NJ PROBATION COLLECTION: RANK SET OF ESSEX PROBATION BADGES

Essex County (N.J.) is where I grew up. It was where I started a career in probation in 1965. I had to purchase my own badge, due to budgetary issues, back then. Over the years I bought more than one. It is only natural that I obtained these badges from this department as part of my collection.

The four shields pictured represent the rank groups that were authorized badges. The four ranks are: Officer, Principal Officer, Assistant Chief, and Chief. These were the only badges issued in a uniform manor, with appropriate record keeping in place.

Prior to this issue of the pictured badges a few shields were purchased by the department, or officer, and recycled. This practice died in the 60's. From then until the late 80's everyone was on their own. Some officers did not have badges, but most purchased 'something.'

Uniformity was non existent. Officers purchased what they liked or what they could afford. The department maintained no records of these private purchases. In the late 1980's that changed, as the department approved the design in the badges pictured here. Records were also kept.

H Buchlien & Son made the badges in this rank set. They made the official badges from the mid 80's until 1994. Hard to believe that was fifteen years ago when the County probation departments became part of a State run system. The State took about a year or so to issue their own badge rendering these beauties obsolete.

There are not many collectors of probation badges. That makes obtaining them extremely difficult, but it also makes those that have been acquired a true treasure. These four have a prominent spot, under glass in my museum, and certainly bring back fond memories.

THE OLD COURTESY CARD

How many times have you heard someone say that they got pulled over for doing 98 in 25 mph zone, or something like that. Usually they exaggerate a little because, as they explain: "I had my old courtesy card my friend gave me." "The officer let me go with a warning."

Well in my life I never got pulled over for speeding. At least I won't admit it. My memory is very fuzzy on such subjects. I had to use my own cars to do the job. I had at fist a Chevy S/S with "four on the floor." I later graduated to the slick Pontiac Firebird. This one had an automatic "tranny" with the shift in a neat floor console. These cars could do a lot better than 98 mph, but there weren't many locations to do better than the speed limit,, except out on the highways.

There were a few major roads that skirted the City Limits. Down by the airport US 1, US 22 and The NJ Turnpike all came together. Newark Police patrolled these highways and effectively deterred speeders. The City was serious about this so, instead of buying the usual Ford or Chevy, the City spent some real dollars and purchased a couple of Chrysler 300's, with five speed manual transmissions. I understand these cars were outrun by nobody.

My specialty was parking. As a Probation Officer I found it necessary to park illegally in order to do the job, especially in Newark. It was just not safe to find a legal spot to park your car, and then walk a half block or so, to a poorly maintained 'walk up,' unlighted, multiple family castle. In situations like this the "Courtesy Card" was of no help, an official placard on the windshield only invited trouble, and occasionally the "ticket patrol" got you.

If you parked legally on the job there was a good chance you could lose your car. Newark on a few occasions has lead national statistics for auto theft. In addition to simple theft of a your vehicle there was a very real possibility of having the car vandalized. While you were interviewing some druggie in his lavish palace, his neighborhood pals could be: cutting tire valves, breaking a window, mirror, antenna, taking the battery, or just running a screw driver along the side of the car. This was common practice on the streets of Newark, and you had to find ways to deal with it. On many occasions the illegal parking spot was a good choice.

The logic behind unsanctioned illegal parking was for the officer (usually working solo) to get in, and get out as quick as possible. Do the job, and don't hang there any longer than necessary.

The problem with this tactic was the occasionally ticket. Dealing with that was preferred over losing the car. In these situations a sympathetic judge was better than the old courtesy card. Pictured above is a really old "NJ State P.B.A." card for local 3. This card was for "Honorary Membership" for the year 1945. It is in "like new" condition and, while not a badge, has a spot in my collection.

The badge, also pictured above, is "supposedly" from the "gang" that patrolled the parking meters around City Hall. It too is in excellent condition, although I have my doubts about it being authentic. I have had it close to thirty years so I think I will keep it as it reminds me of a few tickets obtained around City Hall, and Newark Municipal Court.

NEWARK COLLECTOR DELIVERED GET WELL CAKE FROM 1500 MILES AWAY

In the Sep. - Oct. edition of PC News, this writer displayed a picture of a badge from "Dreamland" in Newark, N.J. With the picture was a story about the famous Newark Roller Skating arena, that was turned into a Senior Citizen Home. The seniors had at least one guard to watch out for them, and that guards badge made its way into "the collection" about thirty years ago. It is from the late 1940's.

A fellow collector of Newark Badges saw the article and sent a very nice note regarding his memories of the area, and his responding as a Newark Police Officer to that location on many occasions. He is Frank Doneghy.

Since sending that note he and I have been trading emails. The badge talk has sparked memories of different people we both knew. Sharing those conversations, 1500 miles apart, has made the badge collector world move a little closer for both of us.

In Frank's last email he told me he was getting a "knee job" up near his home in Jersey. The surgery as I hear went well, and I surprised him with this cake.

My daughter, Denise, gave it to him as she is the nurse on his case. He was sure surprised with the explanation as to who arranged this Get Well Cake for him. I certainly hope it lifts his spirits.

FOR MARY: "YOUR BOSS IS CRAZY"

It was a cold November day when I heard a voice behind me in the County Parking Deck. The man calling said: "I have something for you." He opened his briefcase and he handed me two fine badges for the collection he admired - mine.

One of the "contributions" is pictured above. I showed it in a previous article. It's a Newark Hat Badge that was used roughly 1900 to 1920, and is in excellent condition.

