The Crews of Alligator

Following is a list of the known crewmen who served or related in some capacity to Alligator Junior and/or Alligator, including what information we have of each of them and the sources where this came from.  If you recognize anyone as an ancestor, we would like to hear from you--especially if you have information relating to this secret project.

descendants@navyandmarine.org

Amos W. Austin (b) 1840 in Burlington, Burlington County, NJ, s/o Thomas W. & Rebecca A. Marter,[1] married Emma Marter, children William Herbert, Emma, Amos, Bryon, Anna, Fannie and Louisa.[2] In 1870 there is an Amos W. Austin living in Newark (30) wife Eliza J. (25), Ella M. (4), William 10/12 & Emma Davis (14).  The family is living with Sarah A. Boggs (36) (o) dress maker and her children Eliza (10), Frederick (9). [3] In the 1860 US Census there are two recorded entries for Amos Austin.  The first Amos Austin (38) (b) NJ (o) boatman is living in Beverly , NJ [4] with documented earnings of $2000/$200. Other household members are Elizabeth (37), Middleton (16) (o) boatman, Hester (13), Rachel (6) and John Everett (19) (o) boatman.  This Amos W. Austin family was born in NJ.  

The other Amos W. Austin (20) (b) NJ (o) farmer/laborer is also living in Beverly [5] with his father Thomas (45) (b) NJ (o) farmer and mother Rebecca A. (40) (b) NJ.  Others in this household are Emmae (11) (b) NJ, Annae Kelly (18) (b) PA and Ellae Elliott (8) (b) NJ/NY.

Salary records – “ Austin was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst 9 June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins.”[6]  

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (23rd NJ Infantry, Co. F. Amos I.  & Amos F. - both privates. Landsman 7/3/1862 - 7/20/1863. Signed for 3 years); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index and Census records – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] State of NJ Certificate of Death, d. 7/28/1883 (63), parents Charlie & Hannah Marter.  There is confusion because Monument’s records indicate that Rebecca was the w/o Amos Sr.  There is also an Amos W. Austin buried at Monument Cemetery in Beverly d. 9/3/1888 (79).

[2] NJ Genealogical Individual Database provided by L. Tusing.

[3] Ancestry Plus – census #531/712/Linda Tusing.

[4] Roll 685, page 911.  

[5] Roll 685, page 919.

[6] J. Christley

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Joseph N. Bates – (1880) (42) (o) Conductor R.R., in 24th Ward, District 24, Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA.   Bates is living with wife Hester A. (39), Wm. J. (19), Elizabeth I. (13), Fanny M. (8), George P. (4) and Rolland N. 11/12.  Also living in the same household are R. P. Bates (29) (o) iron worker, his wife Annie E. (28) and daughter Pearl M. (2). [1] The 1890 Civil War Veterans Census shows the following entry - Submarine Torpedo Boat, April 1862 to July 1862, Station E, Chalkley Hall Lane , paralyzed, under Acting Master Aiken, wagon master to Brigade. [2]  (New Jersey Civil War soldiers – 24th NJ Infantry, Co. D. Sgt.).

Salary records – “Bates was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins." [3]

Other resources -  Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers  (5 names); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census Records – 1860, 1870, 1880 (yes), 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes), 1900; and city directories.


[1] Familysearch.org. household record, film 1255183, #T9-1183, page 329D.

[2] Philadelphia Special Civil War Veterans’ Census/D. Cashin.

[3] J. Christley

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Benjamin/Berry Claypool – part of the crew under Eakins. [1]

Salary records – “Claypool was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins." [2]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteer (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census records – 1860, 1870, 1880 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] M. Ragan & J. Christley

[2] J. Christley

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Emile Coblent/Coblentz – Coblent is interviewed for Peter Leone’s pension application and served aboard the submarine from 12/10/61 – 4/20/62. Emile is found in the 1900 US Census, Jefferson Twp., Montgomery Co., Ohio , Central Branch, National Home for Disabled Veterans - 1308/44b - Emile Coblentz (60), Aug. 1839, Inmate 1850/44 Na. , France , France, France .

Salary records - “Emile first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 10 December 1861.  He also appears on the letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  Coblentz wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862 and was supposedly owed $79 in wages and board.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Coblentz) was engaged on 1 February 1862 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862, but didn’t know how much money he had received.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition. [1]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (8-7533rd Pa. Heavy Artillery Co. L. 2/8/64 - 11/9/65); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900 (yes); and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

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Charles DeCarpentier – submarine crew service record 12/10/61 to 4/20/62.

Salary records – “DeCarpentier first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 10 December 1861.  He also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  He was supposedly owed $48 for wages according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (DeCarpentier) was engaged on 1 February 1862 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862, but didn’t know how much money he had received.   He was in Philadelphia until 15 April 1862 then he went to Bethlehem .   He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their disposition and signed for receipt of $86.66 on 5 June 1862." [1]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteer (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

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Alfred Delavaux – submarine crew service record 12/10/61 to 4/20/62. Enlisted in Curtin Light Guard (109th Pa. Volunteer Infantry, Company G). [1]

Salary records – “Delavaux first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 10 December 1861.  He also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Delavaux) was engaged on 1 February 1862 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862, but didn’t know how much money he had received.  Alfred enlisted in the Curtin Light Guard on or about 7 May 1862 and acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2]  

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards (none); Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS (none); Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Brutus de Villeroi - (see separate page

Eulalie de Villeroi - wife of Brutus  de Villeroi and Assistant Engineer.

The Gopsill's Philadelphia City Directories recorded Eulalie DeVilleroi living at 1608 Kater from 1882 – 1892.[1]  The 1886-1888 directories indicated that she was the widow of James.  In the years 1880 & 1881 Eulalie is not listed in the directory. She is recorded as the widow of Brutus in the years 1878 & 1879 and she is still residing at the same address on Kater Street . During the years 1874-1877 Eulalie is not listed in the directory. Gospill’s 1873 listing did not record an entry for the family. In the years 1871 and 72 a listing appears for Matthew DeVilleray/roy, Civil Engineer living at 921 Bainbridge.  In the 1870 Gopsill's Philadelphia City Directory, Matthew DeViller’s name appears.  His occupation is that of drill engineer living at 921 Shippen which was later changed to Bainbridge St. The years 1867-1869 did not list any entries.  Another Philadelphia directory, McElroy’s did not show any listing for the years 1857-1866.  

Mathew DeVilleroy may have been the son of Brutus and Eulalie or at least a  relative. His residence of 921 Shippen Street is identical to that for the inventor and his wife, and is the site of the Institute for Colored Youth. [2] 

Eulalie passed away not long before the following article appeared in the Lincoln, Nebraska Evening News of 26 October 1896: "Mme. Eulalie de Villeroi, who died in Philadelphia recently at the age of 97, was a niece of Stephen Giraurd." [3] Her death is recorded in the Philadelphia Deaths Index as follows: [4]

Death index # 7050. Sept. 20. Page 168
Eulalie de Villeroi, age 96, born France. Died September 24, 1896 of dysentery at 1608 Kater St. Phila.
Buried 9/26/1896 in Lafayette Cemetery. Dr. E.P. Beruardy?
 

[1] Searched Philadelphia Death Index (1891-1895) at City Archives for Eulalie – no death record/D. Cashin. 

[2] C. Veit

[3] Ibid.

[4] D. Cashin

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Armand De Roux -Nephew of Brutus DeVilleri [1]


[1] C. Marzin

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Louis De Roux  - Nephew of Brutus DeVilleroi. [1] 8/4/1915 - Indiana, Pa. newspaper article: [2] D.W.Artley's Exc. to Joseph DeRoux, Lot in Blairville. $1,000

 

1907         Death Record - Philadelphia City Archives - #9570. Louis DeRoux, white male, married aged 73 - died 4/2/1907 at 6 p.m. of General Paralysis - at 417 So Juniper St. Residence 417 So. Juniper. Buried from 1625 So. 10th 5/5/1907 – Undertaker -James McCann - 1625 So. 10th

Occupation                        Gentleman
Place of birth                     France
Birthplace of father        France                        Name of father                                  Louis DeRoux
Birthplace of mother     France                         Maiden name of mother               Unknown

 

  Obituary  in Philadelphia Inquirer and Public Ledger newspapers. [3]

"On April 2, 1907, Count Louis DeRoux, husband of Florence DeRoux, aged 74. Relatives and are invited to attend the funeral services on Friday at 2 P.M. at the residence of James L. McCann, 1625 So. 10th St.  Interment private at Lafayette Cemetery."

