Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade

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SAMUEL BUGAY

Philadelphia


SENTENCED TO DEATH

Harry Lessner Must Go to Electric Chair for Killing a Man While Attempting to Escape After Robbery at Philadelphia Jewelry Store

Philadelphia, Pa., Feb. 10.–Harry Lessner, 19 years old, 531 Tree St., twice convicted of the murder of Isadore Rabinowitz, following the hold-up of the jewelry store of Samuel Bugay, 2327 S. 7th St., last June, was sentenced to death today by Judge Rogers, in Room 453, City Hall. He is the youngest murderer ever sentenced to death in this county, according to court attaches; and as he was sentenced to death in the electric chair he was cool and calm.

"Have you anything to say for yourself," asked the judge before imposing sentence on Lessner.

"I didn't mean to kill anyone," replied the convict.

In imposing sentence. Judge Rogers said: "It is a most disagreeable duty for the court to perform in this instance, but in a robbery or in an attempt to perpetrate one, you shot and killed an innocent bystander on the highway. In the performance of our duty we are obliged to impose the death sentence. You have had two trials, and the court feels that the juries were right in convicting you of first degree murder. The sentence of the court is that you suffer death in the electric chair at the Western Penitentiary during a week to he fixed by the Governor."

Last June, Lessner and George A. Jackel robbed the jewelry store, and, in escaping, were stopped by a crowd in the street. Lessner fired his revolver and killed Rabinowitz, a pedestrian.

Jackel has been twice convicted of murder. He was sentenced to death by Judge Rogers last week, sitting as the trial judge in court en blanc, with judges Davis and Patterson, although the other two judges announced that they could not agree in refusing a new trial. Later the two judges filed dissenting opinions and made an absolute motion for a new trial for Jackel. Judge Rogers accepted their petition and said it would be disposed of by the en blanc court next week. Jackel's attorneys have filed a petition asking that the death penalty be set aside.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1922

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JAMES JEW

Gloucester, England


DREADFUL SUICIDE

A shocking occurrence took place in Gloucester on Wednesday, by which a very respectable family is plunged into a state of the greatest distress. About half-past five o'clock on that afternoon, Mr. James Jew, silversmith, of the Cross, in that town, destroyed himself by blowing out his brains with a pistol. Mr. Jew had for some time past laboured under great depression of spirits and excitement; his health had been affected, and by attention to business, his mental malady was fearfully increased. Immediately before committing the fatal act, he had been drinking tea with his wife and a friend, and was called from the table to attend some customers; to them he showed much excitement, and after their departure he went to his bed-room, and placing a horse pistol to his forehead, blew the upper part of his head entirely off; part of his skull was driven through the window and fell into the street. The verdict of the inquest, which was held on the same evening, was Temporary Insanity. Mr. Jew was a married man, but without family; he served his apprenticeship to Mr. Thomas Thackwell, watchmaker, of Monmouth.

Source: The North Wales Chronicle - 21st April 1835

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PHIL FRIEDMAN

Tacoma, Washington


Phil Friedman, who formerly lived in Vancouver, B.C., but was lately a well-known jeweler of Tacoma, Wash., met his death at Tacoma, as the result of a family quarrel at his home there. According to the story told to the police by Robert Friedman, the two men became embroiled in a violent quarrel, during which the elder Friedman drew a pistol. Young Robert rushed at his step-father with the purpose of disarming him, he claims, and in the struggle the weapon was discharged, the bullet entering Phil Friedman's temple. Police officers found three bullet holes in the woodwork of the two rooms through which the men fought. "My stepfather was insane," Robert told the police; "his insanity was brought on from drink and running around with women."

Source: The Trader and Canadian Jeweller - July 1920

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SAM KOSKI


BANDITS ROB JEWELER

Traveler Held Up in His Automobile and Is Shot in the Hip as He Makes His Escape

Seattle, Wash., Oct. 26.–Two bandits held up and robbed Sam Koski, traveling jeweler, of $8,500 worth of jewelry. Mr. Koski was returning from the small town of Black Diamond, where he had been displaying his lines, en route to Seattle.

When within about a half mile of Renton, he was flagged by a red light and upon investigation became suspicious, and was returning to his car for his gun, when one of the men who had flagged him opened fire from a 32 calibre gun and shot Mr. Koski in the hip, the bullet passing through a roll of bills in his pocket and through his right leg.

Mr. Koski ran and was pursued by the bandits for some distance when they finally gave up the chase and returned to his automobile where they helped themselves to two cases of jewelry valued at $8,500, overlooking another case which was in the car and which contained considerable more jewelry.

