Clarence
E.
Moullette

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE was born in Wisconsin on September 30, 1897. After serving with America's military during World War I, he found work with the railroad. By the 1930s he was a switch tender, difficult work as he had lost a leg and part of one hand. He also began working as a labor organizer. Clarence Moullette married his wife Margaret around 1926, and their son John was born in January of the following year in Camden NJ. At the time of the April 1930 Federal Census, the Moullette family was living at 902 North 2nd Street in Camden. 

Clarence E. Moullette continued his work in the labor movement into the 1930s. During this time he engaged in a 'battle of words' in the Letters to the Editor column of the Courier-Post with Reverend John S. Hackett, who operated the Wiley Mission out of the old post office at 3rd and Market Streets. Clarence Moullette was a member of the Socialist Party of Camden until he resigned in May of 1934. By this time he was serving as the Executive Secretary of the Associated Industrial Workers of America. 

A frequent correspondent to Camden Courier-Post newspaper, Clarence Moullette wrote on a variety of subjects. He wrote the pamphlet "TEN THOUSAND HOMES", which was published in 1945 by the Camden County Real Estate Board.

By 1946 the family had moved to 611 Randolph Street in East Camden. Clarence Moullette was then serving as Executive Director of the City Planning Commission, and later as an aide to Mayor George E. Brunner in the early 1950s.  

On January 16, 1951, Marine Corporal John B. Moullette, while stationed at Camp Pendleton, California, wrote a letter to his father, Clarence Moullette, questioning the involvement of the United States in the Korean War. Clarence Moullette, who was Assistant to the Mayor of Camden, New Jersey, forwarded the letter to United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson. Acheson responded to Clarence Moullette in a letter dated February 23, 1951. The Acheson-Moullette correspondence was subsequently published in many newspapers.

The Moullette family was still living in Camden as late as December of 1967, when Margaret Moullette passed away. Clarence Moullette passed away in January of 1972 in Pullman WA, where his son John had been working as an Associate Professor at Washington State University.

Camden Courier-Post - June 9, 1932

Camden Courier-Post - June 9, 1932

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1933

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

“Out of the Way”

To the Editors of The Evening Courier:  

Sir- Well that’s done, and 117,000,000 people in these United States, this land of enlightenment will turn over now, and enjoy a restful nights sleep; since two more vicious murderers have expiated their crime with the supreme sacrifice.

Wonderful! How restful it feels to know they are permanently out of the way while a hundred thousand thugs, bootleggers, dope fiends, etc., are roaming around.

Heeled, did I you say? I’ll say they are, fortified too, ready ever to wager their lives aganist a few “grand” What’s life to the “mazuma”? If you lose, they take care of you nicely, nice funeral, big funerals, banks of flowers, and besides all that they are the “heroes of the fourth estate.” If you win, well, got the mazuma, ain’t chu? That’s the boy, you got the mazuma. Wot’s life anyway, you gotta take the chanc’t. If you burn, well, you burn, don’tchu? Well, If you win, nice, easy life, wot?

Well, what I’m getting at is this: In these days of complicated life with­out the “dinero,” the “mazuma,” the “cush,” what’s life, anyhow? Pretty rotten, eh? I’ll say so. Take a chance, get a big rpIl, after you got it, you have it, haven’t you? Nobody cares how you got it, do they? No.

Well, the State stands once more convicted of ‘premeditated murder,” wonderful land of enlightenment.

Old Doc Mudd must be laughing with St. Peter.

Let’s see, how many years did he spend on the Dry Tortugas? Well, one was enough, wasn’t it, Doe? Even if they did say you helped kill a president. Yes, one was enough, but I was there an awful long time. I used to watch the sun go down every evening— wonderful sun, terrible place, so lonesome like, and mosquitos, did you say? Yes, a couple trillion of them, nice playful fellows, too.

Yeah, Judd’s* a lucky feller, just saw him come in the ‘Gate,’ looks good, too, and so help me, there’s Ruth*, too. Pretty darn lucky, those two. Did Saint Peter let them in, you ask? Sure, they had the proper passports, all duly signed, oh sure.

Yeh, Snyder* was there to meet them, kissed Ruth*, and shook hands with Judd*, yeah, everything O.K.,, they are sure lucky.

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE
Camden

*Clarence Moullette was writing about the execution in New York of Ruth Snyder and Henry Judd, convited of murdering Mrs. Snyder's husband. 

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1933

Three thousand men and women under auspices of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey participated in a parade yesterday preceding a mass meeting in Convention Hall, where they urged a change in the state relief program. The photo above shows the marchers on Broadway near Carman Street. In the inset below is James H. Maurer of Reading PA, vice-presidential candidate on the Socialist ticket last fall, who spoke. Officers of the union, left to right, are Frank J. Manning, director; Clarence E. Moullette, secretary; and William R. Kennedy, vice director.

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1933

JOBLESS DEMAND CHANGES IN RELIEF
3000 Parade Here and Join 2000 Others at Huge Mass Meeting

More than 5000 unemployed men and women assembled in Convention Hall yesterday and demanded a complete reorganization of the state relief program.

The mass meeting was preceded by re a. parade of 3000 men, many of whom displayed protest banners, and was addressed by James H. Maurer, of Reading, vice presidential candidate on the Socialist ticket last November.

The demonstration was staged under allspices of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, which charges that relief now dispensed is "inadequate."

Recommendations for further relief to the jobless, contained in a statement addressed to Governor A. Harry Moore and the state Legislature, were unanimously approved. The recommendations are as follows:

1. Cash relief on an outlined basis suggested by the Union.

2. Broadening of the relief plan to include single men and women.

3. An Immediate emergency measure to halt all evictions for the next six months.

4. A moratorium on taxes for unemployed home owners.

5. Protection of the unemployed In necessary measures to prevent the shutting off of water, light and heat.

6. Discontinuance of compelling unemployed to work for food orders, and placing of such work on a cash basis with a minimum rate.

7. Direct representation of unemployed in the State Emergency Relief Administration.

A resolution adopted requested the City Commission to grant use of the old city hall as a headquarters for the unemployed.

After citing these recommendations the statement continues:

Six-hour Day Hinted At

"We anticipate that it will be said that there is not sufficient money to carry out this program. This answer does not satisfy us. We are familiar with the fact that New Jersey corporations paid millions of dollars.

In income tax to the Federal Government last year and we also know that many of these corporations are making money. If a decent program of unemployment relief can not be carried otherwise, we call upon the governor and the Legislature to take the necessary steps to put these corporations, including Public Service, under state control for the purpose of reducing the working day to six hours or four hours If necessary and also to distributethe money now going to stockholders to workers in the form of wages. We further declare that the state government must recognize the emergency which exists and if public officials are not prepared to take the necessary drastic steps, then they should resign and make way for those who will dare to take the responsibility to meet this situation.

"We are interested in more than relief. Primarily. we want work and we will not make our peace with any government which does not accept this challenge and take the necessary steps to put industry on a basis that will bring prosperity to our fellow-citizens instead of the . present hideous situation of famine relief in the midst of plenty.

"We request a statement from you regarding this communication."

Capitalism Blamed

Maurer said capitalism and not "the man in the White House," is to blame for the depression. Maurer charged the government operation for the protection of the capitalistic system. The speaker deplored the fact that the United States has not adopted a plan similar to the Soviets' Five Year Plan, and he characterized depression as "a five-year plan instituted by the capitalists." The government has "robbed the people in the name of patriotism" through high taxation, he averred, and he declared "bonding and borrowing" by municipalities "must stop." 

"It is strange," began Maurer, "at a day like this and on a day like this that so many unemployed should be assembled in Camden's largest hall. The richest and the poorest people on earth are living here, in the richest nation in the world. You have so many good things that you are starving because you have them. 

"Four years ago, the capitalists here in America started a five-year plan. In Russia, the five-year plan was designed to put every man and woman at work. And the Americans talk about Russia's five-year plan. It’s too bad someone in America doesn't adopt that plan here.

Hoover Is Criticized

"When this depression first started, the President told us that It was just a minor disturbance. Later, he said prosperity was just around the corner. No one has found the corner. He then told us we lacked confidence. But you can't get the merchants to believe we lack confidence. What they want is more customers.

"There is only one way out of this and it will come when we fill up the pay envelopes of the toilers. The people are becoming agitated about technocracy, and those who know the least about it attempt to explain most of it. Capitalists and apologists have lined up with colleges because they are afraid of the truth. But why are our demonstrations broken up? Because they don't want us to speak the truth.

"At the last presidential election, an overwhelming majority of people thought what was wrong was the man in the White House. Some others said it was because we didn't have beer.

"I hold no brief for Mr. Hoover, but he was no more responsible for the crash than Mr. Roosevelt would have been had he been there. It's not the man, it's the system-capitalism. And the way our government operates is merely a protection for capitalism. We gave it a good trial and it doesn't work.

"Then along comes the doctor who gives us a pill. He's going to fix us up.