The second badge was issued to the man prior to his appointment to the Superior Court. He is still a sitting Judge so it might be wise not to display that second badge here. He gave me these badges because of donations I made to the Newark FOP Museum.

I appreciated these gifts so when Christmas rolled around I just had to repay 'his honor'. I knew exactly what would make him happy - A badge that read NJ Superior Court and his name on top. I put it in a small box and had his secretary place it in the middle of his desk. I told her: "Don't say who brought this over (to his chambers).

Within 15 minutes my secretary, Mary, came into my office with a message. She said, "The Judge" called and said to her that: "Your boss is 'f........ crazy." That meant he knew where his little present came from, and that he liked it. He even took me out for lunch.

Both badges are secured under glass. They always remind me of that cold November when I got them, and that unique message acknowledging the gift. They also remind me of Mary. She ran my office, always watched my back, and helped me survive in my job.

I was lost when she resigned for greener pastures. That's life. We talked to each other to catch up on things once or twice a year. She even visited my home in Florida after I retired. Mary was a good woman, and a friend.

A couple of years ago during the Thanksgiving holiday she became a homicide victim. So much for greener pastures. What a shock, and what horrible timing. Then again there never is a good time to become another victim.

As Thanksgiving approaches I'll think of the good times when this fine lady worked for me. I'll also think of her when I look at a couple of very special badges in my little collection.

CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE - 1968

Looking at the badges in my collection frequently brings up memories. These two are no different. They are not a matching set, but close. The Hat Badge is stamped number "4," and the beautiful "Inspector's Badge" is numbered "24." Both of these items clearly show the City Seal of Newark, NJ. They are under glass with my other badges collected over the years from the City of Newark.

These items as I understand it are for non fireman within the Newark Fire Department. They date back to the late 1960's, and were used by officers who primarily focused on fire risk evaluation. When I first obtained them, I had the thought that this was from the "Arson Squad."

Today when I look at these badges a memory pops up that has absolutely nothing to do with these badges. The thought that the writer gets is the fires of 1968, and the role of a member of Newark's Fire Department.

Martin Luther King was murdered that year, and across the nation there was concern that people could become unruly. A good friend told me his father, a fireman with NFD, warned of dangers that could follow the burial of the civil rights leader. He was correct.

As my friend has told me many times his father was home in the Vailsburg section of the City when the call came. He was assigned to Engine 12, located at Belmont Ave and Waverly Street. The old Fire House is pictured above. It is now empty. The street names have also been changed. They are now Irvine Turner Blvd and Muhammad Ali Way.

Once the call came my friends' Dad reported to the Fire House at Sandford Ave. and Palm Street. There he rode Engine 6C to a fire at So. Orange Ave, and Howard St. They responded to a house fire. Their Engine was the second to arrive at the scene.

My friends' Dad led a hose team to the second floor of a previously burned out building. It was filled with smoke. As he moved forward he stepped on a carpet that covered a hole in the floor. He fell through striking a rafter, dislocating a shoulder and literally hung over the flames below, until help arrived.

The man survived and returned to work but in a new assignment. He was now an Arson Investigator. This was his job for the next 14 years.

Today he has his retirement badge, and there is no way he is going to part with it. I understand what it means to him. The items above will just have to continue to remind me of 1968, and the numerous incidents that took place during this time frame. Shots were fired, and fires were set; but this time it was lightly reported, and when it was, it was called just a matter of some Civil Disobedience.

By the way I did get a badge from the Arson Investigators son. It took a lot of nagging and a couple of threats. It's all part of collecting.

NON TRADITIONAL BADGES FROM NEWARK

Believe it or not these two badges have made their way into my collection of Newark badges.

The first one (below) is an impressive little wallet badge that is solid backed, with proper hallmark. It reads: "Div of Water, Dept of Public Works, Plumbing Investigator, NJ." In the center is a worn City of Newark Seal that is still easy to read.

I chuckle thinking of someone banging on a door in Newark stating: "Plumbing Investigator, I am here to check your pipes." If they did, they warrant appreciation for there efforts.

This second badge (upper right) was made for a Newark Municipal Court Judge. It was acquired over 20 years ago, and is believed to have never been issued to "His Honor." Reportedly the man was appointed to a higher court, and this item was left behind undelivered. It was an inexpensive purchase from the manufacturer, and yet one that is a great addition to the writers Newark Collection.

The design appears to be very old, and has blue enamel lettering, and, of course, a City of Newark Seal. Even though the design appears old this badge is probably no more than 25 -30 years of age.

1900 NEWARK HAT BADGE

Here is a dandy old Newark Hat Badge.

I recall obtaining it in the mid 1990's "in appreciation" for a couple of donations I made to the F.O.P. Museum. I got this gift in a rainy parking lot in New Brunswick, NJ. Strange how the badge made its' way through time and geography to become part of my Newark Collection.

These hat badges originally came on the scene around 1900 and stayed in service approximately twenty years (1921). It is in excellent condition, although not quite as bright as in the picture.

Just above the large numbers (493) is a panel that contains the words: "Liberty and Prosperity." Above that panel is a clear view of a Seal. This is the State Seal of N.J. On most Newark items the City Seal is used.

This one for having survived all these years deserves and has received a nice spot "under glass" in my own personal museum.

CIVIL DEFENSE BADGES

These badges are from the World War II - Korea era. They were issued to those who were members of Bayonne and Newark's "Civil Defense - Auxillary." These units were retired in the 1960's, and there are a good number of surviving badges around for collectors.

In 1977 this collector was lucky enough to secure three of badges that were used in Newark. The best of the lot is one of the two pictured above. It is stamped: Auxiliary, Civil Defense, Newark, N.J. and numbered 1177. The center is rounded with the words: Police Dept.