At the time of the robbery Mr. Koski had a roll of bills in his pocket amounting to $1,200 and a carat diamond ring on his linger. It was evidently this money and ring the bandits were after. Not being able to catch Mr. Koski they satisfied themselves with the two cases of jewelry. Mr. Koski. unaided, reached the Renton Hospital where he received medical attention. No trace has yet been found of the bandits or loot.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 1st November 1922

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FRANK J. KINZELMANN

Chicago


KILLED BY COAL TRUCK

Frank J. Kinzelmann, Chicago, Run Over While on His Way to Lunch

Chicago, July 15.–Another tragedy shocked the members of the trade here yesterday when a large coal truck ran over and killed Frank J. Kinzelmann during the noon hour.

"Joe" Kinzelmann, as every one knew him. had been associated with the trade here for many years and universal sorrow was expressed everywhere as the news of his death spread from office to office.

Mr. Kinzelmann was on his way to lunch and as he stepped in front of the alley south of the Mailers building he was struck by the truck and the large hind, wheel passed over his head, killing him instantly. He was carried into the Heyworth building, where he has been in business for more than 16 years, and the body was later removed to an undertaking establishment where the inquest was held this afternoon.

Mr. Kinzelmann came to America from Bavaria when a young man and settled in the State of Washington, where he was naturalized and served four years in the State militia. He spent several years in the west and came to Chicago during the World's Fair and decided to remain here. He was watchmaker for A. C. Becken a number of years before going into business for himself. He established the Chicago Watch Repairing Co. nearly 20 years ago and had conducted the business since that time.

On Aug. 18, 1910. he was married to Mary Happel, of this city, who with two children aged 10 and 7 survive him.

Funeral will he at 1 o'clock Monday at St. Ignatius Church and burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 19th July 1922

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A. MASSOVER

Massover & Pokrass - A. Massover & Co.


TAKES POISON BY MISTAKE

Sudden Death of A. Massover, Chicago, Greatly Shocks His Many Friends in the Trade

Chicago, May 11.–The very sudden death of A. Massover, which occurred at the Mt. Sinai Hospital, was a great shock to his many friends in the trade.
Mr. Massover felt a slight illness on Tuesday night and got up to take some magnesia in water. Through mistake he dissolved poison in a half glass of water and drank it. He discovered the mistake by a burning sensation and called his wife. He was rushed to the hospital, where everything possible was done, but death came about noon Wednesday.

Mr. Massover was 41 years old on April 17. He came to Chicago with his parents from Russia 30 years ago, and in 1902 formed a partnership with Morris Pokrass for the repairing and manufacturing of jewelry under the firm name of Massover & Pokrass. Later he began business for himself as A. Massover & Co. in the Mentor building.

In 1909 Mr. Massover was married to Miss Beatrice Glickman, who with four children survive him. He was a member of Composite Lodge, No. 879, A. F. & A. M., Woodmen of America and I. O. B. A. lodges.

The business will continue under the management of Mrs. Massover, who was associated with the manufacturing business here prior to her marriage.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 17th May 1922

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CHARLES A. BONNAFFON

Pritty, Bonnaffon & Pfeifer - Greenwald & Bonnaffon


MEETS TRAGIC DEATH

Former Philadelphia Jeweler While Confined to His Bed Fatally Burned as a Result of Smoking

Philadelphia, Jan. 30.–Charles A. Bonnaffon, a brother of Colonel Sylvester Bonnaffon, Jr.. former commander of the old Third Regiment, National Guard of Pennsylvania, was burned to death yesterday at his home, 5314 Market St.

Mr. Bonnaffon was one of the most widely known of the old-time Philadelphia jewelers and was active in the wholesale business until a recent stroke made him an invalid.

Mr. Bonnaffon, who was 68 years old, was an inveterate smoker. Confined to his bed for some time he whiled away the hours with the consolation of a pipe. Yesterday sparks from the pipe dropped on the covers after he had fallen asleep. The flames enveloped him, and by the time Mrs. Bonnaffon discovered the fire he had been burned in all parts of the body and was dead. Mrs. Bonnaffon was slightly burned about the hands trying to extinguish the burning bedclothes. She ran screaming into the street and firemen finally extinguished the flames.

Mr. Bonnaffon as a young man started his jewelry experience with the old Philadelphia wholesale house of David F. Conover & Co., at the southeast corner of 7th and Chestnut Sts. The firm was one of the largest in the east and was the sole agent for the Waltham watch, then just springing into prominence.