'Bankers Get Homes'

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1933

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A Reply to Reverend Hackett

To the Editor:

Sir, it is with considerable regret that I have noted in the columns of your publication, The Morning Post, that the Reverend Hackett has resorted to personalities in order that he may stem or attempt to stem the rising tide of public indignation of his stewardship of the Wiley Mission. He has publicly lampooned me as the leader of eight bums. Graciously, unequivocally, and in the name of the Nazarene, I accept the designation. It is a great privilege to be publicly named as the leader of the down-trodden, and the disgruntled, disinherited men and women who, because of no particular fault of their own, have found themselves In such a position that resort to vices is necessary in many instances that they may forget for a time their lamentable situation. It is a responsibility that I will cherish with ever increasing respect and devotion. I shall not belie the responsibility by drooling out hypocritical statements; shall not act in an arbitrary manner, nor will I insinuate anything that cannot be substantiated.

In the reverend gentleman's attempt to stigmatize me, he had inadvertently lauded me, and for that I thank him, again graciously. Dean Inge of St. Paul's, London, some time ago wrote: "That my stick was good enough to beat a dog', and that it followed logically, 'That any stigma was good enough to be a dogma." '

If the reverend gentleman was more a student of psychology than of thirteenth century theology, he would easily recognize the advantage he has so generously acceded me. Give me the eight "bums," the occasion; and we, together, can lick any given physical situation equal to thrice our numbers.

Further, I regret exceedingly that the clergy of our nation has fallen to such low estate. It is, perhaps because of that low estate that I have not entered a church door since I was 15 years of age (excepting the occasion I attended the Wiley Mission services to hear myself lauded so inadvertently) twenty years ago.

If the Reverend Hackett will accord a layman the privilege of his pulpit, I will preach a sermon (without resorting to personalities) and I will take as my text his text of recent issue, "Eight bums and their leader," as I understand the New Testament, the Nazarene was a fisher of men.

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE
Camden

CITY ADOPTS CUT BUDGET AFTER CLASH
Slash of $702,890 Is Revealed in Totals Passed at Session of Rulers
LEASE ANNOUNCED OF RADIO STATION
Commissioners Debate With Von Nieda as He Charges Gross Extravagance

By WALT BATEZEL

 The Camden City Commission yesterday approved the 1933 city budget after hearing and rejecting economy recommendations of several civic and labor organizations.

Eight speakers representing five organizations urged budget reductions and protested the total of $3,353,124.60. Verbal clashes over opinions were frequent between Commissioner Harold W. Bennett, director of finance and revenue, and former Councilman Frederick von Nieda and Thomas B. Hall, representatives of the Congress of Civic Associations of New Jersey.

Nearly 300 persons attended the hearing, in marked contrast to the 5000 who marched on city hall last year to demand budget reductions. The hearing lasted three hours. The departmental budget appropriations of $3,353,124.60 with the local school appropriation of $1,250,000 and other appropriations, totaling $960,060.55 to be added in the tax ordinance yet to be adopted, will give the city a total expense of $5,563,185.15 for 1933.

Tax Bill About Same

The tax rate will not be known until the tax ordinance is adopted. After the hearing Commissioner Bennett declared that due to equalization of assessments, the bills of some taxpayers will be a few dollars higher than last year, and a few dollars lower in other cases. The commission, after approving the budget on a motion by Commissioner Bennett, adopted a resolution leasing WCAMM to the Broadcast Advertising Company for $1000 per year and a percentage of all receipts over $24,000. All maintenance costs will be born by the company, of which Rudolph Preisendanz, Jr., is head.

After the budget was adopted Bennett declared the City Commission would take into consideration an allegation of Frank J. Hartmann, Jr., secretary of the Civic Congress, that the $125,400 appropriation for street  lighting was $26,450 higher than it should be according to figures obtained by him concerning the city's .lighting equipment. "If there has been an error the budget can be amended at any time," Commissioner Bennett said.

Commissioner Clay W. Reesman, under whose department street lighting comes, declared that figures in his office concerning street lighting were different from those quoted by Hartmann. The figures he used, Hartmann said, were obtained by him from City Comptroller Sidney P. McCord.

Von Nieda Case

 Von Nieda was the first citizen to address the commission. Shifting papers in his hands, he faced the commissioners and said: "We have here $40,000 for your Recorder's Court in 1932, and $25,000 for 1933."

Commissioner Bennett jumped to his feet. 

"Those 1932 figures," Bennett said, "were merely an estimate of the receipts to be taken in, but that amount did not come in. This year we anticipate only $25,000, which we consider a fair estimate."

"That's fine" said von Nieda, "but we have never had a chance to sit in with you on these figures."

"You can sit in with us at any time," responded Bennett, "We're glad to have you."

"I see here," said von Nieda, "that the transportation inspector is paid from fees, but you show no fees and the inspector should be paid by the Public Service. I also suggest that you turn Convention Hall over to the poor. Now in dealing with Station WCAM, I see you show a profit for the last three months of $1000, while in 1932, you show no records of receipts, and we are just wondering.'.

Worried by WCAM

 "Do you want that answered now?" asked Bennett. "WCAM has given myself and the other commissioners some concern during the past year. It is our duty to see that we receive as much income as possible. Different methods have been used in the radio station to make it pay during the past three months, and during this time that station has been in the black. We figure that in 1933 there will be no deficit in this station, and we look for a profit of more than $1000." 

"Now in this matter of eliminating deputy directors," von Nieda said. 

He was interrupted by Commissioner Reesman. 

"I'll tell you," said Reesman, "about my deputy director Carlton Harris. My deputy receives $1750 a year. He has charge of all labor in the Department of Parks and Public Property. He is on the job every morning at 7:00 AM, and often works until 10 p. m., with the labor outside."

"In speaking of the assessors," von Nieda continued, "we should have assessors who are not influenced by politicians or political dictators."

"You know I won't stand for that," answered Bennett. "The readjustment of ratables is only a small part 1 of the work we are doing. Each property is assessed on a basic principal. Any time you have a suggestion that will help us in our work we will be glad to hear from you but I firmly believe that real state must be relieved of its heavy tax burden by an income and sales tax, and this tax must come sooner or later. 

Seeking Relief

 "As far as the city commissioners are concerned, we are studying it from day to day, in efforts to get out of the wilderness.

"In speaking of the purchasing department," von Nieda continued, "we know what happened there last year. You fired your purchasing agent, and if you had not fired him it probably would have afforded the public some interesting reading about this purchasing department.

"All of my men are working overtime,' replied Bennett. "It is true the purchasing agent is out and his work is being done by an assistant (William Dilmore) at half his salary. We have got rid of as many people in these departments as we can. I had to let one girl go in the purchasing department and one girl in Controller McCord's department. One man went on pension in the tax office and two were let out in efforts to balance the budget.

"In .one of my departments where there were three girls I had, to make a $900 cut by leaving one girl out. called the three girls into my office and told them that one had to go and asked them what their home responsibilities were. One had to take care of her family, including a 77-year-old aunt; another a family with a 66-year-old aunt, and the third was supporting three or four brothers with the help of another brother, who is a barber working for practically what tips he could get.

"But I had to make a $900 cut. The girls asked me not to dismiss any of them, as they each would take a $300 cut in addition to cuts .already applied. Another man took an extra $260 cut so that he would not be out of work. But I had the budget to take care of, and I am ready to challenge any city the size of Camden to show so nearly a balanced budget. Our plan is to pay as we go."

"You cite two or three instances," protested von Nieda. "But I want to show you scores of families which have no money and they are taxpayers. You say you have cut to the bone, but you should cut through the bone. This is no grandstand play by us. Maybe we can give you some help. Then, too, the debt interest must be paid on this tragedy," he shouted, pointing to walls of the commission chamber.

"Maybe you can tell me how to get rid of the bonds," suggested Bennett. "You must remember this year we have cut $900,000 from the budget."  

Offers Recommendation

Von Nieda said the Civic Congress recommended that work now being done by two city solicitors should be done by one, that when more policemen and firemen are needed "little fellows” be restored first wherever possible; that the city incinerating plant be closed; that the personnel of the city's two' sewage disposal plants be reduced; that the city's lighting bill be cut $40,000; that inspectors of lighting be abolished and their work done by policemen and the city's engineer's department. Personally he favored an income tax, he said, to relieve the I burden on real estate. 

"1 realize,” von Nieda said, "that the city commission has done a fair job, but of the congress, with conservatively 15,000 members, think you can do even better.

Commissioner Frank B. Hanna, director of public works, interrupted von Nieda on the subject of the incinerating plant, which von Nieda declared could be abandoned because it did not burn garbage, but only rubbish. 

"Can you see me at 9:00 AM tomorrow and go through my department with me?" asked Hanna.

“Any time," replied von Nieda. 

Warns of Tax Strike

"However," von Nieda continued, "we are wondering what the figures in the right hand corner of the tax bill will be. Assessments may be lower and the tax rate higher, and that does not give a true picture. I fear the bills will be more for 1933 and for one am willing now to take the 1932 assessment on my home. 