The writer likes the number, but would have preferred it to be 1277 as it reminds me of the acquisition of daughter number five. Laura (LJ) was a year ending present for me, while the badge came earlier that year. Needless to say I am proud of both LJ and the badge.

The other Civil Defense badges from Newark are not in the same good condition. Their finish is worn and "flat." As a result they do not make for a good picture. That is unfortunate as there is a difference in the center of the badge. There is a lightly stamped triangle in the center. This was the logo or symbol used by N.J. Civil Defense organizations.

The Bayonne badge was acquired in 1985 from an officer the writer helped with some 'home work' for a criminal justice class at Rutgers. It was a non cash deal, and one that made us both very happy.

Bayonne, apparently had more dollars to spend on their badge, ordered a color seal for the center. The color seal is unusual for this design badge. It typically has a plated state seal in that location. While it is nice to look at, it is believed that this seal was added latter.

Both of the above badges, and my daughter, remain "keepers."

NEWARK RIOT: MAJOR OLAFF'S TELEGRAM ORDERING STATE POLICE TO NEWARK RIOT

This will be the final article regarding the Newark Riots. The pictures above are of the present day main entrance to the Roseville Armory. This location is where the New Jersey State Police assemble to assist in riot control. The armory was also used to hold "overflow" prisoners. The number in custody strained the system for weeks after the riot was over. The badge on the left was issued by the Essex County Sheriff who at the time ran the jail. This badge may have been used by officers at the "Newark Street Jail." It also may have preceded the riots. It is quite old and in excellent condition. The Newark Fire Department badge pictured is part of my "Newark Collection." It was given to me by a Fireman who took it into retirement, and then became a probation officer. Little is said about the Newark Fire Department. and their role in 1967 riot. This is unfortunate as they were always in the pit, and they sure had their casualties. The writer has no idea as to how many fires were reported. From what I have been told there were more than a few. Under normal conditions fighting a fire is no easy task, but with the disturbance in Newark it was even tougher. Rocks and bottles were thrown at responding firemen. Crowds hindered their response. They were even shot at. The City of Newark in general, Police and Fire Departments in particular, needed help. The first group to assist was the New Jersey State Police, followed by the N.J. National Guard. I searched the web for information on those "nasty" days back in 1967, and located a telegram sent by Major Eugene Olaff. He was the Operations Officer for the New Jersey State Police. It was his command that sent the Troopers to Newark. A "word for word copy" of his telegram is at the end of this article. It took 40 years, and the "world wide web", to read what has been reported here. I never saw or heard of the "Olaff Telegram" before; but I was well aware of the "Troopers" presence in Newark. I recall a boarded up store on Avon ave. near So. 18th Street. There was spray painting, on the plywood covering the window openings, with the words: "These windows 'shot out' by State Police." Knowing the neighborhood it is assumed that, if true, there must have been good reason for this action. The telegram makes for good reading. The Troopers certainly knew where they were headed, and were well equipped. Even the toll keepers were alerted, and instructed to "allow toll free use" on the Garden State Parkway. This document reveals the seriousness of Newark's situation in mid July 1967. Over 100 cars were deployed to Newark with 3 men to a car. As the riot continued the N.J. National Guard was also ordered to assist the City gain control and restore order. They sent 3000 Guardsmen. After the 5th day the "riot" was "officially" considered over. Newark would never experience an event like this again. Of course the word "riot" has been replaced with new words - "Civil Disturbance." Future articles may touch on "disturbances" in 1968; But for now this series will end. As it reaches its conclusion remember the names of: Detective Frederick Toto, and Fire Captain Michael Moran. They were both shot while on duty in this riot. Think of them as you read Major Olaff's order sending the N.J. State Police to Newark on July 14, 1967.

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NEWARK RIOTS - OLAFF TELEGRAM

N.J.S.P. JULY 14, 1967

TO: COMMANDERS TROOPS “A,” “B,” and “C” SECTION CHIEFS DIV HDQTRS TROOPS “D” & “E” FOR YOUR INFO

YOU ARE HEREBY DIRECTED TO ACTIVATE 2 CROWD CONTROL UNITS EACH/100 TROOPERS AND RELATED ARREST TEAMS/ AND PROCEED IMMEDIATELY TO THE ROSEVILLE ARMORY, NEWARK NJ – 3 MEN PER CAR. 25 BLACK AND WHITE AND 10 UNMARKED /35 CARS PER TROOP.

ROUTE OF TRAVEL, NORTH ON THE GARDEN STATE PARKWAY TO EXIT NBR 145 CENTRAL AVE. TURN RIGHT/EAST ON CENTRAL AVE FOR 15 CITY BLOCK OR APPROXIMATELY ONE MILE TO ROSEVILLE ARMORY…APPROACH AREA WITH CAUTION….

WHEN USING THE PARKWAY ADVISE TOLL COLLECTORS THAT YOU ARE ON THE NEWARK EMERGENCY PROGRAM, TOLL FREE AUTHORIZED BY LT. CLARK OF THE PARKWAY

TURNPIKE WILL ALLOW TOLL FREE USE AUTHORIZED BY LT NAWROCKI OF THE TURNPIKE.

ALL TROOPS WILL BE FULLY EQUIPPED FOR RIOT CONTROL DUTY AND BE PROPERLY PREPARED TO STAY FOR AN INDETERMINATE PERIOD. TROOP EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT TRAILER WILL ACCOMPANY THE CROWD CONTROL UNIT TO THE ARMORY.