 

Philadelphia Public Ledger, April 3, 1907, page 1
GIRARD CLAIMANT DEAD [4]

 

Paralysis Kills Count du Roux, Grand-nephew of the Philanthropist.

 

   “Count Louis de Roux, a grandnephew of Stephen Girard, died of paralysis last night in a humble room at 417 South Juniper street.

 

   “His sole bequest, which will be zealously guarded by his wife, faithful through a long series of reverses since their magnificent wedding in Paris in 1888, was a secret herb preparation for the cure of kidney disease. During the latter years of the nobleman's life his attention was divided between perfection of this compound and efforts to obtain his share of property in Schuylkill County left by Stephen Girard and granted by the courts, he asserted, to his mother, a daughter of Etienne Girard, the merchant's brother.

 

   “Little resemblance to the stalwart Frenchman who came to this country 11 years ago with his wife to seek the fortune which he expected would rehabilitate them was left in the white-haired, white-bearded and bent figure of Count de Roux in his final hours. He suffered the third stroke last night, the first having disabled him more than a year ago.

 

   “He and his wife lived in the Juniper street house rent free in return for his wife's services as housekeeper for the owner, a fellow countryman, C. Sanner."

 

Philadelphia Inquirer, April 4, 1907, page 7
Girard Claimant Dead After a Long Fight for Estate, Count Roux Passes Away [5]

 

   "After years of vain attempt to get a portion of the estate of Stephen Girard on the ground that he was the grand-nephew of the great philanthropist, Count John Joseph Etienne Louis de Roux died of paralysis on Tuesday night at the age of 74 years in humble lodging, 417 South Juniper street.

   “Countess de Roux, his faithful wife, was at his bedside when the unlucky claimant died. Poverty has reduced her to taking care of the Juniper street house for which she and her husband obtained free lodging. Count de Roux was a son of Stephen Girard's brother's daughter. According to Count de Roux his mother, Girard's niece, was awarded in 1853 by the Circuit Court, a proprietary title to several valuable tracts of farm and coal lands in Schuylkill county, part of the intestate estate of Girard. The United States Court decided against the Court's appeals, however, and he spent many years in fruitless litigation."  

      Philadelphia Inquirer, April 6, 1907, page 1
Count de Roux Buried
[6]

   "Count John Joseph Etienne de Roux, who died on Tuesday last, was quietly buried in Lafayette Cemetery yesterday. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Merrill of the Baptist Church , Moore Pa. " (Moore Street Phila.? djc)

 

1905 Philadelphia City Directory

Louis DeRoux                   DeRoux Medicine Co.                    h Moore

Louis DeRoux                   Clerk                                                     h 1721 N. 13th St    (None N or S in 1900 census)

                                                                                                                (North 20th Ward, Dist, 434, Page 9)

                                                                                                                (South 26th Ward, Dist. 616, Page 11)

Louis DeRoux Medicine Co.        708 Chestnut      (No 708 found in 1900 census) (8th Ward, Dist. 143, Page 1)

1900

Louis DeRoux                                                                                   1326 S. Clarion St. 

 

1900 US census                                               26th Ward. Dist. 624. Page 17.    1326 S. Clarion

Louis DeRoux                   63?         10/1837              M/12     Day laborer        To US in 1896

Florence                              45           9/1854                 M/12     0 children           To US in 1896


[1] C. Marzin.

[2] D. Cashin.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid.

[5] Ibid.

[6] Ibid.

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Charles Dittman/Ditman – submarine crew service 1/1/61 to 3/29/62. (Same unit as George Germain who also deserted at Camp Berry , Wash. D.C.) [1]

Salary records – “Dittman first appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition.  He signed for receipt of $104 on 5 June 1862." [2]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers;       Stryker N.J. Volunteers (1419   1st NJ Light Art. Batt E. - 9/8/63 - 1/4/64 - deserted; NPS;

Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Samuel Eakins - (see separate page)

John Franc/France/Jean Frank - submarine crew service 11/1/61 to 4/20/62. [1] In the 1860 census, John (35) born in Portugal , (o) fisherman, is living in the parish of St. Bernard, Louisiana. [2]

Salary records – “John Franc first appears as being hired by the Navy Department to serve as operative on Submarine Propeller, 1 November 1861. He was supposedly owed $160 in wages and board according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  John stated to Hirst on 14 May 1862 that he had been paid $50 to date.  Franc left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $40 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [3]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none);  Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ancestry, Burlington County Library, 9/1/2005 .

[3] J. Christley

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Joseph A. Geillnet – submarine crew service 12/1/61 to 4/20/62. [1]

Salary records – Geillnet first appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862 and entitled to 4 months wages according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Geillnet) was engaged on 1 December 1861 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862 but didn’t know how much money he had received.

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers         (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancestry.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

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George Germain – submarine crew service 12/20/61 to unknown date. [1]     

The 1890 Civil War Veteran Census of Oyster Bay, Glen Cove, Queens, NY, lists George Germain as a 3rd Asst. Engineer aboard the USS Vanderbilt from 11/8/62 – 2/13/65. (Same unit as Charles Ditman.)

Salary records – “Germain first on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he (Germain) was hired on 20 December 1861." [2]

Other resources –Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers;        Stryker N.J. Volunteers (1419    1st NJ Lt.Art. Batt.E., 2/15/64 – unknown), deserted ; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes), 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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George C. Gorden – submarine crew service. [1]

Other resources –Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (3 names); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] M. Ragan

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Louis Hennet/Homet/Hamet - submarine crew service 1/1/62 to 3/29/62. [1] In the 1860 census Hennet (27) (o) machinist, born in Switzerland , is living with mother Margaret Hennet (58) and Eliza Duffy (37), (o) dealer in the 5th Ward, Northern Division, Philadelphia , PA.

Salary records– “Louis first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 1 December 1861. He first appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862. Not the same signature as Louis Homet in letter of 29 December 1861.  He is entitled to 4 months wages according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2]

Other resources - Penna. Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (1–171, 18th Pa. Inf. Co. D, 4/24/61 - 8/7/6) - Jacques Paquin was also in this regiment during the same time; Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900 and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Henry Kriner/Kriener – Kriner was born 1843 in America Alligator Junior [1]. In Philadelphia ’s 1850 US Census Henry Kreiner Sr. (44) (o) wharf builder, is living in Kensington 5th Ward. [2] His recorded worth is $1,000. Other family members recorded in this census – Rebecca (44), John (17), George (5), and Conrad Miller (87) (o) rope maker.  All members of this household were born in Pennsylvania.  We find the entire family, except Conrad Miller, living in Delanco, NJ, in 1860. [3] Henry Kriner [4] (18), born in Pennsylvania, shows up in this census along with his other siblings, John (19) and George (14).  All four men are wharf builders. In 1870 census, Henry records his name has Harry (28). [5] His father Henry is 64 and is a hotel keeper with a recorded income of $13,000/$500, his mother is 65 and his brother George is still living at home and working at wharf building with Harry.  The US Federal Census of 1880 [6] lists Henry Kreiner (37) (o) wharf builder as married to Elizabeth (30) born in Pennsylvania of Prussia ancestry.  In 1900, Henry (58) is a constable born in January of 1842 and his wife Elizabeth is 50 born in August of 1849 and childless. [7] Ten years later Henry D. Kreiner is living alone in Beverly , NJ. [8]

Other resources – Pennsylvania WC Muster Cards; Bates, Pennsylvania Volunteers (1–57 5th Pa. Inf. Co. K. 4/20/61 - 7/25/6);  Stryker, NJ (none); NPS ( 5th Pa. 3 months, 1861); Ancesty.com; Pension index;  Census – 1860-1880 (yes); 1890 Civil War Veterans (no); 1900/1910 (yes) and 1920 (no); and city directories.


[1] Philadelphia newspapers of May 18, 1861

[2] Census Entry Number 807/319, Philadelphia, PA.

[3] Census Entry Number 685/881, Delanco, NJ.

[4] Crewman on the infernal machine arrested in Philadelphia in 1861 according to The Bulletin and The Philadelphia Inquirer article.

[5] 1870 Census, Beverly, Burlington Co. NJ, Entry # 853/13.

[6] Census - Burlington Co., Beverly , New Jersey.

[7] Beverly, Burlington Co. NJ #956/12a.

[8] 1910 US Census, Beverly, Burlington Co. NJ. #871/33a.  