"The congress vigorously opposes this personality tax. You expect to tax the homeowner for everything he has. I warn YOU gentlemen that if this tax is imposed in Camden there will be a run on banks and building and loan associations. If that happens homeowners and renters will leave this unfortunate city. There will be a tax strike here, and so help me God, I'm helping it!"

Von Nieda was followed by William Hughes of 578 Mickle street, who spoke for the Unemployed Council of New Jersey.

Hughes reiterated demands of the union for increased relief payments to unemployed, urged a municipally-owned lighting plant, operated at a profit, the same as the city's water department; a municipal lodging house; use of hand labor instead of machinery in all city contracts and the employment of labor to "tear down the slums in Camden."

Hartmann was the next speaker. He read from a prepared statement which he declared was an analysis a\of the city's 1932 lighting expenses, and which, he said, could be lowered “had we used larger lamps.“

Reesman Contradicts

After enumerating the individual costs of lamps of various candle power, and contending a change in the lamps would effect a saving this year, Hartmann charged the city has overpaid for electric energy in street lighting. 

Commissioner Reesman declared that figures used by Hartmann were in error and that therefore, his computations as to possible savings were wrong. He announced, however, he would study the situation to discover if there was any error in the budget concerning street lighting, as alleged by Hartmann.

"The Civic Congress is now circulating petitions for a referendum on a municipal lighting plant," Hartmann said. "We now have 10,000 of the required 11,000 signatures, and we do not intend to stop until we have 25,000. You commissioners can stop these petitions by adopting a resolution declaring a referendum on the question."

He then asked that the work of the city electrical inspector be taken over by the National Board of Fire Underwriters, and that "when the next tax sale is held, all properties be advertised, including banks, garages and to whomever the property belongs."

Commissioner Bennett then arose and said: "I've used' discretion on that. There are some who are paying as low as $5 per month, and I think these people should be helped. We commissioners do not want to sell the home of anyone. That is what we are trying to stop. We are in perfect agreement on that."

Debt Moratorium Asked  

"How about the Bridge Garage?" some one in the audience shouted.

"The Bridge Garage has just paid $1500," Bennett said, "and promises to pay something every month. We are trying to make the tax bills lower by getting in all the monies we can, and where possible to take in delinquent payments no matter how small. 

Clarence Moullette, secretary of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, then arose. He asked for a moratorium on the city debt service for five years, and urged the commission to adopt such a resolution memorializing the Legislature for that relief: He announced opposition to the personality tax.

"We are not questioning the actions of the commissioners, Moullette said. “Spending less money will not help the situation. Commissioner Hanna. told me if he had $51,000 additional in his department six closed garbage trucks could purchased. This will help give work. By cutting down salaries you decrease purchasing power. Work must be had. Eventually you will pay in scrip. Why not pay in scrip now and give out work."

Hall asked that Convention Hall be abandoned and the building used for hospitalization work for the needy, and urged the city commission to "meet in the evenings so that citizens will know and see what is going on." He asked for abolition of the positions of plumbing, building, sewer and heating inspectors.

'Close High Schools'

"The commission should face conditions as they are," he said. "I speak for myself, and not the Civic Congress. I ask that the high schools be closed. I heartily approve closing of the Vocational School, but if choice was to be made between high schools and the Vocational School, I would say close the high schools. Before selling the home of anyone to meet impossible taxes, I say cut to the bone by getting rid of everything that is not absolutely necessary. 

"You commissioners must be made to realize that increased taxation is what has destroyed purchasing power in America. Meet this condition!

Commissioner Bennett challenged the statement of Hall that government costs were responsible for conditions of today.

"There are numerous causes," Bennett said.

"I would rejoice in debating it with you or anyone you select," Hall replied, "including United States senators, and convince them in 20 minutes."

"I’ll debate that with him," shouted Morris Stempa of Audubon from the audience. Stempa later addressed the commission, speaking for the Socialist party, and urged the moratorium advocated by Moullette, also a Socialist.

Eugene Wasilewski, speaking for you the South Camden Civic Association, denounced the commission for failing to call in civic association representatives in their preparation of the Budget.

Bennett Gives Reply 

"You called in the bankers, but not those others of us who also are interested in city costs," Wasilewski said. "You tell us now there is a reduction in assessments and then come along and wallop us with a higher tax rate. That is not fair. You were elected to look after our interests and that you have failed to do. You are making us eat red herring, and we want you to eat red herring with us."  

The last citizen to address the commission was Salvadore Guadelli, president of the Citizens-Taxpayers' League. He made a general indictment of conditions, ,and asked that the city commission "do not let sectionalism creep into city affairs."  

Commissioner Bennett then arose and addressed his fellow commissioners and the audience.

"All these things suggested here today have been considered," he said. "We five men came into office with the idea of serving the people. I know the business of financing the city is a. serious problem. We have endeavored to move the budget into that realm of 'pay-as-you-go! We appreciate everything presented here. Every taxpayer we look upon as an employer.

"Looking at it from every angle, this budget cannot be delayed any longer. You'll find we were severe in preparing this budget; you'll find we were severe last year. Last year we cut a half million. This year we cut $702,890.74, and to that the board of education, we hope, will add a cut of $250,000. That is a total cut of $952,890.74. Other cities in New Jersey show nothing to compare with it.  

Budget Adopted 

"I hesitate in making more cuts. I speak from experience when I say I'm a taxpayer. In the past two weeks I've been trying to raise money to pay taxes. I want all of you to know we commissioners can sympathize. It is not easy being at the head of a government in times like these. I hope that municipalities will receive federal relief in payment of debt service. There has been a tremendous cut in our budget, including the board of education figures. I feel the commissioners are to be commended for the work they've done this year.

 "If we pass the budget we won't stop at that particular point, but will see what else we can do all along the line. I feel the essential thing is to pass the budget. I'm proud of the fact we came through 1932, and are started in 1933 the same way, although I make no promise for the future. I wish for a moratorium for interest on bonds. There are the bondholders on one side and the taxpayers on the other, and the man out of work to be considered.

We are in sympathy with the man out of work. I say let the federal or government put some money into to the interest rate. We must pass this budget this afternoon. Do not delay longer. This is not an arbitrary 10 stand on my part. I make a motion the budget now be passed."

City Clerk Frank S. Albright called the roll and all five commissioners voting 'unanimously. No demonstration followed passage of the measure.  

*Eugene Wasilewski referred to in this story was Eugene Waleskiewicz, who was later known as Eugene Wales.

Camden Courier-Post - June 2, 1933

STONE QUITS RELIEF JOB IN MYSTERY CLASH
JOBLESS UNION DEMANDS All FACTS PUBLIC
City Director Refuses to Discuss Battle With Cramer
REPORTERS FORBIDDEN TO ATTEND MEETINGS
County Chief Continues Secrecy, Refers Queries to State Head'  

Dr. Arthur L. Stone last night resigned as Camden city director of the Emergency Relief Administration.

His decision to quit came as a climax of a clash with Wayland P. Cramer, Camden county relief director which has stirred the city for the past two days.

Cramer, who "drafted" Dr. Stone for the municipal post last January 14, continued to mantle in mystery the reason behind his request' for 'the resignation. He referred inquiries to John Colt, of Princeton, who is state director of the relief administration.

While speculation over the reason for the rift between Dr. Stone and Director Cramer was spreading throughout the city the county administration was denounced at a meeting held in Convention Hall annex.

All Facts Demanded

Frank J. Manning, president of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, made a public demand "for all the facts” behind Cramer's request for the city health bureau chief's resignation.

Dr. Stone announced his resignation after Director Cramer had added to his long series of refusals to inquiring newspapermen. Asked for a statement Dr. Stone said: "I have no statement. I have sent my resignation to Mr. Colt, through Mr. Cramer. That's all there is to it."

In response to an inquiry regarding the reason for Cramer's action in asking him to quit, Dr. Stone said: "I feel it is better for the service not to say anything about the mat­ter at the present time,"

Prior to the conversation with the city physician Director Cramer was asked by a reporter if he had learned whether Dr. Stone had resigned .

"I'm awfully sorry but I can't say anything about the matter. Director Colt has instructed me to say nothing. I'm going to follow his instructions.

"I'm not trying to be nasty about this situation. When the director gives me an order I have to obey it. Any information you desire must be obtained from Director Colt."

Press Ban Adopted

A. Lincoln Wood, Jr., secretary to Cramer, answered telephone calls for the county director yesterday. He denied that Cramer was in his office and announced the administration's new policy, that from now on the press would be excluded from personal or telephone interviews with the county relief director.

"I've had my orders," said Wood, "and they are that Mr. Cramer will grant no interviews to newspapermen If you aren't satisfied with that arrangement, you had better call Mr. Colt, the state relief director.

"How will the public receive news of the activities in the relief administration?" Wood was asked.

"Written statements will be sent all newspapers," said Wood.

"Will newspapermen be permitted to ask questions after the statements are received?" Wood was asked.

"No," was the answer.

A week ago Wood and Cramer criticized the Courier-Post Newspapers for the stand they had taken in printing the statement of a forestry recruit who had left Camp Dix, in protest against living conditions there. Cramer intimated that the recruit's statement should not have been published before the relief authorities were consulted.