ALL EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT INCLUDING M-1 RIFLES – SHOTGUNS – REISINGS AND RELATED AMMUNITION - TEAR GAS AND ALL RIOT HELMETS ISSUED TO YOUR COMMANDS WILL ACCOMPANY YOUR UNIT

ALL PASSES ARE HEREBY CANCELLED, INSTITUTE RECALL PROCEDURES IMMEDIATELY.

BY ORDER OF THE SURPERINTENDENT

E. OLAFF, MAJOR, OPERATIONS OFFICER

NEWARK RIOT: NPD'S LOG OF RADIO TRANSMISSIONS DURING NEWARK RIOT

This will be the third of four articles pertaining to the 1967 riots in Newark, NJ. In an earlier story I displayed the above "Communications Officer" badge. It relates to this article so it is getting an encore. Also pictured is the "South District" Station House. It was the location of the "Radio Repair" shop where my father worked for a few years. The old "shop" is through the driveway and on the right (by parked white car). The main door to this precinct was on West Bigelow St. Note how the first floor has its' windows "sealed tight." That wasn't the case in 1967. These pictures were taken this year, but they still look like those that I have stored in my mind. The remaining picture is of an old fire house at Belmont Ave. and Waverly St. IT is no longer active, however it got heavy use during the riot. N.F.D. had trucks fighting as many fires as possible under the worst conditions. At many of the fire locations Fire fighters were attacked by mobs when they responded to a call. The attacks got worse when they attempted to move equipment in to put out fires. Rocks, stones, bottles were thrown at them. At some locations they couldn't work until police cleared the area. When this riot was declared "over" there were twenty-six people dead. Among those who died were: Detective Frederick Toto - Shot by a sniper at Springfield Ave. and Broom St. He died of his wounds in St. Michael's Hospital. Fire Captain Michael Moran - He was assigned to one of the above pictured Fire Houses. He was at the end of the ladder, checking the roof fire of a burning building, when a sniper's bullet fatally wounded him. There were no arrests in either case. The Newark Star Ledger has posted actual notes from "Radio Calls" during the early days of the riot. This drew my attention because of my fathers prior involvement with N.P.D.'s "Radio Transmitter," and his assignment to "Radio Repair." I enjoyed reading several pages the notes kept in the Chief's office. They ultimately lead to the request for backup. Although brief these notes are quite to the point. In the space of a couple hours the notes state: "Looting," "Officer injured," "Use firearms if necessary," to "Man shot..." Newark was in a state of war. These notes present a vivid picture of what was happening in those initial days of the Riot. The original notes were hand written. The section below is a typed portion of those notes.

*****

A SAMPLE OF COMMUNICATION NOTES

COPIED FROM LOG IN CHIEF OLIVER KELLY’S OFFICE

JULY 13, 1967 PRIOR TO INVOLVEMENT OF

NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE

July 13, 1967

9:34 p Store being looted at West Kinney and Livingston. This information received via radio transmission

9:42p Radio transmission advises store at 180 Spruce (liquor store) being looted

9:46p Radio transmission windows being broken at Thomas and Broad.

9:52p Radio transmission looting at Morris and 15^th Ave (Tavern)

9:55p Radio transmission Molotov cocktail being used at Springfield and Bergen

10:00p Radio transmission store being looted at Springfield and Hunterdon

10:02p Radio transmission furniture store going up at Springfield and Morris

11:50p Radio transmission Officer injured

11:51p Radio transmission Hold up and robbery at J & BAvon

11:55 Mayor appraised

July 14, 1967

12:16a Radio transmission Chief …to protect men in field..that is to use firearms if necessary

12:31a Radio transmission request help at Springfield and 6^th

12:48a Radio transmission women shot at Springfield and Plum

3:45a Radio transmission car 45A has man shot and four prisoners. Man was shot by police officer

NEWARK RIOT: PLAQUE "COMMEMORATING" 1967 RIOT

This will be the second of four articles regarding the writer's memories of the Newark riots in 1967.

In July 2007 the wife and I celebrated our 4oth wedding anniversary. It was also the 40 year mark for Newark's riots.

The web was a good source for information on the riot. I located a story from the Newark Star Ledger. It told of the City's decision to place a plaque on the wall of the Fourth Police Precinct. Pictured above is Newark's City Hall, where all the political decisions are made, and The Fourth Precinct. This was where the riot erupted.

The police station was on 17th Ave - directly across from, a then high rise, housing project. Back in 1967, acting on "rumors, " an angry crowd gathered in front of the Precinct. They threw rocks, stones and fire bombs at police "spontaneously" igniting the five day riot.

That housing project is now history. I recall watching it be imploded from the County Courts building on the 9th floor. I think that was around 76, 77 or maybe 78. I recall the smoke that clouded the air. That cloud eventually disappeared. Beyond the rubble stood the Police Station House. It still stands. Note the windows have been "bricked" to provide better security. This building is a memorial in its own right.

The City made the decision to mark the spot where the riot started in 2007., It took a year to get the job done. In fact it took over one year. To be precise it was on July 23, 2008 that the plaque was placed on the wall of the "fortress" on 17th Ave.

One might wonder if it is appropriate to commemorate the "beginning" of such a lawless and devastating event. The description below is from the" Ledger." The plaque is pictured below..
..................................................................................................................................

"One year and eleven days after announcing plans for a plaque commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Newark Riots would be installed, Mayor Cory Booker proudly unveiled the finished product during an afternoon ceremony today in front of the Fourth District Police Precinct -- ground zero for an uprising that ripped the city apart.