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Henry/Henri Lambert - (1860) (19) (o) Assistant Engineer, living with Edwin Chandler, hotel keeper at Lower Chichester Twp., Marcus Hook, P.O. Delaware County.  Also boarding at the Chandler Hotel was Brutus DeVilleroy. [1] Service 11/1/61 to 5/1/62. (see page 6 of text).

The Lambert family name appears in the Concessions and Agreements document of 1676.  “…signers of the concessions of the proprietors for the government of the West New Jersey colonies…”Tho. Lambert and John Lambert – signed “this third day of the month commonly called March, in year of our Lord one thousand six hundred seventy-six.” 3/3/1676. [2]

Salary records – “Henry Lambert first appears as being hired by the Navy Department to serve as an operative on Submarine Propeller, 1 November 1861. Not known if relative of John Lambert. Also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862. Lambert was supposedly owed $160 for wages and board according to Hirst's letter of 16 May 1862. Henry stated to Hirst on 14 May 1862 that he had been paid $24 to date. H. Lambert left the service of the Propeller on 1 May to sign onboard a ship sailing to Europe . He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $40 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [3]

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (6 names); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancestry.com; pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870/1880 (no), 1890 Civil War Veterans (no), 1900 (no); and city directories.


[1] Federal Census record #1105/254 – Source: D. Cashin 9/7/2005  

[2] Historical Atlas of Burlington County, NJ, Illustrated by J. D. Scott 1876, History of Burlington County, NJ, page xiii.

[3]  J. Christley

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John H. Lambert (1860) Dorchester, Norfolk , father John B. Lambert. [1]  There also appears to be another John Lambert (1860) (25) born in PA, s/o Thomas (46) & Sophia (41) living in the 2nd Ward, Philadelphia – head of household John Pnerideville. [2] It is not known if relative of Henri Lambert above.

The 1890 Special Civil War Veteran's Census reported the following - Kittery, Maine. (Portsmouth NH Navy Yard) - John Lambert 2nd class Fireman, USS Hartford 1/62 - 10/63.

Salary records – “John Lambert first appears as being hired by the Navy Department to serve as operative on Submarine Propeller, 1 November 1861.  Also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862, intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  Supposedly he was owed $160 for wages and board according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  He stated to Hirst on 14 May 1862 that he had been paid nothing to date.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $40 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition.  Lambert was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst 9 June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins." [3]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (14 names); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index (yes); Census records – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes); 1900 and Philadelphia directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid.

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Francais Laurent – submarine crew service 12/20/61 to unknown. [1]

Salary records – “Laurent first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 20 December 1861.  He also appears on the letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862 and was supposedly owed $48 in wages according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  Hirst’s letter of 15 May 1862 says he (Laurent) was engaged on 15 December 1861 and waited until now.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2]

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (7 – 573, 55th NY,  147th Pa Co. H.- 8/5/63 - 7/15/65, drafted; Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index – Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans; 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley.

[2] Ibid.

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Pierre Leon/Pierre Megan – submarine crew service 12/20/1861 to unknown date – Pierre Leon is boarding in Delanco with the Krieners in 1860 according to affidavits transcribed for his Civil War pension records even though he is recorded as living at Chandler’s Hotel with the inventor and assistant engineers on the project in the same year in Marcus Hook (see page 6).  The name is unclear on the original Marcus Hook census and reads Peter Irone (26) (b) Italy (o) assistant engineer.

According to family genealogy records Pierre Leon was born on 8/23/1839 and died 12/7/1915.  He is interred at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Riverside, NJ . It was in a letter sent to Peter & Emily Leon in Riverside , NJ , from Chet Bucher, s/o Henrietta Leon Bucher which led to the search for a submarine in the marshland in Riverside, NJ .  Henrietta was the daughter of Pierre Leon.

Medal of Honor Recipient – Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 11, 3 April 1863. Citation: Serving on board the USS Baron De Kalb, Yazoo River Expedition, 23 to 27 December 1862.  Proceeding under orders up the Yazoo River, the USS Baron De Kalb, with the object of capturing or destroying the enemy’s transports, came upon the steamers John Walsh, R. J. Locklan, Golden Age and the Scotland sunk on a bar where they were ordered fired.  Continuing up the river, she was fired on, but upon returning the fire, caused the enemy’s retreat.  Returning down the Yazoo , she destroyed and captured larger quantities of enemy equipment and several prisoners.  Serving bravely throughout this action, Leon as captain of the forecastle, distinguished himself in the various actions.”

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards (none); Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census records – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.

Civil war pension application  - The original papers are on file with the Riverside Historical Society, Riverside , New Jersey. [1]

                        

                             State of New Jersey                                        Charles H. Ziegler

                          Burlington County                                           Justice of the Peace

 

On this twenty-third day of February A.D. 1914, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, duly authorized to administer oaths.  Pierre Leon, aged seventy-five years, a resident of Riverside Township in said County, who, being duly sworn according  to law under oath saith:

“I was born at Nice, France, on August 23, 1838, I have not in my possession and are unable to obtain a public or church record of my birth and there is no bible or other family record, showing the time of my birth, in existence as far as I know.  At the age of eleven years I boarded the sailing vessel Juniette at Marseilles , France , and was a stow-a-way in her when she landed in Philadelphia , Penna.  I worked on said ship for three years and afterwards engaged in other coastwise vessels.  I enlisted in the U. S. Navy in August, 1861, at Philadelphia, Penna., served four years and was honorably discharged at Philadelphia in 1865 and resided in Riverside, Burlington County, NJ ever since.”

   Also personally appeared before the said Justice, Henry D. Kreiner, residing at Delanco, Burlington County, New Jersey, who being duly sworn according to law under oath saith:

“I have known the said Pierre Leon for 54 years.  I have been with him and lived under him in a sub-marine boat in 1860 at Delanco , New Jersey .  He was then about 22 years of age.  I know him to be 75 years of age. He’s 5 years older than I am and I was 71 years old last January.  I have known him ever since 1860.”  Henry D. Kreiner

   Also personally appeared before me, the said Justice, Joseph Leconey, residing at Delanco, Burlington County, New Jersey, who, being duly sworn according to law under oath saith:

“I have known the said Pierre Leon for 54 years, when he first landed in Delanco with a sub-marine boat in 1860, and made experiments in the Rancocas Creek.  I am 77 years of age and always thought that Pierre Leon was older than what I am.  I have known him ever since 1860.” Joseph Leconey.

 

Pierre Leon’s Pension Papers – File #WC 804, 543

Pierre Leon, sailor, rank of Seaman, served aboard the USS Saint Louis, Baron De Kalb, Black Hawk, Romeo, New Hampshire, Princeton, Nantucket and Nahant in the US Navy.  At the time of his enlistment (August 27, 1861) Pierre ’s post office was Philadelphia . Although on another document he recorded his prior enlistment residence as Delanco, NJ.  He enlisted on the USS Princeton and was transferred to the Washington Navy Yard on September 23, 1861.

For three years he served on gunboat St. Louis and was wounded during an attack upon Island No. 10, Mississippi River on March 17, 1862.  His disability “fracture of the right shoulder, injury of the left leg, and injury to the eyes, was received at the bombardment of Island, No. ten, March 16, 1862, by the bursting of a gun, whilst attached to the USS St. Louis.” He finished three years of service on Gunboat Romeo after the blowing up of the St. Louis . On the 18th day of November 1864 he served as a seaman in US Nahant and was honorably discharged on August 29, 1865.

Pierre Leon married Anna M.  Mayer/Meier on January 18, 1866 in Mr. Rudolph Stecher’s front room by Rev. P. H. Gapp, Moravian minister in Progress, NJ.  They had the following children: Harry J. [b] 9/11/1869, Peter R. [b] 9(11)/21/1871, George L. [b] 11/9/1873, Jacob [b] 5/10/1878, Mary L. [b] 6/6/1880, Edward F. [b] 10/31/1882 and Henrietta B [b] 8/14/1887.

At the age of thirty-five, Pierre appeared before an examining surgeon B. H. Stratton, who recorded his height (5’7”), weight (125), complexion (dark) and determined that his disability (right clavicle fractured, eyes impaired, and left tibia enlarged) was permanent.

According to the record of death, Pierre ’s date of birth was recorded as 8/23/1838 in Italy and he died on December 7, 1915 at the age of 76 and was interred by H. B. Earnest at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Riverside .  His mother’s and father’s names were unknown but they were both born in France according to George L. Leon.  The same document recorded Pierre Leon’s occupation as a watchman for the Philadelphia Watch Case Company.

