west end of the county. The shooting took place at four o'clock, Mr. Schwilk hearing a noise at the freight station, which is located across the tracks from the main station in the town, decided to investigate. Going across he mounted the platform of the freight station and finding the doors all locked, turned his attention to the freight cars which had just been received from points down the line. He discovered that the seal on one car had been broken open but the latch not moved. Another seal was attached to the door and the watchman started to walk to the passenger station. He had only gone a short distance when he heard the sound of running feet. Drawing his revolver, he opened fire. The robbers were quick to return the shots. One shot fired by the men passed very close to his head while the other entered the fleshy part of his right leg in the front and came out the back, passing entirely through the limb, embedding itself in one of the sills nearby. Calling at the top of his voice, Mr. Schwilk attracted the attention of the night crossing watchman, about one hundred feet away. He came running to his assistance as did also the crew caller who was on his way to "J" station some distance from the scene of the shooting. The circumstances were soon made known and while the crossing watchman ran for Dr. Charles Lenker, the call boy went after H. W. Stager, the assistant agent. Both arrived about the same time. When the doctor arrived, the wound was bleeding freely and the trouser leg of the injured man was saturated with blood. The wound was immediately dressed and Mr. Schwilk was made as comfortable as possible. Although the accident occurred about four o'clock, the watchman insisted on remaining on duty until the day relief came at six o'clock. The telegraph wires were kept warm and reports were made to Superintendent Keffer at Reading while Constable John Butz of Schuylkill Haven and the State Police were notified. On account of the darkness at that hour and the rainy weather, it was impossible to get a good description of the two men. Sufficient description was however obtained to enable the officers to start an investigation and it would occasion no surprise if arrests were made within the next twenty four hours. After being relieved, Mr. Schwilk insisted on walking to his home several squares away from the scene of the shooting, but this the doctor refused to allow. The last reports received from the bedside of the injured man were to the effect that he was resting comfortably and unless complications arise he would be attending to his duties within the next three or four weeks. Mr. Schwilk is one of the most efficient employees that the Reading Company has in this vicinity. For many years he has been a watchman at the station in that town and not once has a freight car or the station been robbed or even entered. Several months ago he surprised two men trying to force an entrance into the store of Doutrich and Company and fired several shots at them but they escaped. Mr. Schwilk is a cripple, bow wearing an artificial leg and much sympathy was expressed for him this morning. |
| Pottsville Republican of July 19, 1895 FIRE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN Fire this morning destroyed the warehouse adjoining the mill of the Schuylkill Haven Iron Company. The Schuylkill Hose Company were the first on the grounds with their truck and did good work in confining the flames in the building where it started and saved the adjoining property. The fire was put out on one half an hour after it was discovered. Too much praise can not be given to the fire boys for in their good work and for responding so promptly when notified about the fire and the people of the town can be glad to have a local volunteer department to do so much for them. |
| Pottsville Republican of March 30, 1888 ROBBERY AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN The clothing store of Charles Keller on Main Street, two squares from the Pennsylvania and Reading Railroad depot was broken into last night and $200 worth of clothing taken. A few articles were found in an adjoining alley. The shutter of a side window was pried open. Entrance was effected at the same place by thieves some time ago. |
| Pottsville Republican of November 1, 1910 BOLD HOLDUPS AND ROBBERY George Douglass, of Friedensburg, is in a serious condition at his home as a result of being held up and beaten and then robbed by two highwaymen near the Long Run school house. He was on his way home from Schuylkill Haven late Saturday night and as he reached the school house he was stopped by two strangers, struck over the head with a club and robbed of $40. He was unconscious on the road until three o'clock Sunday morning when he dragged himself to a nearby farmhouse where he was given treatment and then removed to his home Sunday. He is a blacksmith by occupation and 35 years of age. HELD UP NEAR ADAMSDALE - William Farley, of Adamsdale, while on his way home from Landingville Saturday night was held up by two highwaymen and after being beaten into insensibility, was robbed of a small amount of money. He was then left lying helpless along the roadside. He is employed in one of the Schuylkill Haven factories. His injuries, while painful, are not of a serious character. Pottsville Republican of November 2, 1910 BOY HIGHWAYMEN MAKE CONFESSION The two highwaymen who robbed George Douglass, of Friedensburg, and William Farley, of Landingville, on Saturday night were arrested by Constable John Butz of Schuylkill Haven and are now in the county jail. When the matter was reported to Constable Butz, he started some detective work and by carefully watching his suspects, discovered clues that warranted the arrest of Charles Shadler and a party by the name of Davis, both of Schuylkill Haven. Davis was apprehended yesterday afternoon by Butz and brought to the Pottsville lockup where he was confined over night. This morning Shadler was placed under arrest and lodged in the Schuylkill Haven lockup and was arraigned before Squire C. A. Moyer of that town today, and after considerable sweating, broke down and acknowledged both offenses. He stated that both he and Davis went to Landingville early Saturday evening and there held up Farley. Shadler stated that Davis hit the man over the head and that both relieved him of his money. Farley was rendered unconscious by the blow and was left lying along the roadside in a helpless condition. So well pleased were the two highwaymen that they took the trolley car to Schuylkill Haven and then walked out the Long Run road. Opposite the school house, they stopped to divide their plunder when they heard George Douglass coming along on his wheel. They immediately decided to tackle him. Davis, according to Shadler's story, was again the man that wielded the club. Douglass was hit twice on the head and like Farley, was rendered unconscious. The two boys then went through their victims pocket, taking $40 and a gold watch. According to the story of Shadler, Davis has the watch and the greater part of the money. This afternoon, Constable Butz brought Shadler up to jail and then took Davis down for a hearing. Following the latter hearing, Davis was committed to jail. Davis formerly resided in Pottsville and moved to Schuylkill Haven several months ago. Neither one of the boys are over eighteen years of age and it is reported that both have been in trouble on different occasions before. A great deal of credit is due Constable Butz in making the arrests and thus probably saving others from a similar fate. After Constable Butz had brought Shadler to Pottsville, he took him before the district attorney. Here Shadler stated Davis had informed him that he, Davis, had figured in some holdups in Pottsville. This recalls to mind the several holdups that appeared in these columns during the past two months. Police Chief Davis was under the impression that Davis was the man he wanted but was unable to locate him. This afternoon Constable Butz stated that the reason he placed the two under arrest was because of their suspicious actions and the information he had obtained from different people in Schuylkill Haven. Davis is known to the local police as a character and has been in trouble before. It is understood that Chief Davis will also prefer charges against Davis. The prisoner has never been known to own a watch. According to information obtained, Davis has one or two watches at local repair shops undergoing repairs. These it is thought he took from his victims. A search of the shops will be made and the evidence obtained used against the prisoner. |
| Pottsville Republican of February 3, 1896 Dr. Dechert and Widow Beckley the Latest Victims Sneak thieves of the most despicable sort have for some time past infested our neighboring borough. But the meanest of them all visited the residence of the widow of the late Chaplain Beckley, a few nights sinc |