"On this site on July 12, 1967, there began a civil disturbance that took the lives of twenty-six people and forever changed our city," read the bronze sign. "May this plaque serve as a symbol of our shared humanity and our commitment to seek justice and equality. Dedicated July 12, 2007, by the People of Newark."

NEWARK RIOT: 1967 INSURRECTION REMEMBERED

This writer was just beginning his third year, as a probation officer, assigned to an area designated J-15 on Newark's South Side. The "J" stood for juvenile, and the 15 designated a specific geographical section of the City. Newark had several geographical areas designated for juvenile probation. The crime problem was such, that these geographic sections were measured by City blocks as opposed to miles. The J-15 area had between 89 to 100 juvenile offenders at any given time.

Our Branch Office was "an old medical building." It was located at 32 Johnson Ave. Up the street was South Side H.S. It was renamed Malcolm X. Shabazz H.S. in the late 60's.

Down the street from the office was Peterman's. This was a daily coffee stop. Today it's no longer in business. Back up the street, next to our office, was a six or seven story apartment building. It had a great view of our parking lot.

One afternoon in the early part of 1967 I observed a large amount of glass on the ground near my car. Other officers had also observed this. This "broken bottle" situation occurred about two months prior to the riots. We believed a kid or two were tossing bottles from one of the apartments.

We watched from several of our offices. Finally we saw the window where the bottles where coming from. A call was made to N.P.D. and our Sheriff's office. They responded very quickly, and entered the apartment that was the source of these bottles.

Inside the apartment they found a woman and her two sons. They were "practicing " making, and throwing Molotov cocktails. They also possessed, what was described in 1967 terms, as "radical material."

Around this same time frame the author was assigned an investigation. It was regarding a request from the State of Alabama for "courtesy supervision" of one of their "lads." The kid was only 12. He had "made some mistakes" down South, and a change in scenery was supposed to help. Oh, yeah.

The boy's family had an apartment in the "Clinton Hill" section. This was going to be a routine acceptance for out of state supervision. Everything checked out, except the kids "s.o.b." brother for whom I immediately disliked. He had a knife that was unacceptable even in 1967. One knife confiscated. That should have been the end of story, but there is more.

In July this writer observed a news paper headline while in the Bahamas (honeymoon time). The paper read: "RIOT"S IN NEWARK." It was no surprise.

By time the honeymoon was over the death toll was "officially" just under 30. A Newark Police Officer, and a Newark Fireman were among the dead.

Returning to work in late July another investigation was assigned to me. It came with a request from the State of Alabama as to the "status" of the young boy they shipped off to Newark. Along with the assignment was a LIFE Magazine. It was dated July 28, 1967. The cover showed the body of "guess who?" It was the same 12 year old boy checked out a couple of months earlier. He was now laying on a street in Newark, a shooting victim of the riots. The life magazine is pictured above.

LIFE Magazine did not report that the boy only had minor injuries. He was treated for superficial wounds. He was released from the hospital a few days later. In professional jargon the state of Alabama was advised that their interest was: "Alive and well, and raising hell." A lot of people were raising hell!

There were so many arrests that the Newark Street Jail was bursting. This was a County facility located in the City. It is pictured above as it stands today. It closed decades ago. The outside Wall looks stable, but the inside is rubble.

The Roseville Armory, also inside the City, was pressed into service to handle the "overflow" arrests. The prisoner population exceeded the 1000 mark. The Courts ran overtime to free up space at the holding sights for fear of another riot inside.

Any kind of story got you out of jail back then. On the lighter side there was a defendant charged with pushing a refrigerator away from an appliance store at "2:00 am." He explained, to the judge, that: " I bought it this afternoon, but they don't deliver."

The City looked like hell. It was going to take forever to bring Newark back. As a result of Newark's insurrection during that hot July in 1967: Cars were burned; Houses were burned; City blocks were burned; Windows were smashed; Businesses were looted; People disappeared: and in the end People died.

NEWARK DETECTIVE BADGE

The year was 1976, and it was a great year. Three (maybe four) good things happened, and I remember them well.

First, my fourth daughter, Cindy, was born on March 27, 1976. The way I count she is now 29. She lives across the mighty Hudson River in N.Y.C. (Manhattan).

When not busy Cindy provides that "technical help" that I need to do articles about my collection, and memories. She also carries a badge. It's in a nice black leather case engraved "Officer's Daughter." She thinks the ID case is a great place to hold her drivers license.

The Second good thing that I recall in 1976 was, shortly after my wife brought Cindy home from the hospital, I surprised them with a wonderful gift. It was a puppy. My wife was just "thrilled." The kids liked the "doggie" as much as I did. They believed the little "pooch" was going to grow to be a "police dog," and would protect them. Years later they discovered that, this red haired dog was: A Beer Drinking Irish Setter. I still liked her. The kids did too. My wife continued to be "thrilled," and she often talks about that dog today.

The third item of importance during 1976 was, according to my notes, was the acquisition of the above pictured badge. It is a gold finish Detectives' Shield from Newark Police.

My first impression of that badge was that it wasn't finished right. The Detective Badges that I saw were similar, but had blue enamel "trim." It needed a paint job

I have since learned that this design was an earlier edition of today' s N.P.D.'s Detective Badges. The picture does not do it justice. It is in excellent condition, and is "under glass" hanging where I can see it everyday.

Oh, that last item. I remember it. It was another year where my expense account was not audited!

HORSE TO RADIO

The "Guy" on the horse is my Dad. It was taken in the 1920'.



The picture is a "modern day" reprint and looks good.

Of course the author is a tad biased on that point.