After Mr. Conover retired from business, Mr. Bonnaffon, with two other former employes, embarked in the firm of Pritty, Bonnaffon & Pfeifer, taking offices in the second floor of a building diagonally opposite the old Conover stand. After the firm had been in business some years partnership was dissolved and Mr. Bonnaffon went with another jeweler into the firm of Greenwald & Bonnaffon. They located at 925 Chestnut St., where they remained for a number of years. Finally, Mr. Bonnaffon launched in business for himself, establishing his office at his home on Market St. and remaining actively engaged until the illness which terminated so fatally yesterday.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 4th February 1920

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CHARLES W. FRISCH

Frisch Brothers, Newark, N.J.


JEWELER FOUND DEAD

Body of Retired Newark, N. J., Manufacturer Found in Weequahic Park With a Revolver in His Hand

Newakk, N. J., Aug. 19.–When Charles W. Frisch, a retired manufacturing jeweler, disappeared from his home at 46 Quitman St. late in the day, his relatives instituted a search and finally reported the matter to the police. The next morning Frisch's body was found in Weequahic Park with a bullet in his head. He was identified by a motorist's card, which was found in his pocket. The body was found on a bench in the park by William Kendall, of 77 Weequahic Ave., as he was passing through the park on his way to work. The bullet wound was in the right temple. The right hand clenched a .32-caliber revolver.

Members of the family said that he had been suffering from nervous troubles for the past two months. Before leaving home Mr. Frisch sent his brother-in-law, H. E. Blaicher, to a local building and loan association with his passbook to be posted, but he did not indicate in any way that he contemplated taking his life.

Mr. Frisch was born and lived in Newark all his life. He retired from the jewelry business last February, when the firm of Frisch Bros., located for years in the Richardson building, Green and Columbia Sts., was dissolved.

Mr. Frisch is survived by his widow, a son, Charles D., 22 years old; two sisters, Miss Lena Frisch and Mrs. Blaicher all of the Quitman St. address, and a brother, Richard Frisch, who resides at 637 Hunterdon St.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 23rd August 1922

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G. WARREN WATTLES (Hardy & Hayes Co., Pittsburgh)

WILLIAM J. McMANUS (Frederick Keim & Co., New York)


DOUBLE AUTO ACCIDENT

G. Warren Wattles, Pittsburgh, and W. J. McManus, New York, Sustain Severe Injuries

G. Warren Wattles of the Hardy & Hayes Co., Pittsburgh, Pa., was the victim of two odd automobile accidents while in New York last Friday night, which threaten to confine him to the Roosevelt Hospital for some time. Other victims of the accidents are Mr. Wattles' wife, who is also confined to the hospital, and William J. McManus of Frederick Keim & Co., Inc., manufacturing jewelers, W. 45th St., New York, who will be compelled to remain at home for some time.

Mr. Wattles and his wife arrived in New York last week, and on Friday the former attended the general meeting held under the auspices of the Vigilance Committee in reference to the proposed tax on jewelry. Mr. Wattles attended as the representative of Pittsburgh jewelers, and intended to return to that city and report on what had transpired at the gathering.

On Friday evening Mr. Wattles and wife, in company with Mr. McManus and wife, dined at Healy's restaurant at 66th St. and Broadway. After leaving the restaurant about 9 o'clock, the men and their wives strolled down Broadway.

At 61st St. they started to cross Broadway, but before the men, who were walking directly behind their wives, realized what had happened, an electric automobile was upon them and they were thrown heavily to the street.

Mr. Wattles sustained a fracture of the leg between the ankle and knee. Mr. McManus' face was so severely cut that doctors were compelled to sew up his wounds.

A policeman standing nearby when the accident occurred commandeered the car which ran the men down and converted it into an ambulance.

After Mr. Wattles was placed in the car, his wife and the policeman sat in beside him and the drive to the Roosevelt hospital at 59th St. and Columbus Ave. was started. As the automobile carrying the injured man turned into 59th St, another large car going the opposite direction loomed up ahead, and before the brakes could be applied the machines crashed.

The collision caused the automobile in which Mr. Wattles was being taken to the hospital to turn over, and as the result was completed demolished.

Upon examination it was found that Mr. Wattles' injured leg was again fractured, this time between the ankle and the thigh. Mrs. Wattles suffered a number of painful bruises and a bad shaking up, while the policeman sustained a broken ankle.

The Pittsburgher and his wife were at once taken to the hospital, and from all indications Mr. Wattles will be confined for at least a month. Although Mrs. Wattles' injuries will not confine her to the hospital, she has chosen to stay with her husband.

After several stitches were taken in Mr. McManus's face he was taken to his home where he will be compelled to remain for some time.