Called by telephone at Princeton, Colt, the state relief director, declared that he had Cramer's request for Dr. Stone's resignation under consideration, but denied rumors he already had ordered an investigation.

"In due time," said Colt, "I shall have a statement to make. Until then, I have the matter under consideration and have nothing to say."

Later, a typewritten statement by Cramer was handed newspapermen by Captain Albert S. Howard, deputy county relief director. When asked to elaborate, Capt. Howard would not comment.

The statement follows:

"The Camden county director of the Emergency Relief Administration, of the State of New Jersey, Wayland P. Cramer, states that the situation connected with the recent publicity concerning the city of Camden's municipal directorship has been referred to John Colt, state director of the Emergency Relief Administration, and all information in this matter will be released through the state director."

Ask for Shakeup

In attacking the relief bureau before the unemployed union meeting Manning demanded a "shakeup" of the whole crowd from top to bottom." He suggested a protest parade be held July 4.

"It is about time we had someone in the relief organization besides army officers and others who know nothing about the administration of relief," he declared. "What we need is people who are versed in social service work.

"It is about time the unemployed slackers wake up to the manner in which relief is being administered. Let's band ourselves together in a mammoth parade on July 4 and demand a shake-up of the whole crowd from top to bottom.

"I read this week," he continued, "about Cramer's request that Dr. Stone resign. It is the right of the  unemployed and the general public to know all that is behind this request. If Dr. Stone is incompetent or if there is something more serious behind it, let’s have all the information to which we- the public- are entitled. In making this demand, I am not defending Dr. Stone or any other official."

Termed as 'Politics'

Circumstances surrounding the request for resignation of Dr. Stone were characterized as "politics" by Clarence E. Moulette, executive secretary of the Unemployed Union.

"It looks to me," Moulette said, "as though the politicians are trying to ease one of their henchmen into Dr. Stone's job as relief director. They thought it policy to oust him because he is giving too many babies too much relief. Dr. Stone probably has been the best man in that job, but he hasn't done as much as we expected he would do. It appears to me as though he would like to have accomplished more for the unemployed but couldn't.

"Let's find out why they want to dismiss Dr. Stone. As long as Cramer is head of the relief organization in Camden county, there isn't much hope for the unemployed."

A motion was then presented and adopted that the Unemployed Union demanding that the reason for the Dr. Stone resignation request be made public.

Charges that Ralph Baccellieri, a Berlin relief official, was using his relief office to depress wages in his mill were submitted at the meeting from unemployed representatives of the town.

"Our Berlin representatives," said Manning, "charge that Baccellieri is paying the workers in his factory such low wages that they have to apply to the emergency relief for food. What a fine situation that is. Here is a man, the joint owner of a sweatshop, who is trading on his relief office so that he can employ people at starvation wages.

"A copy of a letter," continued Manning, "was sent Cramer and John Colt, state relief director, pointing to the situation in Berlin. And what do you think I received today from Mr. Cramer? Well, he thanked me for the information. Like hell he thanked me.

"Another thing that Mr. Cramer thanked me for in his letter was the information about how the Lawnside relief director played politics at the polls at the recent primary. There he was at the polls despite the statement of Mr. Cramer prior to the primaries that any relief official involved in politics would be dismissed from the administration."

Manning stated that the Unemployed union produced affidavits to prove his assertion concerning the Lawnside relief situation.   

Camden Courier-Post - June 3, 1933

Stone Ousted for Humanness; 'Gave Too Much Milk, to Poor Children,' Jobless Union Hears
Cramer Refuses Detailed Statement, But Intimates Ex-Director of Relief
'Let His Heart Run Away With His Head'

Editorial: '-But the Greatest of These Is Charity'" appears on page 10.

Dr. Arthur L. Stone resigned as director of emergency relief in this city because of opposition to his humanness.

This was the inference drawn from both the city health bureau chief and Wayland P. Cramer, director of the Camden County Emergency Relief Administration, who requested Dr. Stone to quit.

According to Cramer a municipal relief director "must not let his heart rule his head."

Dr. Stone, who is credited directly with having brought about extensive reduction in the infantile mortality rate of this; city, said:

"It is true that I took the human side, in the administration of city relief. So far as I know no charges have been made."

May Name Logan

Appointment of a successor to Dr. Stone was a topic of gossip about the city and county buildings yesterday. It was rumored that William W. Logan at presently serving as manager in the county relief office, will be named as city director. Another report linked the name of William J. Strandwitz, who formerly was county director. A successor will be named by John Colt, of Princeton, who is state emergency relief administrator.

Dr. Stone's comment regarding "the human side of city relief administration," followed an expression by Clarence Moullette, executive secretary of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, to the effect that the city physician's ouster probably was motivated "because Dr. Stone was giving too much milk to babies,"

Further attempt to draw from Director Cramer his reason for requesting Dr. Stone to resign disclosed no specific charge, After first declining to comment Cramer did express his opinion as to the qualifications necessary for the city relief directorship.

"Primarily,'" said Cramer, "he must have executive and administrative ability. He must have a good heart, but mustn't let his heart rule his head,"    

Pressed further far a statement concerning what Dr. Stone lacked "in the administration of relief, Cramer said:

Thought Stone Best Man

"It is not only my aim," he said, "to be considerate of all people receiving relief, but to be considerate of those within my organization. That is the reason I am not talking about details incident to Dr. Stone's resignation. I drafted him into the Relief office, because I thought he was the best man for the job. Affairs were in fine shape in the city administrative office when he took it over.

"'However, this is a matter for John Colt to discuss. He is my superior”.

Cramer admitted that he has someone in the offing whose appointment to the city relief directorship he will recommend to Colt.

It would be unfair for me," said Cramer, "to mention the name of the man I have in mind, before Mr. Colt had asked for my recommendation".

Dr. Stone said that he was "just as well satisfied" to be relieved of the city relief directorship which carries no salary.

"There was no salary to the job," said Dr. Stone, "and it meant many long hours of work in addition to the duties of the health department. I enjoyed building up the relief organization most for the human side of it. I sent in my resignation to become effective immediately. I tried to do a human job.

"When I went to Cramer's office this week," continued Dr. Stone, "he did not specifically tell me what the matter was. He told me only that he was not satisfied with the way things were going in my department."

Director Colt called today on the telephone at Princeton, said that he had not received Dr. Stone’s letter of resignation. If he accepts the resignation, Colt stated that he will immediately appoint a successor to Dr. Stone on the recommendation of Cramer. 

Camden Courier-Post - June 6, 1933

Suit to End Relief Secrecy Planned by Civic Congress; Irregularities Are Charged
North Camden Association Told Affidavits Are Being Taken;
Cramer and Howard Accused Of Evasion; Protest Rally Called  

Court action to force the Camden County Emergency Relief Administration to reveal its books for public inspection is planned by the Congress of Civic Associations of South Jersey.

This was announced last night at a meeting of the North Camden Civic Association in the headquarters of the Pyne Poynt Social Club, 939 North Fifth street. Frank J. Hartmann, Jr., secretary of both organizations, disclosed the proposed step.

Affidavits charging irregularities in the relief administration are being gathered, Hartmann asserted.

Wayland P. Cramer, director of the county relief board and Captain Albert S. Howard, deputy director, were charged with evading public inquiries.

'Fathers Fired-Girls Hired'

"They've given us a grand run-a­round," Hartmann said in relating his efforts in behalf of a destitute family.

The Congress of Civic Associations, headed by Fred von Nieda, is determined to force inspection of the relief records by applying for a court writ, Hartmann said,

Vince Marinelli, member of the North Camden association and active in the Civic Congress, declared a number of married men were discharged from positions in the relief administration and single women engaged for their posts.

Protest Rally June 11

The association agreed to join with the Unemployed Union of New Jersey in staging a public mass meeting to protest against the relief board.

The meeting is scheduled for June 11, at the Convention Hall.

Clarence E. Moullette, executive secretary of the unemployed group, addressed last night's session, which two score persons attended.

'Only 8 In 25,600 Rejected'

Hartmann declared that of Camden's' 117,000 persons, 25,600 are receiving emergency relief. The figure in the county is comparable, he said.

Quoting Dr. Arthur L. Stone, who recently resigned as city director of emergency relief, Hartmann asserted 6828 of the 11,400 city's colored are in the relief line.

"In all these cases the great Emergency Relief Administration has found only eight this year that were not worthy of receiving aid," Hartmann said he was informed.

"The taxpayers are paying the bills and they have every right to know how the money is being spent.

"If Director Cramer and Captain Howard can be out of their office all day without anyone knowing where they are I think there is ground for investigation," he insisted.

Cites Backyard Fires

Hartmann reviewed the plight of 11 families on State Street who were forced to cook meals over a backyard fire last Saturday after gas and electric service had been suspended for non-payment of bills. Thirty-five children were affected.

Hartmann estimated that Public Service could produce electricity to supply the apartment house for one month at a cost of $2. The charge is $22, he said.