From the stories I recall hearing as a boy, my father had a "radio license." In 1934 the Newark Police initiated "radio transmissions" between a dispatcher and the old "Black and Whites" a transfer was made. I am not sure if this was a requested transfer, or one "in the best interests of the Department." A millennium later that artful language is something that still rings a bell.

The insignia "R-T" is around 70 years of age, and was worn by the guys assigned to the "radio unit." A local bank, The National Newark and Essex Bank, owned the tallest building in Newark, and that building is where the broadcasting antenna was originally located. The current location is not known. Maybe N.P.D. is using "text messages" to contact the troops. You never know.

The badge is said to be a more modern issue of those given to "civilian" dispatchers. It is inscribed: "Communication Officer, Newark, NJ #10." I am not sure that this item was actually issued by N.P.D. My source was a "wild child," if you will, who could have had the badge made up for himself. The authenticity is somewhat shaky from this vantage point, but the badge does use the "City Seal" suggesting it just might be legitimate.

The number "7" is insignia from what was referred to as the "Seventh Precinct". I believe it was also known as the "Sixth Precinct," and now the "South District". When I was a boy I visited this station many times. It was located at 714 Hunterdon Street, which was easy to remember if you watched Jack Webb's "Dragnet," or re-runs on "Badge 714." This location provided a home for those officers assigned to "Radio Repair." From what I heard this was a good assignment. Unfortunately Motorola Corp. started making better radios, and doing their own repairs. That's life.

The number "2" is insignia from the "Second Precinct." Today it is the "North District." I believe that was where the "Mounted Squad " was located when the above picture was snapped. I know this section of the City was well protected during the 67 riots. It was where my father grew up when he was a boy, and the location of his retirement home on Mt. Prospect Ave. Well it's been years since I have seen any of this. One of these days I will journey North, and do what was referred to in the Probation Dept. as an "Area Cruise." It meant "drive around and see what is happening." It was also good for the expense account. For now the author will just enjoy the memories.

NEWARK "LIEUTENANT" & "SERGEANT" BADGES

The focus of my collection has been municipalities that qualify as "CITY'S." I have seen some displays of various Top Tens. They were inspiring, but I am a realist. I just knew this would be an impossible task.

I set my goal at obtaining the "Top Three Cities." They were: Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton (State Capital). I had some luck over the over the years, and I did get the "Top Three," plus a couple more.

The goal had to change, and it did. The goal became to collecting something from the "Top Ten." There I haven't been as lucky. I have eight of ten. The Cities of Camden and Clifton have eluded me.

While I looked for "CITY'S" I also ran a parallel collection on badges from the City of Newark. This focus made sense. After all I grew up in the City, and had many contacts in and around Newark. My Dad was with N.P.D. for 37 years, and I was well aquainted with his friends. Collecting here was going to be easy. It only took 40 years to acquire twenty "City" badges worthy of displaying. In the quest for City badges I was fortunate to acquire fifty badges from "non city" municipalities. They turned out to be very worthy of displaying.

This article will present three badges in that Newark Collection that warranted being "put under glass. " There are "twenty" that catch my eye every day. They stand proud in a nice oak case, that hangs neatly on the wall. That's so my wife won't complain. Anybody have a problem like that?

The First Item is a Sergeant's Badge that was issued around World War I. It stayed around about 45 years, and was retired in 1957. It is in good condition showing some signs of its' age. The City Seal is used on Newark badges, and should show clearly in the picture. The seal is similar to the N.J. State Seal, which is used by most municipalities.

The Second Item is also a Sergeant's Badge. This one is in excellent condition. Again note the city seal, and the reverse blue lettering.

The Third Item is a Newark Lieutenant' Badge. This one could be in better condition, but it is not terrible by any means. This badge is believed to have been introduced in the late 1950's.

These three items contribute to making the entire collection of twenty well worth their neat little spot on the wall.

H. W. "Will" LOOMIS - WHO WAS HE?

Once in the while an item, or two, of major interest finds its' way into a collectors hands. That's the case with the above gun and badge. This collector acquired these items a few months ago. They hang in my retirement "museum" with the countless "things " I have obtained over the last few (40) years.

The gun is a reminder of my days as a young boy. I watched, on that new thing called television, my favorite cowboy shows. Of course my homework had to be done or I might get a whack from my Dad with his nightstick. The heroes back then were: Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, and Hopalong Cassidy. They were always after some cattle rustler or a train robber. The good guys had white hats, and always won.

Most of these guys carried silver revolvers. The Lone Ranger even shot silver bullets. If I remember correctly, these "cowboys" shot about 30 rounds without reloading. I guess they were carrying the first "automatics."

The gun above is certainly not made of silver. It only holds six rounds, and they were not made of silver. The gun is just a .36 caliber relic from the real West. It is believed to have been used in the Arizona-New Mexico territories during the 1890's. On its own it is not a collectors treasure. But this gun also carries a name engraved on the back strap: "H. W. Loomis "Deputy U.S. Marshal." This may enhance the value of this old "Six Shooter."

The badge, pictured above, is really sterling silver, or at least it has the word "sterling" stamped on the back left side. On the back right side is what appears to be a hallmark: "A&G". In the lower rear panel there is a name: "H. W. Loomis." These matching engravings of the Loomis name make the gun and badge at least interesting.