In 1917, Anna M. Leon, wife of Pierre Leon, lived at 122 Delaware Avenue . She died February 20, 1922 at the home of her daughter Mrs. Mary Zisak, 424 Lippincott Ave. Riverton , NJ .

On July 31, 1940, Henrietta Leon Bucher of Stewart Ave. , Riverside wrote to the Department of Interior requesting a duplicate of the Gold Medal issued by Congress. The original had been lost when Pierre ’s ship was sunk in the Mississippi River .  Later correspondence indicated that Mrs. Bucher should write to the Chief, Bureau of Navigation of the Navy Department in Wash. DC.

Salary records – “Pierre Megan first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 20 December 1861." [2]

Other resources – Pennsylvania  Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers; Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com (yes); Pension index (yes); Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880 (yes), 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes), 1900 and city directories


[1] Pension papers transcribed by A. M. Smith, on April 20, 2005 . 

[2] J. Christley

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Frederick Loussoux - Born 1842 in France. [1]  Loussoux is living at Chandler Hotel and working as an assistant engineer.

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers; Stryker NJ Volunteers; NPS; Ancestry.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.  


[1] 1860 Marcus Hook census records

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Henry Moser/Henry Maser - Possibly Masters Mate Henry Moser according to T. Foenander's "Callahan's Naval Officers." [1] Probably the brother-in-law of Sam Eakins, who married Christina Moser; their eldest son, also Samuel, lived with the Mosers in Philadelphia in the 1850 census. [2]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (1-215, 23rd Pa. Inf. Co. H., 4/21/61 - 7/31/61); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com;

Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] M. Ragan book, T. Foenander

[2] J. Malone and L. Veit

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Phillip C. McCarron / P.C. McCraven [1] -  in 1850 (7) is living with his father William (40) and mother Rose (38) in Wilmington , Delaware .  He was born in Ireland .  His siblings: Charles (14) born in Ireland , Ann (13) born in Ireland , Patricia (10) born in Delaware, Phillip C.  (7) born in Delaware , William (2) born in Delaware .  The 1860 census listed a Phillip C. McCarron in NY (30) boarding, (o) car conductor.

Salary records – “McCarron was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards, Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none);  Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancestry.com; pension index; Census records – 1850 (yes), 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] The name P. C. McCraven appears in M. Ragan’s book – Submarine Warfare in the Civil War, DaCapo Press, Perseus Books Group, 11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, c. 1999, 2002.

[2] J. Christley

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Henry McKenger – submarine crew service. [1] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania  Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none);  Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com;  Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] M. Ragan

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John McMillan -

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none)

Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com;  Pension index; Census records1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans (none), 1900; and city directories.  


[1] M. Ragan, T. Foenander - Master's Mate not listed in "Callahan's Naval and Marine Officers" book.  

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Charles P. Miller / P.C.Miller P. C. Miller appears as part of the crew in Mark Ragan’s book. There are no service dates according to Christley. There are two Charles Millers in the 1860 census.  One Charles Miller is age 15 the s/o Obadiah (o) bridge builder and Rebecca, 1st Ward, Newark City, NJ. [1]  The other is Charles C. Miller (28) (o) shoemaker living in Burlington, NJ, with his wife Katy and children Sarah (4) and Fannie (2). [2]  The 1890 Special Civil War Veteran’s Census records Charles P. Miller, US Sailor, USS Potamkin, NJ Prison, Mercer, NJ.

Salary records – “Miller was paid for the month of May 1862, $15.48 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Eakins." [3] 

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers          (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census records – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes); 1900; and city directories.


[1] 1860 census records.

[2] Roll 684, page 10.

[3] J. Christley

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Dewitt C. Morris - Born 1823 in New York , Source: 1860 Marcus Hook census records – Dewitt C. Morris and his wife Minnie (b) 1833 in Maryland and child Estelle (b) 1860 are living at Chandler Hotel. Both husband and wife were working as assistant engineers.  See 1860 Census record on page 6.  In the 1850 census Dewitt C. Morris (29) (b) NY (o) attorney at law, estimated worth $30,000, is living in the South Ward of Philadelphia. [1]   Other members of the household include Charlotte (27) (b) Connecticut , J. Clarkson (30) (b) Connecticut , Charlotte A. (1/2) (b) Pennsylvania , Louisa E. (illegible) (27) (b) Germany , Roseanne Marshall (24) (b) Ireland , Lydia Schmidt (26) (b) Germany , Sally A. Johnson (36) (b) Connecticut and Mary A. Johnson (39) (b) Connecticut.

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards

Dewitt C. Morris, Sergeant, 72nd Penn. Infantry, Co, G. 8/10/1861   Transferred to 183rd.            Bates 2 - 853

Private, 183rd Penn. Infantry, Co. K, 7/19/1864.  Absent at Camp Parole. Bates 5 - 150 At Muster out.

Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (3 names); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census records – 1900, 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes), 1880, 1870, 1860, 1850 (yes); and city directories. Dewitt C. Morris letters mailed out 10/10 & 12, 2005. [2] 


[1] Roll 812/ Page 125.

[2] A. Sorkowitz.

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G. Baptiste Mounier - submarine crew service 12/20/61 to 1/1/62 (crew) to 3/29/62. [1] 

Salary records – “Mounier first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 20 December 1861.  He appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862.  He wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania  Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Jean Panze – submarine crew service - 12/1/61 to 1/1/62 (crew) to 3/29/62. [1] 

Salary records – “Panze first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 1 December 1861.  Jean wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862 and was supposedly owed $94 in wages and board.  He appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to March 1862.  Hirst’s letter 15 May 1862 says he had been engaged on 10 December 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 has having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers        (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none)’NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Jaques Paquin – submarine crew service 12/15/61 to 4/20/62. [1] 

Salary records – “Paquin first appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862.  He wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter 16 May 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he was engaged on 15 December 1861 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862, but didn’t know how much money he had received.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2] 

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Soldiers Muster Cards (Age 23, Butcher, Philadelphia , Pvt.18th Pa. Infantry. Co. D. 3 months Muster in 4/25/1861? - 8/7/1861 - AKA James – Louis Hennet was also in this regiment during the same time); Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (1-171- James, 10-1320 Zell's Inf. Co. D 7/23/63 - 1/29/64); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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D. W. Paulin / Denis Paulin – submarine crew service 12/10/61 to 4/20/62. [1]  (1860) (37), 7th Ward, Philadelphia (o) shop keeper, wife Sarah (30), George W. (11), Sarah (9), Frank (7) Sarah Maas (76). [2] 

Salary records – “Paulin first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commmodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 10 December 1861. He also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  Denis wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862 and was owed $164.40 in wages and board.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Paulin) was engaged on 15 December 1861 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862 and didn’t know how much money he had received.  Paulin acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [3] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid.

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Antione Porte – submarine crew service 12/10/61 to 4/20/62. [1] 

Salary records – “Porte first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commmodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 10 December 1861. He also appears on letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862.  Antoine wished to stay with the boat according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862 and was owed $84 in wages and board.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Porte) was engaged on 15 December 1861 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862 and didn’t know how much money he had received.  Porte acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Alexander Rhodes – Alexander Rhodes’ name first appears in the Philadelphia Inquirer article of May 18, 1861.  The article recorded his involvement and arrest by the Harbor Police while transporting the torpedo boat to the Navy Yard. He was born in Bordeaux , France in 1842 and died 8/16/1920 at Dayton , Ohio ’s Civil War Soldier Home. [1]  In the recorded entry of the 1860 census Alexander Rhodes is 18 years old (o) assistant engineer, living with Edwin Chandler, hotel keeper at Lower Chichester Twp., Marcus Hook, P.O. Delaware County.  Also boarding at the Chandler Hotel is Brutus DeVilleroy. His name appears as first being hired as an operative on the submarine propeller on 11/1/1861. [2]  The 1890 Civil War Veteran Census, Riverside, Delanco NJ, records Alex Rhodes as a 2nd class fireman on board the USS Wissahickon 5/1/61-62 - 1 yr-7 mos.-1 day; 4/20/63 - 7/10/64, 1 yr-2 mos.-20 day; 2 ribs broken; reenlisted; kidney disease & rheumatism.

Prior to enlistment Alexander Rhodes resided in the following places – New Orleans, LA; Philadelphia, PA; Delanco, and from Delanco he moved to Riverside and stayed there until his enlistment in the Navy.  