Mr. Wattles' many friends in the jewelry trade in New York are attending to all of his wants and are calling on him daily.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th May 1917

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FREDERICK GEORGE

American Enamel Works, Providence


When a kettle of enamel exploded in the plant of the American Enamel Works, on Neville St., last Monday afternoon, the clothing of Frederick George, 65 years of age, employed as a laborer at the plant, caught on fire and he was badly burned about the body, head and limbs and is not expected to recover, and is now at the Rhode Island Hospital, to which he was removed in an ambulance. The accident caused the sounding of the alarm, but the flames had been extinguished before the firemen arrived. The damage to the building was slight.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 23rd April 1919

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GEORGE ELDER MARCUS

Marcus & Co., New York


DEATH OF GEORGE E. MARCUS

Prominent New York Jeweler Is Drowned in Moosehead Lake, Me., While on a Vacation

A delayed telegram from Kisco, Me., telling of the death by drowning of George Elder Marcus, vice-president of Marcus & Co., jewelers, 544 Fifth Ave., New York, proved a severe shock to the jewelry trade of the metropolis last Thursday. The death of Mr. Marcus occurred at 6 o'clock on Tuesday evening July 31, but owing to the damaged condition of telegraph lines between Maine and New York, the news did not reach the Fifth Ave. establishment until late on Thursday; even then accurate details as to how Mr. Marcus had met his death were wanting and it was not until late last Friday that all the details were really known by members of the jeweler's family.

Recently, Mr. Marcus, with S. C. Welsh, a friend, went to Kisco, Me., on Moosehead Lake, to spend a short vacation. On the evening of Mr. Marcus' death, the jeweler and his friend were on the lake in a canoe, when suddenly the boat turned over. Mr. Welsh went to the assistance of Mr. Marcus, but before he could rescue his companion, the jeweler had drowned. The body was recovered, and a telegram sent to the dead man's family.

The body reached New York early Friday morning, and at 3 o'clock that afternoon funeral services were held at the Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, 73d St. and Madison Ave. Dr. Henry Sloan Coffin, pastor, officiated.

George Elder Marcus was born in New York in 1859. He received his early education abroad and at one time studied at a school in Lucerne, Switzerland. After his return to this country he affiliated himself with his father and brother in the jewelry business in New York and through diligent work succeeded in building up one of the best known jewelry houses in Manhattan. The store of Marcus & Co., located on the corner of 40th St. and Fifth Ave., is a beautiful establishment and stands as a lasting monument to Mr. Marcus' efforts.

Mr. Marcus was well known in New York not only in the jewelry trade, but in club and social circles as well. The esteem in which he was held by his friends and acquaintances was manifested by many floral offerings. Prominent among these was one from the emploves of Marcus & Co.

Among the clubs to which Mr. Marcus belonged were the New York, Lotos and Knollwood.

Deceased is survived by a widow and one son. Peter.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 8th August 1917

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SAMUEL PIAN

St. Louis


SAMUEL PIAN KILLED

Angry Customer Shoots St. Louis Jeweler When He Is Refused Return of Money Paid for Repairing a Watch

St. Louis, Mo., May 22.–Samuel Pian, 62 years old, president and treasurer of the S. Pian Time-Payment Jewelry Co., 920 Franklin Ave., was shot through the left breast and died on his way to the City Hospital Thursday at about 6 o'clock, following an argument with Vito Moreno, an Italian, 24 years old. Moreno fled and is being sought by the police.

About a month ago, it seems, Moreno brought a watch to be repaired. He came back last week and got the watch. The next day he returned and said it would not run. It was again repaired, Moreno getting it Wednesday night. Thursday afternoon he returned and demanded his money back, claiming the watch had not been fixed. Pian told him he could not refund the money, $3, but told the Italian to leave the watch again. Moreno refused and left the store. At 6 o'clock Moreno returned, and stood in the doorway. Pian was standing behind the counter. Moreno did not say a word but pulled out a revolver and fired one shot, which struck Pian. Moreno then fled.

Mr. Pian is a widower and had been in business at the Franklin Ave., address for 10 years and in the jewelry business for 40 years.

On Sept. 5. 1915, Mr. Pian and a son-in-law, Edward Gallant, were held up and robbed of a $1,000 ring.