Since obtaining these items I learned "Will Loomis" was in fact a U.S.Marshal. He served in New Mexico, for ten years, prior to Statehood. My favorite source of information, "The New York Times," reported (Oct.3, 1896) in an article titled "Noted Train Robber Killed," that the "High Five Gang" attempted to rob an Atlantic & Pacific Train, about 4 miles outside Albuquerque. New Mexico. They "hit" the train at a water station called Rio Puerto. "Will" Loomis just happened to be on that train. There was a gun battle and an outlaw, Cole Young, "bought the ranch" that day. According to the Times the outlaw was shot by Loomis using his revolver. Better sources say Loomis used a shotgun, hitting Young with two blasts to the chest area. Either way Mr. Young, a.k.a, Cole Estes died that day. He was buried in Albuquerque's Fairview Cemetery Oct 5, 1896.

If Loomis was working today he would be one of my heroes. He too had fondness of the government expense account. Loomis, I have learned, was the first U.S. Marshall to be allowed to submit his expenses without a receipt. It was argued that he would be ineffective as an "undercover officer" if he had to ask Saloon keepers for receipts. Of course in granting him this status, the "wise ones" in Washington D.C. decreed that he could not arrest anyone. Some thinking never seems to change.

Beyond the above reported facts this writer knows little about H.W.Loomis. There are a few career tidbits, but nothing regarding his personal life: Was he married? Did he have kids? When did he die? The questions go on, and on.

This collector believes Loomis owned this gun at one time essentially because of the engraving. Why put someone Else's name on a gun that was old even back in the 1890's. The badge, however, does not appear to be of the same time frame. It is newer. The theory is it was a "later life gift" that a now older Loomis, or family member, obtained to put on display with the above gun.

Any information on this gun, or badge, or H.W.Loomis, as they said in that old TV cowboy show, is: WANTED, DEAD OR ALIVE. (denb22@gmail.com)

SNOWMAN

This is another story with no badge.

It was 1974 and I was struggling to make ends meet. I was now working in the Probation Departments' Pre-Sentence Investigations Section. We prepared reports for the court, so judges could impose their sentences on those individuals who definitely were not the "pillars of the community." My job gave me quite a bit of time "in the field." I was constantly traveling from one end of the County to the other. That was great for the expense account and paying the bills.

On April 2, 1974 my daughter Cathy was born. She's 29 now. How time flies, especially when you can't count. Sometime after Cathy's birth I "got a tip" that I could find some nice cobble stone to place around the plant bed in front of my house. They would make a nice addition, and were free. I just had to get myself into an isolated area near US 1. Under an overpass was a small embankment containing "my" landscape blocks. The first problem I encountered was they were heavy. I could only move half in one trip. The second problem was NPD showed up.

The Officer, riding alone, wanted my ID, and to know what I was doing. I couldn't make up a good story so I tried the truth. It seems the person who told me about these blocks also told the officer I might be around that location, and to "look out" for me."

The Officer busted my chops real good, then asked, with a huge grin, if I was done. I told him "No." I intended to get the rest of the pile. He, smiled, and said, He'd be back the next day to "watch out for me." One day later I had all "my" blocks, and 34 years later they are still around my old homestead. I remember those blocks, and meeting the "Snowman."

John Snow was assigned to traffic patrol. He routinely covered US 1 near Newark Airport. He used a "CB" radio and talked to the truck drivers. "Snowman" was his "handle." Those two afternoons were the only contacts I had with with this man.

In 1976 I heard his name mentioned on the radio. It was August and Friday the 13th. John was making a delivery of cash to a Bank when he was robbed. Gunfire took his life that day.

I really did not know the man, but I smile every time I think of those blocks. That smile soon fades when I remember Aug. 13 1976.

Newark Police Band

Boom, Boom, Boom Boom Boom.

That's the sounds, I remember, of the big base drum playing in the Newark Police Band. I heard that beat during the late 1940's through the 1950's. The badge above was from that time frame.

Thinking Back, I recall seeing the N.J. National Guard, with Tanks, Jeeps, and Soldiers, parade down Broad Street in Newark, N.J. They were impressive, but somehow the above badge reminds me of the moment when the Newark Police Marching Band approached the reviewing stand in on the steps of City Hall. In front of the Mayor and Council they played "Stars and Stripes Forever," and then they marched away to the cheers of their loyal supporters.

This Band was good, and was frequently invited to participate in parades in neighboring communities. They once did a special performance for veterans at Lyons Hospital up "in the mountains." It was far from the City and my Mom and Dad took me to see it. I also recall this Band in a competition in a N.J. shore community called Asbury Park. In addition to the usual Drum Major there was also the unusual addition of a Drum Majorette. I am not sure where she came from, but the N.P.D. Band really looked exceptional that day.

My Dad was in the Police Band. At one point in time I had a large picture from the 1930's showing the musicians on the steps of City Hall. If I looked hard I could find my father with his clarinet back in the second row.

Another picture I had was from 1954. It showed The Band again on the steps of City Hall. Standing in front were some City official; the Drum Major, his name was Cookie; and my Dad. He was now the Commander of the Newark Police Band.

I donated the pictures to the F.O.P. Museum a few years ago, but not the Badge. That is in my "Newark Collection," hanging on my wall. It is more than a badge. It is a memory.

NEWARK CAPTAINS' BADGE

Somehow we are back to my Newark Collection of badges.

In my last "Post" entitled "My Second Badge" I displayed a badge that is common in New York City. I related it was not my first choice.

The design, in the pictured N.P.D. badge above, was what I wanted. Unfortunately it was a "No can do" item. The "hardware" to create this badge was closely guarded by Newark's' finest.

Over the years I have seen only one other badge like this available for a collector. I obtained this one 30 years ago. It is in excellent condition, and I keep it "locked" under glass in my Newark Collection.