Alexander Rhodes married Rose [3]  (b) 1846 (d) 3/12/1934 (89) at Burlington (funeral director Henry C. Stellwag of Riverside ).  Rose was the d/o Carl (Emil & Christiana L. Rower. Rhodes & Rose were married on 8/14/1865 at Riverside by Rev. P. H. Gapp pastor of the Palmyra Moravian Church . Rose was born in Dresden , Germany .  In 1920, Rose Rhodes lived at 148 Webster Street in Riverside , NJ . The Rhodes children were Emma (Amelia) [b] 3/14/1870 [m] Dietrich (in 1936 Emma Dietrich lived at 5 Steward(t) Avenue, Riverside), Charles [b] 3/7/1872, Alexander Jr. [b] 3/3/1876, Rose [b] 3/2/1883 [m] Charles Gorenflo (1934 Rose Gorenflo lived at the corner or Pearl & St. Mary Streets-200 St. Mary’s Street-Burlington), Frank (Zavier) K. [b] 10/29/1886.

Alexander Rhodes’ Civil War Pension Papers, Alexander Rhodes - P.O. Riverside, Burlington County, New Jersey.

The following excerpts have been transcribed from the Civil War Pension Papers belonging to Alexander Rhodes.  Rhodes applied for an invalid pension (application filed June 30, 1880) because he contracted deafness, chronic rheumatism, and kidney disease by reason of exposure in the line of duty at Warsaw Sound, in the state of Georgia on or about the 15th day of April 1864.  The depositions were taken by Frank Nixon (Wixon) in February of 1885.  The following information pertains to Rhodes’ character, physical traits, family, military service and his connection with the torpedo boat in Delanco, New Jersey - Physical traits of Alexander Rhodes - 7/16/1879 - age 36, height 5’ 7”, complexion-dark, hair-dark, eyes-dark gray.  

Civil War Pension Records: USGB Wissahickon 2nd class fireman & coal heaver. He enlisted May 7, 1863 in Camden NJ , and served on the Princeton to 5/24/1863, Wissahickon 5/25/1863 to 6/9/1864, Vermont 6/10 to 6/13/1864 and the Princeton 6/14 to 6/29/1864 when discharged June 29, 1864.  

2-21-1885 – Alexander Rhodes (41) Constable &c. Riverside, Burlington County, NJ. “I served as Second Class Fireman in Navy of the United States Gun Boat Wissahickon from 1863 – 1864.  I was on the machine from the time I came in this country in 1859 from France and the Government took charge of it about 1860. From 1860 up till 1863, I had charge of a submarine boat from Philadelphia to Fortress Monroe in 1863.  I shipped on board the Wissahickon in April and was discharged from her sick at Warsaw, Georgia about April 1864, and I have never had any military service since.” 

Question:  When and where and in what way did these diseases first attract your attention:  “It must have been January 1864 while on the Wissahickon and we had just left Port Royal for Warsaw Sound and we laid at Warsaw a couple of months where I laid in my hammock…In April 1864 sometime I was sent aboard the Vermont a big ship for the sick and I was aboard her a month being treated and from her I was sent on the first homeward bound ship Ironsides and got here in Philadelphia about June 1864 .  I did not duty on the Ironsides either.” 

Question: Deaf? “In the right ear. I got it on the Ironsides when the battery went off suddenly but I don’t care anything about that.” 

Question: What was your exact condition at discharge?  “For about two years I was about as I was on the boat.  I didn’t do any work and lived with Mr. Buck at Delanco, Burlington County , NJ .  He is dead.  I went right to him as he had my citizens clothes.”

Question:  What work have you done since you came home  - for whom?  “The first I tried was about 1866 when I went to glass house in Riverside .  It was Julius Kebler.  I only staid for 2 or 3 weeks.  Then I made one trip as Engineer to Havana in the Pioneer from Philadelphia .  I was their assistant engineer.  This took about five weeks and then I came home to Riverside sick and my friends came to me and asked me to run for constable and guardian of the poor and I have done a little painting for Jno. Webber at Riverside and at canning for Ellis J. Little, Cambridge , Burlington County , NJ .  My partner the man who worked with me was Henry Killian who is at Riverside .  Little was at Cambridge .  Don’t know where he is now and then I have worked for and with Frederick Stuber at Riverside .  He had a vineyard and I would help fix things up around it and I have worked at papering for Hezishich Muiks at Riverside .  Those are about the only men I have worked with or for.  I have made most of my money out of my offices.”

Question:  When did you make the trip to Havana ? “1869 or 1870”.

Question: Where had you lived for five or six years before you enlisted in the service and at what did you work?  “I came to this country in 1859 and in 1860 I went on the torpedo boat and was master of her. (or as called “mate”). I was mustered in and was really in service of the government from then although I didn’t wear a uniform until 1863 when I went on the Wissahickon.  They swore me in on the torpedo boat.  I was a seagoing man in the old country.”

Question:  By whom can you establish that you were free from disability at the time you entered the service in 1863? “By Cooper Woodington who was in the torpedo boat.  He is at Bridgeboro, Burlington County , NJ and Peter Leon, Riverside , NJ .”  

On January 4, 1886 - Alexander Rhodes appeared before H. B. Brown, Special Examiner of the Pension Office. “I came to this country in 1859 from Bordeaux , France where I had lived from birth. Landed at Philadelphia, PA on board the Infernal Machine, or Torpedo Boat, at Philadelphia, PA and we came up to Rancocas Creek near Delanco, NJ where we drilled.  I was enlisted regularly on board this boat.  It had no name and was on it till late in 1862 and was then discharged at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.  I then went to Fortress Monroe in the Quarter Master’s Department. Quarter Master Thomas. Don’t know his first name.  I was in charge and was not enlisted but was hired: staid there till I enlisted on the Wissahickon in 1863.”

Question:  Where have you lived since discharge?  “I came directly to Delanco, NJ and lived with Henry Kriener, dead for 2 or 3 years, and then came to Riverside, NJ where I have lived ever since.”

 

2-27-1885 – Solomon Asher (44) profession of dancing. Address: 119 N. 16th Street , Philadelphia , PA.   (Asher served as a Landsman from October 4, 1862 to August 29, 1863.) [4]  He remembered Rhodes as “bright frenchman” when Rhodes was a fireman on the Wissahickon.  “I remember Rhodes had made some kind of an infernal machine with which they had been experimenting as I learned in some way.”

Solomon Asher gave another deposition on 1/7/1886. “I remember he told me something about an infernal machine he had been on while at Rancocas Creek , NJ : was interested in that because I was well acquainted about that creek.”

2-28-1885 - Isachar B. Meeks (38) hotel proprietor in Riverside. “I was living at Delanco on the river and he was in the torpedo there and that is how I got acquainted with him. I thought when he was on the torpedo boat - I thought he was a poor substitute.  I didn’t think he was strong enough to go on the torpedo boat.  He was a small man.  I thought he was too small a man for the torpedo boat.  He and I used to box before that and I knew he was pretty good at that.”

Isachar B. Meeks (39) was interviewed again on 12/30/1885 by H. B. Brown. “I have known Alexander Rhodes ever since about 1860.  He at that time was on a torpedo boat over at Delanco , NJ and I used to know him intimately.  We were together a great deal.  He was a man of small stature and when I heard he had enlisted in the Navy I thought he was too small a man to go.   He was a healthy able-bodied man without any appearances of rheumatism or kidney disease or any other ailments at that time…I came home from the army in 1863 and was here when he came home in 1864…I have heard him say also that he was hurt in some way on the Wissahickon but I have forgotten how.  He sometimes takes a little too much liquor but not often, not more than ½ a dozen times in my life.”  

2-28-1885 – Cooper Woodington (45) general workman.  Address: Bridgeboro, Burlington County, NJ.

Question: How long have you been acquainted with Alexander Rhodes? “Since 1860. Well, it was in 1860, I was on the torpedo boat with him and knew him before.”

Question: How long were you on the torpedo boat and how intimately did you know him?”  “From the spring of 1861 for about ten months.  He was on her when I went aboard and had been for some time.  I used to see him frequently before I went on.  I boarded at the same place, slept in the same room, and I think in the same bed with him and was with him day in and day out while on the torpedo boat.  I was discharged at Washington , D.C. In Spring or early summer of 1862 there were two torpedo boats.  The first one I went on here was a small one which they experimented with.  He was with me on her.  I left her in June for five months and was off until Spring of 1862 when in April, I think they sent for me to go on the large torpedo and he was mate aboard of this last one and in a few months when McClellan situated to Harrison’s Landing, the crew was divided and he was left with the part of the crew that remained with the tug which went with the machine.…He was a short young fellow and always appeared in good health.  He could hardly speak English at first.”