Hartmann described advantages of a municipal electric plant, for which more than 11,000 persons have signed petitions circulated by the association and civic congress. He compared this city's tax rate and assessments with those of Jacksonville, Fla., and said the southern city earn­ed $2,000,000 profit from its municipal light and power plant in 1932.

A campaign to further sentiment in favor of the municipal plant idea is being advanced daily, Hartmann reported. A staff of speakers is being enrolled.

Dr. Stone's Work Reviewed

Moullette, in appealing for support of the civic association for the mass meeting next week, said that the resignation of Dr. Stone was a political move, designed to create a position with pay for some Republican organization favorite.

"Dr. Stone spent $25,000 for emergency relief in Camden.

"As a result of the efforts of Dr. Stone in his office as municipal relief director there are children in more than 500 families who obtained milk that was not given them be­fore he took the position," Moullette said. "The purpose of the mass meeting is to bring forcibly to the attention of the authorities here and in the state that there is need for an investigation of the Camden County Emergency Relief Administration."

New Fire Alarms Protested

Joseph Munger, of East Camden, asked the association to protest against proposed expenditure of more than $50,000 for a new tire alarm system in Camden.

He charged that the project is needless, and said that transfer of the present system from the old city hall to the new courthouse annex could be made for $2500.

"The present system is sufficient for this city," Munger said. "The cost of removing it to the new building would be less than what the city might pay in interest for one year on $50,000."

Hartmann said that a new system in the fire department would require employment of additional employees and thereby add more expense to the taxpayers.

Mrs. Stephen Pfeil, William Coughlin and Miss Elsie Stein were named by Harry Walton, president, to a committee with instructions to ask Mayor Roy R. Stewart to move against alleged vandalism. They charged that young boys are destroying vacant properties throughout the city. 

Camden Courier-Post- June 14, 1933

Cramer Upheld in Keeping From Public Relief Payroll and Job Holders 
STATE DIRECTOR SAYS SECRECY AIDS 'LITTLE FELLOWS' 
Denial Made That Politics Has Part in Naming of Emergency List 
REMOVALS DEMANDED

Wayland P. Cramer, Camden county relief director yesterday was victorious in his policy of secrecy in affairs of his relief administration when he won authority from John Colt, state relief director, to suppress from newspapers a complete salary list of relief employees. 

Last Wednesday, at the request of the Courier-Post newspapers, Cramer instructed his secretary, Lincoln Wood, Jr., to write Colt and ask for his opinion in the matter. That was after Cramer had demurred when asked for the salary lists, which were demanded by several Camden organizations including the Unemployed Union. 

Word of Colt's refusal was brought to Camden yesterday by Col. Joseph D. Sears, deputy state director, who explained that his chief had adopted the policy of withholding the names because it might cause "embarrassment and a hardship to little fellows" on the relief payroll to have their salaries published. 

To Ask Cramer Removal 

Colt's refusal to submit the complete salary lists for public inspection followed the announcement of a mass meeting tonight in Convention Hall, when demands will be made for the immediate removal of Cramer and all other officials of the county relief administration. 
The meeting will be conducted jointly by the Unemployed Union of New Jersey and the New Jersey Congress of Civic Associations. 

Colonel Sears visited Camden for a conference with Cramer, Dr. Stone, Miss Sara Curtis and other city and county relief officials. 

It was explained to Colonel Sears that rumors were current in this city that former city employees had been given jobs with the relief adminis tration in preference to applicants with equal qualifications. 

"Of course," said Colonel Sears, "I am not familiar with the Camden situation, but I can say that I don't know the politics of two percent of persons at the state relief headquarters. Mr. Colt feels it would result in an undue hardship to little fellows in the employ of the administration to have their salaries published.

"However, if there is any evidence of unfairness or discrimination in employment it will be possible to obtain the salaries of three or four persons at a time." 

Little Knowledge of Politics 

Dr. Stone, at the conclusion of Col. Sears' discourse, stated that he knew the political faith of less than one percent the municipal relief offices employees. Wood, speaking for Cramer, echoed the statement of Col. Sears when he said that the politics of less than two percent of the Camden county administration was known.

Col. Sears explained that it was the policy of the state administration to employ men and women first, for their capabilities in relief work, and, second, from the standpoint of their need for financial assistance.

"If we can't make up our personnel from the first class," he said, "we turn to the second." 
Colt has been invited to address the meeting, and Cramer along with other county relief officials, has been invited to attend. They will be asked to answer charges of the unemployed union that the administration of relief In Camden county is "inadequate and prejudiced for political expediency."

Other speakers at the meeting will be Frank J. Manning, president of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey; Paul Porter, lecturer for the League for Industrial Democracy, and John Edelman, vice chairman of the Industrial Standards Committee of New Jersey. The meeting opens at 8 p. m . 

A demand will also be made by the unemployed union of Colt at the meeting for representation from its membership within the county relief administration. Clarence E. Moullette is executive secretary of the union, and William R. Kennedy is vice president.

Prepares Questions 

"If the county relief officials attend the meeting," said Manning "they will be asked to answer some questions pertinent to the administration of relief which is inadequate and prejudiced for political expediency. Repeatedly, this organization has tried but failed to obtain fair hearings on its complaints of the inefficient relief methods." 

Moullette announced today he had prepared a list of questions for relief officials to answer. 

"We intend to ask Mr. Cramer to explain why he and Captain Howard receive from eight to ten cents a mile for operating their automobiles in relief service, while the usual rate for state officials is but five cents a mile," Moullette said.

Manning announced that formal protest will be made at the mass meeting against the recent conduct of Cramer in suppressing information concerning his request for the resignation of Dr. A. L. Stone as Camden municipal relief director. 

"The public," said Manning, "is still awaiting an explanation from Mr. Cramer on his request for Dr. Stone's resignation. It is the right of the tax-paying public to know the reasons behind that request, and whether they had any serious bearing on the administration of relief to the poor and needy."

Camden Courier-Post- June 16, 1933

Cramer Denies County Relief Bureau Allied With Sweatshops
CHARGES AGITATORS SEEK TO DESTROY FAITH IN FUTURE 
Dr. Stone Invites Jobless Union Officials to Conference and Inspection 
PROMISES BAKER INQUIRY

Wayland P. Cramer, director of the Camden County Emergency Relief Administration, yesterday ridiculed charges his bureau is allied with sweatshops, as publicly issued by the New Jersey Unemployed Union, at a mass meeting here. 

At the same time Dr. Arthur L. Stone, city health officer and director of the city emergency relief board welcomed spokesmen of the unemployed to a conference. Dr. Stone announced he will accompany the committee today on a tour of inspection of the city relief bureau. 

Director Cramer at first refused to "dignify with an answer" the charges of the unemployed. Later he issued a statement leveled at "insidious attacks of agitators endeavoring to break down the hope and faith in the future of our government, our home and our institutions." 

Promises Inquiry 

Questioned as to his attitude on two affidavits obtained by the unemployed union, in which it is charged Mrs. Viola Baker, municipal relief director of Magnolia, had used her position to subsidize persons in need of aid, Director Cramer said: 

"If those affidavits are turned in to me, I shall see that they are examined as to the facts and by the proper authorities." 

Cramer announced that John Colt, state relief director, would have a final decision to make concerning the request of the Courier-Post Newspapers for a list of salaries of employees of the Camden County Relief Administration.

Colt, through his deputy, Col. Joseph D. Sears, refused this week to permit publication of the salary lists in newspapers, declaring it would "impose a hardship and embarrass the little fellows on the payroll." Colt is reported to be reconsidering his first decision. 

"In spite of the insidious attacks of agitators endeavoring to break down the hope and faith in the future of our government, our homes, and our institutions, the vast majority of the people are 'carrying on' in a generously patriotic manner that is absolutely necessary to bring back the stable employment conditions which mean so much to all of us," Cramer said. 

Demands Co-operation 

"Every man and woman must do everything in their power to maintain the internal security of this country. I am doing my part by giving the best of my ability to honestly and ably organize and expedite the functioning of Emergency Relief throughout Camden County. 

"Unless adequate relief is given to each and every deserving person, there is a failure which we take very much to heart. At the same time, we must make certain that those who are not deserving receive punishment for taking away the portion due those who are. 

"Qualified citizens will find the records open for examination; all suggestions for the improvement of our service will be welcomed and, as in the past, will be acknowledged. 
"This is a public relief administration, and its success to the fullest extent is dependent upon the full and whole-hearted co-operation of every citizen of Camden County." 

Stone Sees Unemployed 

Dr. Stone conferred with Frank J. Manning, president of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey; Clarence E. Moulette, executive secretary, and George Yost, state organizer of the Young Peoples' Socialist Party.

The trio, Dr. Stone said, called on him to discuss their request for representation within the relief administration. 

"I believe," Dr. Stone said, "that it is only fair that these gentlemen and any others from representative organizations should have an opportunity to look into the inner workings of the relief administration. Of course, it is human to make mistakes, but I want to show these men that if mistakes were made they were made honestly.