I recall having this item in my pocket just after the acquisition. I had to go to one of those silly department meetings. I remember the subject addressed that day was access to the County Jail and seeing prisoners. The Correction Officers were doing a "rule book slow down" and it had an impact on other agencies. After our meeting the Assistant Chief inquired of me: "How come you don't have a problem over at the lock up?" I shrugged and responded: "I don't know. I just show my ID, and write down the guys name." A shrewd man was my Assistant Chief, and he instructed me to: "Show me your badge." I reached in my pocket and produced this fine N.P.D. shield.

The Asst. Chief smiled from ear to ear. He turned and just walked away shaking his head. He was a good guy, and was a major help to me over the years.

My Second Badge

Leaving the School System in Warren County gave me two opportunities. The First was to continue feeding my family, and the Second was to buy my own badge AGAIN.

Well, with my second "tour of duty" as a probation officer, I had a greater understanding of badges. I knew for sure that the previous badge I had looked most unimpressive. I didn't like looking at it, maybe that's why I gave it away. That first badge was small, and had some silly lion in the center as that was the County Seal. No way was I going to have that same shield.

I knew where to go. H Buchlien & Son. They were a Newark based manufacturer of badges. I had their catalog, and I did a lot of research before deciding to buy a badge that was actually my "second choice." The first choice will be covered in another story. I picked a design used by NYC Police (Captain Rank).

After making my initial choice I quickly learned that this badge was not going to cost $8.00 That was "ok", as it was going to look good in the end. I chose a "multi color seal" which was relatively new in 1971. I chose "blue" lettering which really looked great on the "gold finish." I was paying the bill, and this badge was going to look great.

Other Officers liked it too. Soon they were asking me to get them an identical badge. I complied, and made a small profit on the transaction. I did this for several years until the Chief P.O. learned of my "extra curricular activities." He decided I could handle other work, and assigned me the job of: issuing badges, maintaining a record of each issue, and collecting the badge when an Officer left the department. Ouch! hat killed the small profit.

I liked that badge and I still have it. I display it with other badges I acquired over the years from the now defunct "County Probation Departments." In 1994 those departments became part of the State Court System. In future posts I will show other badges on the "probation wall" in my personal museum.

Badge 14

In an earlier Post I mentioned Bill Mulligan. He was "Chief Probation Officer" for the county. I don't think I ever met him, but my Dad knew him from Newark P.D. After a few calls an interview was set up for me in mid June 1965.

With a little help from Sir William F. Mulligan, a career awaited me. When I went down for my interview I was told to see someone named Ryan. That was it : Just ask for Ryan. I am off to a good start.

I found the "Chief's outer Office," and told the receptionist I was here to see "Mr" Ryan. "Oh." she said, "he just left, but I could catch him." She pointed him out to me heading down the hallway. So off I went calling Mr Ryan. I caught up with him and told him the receptionist told me to see him. No problem, He said: "Follow me 'kid.' " We wound up at his desk and he asked me all sorts of dumb questions. Fifteen minutes later I got to explain: "I am here to see someone named Ryan, for an interview with the Chief."

Mr Ryan, who was not a quiet human being, announced to the world (maybe four other people) that "The front office sent this 'kid' over for an interview." Someone pitched in and concluded I was to see Mrs. Ryan (no relation to Jimmy Ryan). A quick call was made to the front office, my appointment was verified, and off I was again to see "Chief Mulligan."

Another surprise awaited me. When I met the Chief's Secretary, Mrs. Ryan, she explained that Bill Mulligan was not the Chief. He was an Assistant Chief to newly appointed: Lawrence Larsen.

The interview with Mr. Larsen went quite well. I was hired with a starting date of July 1. I asked, on the way out of his office, about picking up my badge and other equipment. That was the first I heard of the expression "budget restrictions." Someone directed me to H. Buchlien and Son's to buy my own badge. It was identical to the one pictured above. It cost $8.00 It had "N.J" on the bottom panel. The bad news is I gave it away. That's another story, and I probably won't tell you about it.

Back to the career. I wasn't sure what I got myself into. The Probation Officer job paid (in 1965) more than a teacher, so I went for the money - $6200 per year. In addition to my salary I got .08 per mile. I was expected to use my "slightly" used Studebaker Lark to do the Court's Business. Thank God for "Peter O." He took me under his wing and trained me well. Regarding expenses he taught me: "The minute your key goes in the ignition, that's one mile." Peter O. was King of the Expense Account. When he became a Chief PO in Iowa, I inherited his "crown."

"Peter O" was very good to me. He told me who was an ex cop in "our" department so I knew who to trust. He told me about his days as an East Orange Cop, where ironically, he was trained by Sam Fricke (my great uncle).

I learned fast! Soon I had a new 1966 Chevy S/S (with the "probation interceptor" economy V-8 engine). It was good on gas. It was great on long trips. That's where I could get the most on .08 per mile. Occasionally I "got lost" (a trick I learned from "Peter O"), which added to the expense account.

By 1969 I found a "better job" with the schools in Warren County. I left under good terms. I started my new job in September. It was a good month. We purchased our first new home in Belvidere, NJ. The following September was also a good month as my daughter Cheryl was born - Sept 4, 1970.

The "better job" wasn't as good as expected. About 6 mos. after Cheryls' birth I left to go back to being a Probation Officer. There was no "initial interview" with Jimmy Ryan this time. It was just a phone call to my last Assistant Chief, and a quick "OK" from: Chief William F. Mulligan. I settled in for the next twenty plus years. Of course I had to buy my own badge again. That was an early seed for my interest in badges and becoming a collector.

In the early 80's I "acquired" Badge number 14. It was last assigned to William F Mulligan who was now retired. Today it is on display in my Den. That badge brings back a lot of good memories.