He is survived by five children.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 26th May 1920


UPDATE:

The estate of Samuel Pian, president of the S. Pian Time Payment Jewelry Co., who was shot and killed in his jewelry store, May 20, by an Italian workman in a dispute over the repairing of a watch, was valued at $90,511 by an inventory filed in the Probate Court last week. According to the will, the household furniture in the residence, jewelry and $16,000 in cash were left to the widow. Each of four sons are to receive $5,000, and $1,500 will be distributed among various charitable organizations. After other minor bequests, the remainder of the estate was left to a daughter.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 18th August 1920

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EDWARD ASWALD

S.S. White Dental Company, New Jersey


One of the most horible crimes on record in New Jersey was committed at 962 Jefferson avenue, Camden, shortly after midnight, Tuesday last, by Edward Aswald, a mechanic in the employ of the S. S. White Dental Company, at the Frankfort works. At this time Aswald murdered his wife and six-year-old daughter, and then attempted to kill himself after a vain attack on his other daughter, Edna, aged nine years. Aswald had been drinking heavily for some time, and frequently lost his position through this cause and became despondent.

Source: The Jewelers' Review - 3rd May 1899

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MAX BARANOV

San Diego


MAX BARANOV DEAD

Former San Diego, Cal., Jeweler Dies as Result of Injuries

San Diego, Cal., Sept. 18.–Max Baranov, formerly proprietor of the Diamond Palace, 932 Sth St., and for the past year holder of the jewelry and watch concession at Camp Kearney, died yesterday as the result of injuries sustained at his home when a small safe fell through the floor of his residence at 2924 Ash St., crushing one of his legs and severing an artery.

Mr. Baranov, who was a stoutly built man had gone beneath his house to place additional bracing beneath the flooring as he feared the weight of the safe was too much for it to bear. He was placing a prop when the safe overturned, crashed through the flooring and he was caught under its weight. He was rushed to hospital but died on the operating table.

He came to this city from Los Angeles about eight years ago. He was 34 years and a native of Russia. Surviving are his widow, three children, his mother, a sister and five brothers. One brother, Nate Baranov, is the present proprietor of the Diamond Palace.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 25th September 1918

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FRANCIS M. MERRIKEN

Baltimore


Francis M. Merriken, Baltimore Gold and Silver Engraver, Found Dead with End of a Gas Hose in His Mouth

Baltimore, Md., Nov. 26.–Francis M. Merriken, Jr., 32 years old, one of the most widely known young gold and silver engravers of this city was found dead from gas poisoning on the third floor of the manufacturing jewelry establishment of Bernard Schminke, 30 E. Baltimore St., Friday morning. Mr. Merriken's death was a great shock to his parents, with whom he lived at 1807 Rutland Ave.

Dr. William T. Riley, coroner of the Central district, made a thorough investigation of the case and issued a certificate of death due to suicide. Mr. Merriken had bench room on the third floor of Mr. Schminke's establishment. He is reported to have been in a despondent mood for several days. Police officers making an investigation of the case were informed by Mrs. Verney Schmidt, 1759 Gorsuch Ave., that on the night of Nov. 24 Mr. Merriken called her several times on the telephone and told her that "he was going to end it all."

Mrs. Schmidt attempted to locate the point from where the telephone message was sent but she was unsuccessful. Friday morning she went to the Baltimore street address but found the place locked. This was before 8 o'clock. A few minutes later, H. T. Brown, 400 N. Strieker St., and Raymond Breutigan, 1800 N. Durham St., employes of the Schminke establishment arrived. When they went to the third floor they found Mr. Merriken lying on the floor with the end of a gas hose in his mouth. He had been dead for several hours.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 30th November 1921

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JOSEPH CASTELBERG

J. Castelberg & Son, Baltimore


DEATH OF JOS. CASTELBERG

Prominent Baltimore Jeweler Fatally Injured in an Elevator Accident at His Home

Baltimore, Md., Sept. 3.–Hundreds of friends of Joseph Castelberg, directing head of the jewelry firm of J. Castelberg & Son, Lexington St. and Park Ave., were shocked this week to learn of his tragic death through an elevator accident. Mr. Castelberg, who was nearly as well known in New York as he was in his home city, was injured fatally when he was crushed in an elevator Monday night in the Emersonian Apartments, Eutaw Pi. and Park drive. He died six hours later at Hebrew Hospital.

Mr. Castelbcrg's legs were crushed and surgeons at the hospital amputated the left leg in an effort to save the jeweler's life. The accident to the jeweler was witnessed by his wife, Mrs. Nellie Castelberg and Miss Sadie Sinsheimer. Mr. and Mrs. Castelberg and Miss Sinsheimer had attended a moving-picture performance and were returning to the Castelberg home shortly before midnight. The ladies entered the elevator and as Mr. Castelberg was stepping from the corridor to the lift, the cage started upward. Mr. Castelberg was thrown forward and his legs were crushed between the upper walls and the cage. The lift was operated by a colored woman, who subsequently was arrested. Mrs. Castelberg and Miss Sinsheimer almost collapsed at sight of the accident. The jeweler was removed to the hospital and Drs. Louis Diener, Alfred Ullman, E. G. Bennet operated. One leg was mangled so badly that it was amputated immediately. The patient died at 6:30 A. M. A rigid investigation was begun by Coroner J. Knox Insley.