"I shall open the office records for their inspection and shall do my utmost to explain all details of relief work to their satisfaction. 

"If, after the tour of inspection, these men still insist on representation in my department of relief work, I shall take up that question for further consideration." " 

Camden Courier-Post- June 19, 1933

MAILBAG

Wants Sociologists to Administer Emergency Relief 

To the Editor: 

Sir-Times without number I have contemplated the dearth of knowledge of the science of sociology, evidenced by the great majority of workers on the emergency relief staff. As they make their "weary" rounds, I have wondered about the true amount of satisfaction they feel in trying to rear a structure on such elusive sands in the face of such abject futility. Too 
many times to the well. In 1932 somewhere in the neighborhood of $93,000,000 was collected in welfare chests in municipalities throughout the United States. It was used to 
supplement relief work carried on by local, state and federal organizations. Many or these municipalities in 1933 will make no attempt to so supplement funds appropriated for the relief of the unemployed. 

That these relief workers are bringing to the unemployed the necessary amount of courage to hire on in the face of chaos is questionable. Week after week, as they dole out the meager order slips, hope in the eyes of these unemployed must be farther and farther diminished, and it should be discernible in no uncertainty to the intelligent visitor. The day will be ominous when these unemployed receive these slips of paper, collectively silent and steely­eyed. 

The fact that we have here in Camden County a real estate dealer and a soldier (although he is non­professional) heading the relief board is enough to cause a smile to linger, on the 
faces of knowing sociologists. They who superficially contact starving humanity are most apt to surround themselves with impregnable solitude, when their actions and motives are in 
question. They are the ones that will speak before well­fed clubs, stating the ends justify the means. Let them speak so be before masses of starving unemployed! These men know the 
depression has swamped social work, and they know that some day in the near future they must fold their tents and slip silently away.

There has been much said of subsidies in the way of tariffs and etcetera, but there has been few who have thought that the petty food order is actually subsidizing Industrial activity. The clause in the regulations permitting those receiving up to a stipulated sum in wages to retain their right to a food order has not been overlooked by at least a score of Industries here in Camden as pay envelopes will attest. It is rather unfortunate that the most transparently vicious of these is over­lorded by one of the immediate family of a relief official.

CLARENCE E. MOULETTE 
Camden 

Camden Courier-Post- June 20, 1933

Hatch Estate Drives Jobless From Gardens 
Gives Them 24 Hours to Get Out; City Offers Aid to Victims

Sixteen unemployed gardeners have been given 24 hours' notice by the city to vacate their plots on the Hatch estate, planted under supervision of the Camden City Emergency Relief Administration, it was revealed last night. 

"Some of the legal tangle between the owners of the property and the city of Camden was given as reason for the move. 

The disclosure was made at a meeting of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, held at 312 Market Street. A committee of the union will call on the relief administration today to protest against the removal order.

The gardens were planted to provide fruit and vegetables for families of the unemployed. The Hatch estate tract is one of several sites throughout the city where this work has been under way.

The Unemployed Union, through Frank J. Manning, president, and Clarence E. Moullette, executive secretary, question the right of the city to order the gardeners from the field. They hold that under a New Jersey law, no contract, no matter under what terms negotiated, can be abrogated after a crop is planted until it has been reaped. 

The notice to the gardeners was sent to Raymond A. Miller, 761 Carman Street, by Arthur M. Taylor, work relief director under Dr. Arthur L. Stone, municipal relief administrator. It follows: 

"Mr. M. Bergen Stone, an attorney representing the Hatch Estate, owners of the property on which are located the Miller Gardens, has given us notice of repossession within the next 24 hours. 

"It seems that some legal tangle has arisen between the owners of this property and the city of Camden and it is necessary for the present owner to have sole and complete possession and occupation of these premises. It will therefore be necessary that the shack you have begun to build be dismantled and that the gardeners on your tract be notified of this action before noon on Tuesday, June 20. 

"Be assured that I will do the best, that I possibly can to relocate your gardens and that anything that you have growing that is transplantable, you will be allowed to transplant. Please see that this information is given to your other gardeners at once so that the owners can get possession immediately." 

The union also drafted a letter to Mayor Roy R. Stewart, charging neglect in connection with the collapse on Sunday of two house fronts on Bridge Avenue, in which one man was injured fatally. 

The union urged demolition of all unsafe properties in the city and recommended the city commissioners seek a loan from the federal government to abolish "slums" of Camden. Such a project, the union points out, would greatly relieve unemployment here. .

Camden Courier-Post- June 24, 1933

Jobless Applicants Compelled To Wait Beside
Garbage Cans In Court House Basement
Dr. Stone Calls for Removal of Refuse After Complaint Stench Menaces
Health of Tattered Relief Seekers; Custodian Denies Anything Wrong

Charges that unsanitary conditions exist in the basement of the old court house building where hundreds of needy receive clothing and shoes were made yesterday by Clarence E. Moullette, secretary of the Unemployed Union. 

Moullette, who called on Dr. A. L. Stone, city health director, stated that stench arising from accumulation of garbage and refuse from the county jail menaced the health of persons who must call at the temporary headquarters for clothing.

Stone Orders Removal

Dr. Stone said the place was opened in an emergency after forced removal from the former distributing station at West and Clinton streets.

He ordered the debris removed. Yesterday more than 100 men, women and children were crowded there and some, Moullette complained, must remain for periods of more than four hours before their wants are filled.

"When the Emergency Relief Committee took over the present quarters," Moullette said, "it was promised that the unsanitary condition would be corrected.

"Responsibility for the stench of moldy garbage remaining in the small space to which these unfortunates must come should be placed on the custodian of the building. Such conditions should not be allowed to exist even if there were no people forced to enter the place.

"Unlimited space is available in the new City Hall building for accommodation of these people, and it appears that one of the chief reasons why that space is not used is that appearance of poorly-clad unemployed persons and their children is offensive to some of the occupants of the building."

Dr. Stone accompanied Moullette in an inspection through the temporary headquarters, and stated that arrangements are being made to use additional rooms in the basement to accommodate applicants for clothing. He stated that orders were issued for daily removal of all refuse.

Thomas Dickinson, acting custodian of the court house, stated last night that garbage was removed from the basement daily."

"The garbage is collected at 11 a. m. each day," he said. "If these complainers saw any garbage, they saw it before it was collected this morning or some which had been placed there after the day's collection, awaiting collection tomorrow."

Camden Courier-Post- June 26, 1933

MAILBAG

Good-bye, Democracy! 

To the Editor: 

Sir-The startling scoop of the I.N.S. on June 21 ought to be an eye-opener for millions of people in the United States. Representative government is only a farce. To outside appearances it is presumed to be functioning, but on the inside it is a personal dictatorship, and no mistake.

"The money changers have been driven from the temple." But the darned things have sneaked back again, at the behest of one that would not be driven out. His status as a private citizen is even more powerful than those that raised their right hands and swore allegiance.

The day after this person's rise to eminence in the nation, a great banker (?) in New York was exonerated by a jury that was advised not to talk about how they arrived at said verdict. It was declared by the judge to be highly unethical, i.e., any discussion of such verdict. So much for the entrenched power of property, mostly invisible.

The morning press today carries the story that Hull will resign as Secretary of State. At the same time we have Professor Moley stating that he is much in favor of national economy and national emergence from the depression. The wall are rapidly being constructed, and Nehemiah's Biblical wall will hay been surpassed a million fold.

"Good-bye, Democracy, Good-bye”, is the theme song of today. Like a great many other people these days “I cannot think, 1 can only see"

CLARENCE E. MOULETTE 
Camden 

Camden Courier-Post- June 21, 1933

RELIEF LEADER­IN BERLIN TWP. IS ACCUSED AT CRAMER PROBE
County Director Sits at Public Hearing on Series of Charges
TURMOIL MARKS OF HECTIC END SESSION
Official Refuses to Admit Complaints Against Local Agent's Factory

Turmoil marked the public "trial" of Ralph Baccellieri, Berlin Township relief director, last night before Wayland P. Cramer, county relief administrator, and a staff of his assistants, sitting as a board of inquiry in Huber's Hall, Berlin.

Charges of political preference, "starvation wages" in his overalls factory and improper administration were made against, Baccellieri. They were answered by a statement from a township society, commending Baccellieri's regime.

At one point in the hearing one witness tried to question another about his political affiliations and whether he was on the relief list, Cramer leaped to his feet to halt the questioning, At another juncture Cramer praised political affiliations as a token of good citizenship.

Capt. Albert S. Howard, county deputy relief director, was a member of the inquiry board and was mentioned frequently in the testimony.

Charges against Baccellieri, made by the Berlin Township Unemployed Union, also were that he was unfit to hold office, was un-American and should be removed.

Bacellleri is proprietor of an overalls factory. Cramer refused to hear any complaints in connection with the township director's factory; and asserted any complaints about that would have to be made with the State Commissioner of Labor.            .

After the hearing, the board of inquiry reserved decision and. refused to make any comment.

Says Milk Was Refused

The first.witness was Mario Caparella of Berlin Township. 