 

Cooper Woodington was interviewed a second time by H. B. Brown on 1/5/1886.  “I have known Alexander Rhodes since the latter part of 1859.  At that time he was on board a Torpedo Boat in Rancocas Creek near Delanco , NJ and through his influence I obtained a position of Diver on board the Boat.  We were there several months and we boarded with Isaac W. Buck and roomed together and most of the time slept with him.  In April 186l, I was sent for to come on board another torpedo boat in Philadelphia, PA and went and found Rhodes there as Mate. About 2 months after we sailed the James River to City Point, VA and we were together there some 6 or 7 weeks and then we became separated…”

 

2-28-1885 – Jacob Kriener (54) Constable in Delanco, Burlington County, NJ. 

Question:  How long have you been acquainted with client Alex Rhodes?  “I got acquainted with him first in 1859 or 1860 when he came to Delanco on the Infernal Machine.  He told me a little after that he had shipped in the Navy and he was away until in 1864, I think.” 

Question: What was his condition physically when on the Infernal Machine before shipping on the Navy? “He was healthy looking fellow and was all right so far as I know.  He boarded with my mother before he shipped and although I didn’t live at home yet I saw him nearly every day.”

Question: How soon and where did you see him after he returned from service in Navy? “I saw him right away when he came to Delanco which was late in the summer of 1864.  He boarded with my father when he came back.  My father kept hotel and I was there when Rhodes came there.” 

Question:  How long did he board with your father after he came back?  “I suppose in the neighborhood of two years. He had some money and he did little trifling jobs around the house such as assisting in the bar.”

 

Jacob Kriener (55) was interviewed a second time by H. B. Brown on 1/5/1886.  “I have known Alex  Rhodes since 1859 or 60 when he was on board the Torpedo Boat here in Rancocas  Creek.  He was then a stout nearly able-bodied man.  He boarded at the time with Isaac W. Buck but I saw him about every day while the Boat was here.  As soon as he was discharged from the Navy early in 1864 he came right here and made his home with my mother.  His condition then was bad.  He looked pale, thin, weak and yellow: seemed all broken down in health and I remember he was hard of hearing and used to put his hand up to his ear to catch the sound better: seemed quite deaf…”

 

2-21-1885 – William Agnew (45) mariner, sailor, fireman.  Address: Palmyra, Burlington County , NJ.

Question: How long have you been acquainted with client Alex Rhodes?  “I got acquainted with him about January or February 1864 off Morris Island , Charleston Harbor.”

Question:  In what way did you make his acquaintance?  “I was aboard the dispatch boat Dandelion Cap’t __Borimoro and under Admiral Dahlgren orders we went to the Wissahickon and got Mr. Rhodes this man and it was said he was sick and we took him and put him aboard the flagship Philadelphia .   I was a second class fireman and he was several days aboard the Dispatch and he was in my mess.…They had been talking of getting a torpedo boat and had been looking for Rhodes and when they found he was on the Wissahickon the admiral ordered us to get him and when we got him he was sick.”

 

2-28-1885 – Henry N. Killian (39) can maker, Riverside , Burlington County, NJ.  

Question: How long have you been acquainted with Alexander Rhodes client? “Between 23 & 24 or 25 years.  I got acquainted with him here, and he was on a torpedo or infernal machine as some called it…I enlisted in 1864.  He had been away a good while then.  He told me he was going in the Navy.  He and I used to run around together when he was on the torpedo boat.  He was here most every day.  I couldn’t say how long he was here before he went into Navy, maybe a year.”

 

1-4-1886 – Cordelia Hornby – (35) Address: P.O. Burlington , NJ . “I formerly lived at Delanco , NJ: lived there from about 1859 to 1864: know that I lived there a year or two before the war: know Alex. Rhodes the gentleman, here, with you, well: Before he enlisted in the Navy in 1863 he was on a torpedo boat which lay in Rancocas Creek, and although I was quite small, I remember that he boarded with my father and I saw him every day for some 2 years I think.  Isaac Dudley Buck was my father’s name but he has been dead about 16 years.  My mother is still alive and living with me, here.  He seemed to be all right in health while at our house, and I don’t remember of his having any sickness whatever while then.”

1-4-1886 – Elizabeth Buck (60) Boarding House Keeper. Address: P.O. Burlington , NJ .  “I lived in Delanco , NJ for 5 or 6 years from about 1858 or 1859 to 1864 or 5 and Alexander Rhodes boarded with us.  He was then on board a torpedo boat in Rancocas Creek.  He was a stout rugged hearty healthy man and entirely free from any disease whatever.  He boarded with us for 2 or 3 years and at the end of the time my husband enlisted him in him in the Navy.”

1/5/1886 – Henry Garbe (61) Justice of the Peace.  Address: P.O. Riverside , NJ .  “I have known Alex. Rhodes since about 1860.  At that time he came to Delanco , NJ with a torpedo boat or Infernal Machine and he used to come over here very frequently to parties and I got well acquainted with him.  He was a neatly rugged wiry fellow with no appearance of any disease about him.  He remained about here for about a year and then I heard he went to Fortress Monroe.  I fix the time by remembering it was about the time of the attack upon Fort Sumter that he went to Fortress Monroe.  Didn’t know or hear of his having any disability at that time.  He was a very lively dancer I remember well.  I enlisted in Co. E. 4th NJ Vols. June 6, 1861 and was discharged July 15, 1965 and didn’t see him during this time, but did see him 2 or 3 days after I got home. I didn’t know him he looked so different.  He was pale and sickly looking…he was an Ass’t Fireman on the vessel and it is a very trying place: The man must get thoroughly heated and then goes on deck and is bound to take a cold.”

1/6/1886 – John B. Auchenleak (70) Coach Maker by trade.  Address: P.O. 118 Christian St. , Philadelphia , PA. “I was Engineer’s Yeoman on board the USS Wissahickon from November 1861 till November 23, 1864.  I can remember Alexander Rhodes a fireman on board our ship for some considerable time but how long I can’t tell…I remember Rhodes as a little small Frenchman who could talk but little English.  I remember he told me that his father had invented some kind of an infernal machine and that he had been on a torpedo boat before coming on the Wissahickon. I don’t know where there are any of our shipmates except James Eaton and Harry Francis and William Hazard who lives at 6th street below Federal." [5] 

 

The following articles were transcribed from a research paper written & compiled by D. Sminkey in March of 1992.  The information was obtained from columns in Burlington County Newspapers - 1877-1917 - Progress & Riverside, New Jersey.

Dorothy Sminkey used the following newspapers - Burlington Gazette, Mt. Holly
Herald,
Burlington County Press and the New Jersey Sand Burr.  Entries relating to Alexander Rhodes have been transcribed. [6] 

 

1879, page 3 – Alexander Rhoades has finished his handsome and commodious cottage and taken possession thereof and is generally conceded to be one of the most attractive residences in town.

1884, pages 13 & 14 – (May 24) – This town is in a great state of excitement on account of the rumors afloat to the effect that a party of medical students are trying to steal the body of Kate Emmers who came to so sad an end a short time ago.  On Saturday night our constables stood guard over her grave armed with a double barrel shotgun, and they say they saw several ghosts perambulating around the cemetery in their ghostly white robes and now everybody is seeing ghosts at all hours of the night. Some say they saw the headless body of a man going towards Walter’s Blacksmith Shop at 12 o’clock at night.  Several brave shoemakers employed at Pfau’s Factory, organized a vigilance committee to drive the ghosts away - A very laudable undertaking.

The ghost business has played out and now people are wondering how they became so scared.   Alex Rhodes has resumed his former cheerfulness and no longer opens his eyes wide when telling about his vigil in the lonely graveyard.  The headless man has been traced to Squire Rightmeir’s Pottery and it is thought he left his head there with a brick or flower pot, his hat.