Mr. Castelberg was one of this city's foremost jewelers. His business was one of the largest south of New York and for many years he directed every detail of his varied business enterprises. He was head of the firm which bears his name and was directing owner of the Castelberg National Jewelry Co., with branches in several cities. He was born in Baltimore 57 years ago and entered the jewelry business with his father when he was a youth. On his graduation from the Baltimore City College he became most closely identified with his father's business.

Surviving the deceased are his widow, who was Miss Nellie Adler before her marriage, and three children–Joseph Castelberg, Jr., Harold and Claire Castelberg. Henry Castelberg, of this city is a brother. His sisters are Mrs. Harry Rodman, of New York, Mrs. Joseph Meyers of New York, Mrs. Samuel Heller and Mrs. Albert Wildman of Baltimore.

Mr. Castelberg was identified with many business enterprises in this city. He was a director of the Baltimore Commercial Bank, the Equitable Trust Co., the Southern Hotel, the New Amsterdam Casualty Co., and part owner of several motionpicture theatres. He was a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Moose, the Clover Club, the Surburban Club and Eutaw Place Temple.

The funeral services were held Thursday morning from his home and were conducted by the Rev. Dr. William Rosenau. The active pallbearers were Abraham Rodberg, Jacob Hornstein, Abraham Kink and Maurice Koenigsberg of Baltimore, and Simon Arnstein and Arthur Simon of New York. The honorary pallbearers included United States Senator O. E. Weller, ex-Mayor James H. Preston, Col. Charles Consolvo. E. L. Norton, T. Rowland, Thomas Gwynn Crowthers, E. B. Jeffery, Webster Bell and J. L. Swope. Burial was in Hebrew Friendship Cemetery.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 7th September 1921

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PHILADELPHIA RAILROAD DISASTER


Railroad Wreck Causes Many Deaths

Two Young Women Employed by Philadelphia, Pa., Jewelry Concerns Killed and Watchmaker Injured in Head-on Collision on Philadelphia & Reading

Philadelphia, Pa., Dec. 6.–Two young women employed by Philadelphia jewelry firms perished and a watchmaker employed here was injured in a head-on collision between two passenger trains on the Newtown branch of the Philadelphia & Reading Railway yesterday morning at Woodmont, Pa., which resulted in the deaths of 28 persons and injuries to more than a score of others.

Those connected with the local jewelry business who died in the wreck were:

Mrs. Morris Van Hart, 30 years old, Southampton, Pa.; employed at the jewelry store of E. H. Kauffman, 1016 Chestnut St

Miss Lena George, 22 years old, Churchville, Pa.; employed by the firm of M. Sickles & Son, 900 Chestnut St.

A watchmaker, Forrest Edelman of Southampton, Pa., was cut about the leg but not seriously injured.

The scene of the wreck, which was one of the worst in the history of the Reading Railway, is two miles above Bryn Athyn and 17 miles from this city.

The express train from Newtown, on which Mrs. Van Hart, Miss George and Mr. Edelman were riding, was filled with commuters and reached Southampton about 7.50 A. M. The Newtown road is a single track line, following the course of the Pennypack Creek through a wooded section, in which there are several deep cuts.

Four hundred yards below Woodmont station there is a sharp curve and just beyond the curve is a deep cut. At this point there are rocks on both sides of the road 30 feet high and with less than five feet of "play" on either side

It was in this cut that the express train and a train from Philadelphia met head on. The two engines reared and one fell back upon a coach. The first car of the Newtown train was crushed into kindling wood. A fire started a minute after the crash. Mrs. Van Hart and Miss George were among the commuters in the wooden coach directly behind the locomotive of the Newtown train; and it is believed that they were penned in the burning coach and burned to death. Many others were killed at the same time while others were pinnioned in the wreckage and never had a chance to escape the oncoming flames. The screams of the injured could be heard for a great distance. Men and women who escaped from the wreckage with slight injuries ran aimlessly over the snowy fields screaming and shouting for help.

The telegraph operator at Bryn Athyn station was notified and calls for aid were sent out. Physicians and nurses were summoned from nearby towns and the fire companies from Hatboro, Southampton, Bethayres, McKinley and Ashbourne arrived Ambulances were also sent from the Abington Hospital to assist in the rescue work.

The injured were carried away in every sort of vehicle and rushed to the Abington Hospital. At 11.30 A. M. the firemen were still playing streams upon the burning coaches but the flames were under control and I5 minutes later the removal of bodies was started.