"I asked Baccellieri for a quart of milk for my one-month-and-a-half baby," he said. "He told me to come to his house and see him. I saw him five days after and he asked me if I was going to class myself with those other American bums. He told me I was going against the people and the taxpayers. I said I would work every day if they would pay me and that if I had cash instead of a relief order I could buy cheaper. Baccellieri's father-in-law told me he had orders not to give me milk. I haven't got the milk yet. My child is now six months old today and I have two other children. Another time I asked one of Mr. Baccellieri's assistants for a food order and I was told to give the baby water. Another time I was told to go to a certain house for clothes. I needed shoes, but they said my wife and I could not have shoes, that our children could have shoes, but we would have to go barefoot."

The next witness was Albert Giordano.

"I asked Baccellieri for one pint of milk,'" he said, "because of an ill child. Baccellieri said I could not have the milk because the child was four years old. My wife and I went to bed on bread and water so the kids could get more. Baccelliieri did not tell me I would have to see a doctor to get a certificate for milk. I saw Dr. Frank O. Stem and got it and on the way back I met Baccellieri. I gave him the order and he said, ‘fast work.' I demanded to know what he meant by that. He said he would investigate it. It was four days' before I got the milk. An investigatior came and told me the child was not sick. I was told to get a certificate again. I went· to Dr. Leslie H. Ewing and he said if Baccellieri ignored Stem's certificate he would ignore his. Four days later; after Ewing's certificate; I got milk.

“Vinegar to Drink" "

My wife Is ill now. I went to Baccellieri for advice. He refused. After a man told me he would pay for a doctor, I telephoned Dr. Ewing.

"Ewing was sick himself. I had to wrap my wife up and take her there.

'I also worked nine days on Baccellieri's property and I haven't got a nickel for it yet. The only thing I ever got was a drink of vinegar."

Charles LeCora, the next witness, declared he was employed for four nights as a watchman by Baccellieri but denied that any money is owing him., He said he now is receiving a relief order.

Mrs. Arthur Lemke, daughter-in-law: of Arthur Lemke, Sr., vice chairman of the Unemployed Union, charged she has been unable to get milk for an anemic child.

Woman Gives Experience

"I saw Mr. Baccellieri when my child was 18 months old. And after two months the milk was cut off. He told me the milk certificate was only good for that length of time but 1 explained the child needed milk because of its condition. Later he told me I would not get any food order during the week my husband got work; although he would not get any pay until later. He as much as told me he didn't care whether the children ate or not and he said he would throw me out if I was not a lady. I went to see Mr. Howard (Cramer's deputy) and he promised me a food order. So far, I haven't gotten it. I had to go to the overseer of the poor."

Howard later informed a reporter that the order was refused because she would not tell what amount of money her husband was making.

Raymond Orangers was the next witness. He said:

"1 applied for a food order and got one for $3. A month later I asked Baccellieri for milk. And then I asked twice again. I signed an affidavit that I needed the milk and I still haven't got the milk. He did not tell me would have to get a doctor's certificate."

 Oscar Ollinger said he was a war veteran and was now getting three 'days' work every two weeks with the State Highway Commission, receiving $10 cash. He said he had a famlly of seven and needed an order for milk .

Wage Testimony Barred

Amandos Divivio, a boy, testified that he worked, ten hours' a day for six and one-half days in Baccellieri's factory, but received only $4.53 for the week.

Cramer declared that, any questions pertaining to Baccellieri's factory or any complaints would have to be taken up with the State Labor Commission.

One of the charges of the Unemployed Union was the Baccellieri paid "starvation wages" in the factory.

Charles Dove, president of the Willing Workers, a group of business men, taxpayers and relief recipients, testified to a resolution which was presented to the investigation board , complimenting Baccellieri on his conduct of relief and requesting that he be retained.

William Lemke, Sr. asked Dove it he was a member of any political organization and if he was now receiving a relief order.

Cramerr leaped to his feet and objected.             I

"I object to the questioning of anyone in public in regard to their receipt of a relief order," Cramer asserted. "We do our utmost to keep secret the names of recipients of relief."

Politics Charged

At this point a member of the Unemployed Union jumped to the floor and shouted:

"How about the publicity that relief men are getting while working on roads?"

Cramer refused to answer.

Charles H. Trout, secretary of the Willing Workers, admitted that he was a member of the "Boosters' Organization," declaring he was president.

Lemke leaped to his feet and said; "The Boosters Is a political organization and I want to ask this man if Baccellieri is a Booster and what office does he hold?"

Cramer intervened at this point and stated:

"We consider it evidence of good citizenship for anyone to be affiliated with any political organization. The question is not sound unless you can prove Baccellieri has used politics in emergency relief."

Lemke insisted the question be answered.

The inquiry board voted unanimously not to allow an answer.

A resolution was read by W. W. Logan, assistant to Cramer and the examining member of the board, which had been sent to the board by the Italian American Protective Society of West Berlin. It asked that Baccellieri be retained because of "his honesty and Integrity."

A member of the Unemployed Union shouted that Baccellieri was president of the society. Girardo Di Pietro, secretary of the society, took the stand and declared Baccellieri had nothing to do with the special meeting at which the resolution was passed.

Hearing Ends in Turmoil

Samuel P. Orlando, attorney for Baccellieri, took the stand as a wit ness for his client. He testified that he knew personally that Baccellieri had no connection with a pants fac­tory in West Berlin which went bankrupt and owed employees money.

Clarence E. Moullette, secretary of the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, asked to address the gathering, but was denied the privilege. 

The meeting closed in a turmoil when Thomas P. Ryan was permitted to speak and opened a tirade condemning Lemke. He charged that Lemke allowed his son, Arthur Lemke, to live in a house for which Ryan was agent for two years with out paying rent, although Lemke owned an unoccupied property in which his son could live.

Lemke arose and called Ryan a "liar" and started towards him. Several sought to separate the two and the board adjourned the meeting abruptly.

Cramer said he did not know when a decision would be reached.. .

Camden Courier-Post- June 28, 1933

R.C.A. WORKER' PLAN OPPOSED BY UNION
Representation Idea to Settle Disputes Declared Merely Company Unionization

Objection to a proposed employee representation plan for employees of the RCA-Victor Company's manufacturing department was voiced yesterday by the Unemployed Union of Camden, which held a mass meeting at noon in Johnson Park.

The meeting was adjourned when whistles of the factory blew, summoning its workers back to their tasks, but Frank J. Manning, chairman of the union, announced that another meeting will be held at noon today in the park.

According to an announcement by W. R. G. Baker, vice president of the company, each division of the manufacturing department may elect representatives, who, with representation appointed by the company, will constitute a joint conference to discuss and settle- subject to review by the management- all matters of mutual interest pertaining to working conditions. All employees except those identified with the management are voting.

Speakers of the Unemployed Union who condemned the plan as "against the interests of workers," were Clarence E. Moullette, executive secretary of the union, and Mark Starr, director of Brookwood Labor College, New York, now giving a course in economics here under the auspices of the Unemployed Union.

Starr declared that the Camden firm's employee representation plan was "another name for a company union," and went on to relate cases of large industrial concerns in which company unions had worked, disastrously for employees.

Camden Courier-Post * May 16, 1934

Camden Courier-Post * May 17, 1934

Camden Courier-Post * August 1, 1935

Camden Courier-Post * August 5, 1935

Camden Courier-Post * February 11, 1936

THE EDITOR'S MAIL BAG

Clarence to Al

Sir:- An open letter to Al Smith:

Dear Al:- If that be liberty, give me death!

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE
902 North Second Street

Camden Courier-Post * February 11, 1936

THE EDITOR'S MAIL BAG

Mr. Moullette Replies To the Editor:

Sir- The thousand legged diatribe of James O'Hara shall not go unanswered. Surely, I should drop on my knees and make obeisance to one who calls me "one of the greatest Socialists Camden ever had, mounted on a soap box," and I might add preserved in a museum. I admit that I have seen reason in the economic theories of Carl Marx, but I hold that social thinkers did not end with him. As for Lenin, I believe he was one who improved on Marx. And I believe that our own social philosopher of the prairies, Thorstein Veblen improved on them both.

Do you know him? Let me say candidly 1 have ridiculed many people and expect to ridicule many more, including yourself but I have never knowingly insulted a man or a woman in my life. I admit that I have spoken and written with vitriol on my tongue and on my pen, but never with the thought of insulting anyone. The principles I fought for on the soap box that you mention, I still stand for and fight for, and the job I have today will have to go, should it or the ones that furnished it, ever try to stand in the way of my expression. Do you get me? I eulogize those that 1 believe worthy of such, it is my personal tribute to them to encourage them in their discharge of a private or a public duty.