Riverside on end since Kate Emmers’ death, the ordinary ghost yarns floating about this place have tripled.  The latest thing being that Kate’s ghost had been seen at the burying ground where her body is supposed to be lying.  These stories have made a powerful impression on many villagers.  Last Saturday, Alex Rhoades, Ed Hoffman and Lewis Haley, armed themselves and proceeded to the graveyard on Bridgeboro Street to see the ghost.  The party separated and approached the secret spot from two directions.  When the two men were on Bridgeboro Street side of the cemetery, a dog with them, gave a sharp bark and at that moment they both saw a man walking about in the yard, apparently looking for something.  The man alarmed by the bark of the dog saw the two men and immediately ran out of the cemetery through a break in the fence.  In the dim light of the moon, it seemed that he was joined by two others, all of whom made all haste into the woods surrounding the burial lot.  The villagers went home and reported what they had seen and there was agreement that the young woman appears undisturbed and yet they and the whole population of Riverside verily believe that an attempt was about to be made to commit sacrilege. This belief has taken such a strong hold on the people that now and here after, for many nights, the grave will be watched nightly in order to prevent such an occurrence of the proceedings as the above indicated.  The bereaved family well and right is distracted by the occurrence.

1887, page 23 – Squire Rhoades of Riverside is reported not very well since the election.

1888, page 30 – At the election for school trustee on Tuesday night, Alexander Rhoades and Henry Killian were elected.

1889, page 33 – They say Squire Rhoades can marry a couple just too sweet for anything.

1889, page 36 – Squire Rhoades carries one of his eyes in a sling.  A sty has him foul.

1889, page 39 – Justice Rhoades’ court has a recess (August).  The presiding justice is “capping” in the canning Factory.  About 200 people are on duty in and about the Canning Factory. (The Canning House, now (1880) owned by Francis H. Leggett & Co., New York , will be under the superintendence of Alex J. Little, who formerly owned the establishment. Page 4)

1889, page 40 – There is crepe on the “dure” of Justice Rhoades’ court.  He lost his Sunday “Go to Meeting” specs the other day and hasn’t been able to do business since.

1889, page 41 – Justice Rhoades wants to go to the Democratic State Convention.  He is anti-Abbott.

1889, page 48 – At Justice Rhoades’ court the other day, Christiana Mantz was fined five dollars and costs for her abuse of Martha Mantz, her daughter-in-law. She also gave bail in three hundred dollars to keep peace, which it is reported she has failed to do. Some fancy the old lady is a trifle off in her upper story.

Squire Garbe now has the call in The Mantz Case.  Now, Christiana who was defendant before Justice Rhoades, is Plaintiff and Martha her daughter-in-law, erstwhile Plaintiff, is defendant.  The case is a knotty one.

Justice Rhoades’ court is now engaged largely with civil actions.

1890, page 60 – (30 September) - With one accord, the people of this place headed for Mt. Holly this morning to be witnesses and spectators in the celebrated Schwabenland-Cooper case.  Some of the ladies are there also.  Justice Rhoades, with a law book under his arm and Volkman with a pair of new russet shoes, added both dignity and grace to the delegation.

1891, page 71 – Squire Rhoades and John Gusragen are at war concerning the ownership of a lot of ground. They threaten to annihilate each other to gain possession. (72) – Squire Rhoades has posted three trespass notices on the disputed lot adjoining his mother-in-law’s house.  John Gusragen is also determined to gain possession of the lot, for which he paid Walter Barrows fifty dollars. The lot in question has been in Squire Rhoades mother-in-law’s possession for upwards of thirty-nine years. 

Squire Rhoades was arrested on a warrant sworn by John Gusragen, charging him with assault and battery, with intent to kill.  The hearing was before Squire Lowe in Squire Rhoades’ own office.   This is a sequence of the war concerning the ownership of the lot on Cass Street . The Squire will get the best of the fight as he holds the winning card.

1891, page 76 – Squire Rhoades’ injured hand is still in a very critical condition.  He suffers great agony from it.

1891, page 79 – Squire Rhoades, acting on the advice of a number of friends, went to the Jefferson Medical College yesterday, to have his hand looked after, as there were no indications of it getting well.  One of the professors there made several incisions in order to make an outlet for the pus that had accumulated, after which, the hand was bandaged and Squire sent home.  After arriving however, his hand and arm pained him so badly, that a doctor was called in.  The bandages were order removed, as they were bound so tightly, that the blood stopped circulating and the hand and wrist were almost black.  Unless great care is exercised, there are fears that amputation will be necessary.

1891, page 89 – (December 24) - Squire Rhoades and Edward Yearly, each received a large turkey in their stocking.

1892, page 91 – (January 6) – On Monday evening, Alexander Hopkins, colored, was brought before Squire Rhoades on charges of assault and battery on the 11 year old son of James Washington, also colored, both of Delanco.   During the hearing, Mrs. Hopkins, wife of the defendant, forcibly illustrated to the Squire how her husband had only shook the son of the plaintiff.  She grabbed the Squire by the collar and shook him like a rat.  When she left to go, the Squire said, “That’s a damn good shake, I’ll tell you.”  Hopkins was let off with costs.

(January 16) – Emma, the daughter of Squire Rhoades is seriously ill in Philadelphia.

1892, page 93 – Alexander Rhoades Jr. is running the printing business at the Sand Burr Office.  He is a live [sic; "lively"?] boy.

Justice Rhoades has made a new tack. This time it is an auctioneer business.  You will come out on top, Squire.

1892, page 94 – (February 3) - Alex Rhoades acted as auctioneer and Ed Yearly as clerk at a sale of George Young, near Haines Mill, yesterday.  Phillip Smith got a cart for 15 cents and two plows for one cent each - A good time for the farmers.

1892, page 97 – A number of boys were taken before Squire Rhoades on Sunday evening, charged with malicious mischief.  The Squire threatened to send them to the reform school, but finally let them off with slight fines and severe reprimand.

1892, page 99 – (March 14) - Squire Rhoades was in Jersey City on Saturday on important business.

1892, page 100 – (March 16) - There was an exciting time at the school board election last night.  Alexander Rhoades was elected school trustee by a vote of 63 to 39. 

(March 19) - Squire Rhoades owns the only fire horn in the town and when we get incorporated, he will certainly be the first chief of our fire department.

1892, page 101 – (March 29) – Last night, the trial of several young fellow from Delanco took place before Justice Rhoades at Hafner’s Hall, the charge being drunk and disorderly and malicious mischief at John Wurtzel’s tavern, when they came very near to tearing out the place on Friday morning.

1892, page 102 – (April 1) - The committee to solicit subscriptions for the organization of the first fire department, Henry Walter, Joseph Dietrich, William Mathias, Ed Schabenland and Alex Rhoades are attending to strictly business and a full report is expected in the near future.

1892, page 112 – (October 9) - We notice Squire Rhoades is getting very fat on one side of his face. Squire, try cold steel for a change.

It is rumored that our pension agent and Sgt. Smith are cross swords.  Squire Rhoades is to be second for Smith and George Gallagher for the agent.

1892, page 114 – (October 15) –Mine Host Hafner and Squire Rhoades took a delegation to Mt. Holly to be naturalized on Monday.

1893, page 122 – (February 4) - Justice Rhoades is said to have his weather eye on the Democratic nomination for assembly.

1894, page 144 – (August 28) - Justice Rhodes is billed for a position in one of the departments at Washington .

1894, page 147 – (October 3) – The following delegates were elected to Delran Township last night. County-Samuel C. Forker, Robert Babbington, T. J. Donovan, Lewis Schwalber, Samuel Smith, Edward Schwabenland, John Bauer.   Congressional-Doctor A. E. Conrow, James Bramall, Wallace Lippincott, Alexander Rhoades.  Advisory Committee-John Miller.

1894, page 151 – (December 12) - Squire Rhoades keeps mum since election while, Squire Lowe thinks his time is coming.

 

The New Jersey Sand Burr, Riverside , NJ

1895, page 154 – (January 9) - Among the jurors for January term of court are three from Delran-Alexander Rhoades, John Seeds and William Mathias.

(January 16) – Squire Rhodes and the “Monk” and Fremont Tietze had an all around circus last night.  The “Monk” left his mark on the Squire and he in turn would have marked Fremont had the circus lasted much longer.

1896, page 162 – (January 15) - Justice Rhoades says that the people of Riverside are becoming so good and business so poor, that he thinks he will resign from his official life.

1896 – page 165 – (April 21) - Harry Rhoades died at his residence on Webster Street on Monday afternoon.

1896 – page 167 – (October 3) - Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Miller announced the marriage of their daughter, Mary to Charles Rhoades. The ceremony will take place at St. Peter’s Church on October 23, at 9:30 a.m.

1898, page 176 – (March 5) - There was a disgraceful fight between Justice A. Rhoades and Ed Schwabenland on Monday night. The Squire was the aggressor and came off second best.