Many of the bodies, burned to a crisp, were removed to the morgue at Jenkintown, Pa., where some of them were identified by relatives. The bodies of Mrs. Van Hart and Miss George have not been found and it is believed that they were burned or crushed to bits in the wreck. Morris Van Hart, husband of the woman employed by E. H. Kauffman, 1016 Chestnut St., visited the morgue at Jenkintown but was unable to find the slightest trace of his wife.

An unsuccessful attempt to identify Miss Lena George of Churchville was made by her sisters, Mrs. Mayme Barclow and Miss Anna George.

"I could never make out anything from that terrible sight I have just seen," sobbed Mrs. Barclow as she hurried away from the morgue.

A vivid description of the scene following the wreck was told by Forrest Edelman, a watchmaker, a passenger on the train which was on its way to this city.

"I and many others were in the rear car of the Newtown train," said Mr. Edelmen. "When the crash came we were hurled from our seats. The conductor was knocked flat on his back and almost senseless. At first we had no thought of the real serious nature of the crash and we aided in bringing him around. Then we heard cries from up ahead, heard the hiss of steam, and I called to all the men who were not hurt to come and see what we could do for the injured.

"When we got up front and saw the piled up wreckage and the fire spreading, I knew and so did the others, that many persons were dead or doomed to die in that hell of fire, twisted metal and boiling, hissing steam. We got several out, but were driven back from the cars by the fire."

Mr. Edelman, who is employed in this city as a watchmaker, is widely known here in the trade. He was formerly employed by H. O. Hurlburt & Sons, 813 Chestnut St., and was also employed for a time in Dover, Del.

The news of the horrible fate of the two young women employed by the Chestnut St. jewelry firms came as a terrible shock to their employers. Mrs. Van Hart had been in the employ of E. H. Kauffman, 1016 Chestnut St., for 12 years. At the age of 18 the young woman, whose maiden name was Emma L. Leiner, was employed by Mr. Kauffman. She is a sister of William Leiner, manager of the jewelry department of Stern & Co., an installment house, Market St., near 7th St. Prior to entering the employ of Mr. Kauffman she assisted her brother, who was then in the jewelry business on Kensington Ave., this city.

"I can't tell you how much grieved I was to hear of the terrible death of Mrs. Van Hart," said Mr. Kauffman. "She was a fine woman and was in my employ for 12 years. Many times she took care of the store while I was away and at one time looked after my business for a whole month while I was sick. Mrs. Van Hart knew the jewelry business from beginning to end She was thoroughly familiar with all phases of the business and could give an estimate on a watch job as good as any jeweler I have ever known; and in addition to that understood mounting and engraving. She was an engraver herself, being a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Horology."

A high tribute to Miss Lena George was paid by employes and members of the firm of M. Sickles & Sons, 9th and Chestnut Sts. The young woman had been in the employ of the firm for more than three years. She was a bill clerk in the receiving department which is in charge of Elmer L. Horn. Like Mrs. Van Hart she had an amiable disposition and was a favorite with the other employes in the store.

She left the store Saturday evening in time to catch the 5.46 train at Reading Terminal to go home. Ordinarily I would have taken the 6.23 train but got permission from Mr. Horn to take the earlier train because she wished to attend a church supper with her mother in Churchville. Miss George made her home with her mother and father one-half mile on the outskirts of Churchville. She had several brothers and sisters.

An investigation to fix responsibility for the wreck was started today by officials of the Reading Railway, representatives of the Interstate Commerce and State Public Service Commissions. Coroner William Neville of Montgomery County is also conducting an investigation.

"Gross violation" of definite running orders and an ignored block signal were responsible for the Bryn Athyn wreck, according to a statement issued by Charles H. Ewing, vice-president of the Reading Railway, today.

Mr. Ewing's statement was made today at the beginning of the inquiry into the wreck of the Reading Terminal, at which officials of the road and members of the train crews were present.

He pointed out that the northbound train was given an order to take a siding for the southbound express to pass.

Notwithstanding the train left without waiting for the southbound train, in violation of the order and of the block signal properly displayed at this point.

"We are wholly at loss to account for this gross violation of the order and rules," said Mr. Ewing, "except that it was an unexplainable failure of the human agencies."