O'Hara, I did not say that I was a Democrat, using the word or term in its political sense. I said I was a member of the Democratic party by virtue of the fact that after I left the Socialist party I registered as a Democrat to enable myself a political choice of candidates at the polls ,in the primaries. That has been since May 9 or 10, 1934. I might add I know I would never make any kind of a Republican, though I might qualify as some kind of a Democrat. I am satisfied for the present to be opposition, opposition eternally to the Republicans and consistently with conservative and reactionary Democrats. I have to be something to function politically in the primaries. I left the Socialist party because of inner party politics, as bad if not worse than those in the two major parties. Candid? However, don't get me wrong, my social philosophy has not changed an iota. Lots and lots of dyed in the wool Jeffersonian Democrats don't like it or me. either. I'm not kidding anyone, except possibly myself. I'm telling 'em, and if I win up thoroughly disillusioned politically, I'll have no one to blame but myself.

Yes. I sponsored the meeting at the Moose Hall that you mention. I am a member of the American Commonwealth Federation, an organization given birth in Chicago, July 5, 1935. I was a delegate-at-large for New Jersey, the only one. I am a national committeeman, provisional of the same organization today, and shall continue to be until a Commonwealth Federation is organized in this state. Their social and political theories are mine. 1, production for use and not for profit, 2, an economy of abundance, instead of an economy of scarcity, 3, a thoroughgoing form of democratic government not connected in any way with the Democratic party. I don't know who bought the tickets, only those that volunteered to sell them for me. According to the audience (about 125 persons) not many could have bought. I did bring Mr. Williams here. He is on a speaking tour for the federation. I paid him nothing. For verification write Mr. Alfred M. Bingham, 315 Fourth avenue, New York City. Incidentally, Mr. Bingham is secretary of the federation, and the son of the noted ex­Senator Hiram Bingham, of Connecticut who is at present ambassador to the court of Saint James. Mr. Brunner and Mr. Hartmann both bought ten tickets each of me, which apparently were promptly thrown in the waste basket. Candid?

I have previously stated at least three times I personally sponsored this meeting. The Democratic party wouldn't touch it and didn't.

Now, as to debt. I have one son in his tenth year. I have enrolled him as a member of a birth control clinic in Philadelphia. When he grows up, he'll know all about it and if he is afraid of the mountainous debts that his children would have to pay- he will be in control. if you think that Republicans never spent any money, take a look at the city hall you have. They built and paid three prices for everything they bought. I am not here to question the personal honesty of Mr. David Baird. I am totally uninterested in him personally. In politics, not so. If he and his political party represent the acme of honesty and efficiency in any kind of government, please come out and shoot me. My usefulness is ended. I am going to write a Mail Bag letter about the bonded indebtedness of Camden city and Chapter 60. Then after reading that and verifying it, if you desire to do so, shoot the works. I am sure Camden city and Camden county and the state of New Jersey need a radical party but the hell of it is there are but a minority of citizens that believe the same as I do. I'm willing to be a trail blazer, and incidentally I am not afraid of communistic or socialistic ideas. They are right more often than they are wrong. It's the matter of presentation that licks them, that's all. Is it true the Republican party will not tolerate any vivid radicals in its ranks? Baloney, brother, there's Vito Marcantonio, of New York, a representative in Congress from New York City, right hand man of LaGuardia, and one of the sponsors of the American Commonwealth Federation. He wouldn't touch the Republican party of South Jersey with a ten-foot fish pole, held in his hands covered with a pair of surgeon's rubber gloves. You talk about radicals, why bless my soul and yours too if you have one. I'd consider myself dilatory in my responsibility to my fellow-men if I were not radical, and I hold no brief for a lot of the so-called radicals, who to me are a lot of pussy-footing gandy dancers. I'll say right here and now that if there were a real radical organization in this city or county I'd be in it. No lecturing societies for mine, I'm past the talking stage and passing resolutions and staging mass meeting doesn't suit my urge any more. It's my creed, I want some action now. You talk about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. What do you mean? Do you mean the Hoover kind? You know, two chickens in every pot. At least, Roosevelt has provided the pot. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. My God, what platitudes in the face of death by starvation, malnutrition, suicide through despair and agony. Little children being denied the way to life. You sicken me. The Constitution. Can you eat it? What does the Constitution provide, read it, study it and then see where you fit in. It is an outstanding document, and you are its victim- out and standing.

Mr. Williams is a fine man. A former Presbyterian minister. I believe they are still considered substantial citizens in this country.

Why bring Lincoln into this argu­ment? Or Grant? Or WashIngton? They are dead. They did something you wouldn't do. They fought out their convictions to the one and the letter.

You write out my resignation from my laborer's job, any way you see fit, in the event that anyone tries to shut my mouth and I'll sign it. Brother, I mean business. Catch on?

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE
902 North Second Street

Camden Courier-Post * February 19, 1936

CLUB OPPOSES CHANGE IN CITY RULE

A resolution opposing a change in the form of city government from commission form to councilmanic-business manager type was unanimously adopted by the First Ward Democratic Club, 325 State Street, Monday night, according to Clarence E. Moullette, who made the motion for adopted seconded by Joseph Travis.

Camden Courier-Post * February 20, 1936

Says Moullette Is Wrong Again

To the Editor: 

Sir- In answer to my good friend Clarence E. Moullette whose letter appeared in the Mail Bag January 30, May I ask you, Clarence, since when have the people chosen George Brunner to be the state leader from to Camden county -that is the Democratic leader?

You know as well as I that the county committeemen and women of the city, and I don't know how many from the county, voted for Brunner. You are wrong when you say the people had chosen Brunner.

The people won't be able to chose Brunner until 1937. I still say David Baird is laughing up his sleeve.

Don't try to kid me. Clarence, you know that there are two factions at the present time. The way you praise George Brunner, it's a wonder you don't take out petitions and run George Brunner for President of the United States.

How long have you been a Democrat, Clarence? Did Frank J. Hartmann, Jr., give you a job, Clarence? You know that Brunner and Hartmann are building up a political machine. Again you are wrong. I am not trying to lead the voters astray.

I do not know it all as you claim, but I have been fooled enough. I am not interested in running either with the Democratic or the Republican Party, I agree with your statement on having a Labor party. You say George Brunner knows that we are lacking a Labor Party. Well you are right, but I don't read where George Brunner has quit the Democratic Party to form a Labor Party.

I don't know who asked you to answer "Just Wondering," and "One Who Knows," but it appears to me that those two articles must have upset someone's apple cart, I hope that you are telling the truth when you say that it is a split that will heal to everyone's advantage,  

HARRY W. BEACH

CALLS THE CONGRESSMAN

To the Editor:

Sir-Will you kindly find space in the columns of the Mail Bag for the attached letter:

To my fellow delegates and Congressmen: Being rather lazy and reluctant to write all the delegates and congressmen of the Congress of Civic Associations and having this valuable medium whereby one letter will reach all as well as giving the publicity we always strove for in the days of the congress, it is my desire to reminisce with you of those good days when our congress was feared by every politician. For one, I am sorry that there exists no longer the congress. I sure did enjoy hearing you, Frank, and you, Clarence, as well as the rest of us, on the commission floor "bawling out" our city fathers. We'd have to arrange that a little different now, for it would be awkward for you, Frank, to get down from the commissioner's chair to the floor to raise the devil with the other commissioners because they made the taxes go up. Clarence could not very well attend the meetings to criticize the city government, at least so long as he is on city's time. But be that as it may, perhaps it can be arranged through another congress, where we could make all the plans for our bi-monthly show at every commission meeting.

LEON S. WOJTKOWIAK
1062 Everett Street

'WE HALF-BREEDS'

To the Editor:

Sir-Of course, I am not a city commissioner and I have little to do with the running of the city, but I am wondering if Mr. Baird was facetiously making remarks about "half-breeds" or was he fallaciously remarking?

There's a world of difference in the two words. Owen Wister made the hero of his novel, "The Virginian," say, "When you call me that, smile." I remember how I thrilled to that  sentence in the long, long ago.

I am not the least bit fussy about my antecedents; I had no choice in the matter whatsoever. Of course, being that I am one-sixteenth Chippewa and one-sixteenth Ojibway does not quite qualify me as a half-breed. I am not sure which of the three New Deal commissioners does qualify, not having much interest in genealogy. It'll bear investigation, for I sure would like to call a powwow, polish up the old tomahawk and scalping knife and pull a snake dance at the Federal Street and Broadway intersection, tailing up around Ninth and Cooper streets,

Of course, my majority-side ancestors didn't come over here on the Mayflower, or because of the Potato Rebellion in Ireland, but I do know definitely that one-eighth of them were here in the welcoming committees.

CLARENCE E. MOULLETTE

WCAM

1500 EXPECTED TO FETE JOHN DALY AT BANQUET

More than 1500 persons are expected to attend a testimonial and birth day dinner to be held February 17, in honor of Freeholder John Daly, of the First ward, in Convention Halll.

Clarence E. Moullette, chairman of the banquet committee, announced yesterday, that 1500 tickets printed for the affair, 1425 have been distributed. He urged persons planning to attend the banquet not to depend on the purchase of tickets at the door of Convention Hall, but to buy them now as the supply is fast be coming depleted.

Tickets, Moullette said, may be ordered from him by calling City Hall, or from Harry Janice, chairman of the ticket committee, who has a supply at 325 State Street.