1898, page 179 – Justice Rhoades will give a special “dedication rates” on all marriages on Thursday (November 22) and present each bride with a mess of good sauerkraut.

1898, page 181 – (November 29) - Alexander Rhoades, for many years a Justice of the Peace and a conspicuous figure in Riverside circles, has removed to Dayton, Ohio, where he has entered the Soldier’s Home.  The people of Riverside will greatly miss the genial Justice.

1910, page 228 – (November 17) – Alexander Rhoades (Junior), who was tried in Philadelphia last week, under a charge of murdering his wife, who was acquitted after the jury had been out about two hours, was a former resident of this place.

Salary records – “Alexander Rode ( Rhodes ) appears as being hired by the Navy Department to serve as operative on submarine propeller, 1 November 1861.  He also appears on the letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862 and was supposedly owed $160 in wages and board according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  He stated to Hirst on 14 May 1862 that he had been paid $15 to date and acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $40 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition.  Alexander Rhodes was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins." [7]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancestry.com; Pension index; Census – 1900,1890 Civil War Veterans,1880 (yes),1870 (yes), 1860 (yes); and city directories.


[1] Plot: 2 24 44, burial 08/16/1920.

[2] J. Christley

[3] Rose Rower was a volunteer Civil War nurse in Philadelphia.

[4] Letter dated 4/18/1883 from the Treasury Department, Fourth Auditor’s Office to Hon. William W. Dudley, Commissioner of Pensions.

[5] The original pension records are on file with the Riverside Historical Society. Transcribed by Alice M. Smith, Archivist, Riverside Historical Society.

[6] Property of the Riverside Historical Society.

[7] J. Christley

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William Ross – The 1890 Civil War Veterans Census records a William Ross, engineer aboard the USS Memphis from 10/62 – 10/63.  His residence at that time is 762 Walnut St. , Camden, NJ.  The 1860 census lists a William S. Ross (49) (o) music teacher living in Northampton, Burlington County , NJ. [1]   Living in the household was another William A. and/or R. age 14 along with his mother Ann (47) and other siblings Matthew S. (26) (o) railroad, Jacob B. (24) (o) school teacher, Mary B. (16), Annie (12), Caroline (10), Dewitt  B. (8) and Edwin L. (5).  The older children were born in NY State except for DeWitt and Edwin born in Connecticut .

Salary records – “Ross was paid for the month of May 1862, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Eakins." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (44 names); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans (yes), 1900; and city directories.


[1] Roll 684, page 558.

[2] J. Christley

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Louis Royal/Royet/Royer/Voyer - submarine crew service 2/1/62 to 4/20/62. [1] 

Salary records – “Louis first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he was hired on 1 December 1861.  He also appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 29 March 1862 and was supposedly owed $96.90 in wages and board according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Royal) was engaged on 1 February 1862 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 Apirl 1862 but didn’t know how much money he had received.  Hirst’s letter of 15 May 1862 says he was engaged on 10 December 1861 and waited until now but for two days.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2]

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none/Voyer); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.  


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Chiry Sebastian – submarine crew service 2/1/62 to 4/20/62.

Salary records – “Sebastian first appears as signatory on letter from DeVilleroi to Secretary Welles which intimates that he was part of the crew from 1 January 1862 to 16 May 1862.  He was supposedly owed $84.30 in wages and board according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  Lambert and Rhodes stated to Hirst in an interview on 14 May 1862 that he (Sebastian) was engaged on 1 February 1862 and left the service of the Propeller on 20 April 1862, but didn’t know how much money he had received.  Hirst’s letter of 15 May 1862 says he was engaged on 23 December 1861 and waited until 7 May 1862.  He acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [1] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers;     Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

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Thomas O. Selfridge - USN commander of Alligator over the summer of 1862. Selfridge was a national hero after saving the flag from the sinking USS Cumberland during her battle with the CSS Virginia on 8 March 1862. Following his assignment to Alligator, he was transferred to the Mississippi Squadron, where he captained USS Cairo, the Conestoga, and Osage. After the war, he led a mapping expedition to Panama to survey routes for a planned canal. He retired in 1898 as a Rear-Admiral.[1] 


[1] "No Finer Tradition," by T. O. Selfridge

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Francais Sioux/Vioux – submarine crew from 12/20/61 to date unknown. Enlisted Curtin Light Guard on or about 5/7/62. (109th Pa. Volunteer Infantry, Company G.) [1] 

Salary records – “Sioux first appears on bill from DeVilleroi to Commodore Smith of 29 December 1861.  It states he (Sioux) was hired on 20 December 1861.  He also appears on the letter to Secretary Welles on 29 March 1862 intimating that he had been on board as crew since 1 January 1862 and owed $48 in wages according to Hirst’s letter of 16 May 1862.  He enlisted in the Curtin Light Guard on or about 7 May 1862 and acknowledged on 5 June 1862 as having been paid by Hirst at the rate of $26 per month for the period engaged as per their deposition." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards (none both spellings); Bates    Pennsylvania Volunteers (none both spellings); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none both spellings); NPS (none both spellings); Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.


[1] J. Christley

[2] Ibid.

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Frank Snow – Frank Snow (29) (o) needle maker (b) Rhode Island , is found in the 1860 US Census living in the 18th Ward, Kensington P.O., NE Division in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania. [1]  He is single living with several gunsmiths and machinists in boarding house.

Salary records – “Snow was paid for the month of May 1862, $15.48 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862 as crew member under Eakins." [2] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (4 – 802, 71st Pa. - no company listed - Francis M. Sgt.); Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans; 1900; and city directories.


[1] Roll 1168/page 139.

[2] J. Christley

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John Stone - Born 1842 in France [1]  John Stone is 18 and is employed as an assistant engineer.

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers;       Stryker N.J. Volunteers; NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900; and city directories.  


[1] 1860 Marcus Hook census records.

Peter Tollashat - Born 1841 in France. [1] Peter Tollashat is 19 and is employed as an assistant engineer.

Other resources - Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870, 1880, 1890 Civil War Veterans, 1900 and city director.


[1] 1860 Marcus Hook census records.

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Cooper Woodington/Wordington – The 1890 Civil War Veterans Census records Cooper Woodington living in Willingboro, Bridgeborough, NJ.  He served as a diver on a submarine for 3 months 4/1/62 - “The submarine diver was not used after July 1862.”  No service dates listed but the dates 4/1/62 – 7/63 and July 1862 appear on the Veterans Census.

Cooper Woodington (b) 1839 (d) 2/4/1923 in Beverly, NJ, interred at Beverly Monument Cemetery, [1]  married [m-3/15/1862] Mary Elizabeth Dewson of Beverly Township [2]   (b) 1839 in Philadelphia d/o Benjamin & Sarah Lewis. [3]  Mary E. Woodington (d) 11/26/1906 in Willingboro , NJ .  They had eight children – Franklin, Mary E. Alexander, William W., Samuel, Henry/Harry, Norman C., Aubrey D. and Elizabeth.  Cooper may have had a sister named Sarah Anne Woodington (b) 6/22/1844 (d) 5/24/1911 d/o Alexander and Sarah Anne Cooper.  Sarah Anne married 1st Job Kimble and 2nd Jediah Taylor.

“In 1849, when Cooper was ten years old, he was admitted to the House of Refuge, a Philadelphia reformatory.  The Superintendent maintained a volume called “History of Boys”.  Entry No. 1740 reads as follows: “Cooper Woodington.  Aged about 12 years was committed about August 8, 1849 by Ald. Mitchell.  He was born in New Jersey and has always lived in that state.  His father has been dead many years.  His mother Sarah Woodington lives in Albany , Burlington County , NJ [probably New Albany , the small community between Riverside and Riverton-KW]." [4] 

Salary records – “Woodington paid for the month of May 1862 as crew member under Samuel Eakins, $25.80 according to bill submitted by Hirst on 9 June 1862." [5] 

Other resources – Pennsylvania Civil War Muster Cards; Bates Pennsylvania Volunteers (none); Stryker N.J. Volunteers (none); NPS; Ancesty.com (yes) ; Pension index; Census – 1860 (yes), 1870 (yes), 1880 (yes), 1900; and city directories.


[1] Interment Record – W, Lot #6, Grave #6, Central section, secretary minute book, page  308.

[2] Marriage Announcement, Dollar News/Burlington Gazette, 3/22/1862 , page 2, column 3.

[3] K. Woodington

[4] Ibid.

[5] J. Christley

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