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th December 1921

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ARMIN H. BLOCK

New York


A case of suicide was reported to the police last Thursday morning when the body of Armin H.Block, a dealer in watches and jewelry, 9 Maiden Lane, was found stretched on a bed in a furnished room at 546 W. 147th St. The body was found by two men who called at Mr. Block's room shortly after 10:30 o'clock last Thursday morning. According to the medical examination death was caused by cyanide of potassium and occurred about an hour before the body was discovered. The body was later identified as that of Mr. Block by the owner of the rooming house. Mr. Block was born in Hungary and was 43 years old. He was a watchmaker by trade. For some years past, however, he has been devoting his time to dealing in watches and jewelry.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 28th June 1922

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JAMES KAY

Long Island, New York


A man believed to be James Kay, who is said to be a retired jeweler of this city, is reported to have shot his landlady last Friday and then fleeing to a dock at Whitestone, L. I., jumped overboard and was apparently drowned. The reported shooting took place at a house on 28th St., Whitestone, where Mr. Kay had been living for about one year. Mr. Kay was a bachelor and was 62 years old. The harbor police dragged the river for the body but it could not be found.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 31st August 1921

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ABRAHAM HARRIS

New York


JEWELER MURDERED

Abraham Harris, New York Retailer, Bound, Gagged and Then Killed by Two Thugs Who Escape

For the second time within less than three months, a New York jeweler has been murdered by bandits, the latest victim being Abraham Harris, a retail jeweler at 2268 Eighth Ave. Mr. Harris met his death between 9.15 and 9.30 last Friday morning, when two bandits, who later made their escape with only a small quantity of jewelry, fired two shots into his body. The murder was apparently committed only after the jeweler had partly succeeded in loosening the wires which bound him to a chair and had fired one shot at his assailants.

Just what circumstances led up to the brutal murder is all a matter of speculation, although it is practically conceded that the men who committed the deed were amateurs. This theory is borne out by the fact that the men only took a small quantity of cheap jewelry valued at several hundred dollars and left behind them a large quantity of more valuable merchandise. Only from the condition in which the dead jeweler was found are the police able to build up their story.

Mr. Harris's living quarters consisted of two rooms, located in the rear of the store, where only he and his pet bull dog lived. It was the jeweler's custom to open his store about 9 o'clock each morning, and after unlocking the entrance door he usually began taking his stock from the safe and arranging it in the show window and display cases. The store is located at the point where Columbus and Eighth Aves. join at 121st St. and where people and traffic are continually passing by the door.

It is believed that while Mr. Harris was busy arranging his stock the bandits entered and shoved the jeweler into one of the living rooms in the rear. There they bound him to a chair with pieces of wire and then gagged him with his own necktie.

While the men were gathering their loot, it is supposed Mr. Harris loosened himself enough to reach his own revolver and fired a shot either at the bandits or in an effort to give an alarm. It is then believed that the crooks became frightened at the jeweler's determination to fight or give an alarm and fired two shots at Mr. Harris, one bullet hitting him in the chest and the other in the side of the neck. Probably without any more delay the crooks grabbed what loot they had gathered and ran from the store.

It was while they were running from the establishment that two negroes passed the door, and becoming suspicious walked into the place. When the jeweler did not appear to wait on them the negroes went to the hardware store which adjoins Mr. Harris's place of business and informed the proprietor that they suspected something was wrong. They then called Policeman Broderick, who was stationed at 122nd St. and Eighth Ave., and in company with the officer went into the store, where they discovered the body of Mr. Harris lying on the floor in one of the rear rooms, entangled with wire and beside a chair. The body was being guarded by the jeweler's pet bull dog, who at the approach of the officer and the negroes began growling. After considerable difficulty, the trio finally succeeded in getting the dog away from his dead master and led him to another part of the room, where he was tied.

Detectives from the West 123rd St. station were immediately notified, and after examining the body it was taken to the morgue, where it was finally identified by the jeweler's brother and taken to the home of his parents.

Shortly after the body was discovered, Captain Haupt, Sergeant Hyam and detectives Gompers and Walsh were busy working on the case, but as yet have failed to make any arrests. The robbers left no clue, not even a fingerprint, and except for the scant description given by the negroes, the police have nothing to work on. One of the robbers is described as about 5 feet 8 inches tall, while his companion is believed to be about 6 feet in height. One wore a dark overcoat, while the other one wore a light overcoat.

Just before going to press it was learned by a reporter of The Jewelers' Circular that the only loot taken by the thieves included 12 cheap plated watch chains and three inexpensive rings mounted with imperfect diamonds. The entire loot, it is estimated, was not worth any more than $100.

The funeral of Mr. Harris took place last Sunday from Meyers Funeral Parlors, at 228 Lenox Ave. Burial was in Cypress Hills Cemetery.

Mr. Harris was 42 years old and is survived by his parents and three brothers.

The murder caused great excitement in the business district of Harlem.

Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th March 1921

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